I had the sweetest opportunity to teach for two weeks at the Mechanic Falls Vineyard Summer Camps. The first week was teens and the second was kids. It was a beautiful blessing to serve alongside many loved ones. I’ve never really taught younger children before and was a little nervous but man did the Holy Spirit take lead! Each teaching was a sweet time to simply journey alongside each kid and discuss the goodness of our Papa. Over the course of those two weeks my heart was filled to the brim with joy as I discovered a newfound passion for teaching and kids ministry!
There is something so lovely about watching young children encounter the Lord. I struggled with preparing to teach as I wanted to best describe who Jesus was to them and simply just wanted them to understand His goodness. Funny thing is – those kids were so sensitive to the Holy Spirit and His presence changed everything. All the worry I had over teaching was gone in the name of Jesus and peace flooded every inch of me. Each child is simply so precious!
As I made the decision to no longer leave for World Race Gap Year, serving at camp was such a sweet time for me to keep my eyes fixated on Him instead of my emotions. During this time I also was able to coordinate with my advisor from the World Race. The money fundraised for my gap year was gracefully able to be moved towards a different trip. This trip is called World Race Semesters. It’s essentially three months in one of two countries where you have a set ministry. I took this to the Lord and knew well that my heart still desired to serve in a different nation. There were a few different countries for me to choose from but there was one in particular that really caught my attention. I am so joyfilled to say I will be leaving in January to partner with the Kids International Ministry located in the Philippines. This ministry focuses primarily with children but does many things for the community. This ministry site does local feedings, runs a Hope Alive Clinic for mothers & infants, runs a nearby children’s school, and so much more. Most importantly they share the love of Christ within their community! The Lord knew exactly what He was doing the first day I spoke the the Adventures in Missions. His plans for me are good. But His plans are more than good for me, His plans are good for the Kingdom! So sweet friends I am fully funded to be leaving in January for the Philippines.
Side note – I also am planning to leave in October for about 5-7 weeks. I will be going to the Philippines but individually. I cannot thank Him enough for giving me an encouraging group of believers to have fellowship with. I planned to be gone for nine months and found that I won’t be leaving until January so I’ve decided to partner with the same ministry for a shorter period on my own prior to going with a group of racers. I won’t be doing the same thing as I will be in January though. I will be staying on the Manila base where I will be primarily helping with the Hope Alive Clinic. At this clinic, I will be providing care for mothers alongside doctors. Whether that’s helping with paperwork, leading bible studies in the waiting rooms, performing ultrasounds, taking vitals, or helping to catch babies! Jesus is so sweet and I am excited for this next adventure. If you have any questions please reach out! All glory be to Him.
