VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 8/7/12)—Those unable to participate in “Here Until the Work is Done VI”  Ecumenical Work Week happening now through Saturday in New Orleans can follow along with posts and photographs on the American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS) website at www.abhms.org and on its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ABHomeMission.

Close to 200 volunteers from across the United States—including those from seven American Baptist-related colleges and universities—are helping to rebuild the Lower Ninth Ward by painting, laying sheet rock, clearing brush and running errands, among other tasks, as well as supporting and encouraging those in need. The week will also include worship opportunities with people of faith from across the United States. The Gulf Coast was devastated when hurricanes Katrina and Rita struck seven years ago.

In addition to following along, those who cannot participate in the week can support the effort by:  • making a financial contribution;  • defraying a participant’s costs;  • spreading the word; and  • praying for participants and full restoration of the Gulf Coast.

Launched by the National Council of Churches in 2007, Ecumenical Work Week has been coordinated by ABHMS since 2010.

For additional information, contact Victoria Goff, ABHMS national coordinator, Volunteer Ministries, at vgoff@abhms.org or 800-222-3872, x2449.

American Baptist Home Mission Societies—the domestic mission arm of American Baptist Churches USA—ministers as the caring heart and serving hands of Jesus Christ across the United States and Puerto Rico through a multitude of initiatives that focus on discipleship, community and justice.

American Baptist Churches USA is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with 5,500 local congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.