What began as a mission to serve others quickly became a powerful reminder of how God meets His people when they step out in faith. Our senior class traveled to the Dominican Republic, believing we were going to an island to minister to the poor. Instead, God used the trip to minister deeply to us as well. We began at a local church, where students led worship, preached a message, and shared communion. Despite language barriers, God’s presence united us as one church, reminding us that the gospel knows no borders.
One of the most impactful moments came during our visit to a children’s hospital. Parents sat faithfully beside their sick children, many unable to afford the medications their kids needed. As we worshiped together through song, handed out Bibles, prayed at bedsides, and made balloon animals, the atmosphere shifted. Rooms once filled with heaviness were filled with joy. Through God’s provision, we were able to help purchase medications for families, showing Christ’s love in both word and action. This not only broke the hearts of students, it prepared them for God’s work.
By day three, the heat was intense, yet the students persevered. We painted houses, ran a field day at a local school, played wiffle ball with local youth, handed out food and Bibles, ministered to children and teens with disabilities, and boldly shared the gospel. Each act of service seemed to energize the students and continued to prepare them for whatever God had next.
This trip not only impacted individuals, it unified our senior class. Through serving the Lord together, God built us up, drew us closer, and reminded us that true joy comes from knowing Christ and living for Him