House that God built

The pictures tell the story: A circle of people -- some black, some white -- holding hands and praying. There's a man holding a microphone, singing in front of a house with red ribbons, celebrating in song.

Then there's a man, walking through a front door, freshly painted walls and nicely framed photos behind him, wearing an expression of awe and appreciation. The man's name is the Rev. Johnny Thomas, and the picture tells a beautiful story of a united community coming together to help someone in need. Last Saturday, South Hanover Street turned into a party, a celebration filled with gospel singing, barbecue smoke and lots of smiles.

Eight months ago, well-known pastor Johnny Thomas was forced out of his home by black mold. Members of La Croix United Methodist Church volunteered to rebuild the house from the ground up. They had worked before with Thomas and his church, New Bethel Baptist Church, through an outreach program.

The project did more than provide a mold-free, warm and welcoming home for a good Cape Girardeau family. It furthered a mission by New Bethel Baptist Church and La Croix United Methodist Church to tear down walls that exist between races and individuals of differing socioeconomic backgrounds. This is a story of faith, of community and the human spirit. We hope it reaches to the edges of the earth.