The Harry Tompson Center is committed to providing a calm and caring environment in which to serve the needs of the poor and homeless in the downtown New Orleans area. The Center is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all those who come to us in need, not merely by responding to physical needs, but also by attending to the whole person with respect and compassion, after the example of Jesus.

Hearing Their Stories

(Written in October 2007)         There are many stories I hear around the Rebuild Center, as many different stories (and personalities, might I add) as there are people who come.  Each day our guests share with us their daily struggles, be it the lingering effects of Katrina’s devastation, corruption and red tape in government and business, neglect by politicians and neighbors and family alike, as well as personal addictions and failings.  Yet interwoven with their struggle is often a strong sense of faith: faith that they will improve their situation with the help of Almighty God.  I hear dreams for a future that is brighter, be it here in New Orleans or towns afar that fill in where we have failed them.  Though sometimes it may take some patient listening before it emerges, hope lies deep in the heart of every person.  They would not be here if not for faith and hope, and it is our job to help facilitate the awakening of that precious desire to believe in change and act on it.  In our sharing is a great trust, a trust that I feel honored to share.  At the Center we not only seek to meet people’s physical needs but to share each other stories and accompany one another on the journey of life
Dan Thelen 2007-12-12

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