JACKSON COUNTY (WSIL) -- Even though the snow has melted, a Carbondale woman is grateful after a group of missionaries helped her during a snow storm.
In mid-February, many people around the region were snowed-in. Carbondale resident Zenetta McDaniel Coleman took to social media to see where she could get some help. That is where she said she saw a Facebook post that offered to shovel snow or dig cars out for free. The group consisted of five people who represented the Church of Jesus Christ of Ladder Day Saints the Missouri St. Louis Mission. They group currently resides in Murphysboro.
"It wasn't the "free of charge that got me. It was just the point that these were young people willing to actually step out and help the community in a time of need," said Zenetta. "I sent a message, inboxed him (Elder Nathan Felix), and said 'hey if you're going to be over in the Carbondale area, I would love for you to stop by if you can,' and he responded immediately and said sure," she explained.
"That's just our purpose here right now. We love helping people out and acting like Jesus would have," said Elder Nathan Felix.
Zenetta said they shoveled her sidewalk and walk entry to her house. The group helped shovel and clear cars out at about 15 areas in Jackson County, and they cataloged every place they went. Elder Felix said they started that day around noon and ended around 6 p.m. Elder Alex Badillo said they continued to help people for about three days. It all started when he looked out the window and noticed a car was stuck. Â
"We teach about him (Jesus), but we also try to be like him, so rather than just teach what He did, we try to show what he did too. That's why we give service to others and try and be the best we can to Him and try to help others come unto him as well," explained Elder Badillo.
"There's a scripture that says, when you're in the service of your fellow beings, you're in the service of your God, and we love that scripture because service is just like Elder Badillo said, it is a way that we show that we love God," added Sister Grace Adams.
Zenetta said she appreciates the warm hearts during the frigid temperatures. She said she tried to offer them gas money, cash, and even water.
"There is still good in the world, and it's exciting to see a generation of young leaders lead by example and not afraid to let their light shine. Thank you for being a beacon of light. Thank you for your generosity, your kindness, and your mission. I think the world is a better place with you all in it," added Zenetta.
The group's mission is to help wherever is needed. Members of the group said if anyone needs help, you can contact Sister Adams and Sister Melissa Flake at (618) 203-9677. You can contact Elder Badillo and Elder Felix at (573) 576-8454. The fifth person who helped is Elder Drew Bailey. Elder Felix said he is currently on a mission trip.
