2017 NYAC VIM Ghana YAM Mission: Hard Work, New Friends, Amazing Sights

Our NYAC VIM YAM mission team is headed home, now, here are some of their experiences while on their trip, in their own words!

Working, Helping, and Getting the Water Working  By Brooke McDermott 

We got up early today and met in the dining hall for breakfast. Last night a water pipe burst so no one had water, that was bad. The Smith family did devotion today and then we ate breakfast and head out to the worksite. I had the job of helping with the cement, but we were short a shovel so I helped carry the made cement over to the builders in a head pan. Then I helped by bringing water over that they would use to mix the cement.

The first time, the lady that helped us went to put the head pan on my head but I was confused so she just handed it to me. The second time I brought it over on my head, it was a lot of fun. Then all of the girls went to the school to be a part of the Days for Girls program. So we were in a class with all the girls where they learned about feminine things and were provide with things to cope with troubles. We started dancing with them it was so much fun. Then we went back to the worksite for lunch. I blessed the food and then we ate.

After lunch we finished painting and sanding the building we have been working on at the clinic. When I went to take a break and get some water, I started playing with the kids, talking to them and showing them games like Miss Mary Mac. I made a handshake with a little girl. We also taught them to dab. It was so cute and fun. It was hard leaving them they were so sad. Then we got on the bus and went into town to get hats. I was cool walking through the streets. After that we went back to camp and the water was fixed. Hallelujah. We all took showers.

So Many New Friends... By Anna Baker 

This morning our day started out at 5:55 am with a devotion organized by the Smith family. We sang together and listened to beautiful inspirational bible verses. Then I blessed the meal and we had eggs, toast, and oatmeal. After breakfast, Amanda, Brooke, Emmanuella, and I got the days for Girls suitcases from my room and put them on the bus. Then we headed off to the worksite. At the worksite, there were several jobs which needed to be done. There was cement to be mixed to fill the holes in the building, gravel to be spread, dirt to sift into sand, and painting to be done on the building.

This morning I worked on spreading the gravel around in front of the clinic especially in the areas where we had removed the rocks (from a collapsed wall) the day before. The gravel we’re using is really interesting. Here the soil is very rich in iron, so often while digging or just walking around you’ll come across an abnormal rock with chucks of a reddish orange metallic looking substance. It appears that the workers collected the rocks that they found like that while digging, so we can now use them as gravel. After spreading gravel for a while I took a break with Amanda to sit and have some water. There were 2 young girls who were standing a few feet away from us.

They waved at us and I gestured for them to come over and sit with us. They approached smiling with a look of underlying caution. I spent some time trying to communicate with them, but it wasn’t working very well. I took out some paper and a pencil to see if they wanted to draw. I scribbled on the paper and offered them a chance to try, but neither of them wanted to. They, I drew a tree and pointed to the tree in front of us. The girls responded with a word in their language which I took to mean tree. Amanda and I continued to do this for a while, which greatly amused the children.

We all had a lot of fun learning new words in each other’s languages. We had to say goodbye to the girls in order to leave for Days for Girls. The Days for Girls experience was not what I expected. I had expected to be able to be able to be able to help the woman from Days for Girls Ghana, or at least take part in the distribution. After about 2 years working on the days for girls project, what I looked most forward to was seeing their faces when they received the kits. The woman from Days for Girls did a wonderful job working with the girls there, the majority of whom said they use grass when they don’t have access to sanitary pads.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to do any of what I had hoped. I was told to merely observe, although the woman from Ghana said she would appreciate my help for a demonstration. Moreover, the rest of the girls on the trip had to go back to the worksite to have lunch. Although some of the chaperones were able to stay I was told I had to return to the worksite as well. So after all the time working on this project, all the time I had dreamed of handing over those kits and all the exhausting travel to get here to Ghana, I couldn’t even be there for the distribution, that was extremely upsetting for me.

Although I understand that the chaperones are trying to keep all the kids together. After that, we went back to the worksite. We painted the building until about 2:30 pm. Then we got the back into the bus and left. One of the better things that happened today was that we stopped to buy hats made out of grass by some craftsman. They were sold in the Tamale market, a bustling place full of great variety of stands. Then we came back to where we are staying and by some sort of miracle the majority of our showers were working.
Once we were all clean, we spent some time talking on the porch and others played baseball (using a stick they found as a bat). Now it’s around dinner time (most likely chicken and rice), so I’ll go. Hoping all’s well back home,

Kids So Glad to See Us! By Kiarra Davenport 

Every day I wake up early, but today was different. I was so tired from yesterday’s work and heat, that it caused me to sleep in late. Our usual time to wake up is at 4:30 am but I woke up at 5:20. WOW! That’s pretty late. Luckily Ms Gail didn’t notice me sneak into the café. This morning we had the same breakfast: eggs, toast, and pineapple. After I ate I took my daily malaria pill. Now its time for the 40 minute bus rise to the construction site. It’s hot as hot can be. There wer little children outside playing hand games. They’re so happy and humble. I wish I was like that.

Slowly the YAMs are starting to work off their sleepiness. I used sand paper to clean the walls of the building. That was relaxing. I painted the doors, shoveled rocks into barrel and I crushed bigger rocks for fun. I felt like I accomplished so much this morning. Now its time for lunch. We had beef, sauce, and our favorite …Rice! It was really good but it’s sad to eat or waste food in front of the poor families . After lunch, it was time for the YAMs to visit a school and work with the kids. As we pulled up in the bus, the kids excitedly ran to the windows to wave to us. That made my day. I’ve never seen children so happy to participate in a after school program with foreigners.

My group to work with was 2nd grade consisted of John, Wodley, Arielle and myself. Our group was amazing. The kids loved us. They sang their school song to us and we taught the Itsy, Bitsy Spider. The kids were so excited about that song. Then we drew and colored a dashiki-like shirt and a shoe. The kids asked me to write the word “shirt” on their drawing because it was in script. They really like my handwriting. Sadly it was time to leave these lovely, beautiful and amazing children. I took a picture with them and their drawings. I was upset to say goodbye but it was time for a new adventure.

I Can Deal with It... By Jacob Lee 

Today we were up at 5:15. The breakfast was the same toast, omelet, and oatmeal. We drove to the airport. Everyone was sleeping on the bus. When we got there, there was good wifi at one area and none at the rest of the airport. We finally got on the plane at 10:45 and left at 11:00. The plane had a lot of turbulence and I couldn’t sleep.

Once we got off at 11:51 we drove to the mall where we ate lunch. All the kids got burgers. The lunch was very expensive. After that we drove to the shops on the streets. Everyone got gifts for family and themselves. I got a bag and a bracelet for myself. The rest are for my family. After that we got to our new hotel. It wasn’t that nice, but I can deal with it. We had dinner and went to bed.

The Roads and Markets of Ghana By Jonathan Logan 

After leaving Tamale we made our way back to Accra. It was a moment filled with so much gratitude and thanks for being able to immerse myself in the beautiful struggle. A moment of remembrance for every child, worker, elder, adult who we had the opportunity to connect with. The day was filled with visiting the mall, shopping at the market and a 3 hour drive to Winneba. With the owners, buying was very intense since we were trying to set up deals and price cuts.

The highlight of my evening was the ride to Winneba. The congestion amongst the streets mixed with the fast paced selling of goods and the commotion on the side streets came together as a portrait of the struggle. The faces and bodies dripping of sweat showed signs of a strenuous day. The make shift stands and bonfires provided the darkness a simple form of calm just being in the midst of the daily lives of so many individuals is festered a greater sense of appreciation for everything that is back home.

Discovering a Sense of Identity By Emmanuella Sayi 

Today our day began at 7:30 am and we took off into a day we hoped would be filled with good times and memories to last a lifetime. Our first destination …Elmina Castle. Before arriving I didn’t know what to expect but had high hopes that my life would forever be changed for the best. In school we learn about the slave trade, Triangular trade route, Atlantic Pacific trade route and many other trade routes in which commodities and natural resources are exchanged.

We learn all of these things but yet one question never asked is are we retaining the information given to us? Does it make us question our identity? Do we strive to discover who we are? Truthfully many, including myself would tell you, no. We move from day to day without a sense of identity. Many slaves held in this castle were stripped of their identities and became no one and yet we find it hard for us to want to know who we are, which can easily be attained if we search hard enough. At the Elmina castle I saw firsthand the remnants of my people though not physically with my own two eyes I saw the anguish of a race as their forgotten sound ever present and notable in each crevice and marble laid out in the castle.

Though their bones are a part of this earth, their story will never be forgotten because their story has and will continue to shape mine. Through this experience, I’ve taken to heart the notion of knowing your roots because without a steady foundation, the structure we built upon a rocky foundation cannot withstand the pressure of time. Also along my journey today, I met many friends today at the high school we attended after a very emotional rollercoaster that I felt all the YAMs encountered today. At the high school we had an amazing time. We danced the Azonto with Ghana kids and were able to ask thought provoking questions. In finality, I would just like to express how amazing these few days have been and hope for the best tomorrow.

A Big Reality Check By Justine Saunders 

Today we woke up at 5:00 am and made it to breakfast by 6:00am. After breakfast we went on our way to Elmina Castle. Something I was very excited and grateful to be a part of. Once at the castle it was a very emotional experience to be able to actually stand in the place where many of our ancestors possible passed through. It was kind of a reality check of me because as a people we came so far and we take so much for granted especially how we treat each other with many derogatory terms that we have taken from those days and made it part of our common language. After such an enlightening and emotional morning.

We headed over to Elmina Beach Resort Hotel where we relaxed and unwound by beach with a beautiful lunch spread and we just spent the afternoon enjoying each other’s company. Then to end our day outside we went to a high school and played basketball, volleyball and danced with the high school kids. Then we got to ask them questions and they got to ask us questions, but we really connected when we got up on stage to dance together. Then we end the night around the table with a very intense conversation about the many things we saw at Elmina and the high school. To officially end the night we had sad/glad time, which put a smile on everyone’s face.

A Home Away from Home By Ava Patino 

Well then. I guess this is goodbye. Goodbye to this red notebook, and the writing in it. And to the blue pen black pen debate and to really awesome things. Mostly goodbye to Ghana. That’s what this blog is about, right? Because its our last day here and then we’ll be gone and who knows when we’re coming back. So here we go. We went to church this morning, and I wore one of my new dresses I bought at the market. It’s yellow and blue, and has a ruffle at the top.

The Church, as we walked up the road, was tiled mosaic and looked cheerful. On the inside, the people were too so it seemed fitting. And goodness that church. The people were singing and dancing, and the songs ran from one to another, an orchestra of joy and praise; at being alive and being together and being under God I suppose. Even without being able to understand most of what was said it was infectious. And then we went home. We changed into our swimsuits; and got on the bus to go to the beach.

On our way, we eagerly raced a rainstorm and silently begged it leave us be for a little while longer. Then we swam, and drank bitter coconut milk, at least I, not for the taste but for the very notion that I was drinking coconut, on a beach in Ghana. And then we swam some more. After being conned out of pineapple by sneaky adults we once again returned home. Home. It’s funny I’ve used that to describe this place at least twice in this blog, and its been entirely coincidental.

 But really that’s what this trip, and these people have created for me. A home. A place where things may be a little crazy and slightly dysfunctional, but a place also where I truly belong. So goodbye Ghana, but you couldn’t pay me a zillion cidies to say goodbye to my home and for that I am forever grateful.

2017 NYAC VIM Ghana YAM Mission: Kids Worshiping and Serving Half a World Away

Children's Sunday in Ghana by Michael Hullstrung

We started off the day a little late. We were supposed to get up and be in the cafeteria by 8:30, but by the time everyone got up and ready for breakfast, it was closer to 9. After breakfast we headed out to church. Church was very fun, everyone sung and danced. The service was very lively and it caused many laughs. This Sunday was Children’s Sunday in the Ghana United Methodist Church, so the children did all the reading and even the sermon. After service, we went outside and started talking with locals for a short time. Some of them even asked us to take pictures with them. It was like we were famous. We went back to our home base where we sleep and we began to sort, and count all of our mission supplies that were to be donated to Ghana.

Children Running the Church! by Wodley Bruny

Instructions were to be in the cafeteria strictly at 8:30 a.m. But without our phones most people woke up late causing a late start in our day. Once we ate breakfast, we were able to get in the van and head to the church. It was Children’s Sunday, which takes place every 10 th Sunday. This is when the children practically run the church service. We watched from our seats on the side as all the children in the church happily participated in the service. Afterwards we went back to the compound for lunch. After lunch we were able to change into more comfortable clothes so that we could sort through the medical supplies that we all brought to donate. After sorting and taking count, we had a short break before dinner at 6. Everyone was happy to see we had something other than rice for dinner. Once that was done, we reflected on our day and had sad/glad tiime.Which we ended our day with.

What do I do with a baby? by Tim Bosco

Today started out waking up at 5:00 am, followed by the coldest, quickest shower I have ever taken. Before breakfast, which started at 6:00, was eaten my family led the group in devotion. After breakfast, we headed on the bus and drove to the worksite. Once at the worksite, a clinic run by the Methodist Church, we loaded off bags of supplies and waited for further instruction. While we waited, the small group of women waiting slowly grew to be more and more. Women clad in bright colors, some carrying babies, others baskets, all began to trek to the clinic. While at the clinic, we worked to clear away rocks, rotting wood, and other garbage in front of the nurses’ quarters that were being updated. We also worked to dig holes to put posts into. This was the worst because the ground was full of large rocks. After lunch, we visited a village near the clinic. The people here lived in compounds, which are mud huts connected to each other by a wall where a whole family would live. The people we met were very welcoming to us, and small children followed us around wherever we went. One woman even handed me a baby. After leaving the village we returned to where we are staying.

2017 NYAC VIM Ghana YAM Mission: Through the Air, to the Ground

The NYAC Youth Ambassadors in Mission are already putting hands to work and hearts to God at their Ghana mission site, below are some of their initial journal entries.

Do Not Be Afraid, by Ava Patino

“I’m on my way to the airport.”
“Dude, send pictures”
Picture taken out car window. Caption: The glorious eastside on our way to JFK
“…”
“I meant of Ghana...”

Stop. Wait for the light. Find yourself in a car in Queens. Knowing nothing. Stop. Feel your mom’s leg press against yours. Feel wind blowing in your face. Taste ginger, sugar coated. See the international airport terminal. Breath, process the fact that you aren’t in the wrong place. (Again.)

Get yellow tape. Tape it so that it is visible and easily identifiable. Throw out an old bag and consolidate the medical supplies. When you check your bags, chuckle at the fact that your two are blue suitcases. Find this an odd coincidence of the universe. Find this satisfying. Say Goodbye, Hug. I love you. Cling a little then go. Don’t look back. Don’t think about looking back…until you do. Feel your heart. Just feel it.

“I’m so nervous.”
“But it is not the time to be nervous anymore.”

Be endlessly amused by the moving walk ways. Wonder who and why thought that there should be such a thing. Eat cookies. Do not know the origin of these cookies. Hope that the baker reads the blog post and knows how immensely you enjoyed them.

Get on the plane. Marvel at the wonders of modern technology that allow you to have TV in your seat. Not at the selection of ‘entertainment options’. Marvel anyway. Unpack. Shoves off, blanket on. Vow to watch Ghostbusters. Eat dinner. Pay too much for wifi. Do not finish Ghostbusters. Whisper a secret, get one in return. Hold a hand during turbulence. Breath. At a half hour to landing chew gum and thank a friend, profusely.

Touchdown.

Breath.

(I am here, I am here, I am here, I am here, I am here, I am here)

Wait. Wait for the bus, for the line, for the food and cold water. Wait for someone to bring out cards. Wait to say ‘peanut butter’ with a smirk. Wait for your pictures to upload to Instagram. Then wait again. The plane is small. It has one aisle. On one side there are two chairs together and on the other one, only one.

Breath.

Film takeoff, take comfort in a small glass heart from home and dragon who breathes only fictional fire.

Breath.

Breath.

Relax. Enjoy the Quiet, enjoy the pie. Take pictures aplenty and breath.

You are here.

It hits you in this moment.

I am here.

Start the decent and do not be afraid.

You are here.

Do not be afraid.

Are We Really Getting on...THAT Plane?? By Imani Hall

We all met at the airport to leave for Ghana at 1:30 the latest. We had some complications but we made it pass security. We had a long walk from security to our gate. After our long walk we sat and waited to board. The flight was so long but I slept for most of it. After we got off the plane we all slowly bonded by talking about the things we did on the plane, like watch movies, sleep, eat, not sleep. Then we got our suitcases and went to eat. We were so surprised on how good and familiar the food was. Then we talked until it was time to leave for our next flight to Tamale. While we waited to board there was wifi, so we got to talk to family and friends until it was time to leave.

We were all scared to get on the very small plane. When we landed we got on a bus and couldn’t help but look beautiful Tamale. We were shocked at the poverty of the villages.By the time we got to the compound we were so tired. When the girls got to our room we decided that we all didn’t want to be alone tonight, so we all slept in one room. We spent the whole night talking about what we liked and disliked and just about life until we all went to sleep.

2017 NYAC VIM Ghana YAM Mission: “Why have you Forgotten Us?”

Rev. Joseph Ewoodzie
A reflection on my visit to Methodist Dorcas Clinic.
“Why have you Forgotten Us?”

I met Bishop Nathan Samwini of the Northern Ghana Diocese, Methodist Church, Ghana on Thursday November 10, 2016 at his office in Tamale.  The two items we discussed were a) the hosting of YAM 2017 in February 2017; and b) the state of the Methodist Dorcas Clinic.
   
Bishop Samwini is a “northerner,” the first elected bishop, native to the Northern region and serving the Northern Diocese.  His enthusiasm, passion, and determination to serve and transform the lives of his people is remarkable.

After he welcomed me with a bottle of cold water, his next question to me was; “Why have you forgotten us?”  This was a very difficult question.

Bishop Samwini was referring to the uncompleted medical facility that provides hope and healing to seven remote villages in his Diocese.  The Methodist Dorcas Clinic ministry that stands in need of critical renovation and improvement.  Our last visit to this project was in 2013.  Bishop was glad to hear that the YAM 2017 will be in ministry at the Methodist Dorcas Clinic.

The clinic provides a very important medical need to over 2,000 inhabitants of 7 communities scattered in the hinterlands.  Most of them walk an average of 2.5 miles to and from the Methodist Dorcas clinic for their basic health needs including pre-natal and pregnancy care.

During my visit to the clinic this morning (Friday, Nov 11, 2016), I observed the nurse attending to the medical needs of women and children.  A grandmother brought Wumpini, a 4 year old girl to the clinic for care.  The nurse told me that Wumpini has a high temperature and so she will receive paracetamol to reduce her temp.  I couldn’t interact verbally with Wumpini due to a language barrier, but we had a moment of silence together.  Her gaze was very intense. I wondered if she wanted to ask me the same question Bishop Samwini asked, “Why have you forgotten us.”

The Methodist Dorcas clinic is not just a medical facility, it is a HEALING place; a refuge for weary, a shelter for fatigued, and a place where the most vulnerable and the marginalized receive solace and comfort.

This place provides a unique opportunity for Global Health ministry.  Here is a place where “our promise to our children” could be fulfilled. Let’s Imagine Abundant Health with Wumpini the 4 year old girl, and not forget them.

The Bishop, the leaders of the Diocese and the Chief and elders of the community are preparing to host the YAM 2017 team.  The YAMs will have the opportunity to help with the renovations and also interact with the local school children. Logistics such has housing, meals and transportation have already been secured.

This “Place is a gift, and as a gift it reflects back to us the beauty without ourselves and in our own life and work.” (The Soul of Place, Michael Jones.)

2017 NYAC VIM YAM Ghana Mission: Getting Ready to Bring Hope!

This Friday, February 17th, seventeen youth and four adults leave for the annual Youth Ambassadors Mission (YAM) mission trip. Destination: Ghana! Each Fall, local congregations from the New York Annual Conference are invited to recommend a youth to participate in the next YAM journey.  Since 2005, over 200 youth have worked in Antigua, Bolivia, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Ghana.

This year the youth will participate in the construction of a nurses' quarters near the Dorcas clinic, which was built earlier by NYAC volunteer mission teams.  They will assist in after school activities, coordinate a vacation Bible school, and distribute Days for Girls kits, which provide reusable feminine hygiene supplies that can last a girl for years, and help to keep her in school.  Many of the kits have been assembled by church volunteers and members from NYAC congregations, and other United Methodist congregations.

The group will blog about their trip here, at nyacvim.blogspot.com. Please share the joy and wonder of this mission trip with others, and pray for their success!

2016 NYAC VIM Bolivia YAM Mission: Summing Up a Journey of Love

Our Youth Ambassadors have wound up their memorable mission trip to Bolivia, and have great reflections on what the trip has meant to them. Here are five great stories from our youths transforming the world:

Friday February 19, 2016

Chad Jacob writes:

As our trips is starting to come to an end, I think everyone is kind of coming to a sensible reality and now is just trying to soak up all the last days that we have left in the country and with everyone on the trip. On our way to our last day of work, everyone seemed to be just thinking heavily on what the rest of the days will bring and what they have learned since we left. Today we got to see the big Jesus Christ Statute. They journey was pretty interesting especially the little road on steep hills we had to drive. It was actually fun and was a great once in a lifetime opportunity which I really enjoyed. The second half of our day we got to shop in one of the malls which had very different things to buy that I just wanted to buy everything. It’s sad to think about how soon we’ll be on a flight back home to New York. I’m going to miss everyone from this trip and all the activities I just began getting use to. I wish we could stay longer.

Elise Arndtsen writes:

When I arrived, I felt out of place. My version of faith does not include reading the bible or praying unless there’s a pop quiz. I didn’t know many of the kids around me. I didn’t know their lives or why they were here. At the airport, when the community met us with hugs, joy, banners and flowers, I was afraid. Because these people expected us to be something that I didn’t feel like I could be. I didn’t know what their expectations were. I didn’t know how they celebrate Christianity. I didn’t know how to communicate and they were all talking so fast and excited and I had been up for so long and everyone around me looked as though they were capable and calm and welcomed. And I’m pretty sure that feeling has completely faded. Honestly, I still don’t know if they pray before they sleep or if they believe in evolution. But they didn’t care if we did that. The community expected friends, even family that would try to connect and help out. They weren’t disappointed. Members of our trip were crying at the goodbye ceremony. Half of us at least expect to come and visit. We didn’t say goodbye – we said see you later. I’m not sure how realistic that goal is but I can tell you one thing, this trip strengthened my faith in humans. This community has tirelessly volunteered their time to build a church. They take care of each other’s children without a second thought. They deserve more than we could give them. The only way to move forward from this experience is to try to be like them. Try to be grateful even if the shower’s freezing or the bus is bumpy. That sounds really difficult to me.

Jonathan Kim writes:

Love is only a word until a moment or experience altars the meaning. I could not have made a better decision to go on this trip. The people, both from the NYAC and the Bolivians, have truly save my life. The generosity, hospitality, forgiveness, reception, and LOVE is indescribable. Today was the first time I was able to open up to someone other than God. After another wonderful dinner, (Amen) we sat outside and talked for maybe two hours. I felt comfortable talking about my personal experience (and tragedies) for the first time in a while. I felt comfortable talking about things I couldn’t even express to my own father. It was a short period of time, only two hours, but will stick with me for years to come. She is truly an incredible person with so much compassion and love that I think of the same way my mother was. There was sadness, laughter, silence, and a banana. There was faith and joy. There was the emotion that had been so present and clear for months. We are awake when we are not sleeping, but sometimes, even in alertness and open eyes, we still fail to wake up. I had realized that all this time, I had been asleep. Yes. I was asleep on the bus but even in work, eating, and playing the charango, I had failed to open my eyes and see the beautiful life that God has and will continue to provide me.

This experience has been a life changing one. It made me realize that richness is not defined by the possessions you have, but by the richness in your heart. Not only were the Bolivians, they were richer than all of us. I will never squander another moment in my life again. The dictionary defines the term to cry as “to shed tears, especially as an expression of distress or pain.” I do not cry often, even if I had experienced distress or pain, both physically and emotionally, but that day I did. Reflecting on it, I realized that I didn’t cry because I was sad, but because I was HAPPY. One of the last times I cried was during my mother’s funeral. I am now calling that moment, that experience, that tragedy, the last time in my life that I cried because I was sad, lonely, or depressed. This experience in Bolivia has me believing that if I can have the same compassion as the locals, I will always see the bright side of things and be with God. As I leave this country and say goodbye, I say hello and welcome a new chapter in my life. Because of this experience I have found God. I have found love. I have found HOPE. And it only cost two and half thousand dollars. :) As I continue on the journey into adulthood, and journey through Christ, I only ask for one thing; for God to lay me down, because I have finally found myself.

Saturday February 20, 2016

Katie Euting writes:

Today was very emotional for everyone. But before we had our goodbye ceremony with the locals we were able to spend the entire of the morning with many of them at a picnic in the mountains at Inka Chaka. We went on a gorgeous hike down to a river, passing waterfalls and plateaus with astonishingly beautiful views. It was amazing to experience and share with everyone around us. Then after opening our eyes to a world we had never seen before, we got to have lunch and share with our hermanos. This then led to going up to a small field and playing soccer together. Whether you were playing or matching everyone was able to laugh together. Due to the rain earlier in the morning, the field was extremely muddy, slippery, and fun. We all had an amazing time running around and laughing at each other when we fell. I did. After we finished at Inka Chaka, we went back to Lava Lava one last time to say goodbye to all of our new brothers and sisters. We all said some heartwarming and inspiring words to each other, and prayed together. Then they offered us gifts, handmade hats, a bracelet, and a Bolivia keychain. They all showed their everlasting love, and everyone was very emotional. We all wanted to stay forever. As we reflect on this experience, we realize that by connecting with these wonderful people this culture, and God, we have all become better people and will continue this growth for the rest of our lives. The world need more people like our new family, and am so blessed to be able to live this love.

L.J. writes:

As I sit here in Santa Crus, with a 7 hour wait ahead of us, I have ample time to reflect on this past week. Before traveling to Bolivia, I had never been to South America and I was very apprehensive. I was so unsettled that I waited until 10 pm the night before we left to begin packing. This trip has honestly been an eye opener for me that sometimes feeling anxious isn’t always bad because it can lead you to amazing memories. One of my favorite moments was when we were able to meet the youth from Cochabamba because they so much fun to hangout with and even though we didn’t have a common language, we all had young spirits which brought us together. Another small moment that I will remember forever was holding one of the cutest puppies I’ve ever seen. The grouped named him “Cliff” and by the end of the week, we were all obsessed. Through this experience, I have also learned that it is okay to be uncomfortable and try things you may not have previously enjoyed. For example, on the last day, we rode up to a large mountain and went on an hour hike. Now, for those of you who don’t know me, I am not the biggest fan of hiking. Although it pushed my comfort zone and was exhausted, it was worth it. It wasn’t about how fast you could go, or how many breaks you had to take. No. It was about building a community and enjoying an experience with our Bolivian family. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and I will cherish these memories, lessons, and relationships for as long as I can remember. P.S. see you again soon Bolivia !

2016 NYAC VIM Bolivia YAM Mission: "In this Moment We Are Infinite"

February 15, 2016

Shadae Gooding wrote:

Today was our first day at the worksite. So far so good. We were able to see more of Cochabamba on our way there. Once we arrived, we separated into our work groups. Some of us did VBS (vacation bible school) and the other did construction work. My group did VBS and the children loved it. They were very happy. Everyone introduced themselves and began to work. A bible verse was read in Spanish about Noah’s Arc and the children were asked to draw a picture based on those verses. They drew their favorite animal. Some drew alligators, chicken and much more. Their drawings were very beautiful, some better than what I can do. We helped them to hang their drawing up in the form of an arc. The young children did the same. Also they made hats and fortune teller’s out of paper. They were very creative and excited. They enjoyed the activities that they did today. Once everyone was finished, we helped to give out snacks and prepared to leave. We sung “Jesus Loves Me” to them and with the help of our leaders, they were able to sing it in English. We also learned how to sing “Jesus Loves Me” in Spanish. We all took a walk into the community to see their houses and how the neighborhood looked. It was really nice to see the children happy. They love to take pictures too !!! Even though we couldn’t understand most of the Spanish, we were still able to bond and help each other.

February 17, 2016

Aryana Fernandez writes:

Today I woke up homesick. I really miss the smell of my house, my mom and my cats. But my sad moment went away as soon as I went downstairs for breakfast. We had pancakes!! It was the most filling pancakes I ever had. After that we had devotion (hosted by Chris’ family). Everyone starts off their day the same. We all do construction in the morning and lunch at 12:30 – 1:00 pm. At the construction site we tied rebar to create the structure of the second floor. I saw the blueprint for the church. It looks really nice. I am so proud of how much our team has accomplished in just 3 days. The workers wives surprised us with freshly boiled potatoes and lima beans. The food was provided by a nearby farm. It was so good, it reminds me that not all food needs to be seasoned to be good. After lunch, my family group (Jill) hosted VBS. Today our theme was God’s Creation.” We sang songs and cut out paper hands as the creative activity. Tomorrow we plan to surprise them for their last day of VBS. We are going to form a cross from the cut-out hands. I can’t wait to see the look on their faces. Later that evening we went to youth group with other teens from local churches in Cochabamba. We taught them an American game and they taught us a game they play in Cochabamba. It was a lot of fun!! I can’t wait for what we are going to do tomorrow.

February 18, 2016

Annie Blay writes:

Today was a very emotional day. Working on construction was not fun at all, but working with the children was great. Baby Nicole has stolen my heart. She is amazing. I love her. She is the cutest baby every! To night was an unforgettable night. We got to see the pop culture from the Bolivian youth. How they dance and they music they listen to. It was so amazing to see how language ceased to be a barrier when music intervened. Everyone was completely immersed in the experience. At one point we were all outside running around in a circle and I just couldn’t help but give myself in to the entire experience. I’ve never experienced anything so raw and neat. It all felt so natural and exciting. It reminded me of one of my favorite quotes by Stephen Clebosky and I really did feel that … “In this moment we are infinite.”

February 18, 2016

Mackenzie Henris writes:

Wow can you imagine it has been 5 days. Finally we got our phones back!!! I was waiting for today for 2 reasons. One was because today was the last day of VBS. It was so cute to see all of their faces, and seeing them having so much fun with such little toys. Of course today I had to do construction work. It was actually fun today. We taught Louis (one of the workers) to say “come on man, Let’s go” it was so funny. After work the construction group went to VBS for the last time. I was dancing with the little boys and girls. When we took the group picture two kids sat on my lap. Everyone was laughing and having fun. Seeing the smiles on their faces are so priceless, it is such a beautiful moment. So after the last VBS we went on the bus and the kids were running after us. I want to say here longer. It’s beautiful and very sunny! Well can’t wait for more experiences to come! See all of ya’ll on Monday!

February 18, 2016

Shaneil Webley Roberts writes:

Today has been such a good day so far. As usual, we started the day off with breakfast and then headed over to the work site. For the whole morning I’ve been tying rebar. It’s not a heard job, but it does get a little repetitive. Also, since we were on the top floor with no roof it was getting really hot It was so hot, that I’m pretty sure that my neck is as dark as the night sky (slight exaggeration but you know what I mean). However, despite these complaints, it was pretty relaxing and a great way to make progress on the construction of the church. After lunch, it was time for my group (Chris’ family) to run VBS. We had quite a few complications that made VBS so stressful. For the first hour or so we did not have translator present. This made it very difficult to communicate with the children. It was so hard that we decided to scratch out one of our activities we had and replaced it with more songs and time for the children to draw and color. When the translator finally arrived we were able to prepare and distribute T-shirts to the children. When the children put on their T-shirts they were so happy. We took a group picture and played around with the children afterwards. Today has officially become my favorite day because of the children and I’m going to miss them so much.

2016 NYAC VIM Bolivia YAM Mission - The Miracle of Faith Uniting People

Tuesday February 16, 2016

Maria Hall writes:

The day started with an early morning breakfast at 7:30 am. After another beautiful and plentiful meal, Jill’s family group led our morning devotion. Naomi started the devotion by asking everybody to pass the peace. Following the peace with a verse from Deuteronomy 15:7-11, which sparked a conversation about the meaning of poor in the bible vs. how we define money in terms of income and resources. Rev. Joseph left us with the object to reflect and focus on what the community of Sacaba has, instead of what we believe they lack. After spraying enough bug spray and sunscreen, (which didn’t help and still burned) we headed towards the bus that brings us to the site.

The ride is about 40 minutes but we have such an amazing opportunity to see the growing and always expanding community of Cochabamba. Once at the site, we send prayers with the local construction workers for safety during the day’s activities. We started working again with rebar, the same one the girls helped straighten the day before. At first, the language barrier was difficult to overcome very much when figuring out how to tie the rebar together but after watching the man about multiple times, everybody started to pick it up fairly quickly. We took water break and got back to work. Next talk was to put up the rebar we just tied. The bust arrived around 12;30 pm to take us back to the hostel for lunch.

After our delicious lunch and re- application of sunscreen we headed back to the site for VBS and more construction work. Chris’ family ran VBS and taught the story of creation. Jill’s group worked on the rebar and solidifying the rebar with cement. After 4:30 pm we headed to Luz de Vida Church to purchase some of their hand crafts to support their ministry. I purchased a fit for my mother that I hope she likes. Once back at the hostel, everyone took a quick shower and headed to the main building for another wonderful dinner before a worship service at the Lava Lava Church.

Around 7:30 pm we headed back to Lava Lava for a worship service. The service was beautiful with lots of music and speaking in English, Spanish, and Quechua (the local language). Rev. Ewoodzie gave a great sermon about the common thread of Christianity that binds all of us, despite our differences of language, location, and culture. The serviced ended around 9:45 pm. Once back at the hostel we had a quick debriefing about the day’s activities and the plans for tomorrow. Everyone is very tired so we all went to bed instantly.

Today I saw the power of faith in bringing different people together and it was a sight to be hold to say the least.

2016 NYAC VIM Bolivia YAM Mission - Building Hope, Friendship and an Appetite

Monday February 15, 2016

Tirsha Wheatly writes:

After a long day, it’s finally morning. We had breakfast around 9:30am. It was amazing. To be honest I wish I could take some Coffee home! After breakfast, we had time for worship and orientation. I’m so excited of all the things we had ahead of us. But we just figured out we are running a vacation bible school. I’m very nervous! Nevertheless, I just want to point out how many supplies we collected. It’s simply insane. Oh Wow! the smell of the food they are cooking right now is making me hungry. Okay they are coming out with the food, gotta go!

After lunch we all jumped on the bus and led to the church we are building. It was a long ride but I got to take wonderful pictures and we got to see a statue of Jesus on top a huge hill. Once we got to our destination all the kids were waiting for us. They hugged us like we knew each other forever. Half of the group actually started working on building the Church and the other half including myself led Vacation Bible School. We asked them all of their names, I read a bible verse in Spanish and had them draw their favorite animal. Then we took a walk around the area.

Oh I forgot! We sung with the children and they taught us how to make a hat out of paper, pretty creative. Also, many of the girls drew better them me. I had to take pictures of their drawing. Also, I was amused how many of the kids wanted us to take pictures of them. They posed and everything. Nevertheless, I also noticed there’s a lot of poverty in Cochabamba. Most people make everything from scratch which I find amazing. They make their own clothe and grow their own food.

Okay, dinner time. The food was …… I can’t even find the right word for it. All was simply delicious. I’m just grateful for everything.

Tuesday February 16, 2016

Karicia Murray writes:

This morning was crazy. I woke up early to start my day. While I was coming down the stairs, I fell down the stairs, and my head hurt a little bit, and my back was giving me problems, but that did not stop me from what I came to do in Cochabamba, Bolivia. I was shocked that I didn’t cry, but usually I’m not a cry baby. I really like when we were at the work site, just working together and giving Bolivia a helping hand. I love doing construction work because I’m working a lot on my upper body. It’s fun to do that and I’m not really a girly, girly type. Getting to know people that live in Bolivia was great. They are friendly people and they are grateful that we have come and welcomed us to come back to Cochabamba.

2016 NYAC VIM Bolivia YAM Mission - On the Ground and Getting Ready!

Sunday, February 14, 2016

Sharne Webley-Roberts wites:

It has been 16 hours since I said goodbye to my family in New York. I managed to not cry at the sight of them leaving. Which is a good sign for me. Once we checked in our luggage and, successfully, passed through security bag check, we had 4 hours to kill before our departure flight arrived. I spent that time mostly reading, since I LOVE to read. When our departure flight finally arrived and we were seated, I had a feeling I was going to be very annoyed during this flight. Why you may ask? Well that was because a little kid was sitting in the seat behind me and he repeatedly kicked the back of my chair. With that being said, my flight experience was not the best, however, I did sleep like a baby. Once we landed in Lima, Peru we had a mini church service to keep in mind all the people who are praying for us and cheering us on from the side lines while we go on this journey to spread God’s word and love. As I am writing this, we are waiting for our departure flight to Santa Cruz. Overall, the journey so far has been a tiring, yet fulfilling experience and I can’t wait till we reach Bolivia.

Sunday February 14,2016

Anthony Vicari writes:

Wow what a day!!!! Oh wait it has only been 15 hours. We started right by a Mucus Man set up at JFK, what a sight. Emotions were flying and everyone was scared, nervous, and happy. Once we left our immediate families, we all became looser and more talkative. We made our way through customs, and just my luck, I get randomly selected and they search my bag. Of course they find nothing, but I was very suspicious because I was laughing, which didn’t help. Once the nice customs lady gave me my bag back, I went to the restrooms, I drank a full liter of water before customs. We then went down to the terminal where Chris (our chaperon) told us that we have around 3 hours to do whatever we want, I was sooooo hungry by then and I was happy that we have 3 hours to hang around. We had only met each other 2 times before and so it was a great time to get to know everyone more in depth. We spent all 3 hours sitting around at a pizzeria. We talked about everything, our schools, politics, Trump and tons more. Then we finally got to board our first flight. I was very nervous, but I was next to Katie and Mackenzie so I was calm. The flight was good except for the really bumpy start, a hard landing and only two hours of sleep during an 8 hours flight. Finally we made it to Peru.

All airports are rip-offs, but in Peru I bought a cup of coffee at one of the vendors for 4 US dollars. That is already extremely pricy. The best part is that the coffee is the size of my palm. I got very dehydrated from the coffee too. Since I didn’t learn my lesson the first time, I bought 2 liters of water to drink. I downed one and half liters in less than an hour. It’s finally time to board our next plane. I had an elderly lady and her daughter next to me and I went to the bathroom about 3 times in an hour span. We also were handed these forms to get into Bolivia. These forms made absolutely no sense. Reverend Ewoodzie and Jill saved me and helped me through the forms. It started to rain now and our flight is delayed, hopefully we get going soon.

Summing It Up - The YAM 2015 Team Reflects on Antigua

New Families, New Games, New Memories

Anna Jensen writes:

This morning began with my family (Jill’s Family) doing devotion. We decided to perform a skit about materialism. We then set out on an educational tour of the island, including a stop at a fort and a quick history lesson. We got lunch at “The Big Banana” which was great but Tyler and I didn’t get our food. Then we dispersed into family groups for shopping for our family and church. Currently we are playing "Kenyan mouse nail” a game derived from Egyptian Rat Screw, but with more rules. Every 10 minutes or so we remind each other that we leave tomorrow and all agree that refusing to leave and staying an extra week is the best choice. Karla requires me to include her name before I finish writing, so here.

Changing Me for the Better

Shamar Green writes:

First in my blog I’m going to talk about how last night I made a new friend in Antigua from who I think is a really cool guy. I am really enjoying my time in Antigua. I feel good about what we are doing in Antigua from building our relationship with each other, from helping building the church at Baster and at Gilbert. I’m happy that this trip is changing me for the better. I have made lifelong friends on this trip that I can look for when I’m down or in trouble. These guys and girls are like my brothers and sisters. OLEANDER

About Those Donkeys...

Randy Pringle writes:

This trip so far is fun, I met many new friends. We have to wake up early in the morning, eat breakfast and go to our work site. I’m used to waking up early in the morning because I got to get up at 5:45am for school. Coming to Antigua is a good experience because it was the birthplace of John Wesley’s Methodist teaching in the Americas. The first work site my group began to work at was Gilbert memorial. I didn’t like it at all. It had donkey droppings on the floor grounds. Every stop I took there was donkey dropping. I felt uncomfortable walking around the field. The second work site was Baster Methodist Church. It was good because it was no doodoo and it was mostly in the shade.

The Best Birthday Ever!

Michael Sibley-Prusak writes:

Coming on this was the most amazing experience of my life so far. I’ve made lots of new friend’s and made soooooo many new and awesome memories. I don’t want to leave, I don’t think anyone does. The memories I’ve made there will stay with me forever. It makes me sad when I realize that I won’t see any of these people again. Or at least not for a long time. I think I laugh the most and the hardest I ever have with these new friends. My squad/crew of me, Cameron and Jerami had the most fun EVER! after we found that we all share the same personality and all bonded so well. My bros, Presley, Joe, Jerami, John, Justin, Eriq and Matt. Then my girls, Cameron, Kyleigh, Tyler, Jess, Hanna, Sydey, Imama. I’ll miss the times we had together and hope I’ll be able to hang out with all of them again. ANYWAY, this trip was AMAZING!! The views were absolutely breath taking. I took as many pictures as possible. Swimming with the sting rays was a once in a life time experience that I am so happy I got to be part of. My birthday cake that totally shocked me when I saw it. My birthday here was the best one I have ever had. I love being here and I didn’t want to leave. If only pictures were like portals, I’d jump right into each and everyone everyday. Working with Bobby was the Best. Working up on the roof was so fun. Bobby gave me loss of life lessons, like how the last one could kill you. We get to pick coconuts from the trees and drink the water inside. I’ve learned so much and I enjoyed every second of the work we did. I wish I could come back. This past week was a dream that I lived in reality. I loved this trip. I don’t want to leave yet. Just one more week PLEASE. I love it here. The work was so accomplishing and I think I’ve left my mark.

Getting of the Dust

Jon Lohutko writes:

I feel as if I peak for everyone. When I say this trip has undoubtedly reached the “transforming” stage. Our chaperones, Youth, and religious leaders have all united in the boiling point in this stage of our faith journey. With Antigua acting as our figurative teapot. I feel as if my character has drastically developed with this trip acting as a catalyst. The friendships I’ve made on this excursion will last longer than I can ever imagine. As far as the members of 2015’s YAM group go, I’m sure as the dust settles from the quake that his trip was, a new refined more perfect group of future youth leaders will rise.

Fellowship, Fun and Lots of Sun!

A Life-Changing Experience

Carolyn Lorenzi writes:

Oh my goodness, Antigua has been AMAZING! It is so much warmer here than New York, first of all. Everything is so beautiful and breathtaking. The only thing that is better than the scenery is the people I have met. Every person who came on this trip with me is so cool and awesome. I made friends here with so many different people. The people from Antigua I have met are amazing as well. I know I’m not going to want to leave on Sunday! It feels so good to know we have helped out so much in Antigua. We did so much construction work each day, and talked to young children in a primary school. This honestly is a life changing experience and I can’t wait to tell everyone about it when I get home!!!

No Longer Strangers

Karla Johnson writes:

Today is the 6th day. This week flew by so fast. I feel sad that we only have one more full day together. I was just becoming closer to everyone because in the beginning I was so shy. This week was honestly the best week I have had in a while. I’m surprised to say that because just last week we were all strangers to each other. I love that I got to have this experience. I tried new foods and I helped work at the work sites. The citizens of Antigua were so nice to us and they treated us good. I don’t even miss NY … I wish I could stay in the hot climate instead of the cold snowy climate. I’m going to miss my roommates, family members and chaperones.

Lots of New Experiences

Justin Christmas writes:

My time in Antigua is a good experience so far. I met new people during work over the week. The food we had during the week was good most of the time. I enjoyed the trips we had like the stingray farm and the docks with the boats. The sun is very hot and it made me darker which I didn’t like about the stay here. I’m glad we got to meet the children at the school and interacted with them. 

Soaking it All In

Eriq Johnson writes:

First, I just found out it was 3 degrees in NY so thank God I’m not there right now. Second, I have three words: ANTIGUA IS AMAZING. Beside the off and on rainfall we got today, I like the warm temperatures, the great food, the beautiful views and the interesting new people. After having lunch which was hamburgers and wedges with ice cream, we headed for the sting ray farm. I thought it was interesting even though it rained a little. On the way back to the hotel, we made a pit-stop to the Gilbert Methodist Church where we say displays in honor of Methodism. So it’s two more days and I’m going to soak in everything while I have the chance.

About Those Sting Rays...

Anaya Walters writes:

This morning when I woke up I was in a good mood. I was excited for 2 reasons. One was because we were going to the sting ray farm and because my group was going back to the Baxter Methodist Church. I like Baxter better than Gilbert because there is enough work for all of us. I think plastering is fund and I can’t plaster at Gilbert but I can do it at Baster. Today at Baxter I plastered 2 walls in the bathroom for their shower. I know that I did well because it took Jon the whole day to do one. I did 2 in less than that. Also a lot of the workers were complimenting me. Before I got to the string ray farm I was excited to swim with them, but when we got there and I went in the water I was scared because they were HUGE. So far I touched one and got out of the water. I had a good day today and I hope that it continues.

Knee Deep in the Experience of Mission

"Experience"

Mission Team Members Celebrate Ash Wednesday

Kyleigh Curtin writes:


My experience thus far has been the most wonderful experience I’ve had so far. On our flight here to Antigua it was crazy. I’ve clicked with so many people so fast it’s weird. I’ve never clicked with people this fast. The six hour flight had me all types of crazy because for one; I’ve never been on a six hour flight before, two; take off, landing, and turbulence was just ridiculous (never again, maybe), and three; it gave me the worst stomach ache in the world. The worksites are so much fun. I think it’s because we have a good group. I feel very good that I’m here being the best that I can and doing the best I can. Some of the work is work that I’ve never done before but I learned pretty fast. I really feel like this is something everyone should do because for me it gives me joy to know that I’m doing good and helping in the best way possible. Also you learn a lot from trips like this. It teaches you great life lessons.

"Storming" the Mission

Cameron Neiblum writes:

Once upon a time there was a group of teenagers that made it to Antigua. They were not alone for their faithful and caring adults were right alongside. The days went by smoothly with oceans, smiles, and ghost stories, but as all good things do, a bump in the trip came along. Siobhan once told me that a good mission trip goes through the stages of forming, norming, storming, performing and transforming. Today is Wednesday, some people call it middle of the week, others call it "hump-day" and some storming day. Well today started off brilliant enough. Breakfast had delicious cereal and egg sandwiches, and my group got to work at Baxter Methodist Church. We plastered walls, talked to Jermaine about his truck driving dreams, and ate the most delicious rotis you’ve ever tasted.

We came back and … well I was last in line for the shower and covered in cement so I jumped in the pool and started a little fiesta. The splashing, jumping, and marco poloing ensued until dinner. Have you ever had pasta while listening to live steel drums? If not I suggest you try it sometime! Until this point in time Mike, Jessie and I were sure that the storming phase would not appear. Could it be possible that this group is so amazing that storming cannot exist? Well unfortunately we spoke soon. When the subject of cell phones came up everything fell to pieces. Anyway, let’s fast forward back to the fun times. Currently I’m sitting around the table with Carolyn, Jon, Anna, Matthew and Jerami, Claudia, Jessie, Eric with a Q and Matt … I mean Mike. (I seem to be mixing Mike and his brother’s name up.) Good night world! That’s all there is for today!

Lots of Work, Sun and Friends in Antigua

Lifetime Friends

Sapphire Tucker writes:

Today was great! Coming on this trip I was a little hesitant because I only knew 3 people. I was so scared to be in a house/room with a bunch of random girls, but I’m so happy I was. The girls I’ve become close with are so amazing and I’m so happy to have made such awesome new friends. We all work together so well whether it is at our worksite or just hanging out. it’s great. It’s only day 2 and I feel like I’ve known these girls for a lifetime. I can’t wait for days 3-8.

Coconut Milk and Sunburn

Tyler Papallo writes:

Today I got to work at the Gilbert worksite for the second time. I got to do so much work these past two days from painting boards to working on the roof. Even though I got sunburn in the process it was worth it. During our lunch break we got to drink the coconut milk from one of the coconut trees. I’ve had so much fun at the worksite the past two days, but I’m really excited to work at the other worksite with the kids. And cement work. I’ve made many new friends during these past few days, and shared so many new experiences with them. I can’t wait for the many days to come.

Nailing it Down!

Presly Gabriel writes:

Today I had fun climbing and nailing down a roof. I actually got over 2 fears the last two days. I got over my fear of lizards and my fear of being on a roof. I stood on a roof and I held a lizard. I surprisingly got a sunburn. I got to play cards and even drink straight from a coconut. I also found out that I’m a very good photographer.

Making Bonds, Buildings and Memories

“So Far”

Ima Otto _during writes:

So far this experience has been absolutely amazing. Antigua is one of most beautiful places I’ve ever been. Although the plane ride and layover was rough, it was well worth it. The group of YAMs this year is great also. We all began bonding and forming friendships immediately. They are a great group of youths. It’s nice to know that we have a judgment free and safe place. I can’t wait to see how we bond more in the future. THIS PLACE IS LIKE A DREAM!!

“The Sun”

Doria Bruny writes:

Siobhan knocked on my door so early. I wasn’t tired but I just wanted to sleep. The bed was so good and I wasn’t expecting it. As I walked in the room and touch it, it was type hard. After the pool I didn’t want to go to sleep. I wanted to play and sit on the porch. Before we went to sleep it was hard for me to brush. I couldn’t manage for me not to wet my brush with the tap water. I couldn’t take a shower yet. I had to wait for a while for it to come on. I ended up taking a shower so late but I felt fresh by the time I was going to bed.

"Teaching the Americans"

Claudia Anderson writes:

Today, my group went to Baxter Methodist Church and we shoveled sand, moved cement blocks upstairs. That was interesting hard work. When we finished that we went to a school for 3rd to 6th graders. I visited the 3rd grades. They were just awesome. We played ‘never have I ever’ and 7 up. They taught us a dance and a song called “Rock your bones.” It was so awesome. I think that they liked that they got to teach the “Americans” something. We asked them what they wanted to be when they group up and most of them said Doctors. I thought that was great. I am having a lot of fun, but so far my favorite part was being with the kids.

Day Two in Antigua: Humble and Light Hearts at Work

Rev. Siohban Sargent writes:
I'm already amazed by our Youth Ambassadors. Arriving to the Baxter worksite, the youth were hard at work and they had been hard at work all morning, carrying large cement stones to the 2nd floor of what will soon be the Baxter community center, bringing piles of sand up bucket by bucket, and finally shoveling gravel and mixing cement to continue the masonry work to be done. They don't shy away from getting their hands dirty and their willingness to jump in is inspiring.

With their reflections the evening before during our sad/glad time, these 26 young people seem to not only recognize the meaning behind what we're doing here in Antigua but they also wield this gift of service and transformation with a sense of humility and light-heartedness. Even when asked to give up their prized electronic devices (phones, iPads, laptops) there was little reluctance and ultimately such requests are met with flexibility and understanding. They are a joy to be around and their gratitude is witnessed in their heartfelt prayers and willingness to chip in and help one another. The generosity we've received from our hosts has been received with appreciation.

It is only day two and I feel like I'm a part of one great big family marked by God's spirit, love and grace. We are playing games and enjoying our new friendships.

It is a blessing to witness the level of commitment and dedication among these youth to live out God's call on their lives and I'm excited to see their growth and deepening spiritual connections throughout this trip.