Floch's mission to China continues

Odessa area resident Sharon Fink has informed The Record that missionaries Clay and Jewel Floch will be in Odessa again this year to share stories about their work with special-needs orphans in China. They will be at Christ Lutheran Church April 10 for the 11 a.m. service, then at a potluck at Heritage Church social hall at 5:30 p.m.

The Flochs’ mission work began at Shepherd’s Field Children’s Village, an orphanage for special-needs children, in Tianjin, China in June 2009. More than 100 children live on 6.5 acres, which reminds the Flochs that the need is bigger than they are. That is why they desire to make a difference in the lives of these children.

This desire to help can be mixed with difficulties and blessings as they serve in a country so different from the U.S. The public is invited to come and hear how the work of the past year has fulfilled their lives. The children they work with will also be present through the magic of video pictures.

Making a difference in others’ lives has become more important to them since the death of their sons Ryan and Drew in a boating accident in 2001. The Flochs lived in Odessa from 1984 to 2004, running the local NAPA store and raising their family. They call Odessa their second home and are grateful for the love and care shown them by their many friends.

Their Odessa friends are invited to join them April 10, 2011 at 5:30 p.m. at Heritage Church. All are requested to bring potluck dishes to share and support the Flochs’ mission, where they are making a difference in the lives of many children. Those wishing to learn more about the missionary program may visit http://www.chinaorphans.org.