Raising Up A New Generation

This hot and sunny morning, our group visited the local Anglican church. It is a stunning structure set on a hill overlooking the city of Port Maria, with the Caribbean Sea roaring in the background. I guess that Bermuda Triangle is more than an urban legend! 

Anyway, that hour was one of the most monumental times of our entire school year. Freshmen and student leaders led a prayer meeting for the nation of Jamaica at the front of the sanctuary. 

For lunch, we enjoyed Jamaican fast food, followed by a brief stop at the beach- perfect opportunity for pictures with tropical waters behind us. 

Next, we divided into three groups. Forty-five people headed to a local elementary school to play with kids. Today was their “Field Day,” so we watched future Olympians race the track.

Meanwhile, approximately 20 people headed to the church and nursing homes to finish the paint projects. 

This evening, we held an extended session of personal ministry time for all of the freshmen and leaders. 

Each night, we enjoy Jamaican meals as a team as we watch beautiful sunsets design colors on the horizon that rests on the Caribbean. The stars are remarkable soon thereafter.

While I am typing this, many people are in small groups bonding over story time. Some people are playing card games in the dining room.

Virtually everyone on the trip has had their lives profoundly impacted in many unique and often emotional ways. I could author a book on how people’s lives were changed on this trip.