I had always been interested in doing mission work outside of the church, but until last year, I really didn’t seriously consider doing it due to my hectic life.  I am a full-time caregiver for my disabled mom, so planning to be away from her was a major undertaking. But, after spending time with folks (including my husband and son) who had gone for an eyeglass clinic the year before, I knew I had to try. Miraculously I was able to get family and staff to cover my overnights and daytime hours. Amazingly, God wanted me to be a part of this because helpers were willing and able to fill in for me!

A mission trip like this was a first for me. I’d never been to Central America, never been part of VBS, and didn’t really know most of the folks I was traveling with, which put me outside of my comfort zone!  I went on this journey thinking we were just doing four days of Sunday school, but it was so much more! The experience was way beyond what we had prepared for! So many surprises.

First, it was hot & humid. We canvassed neighborhoods for three days, encouraging folks to send their children and grandchildren to come to the new church.  I loved doing this!  It was so awesome to minister to so many of those we spoke with. Plus, we were so warmly welcomed because they wanted to hear the word of God!  Next, we had prepared for children who were probably a little older than what we had shown up.  So, improvisation was key.  We had some awesome folks on our team who were able to just change on the fly.  It was inspiring! Lastly, as the week went on, and each day gave us more and more children of varied ages, it occurred to me the real reason we were hosting a VBS was to grow a brand-new church.  These children were the seeds for the growth of this fledgling congregation.  As more children came, so did their parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc. It was amazing! By the end of the week, we had more adults that stayed through the program than children. The Pastor of the church was able to talk and minister to them while we spent time with the children. 

When it finally hit me what was happening, I was so overwhelmed with many emotions, and for many weeks after I returned home, I would sit and just look at all the photos and videos that I and others had taken and pray that the little church and its people will grow as a strong Christian community. Plus, I felt as though I’d been ministered to and it was very humbling, thinking that I was there to bring folks to Christ’s love, but really, it brought me closer to God as well.