This is the theology of WVMAW. We believe that doing justice is bridging the gap between the rich and the poor, between those who may have skills or abilities and those who need assistance, between those who are victims of disaster and those who are able to reach out. Loving kindness is about building relationship. Mission is far more than DOING, it is also about BEING. Kindness is often translated as mercy—walking in someone else’s shoes. This is a reminder that we don’t do things for “those people” but we walk side by side with all of God’s people. Walking humbly with God is a reminder that it is not about us, it is about God. Being humble is not thinking less of ourselves as much as it is just not thinking of ourselves at all. Then is when God can really use us in service! We can let God surprise us, and mission is full of surprise!
The West Virginia Ministry of Advocacy and Workcamps (WVMAW) is a Christian ministry supported in part by the Presbyterian Church (USA) that offers the opportunity for discipleship by partnering with those in need whose lives have been devastated by natural disasters or by the disaster of poverty in areas of West Virginia.
♦ We strive to serve people in ways that will be sustaining for the good of their communities as well as for the good of individuals and families.
♦ We encourage spiritual and faith development among those who serve as well as those who are served by our efforts.
♦ We seek to encourage and enable mission leadership that will strengthen churches and community members, bringing new life and vitality to West Virginia and beyond.
♦ We seek to treat all people with respect and dignity, regardless of their situation.
♦ We believe that volunteers are called by God to be partners in ministry.
♦ We seek to help people find safe, sanitary, and affordable housing.
♦ We are committed to careful stewardship of all resources entrusted to our care.
♦ We seek to witness to the goodness of God by providing quality workmanship on all jobs we undertake.
♦ We believe that God opens the doors that provide opportunities for ministries that can make a real difference in people’s lives.
♦ We seek to find those opportunities for service, and to partner with other organizations involved in similar ministries.