My dear friends of the Willwoods Community ministries:

Recently, when meeting with the Willwoods Community Senior Managers, I stated the need to re-think the present moment of our history. The Katrina and Rita hurricanes were devastating. We immediately went into a crisis management mode. We were forced to deal with the unknown and face the uncertainties of the tragedy that affected WLAE, Malta Square, and our affordable housing complexes--Carriage House and Olympus.

We now need to move from crisis management to a recovery mode. This begins with a financial plan, which is imperative for both short term and long term planning. This requires obtaining realistic information about demographics, the changing culture of the city, and predictions as to possibilities. In such a process, there is the temptation to strive for the ideal. However, we must be realistic. When Senior Managers meet with their senior staff, they must gather the necessary information that will strengthen the short term plan which is essential for long term planning

Willwoods Community continues to be blessed with personnel who want to minister to those whom we serve. One of our devoted staff said, “…being involved in the Willwoods Community gives me spiritual growth. I feel this is where God wants me to be.”

While in crisis mode, it was a time of keeping the ministries active. It was also a moment in our history to recognize the power of the Holy Spirit in accomplishing what seemed impossible. As all personnel were exceedingly generous with their time, we had the strength to complete our tasks.

As we venture on the path of recovery, the Will woods Community is depending upon prayer, as well as the guidance of the Holy Spirit. In doing God's work, there is a joy that comes in so many ways: In our residents of Malta Park who live in an loving and spiritual environment; in those who see the daily Mass; in those who live in our Affordable Housing who have told me how much they love their newly renovated home; in the married couples who have experienced a "spiritual journey" because of a Couples Retreat; and in those who see the gift of Eucharistic Adoration as a personal fulfillment.

I wish God's blessings on all whom we serve and on those who serve with a generous heart. God is with you.

(Rev.) Thomas E. Chambers, C.S.c., Ph.D. President Willwoods Community (504) 830-3701 tchambers@willwoods.org
	Rev. Thomas E. Chambers, C.S.C., Ph.D. President of Willwoods Community