The Dominican Republic, my first country on the Race, already has a special place in my heart. We also got exciting news this week–our first ministry contact assignment!
I can say with full confidence, I would not be where I am or who I am today if it weren’t for Westerville Church of the Nazarene. My church growing up provided a place of community, spiritual growth and a killer youth group. Additionally, my church fostered a mission-minded atmosphere. When I was young, the leaders of our church felt called from God to reach out to the Spanish speaking community in Westerville. This meant incorporating Spanish into our worship gatherings, so my church became bilingual.
My church also partnered with a church in Bonao, Dominican Republic and their pastor, Carlos.
Growing up, I was able to watch multiple mission teams, including both of my parents serve in the Dominican Republic. As a kid, I was so excited for the day I was old enough to join them on mission. The minimum age limit for the trips was 14 years old; when I was 13 they decided to take a few years off in traveling to the DR… one year away! I was so upset that I couldn’t go as soon as I was allowed. Of course, God had better plans for me.
Summer 2010
My senior year of high school, my church announced they were taking another trip to the DR. Naturally, I immediately signed up. I couldn’t wait to finally experience what so many people at my church had experienced.
I remember being in awe as we drove from the airport to Bonao. I had been out of the country before, but it was for the adoption of my siblings in China. This was different; it was the first time I was able to see the needs of the world face to face. I saw the tension between the beauty of the countryside and the poverty laying among it. This is where the Lord sparked a heart for missions inside of me.
We spent the week painting (and re-painting) the exterior and interior of the Sanctuary that was built. We then cleaned the church for the “grand opening” that following Sunday. Being there made me feel like I was part of something bigger than myself. My mom laid the stairs (see below); my dad worked on the second story/sanctuary; I was there to paint, clean and celebrate the completion of the Sanctuary.
January 2016
Even though I won’t be serving in Bonao on the World Race, I am thrilled that my first month is in the Dominican Republic. It seems fitting to start the Race where my passion for missions started. With that being said, I have my first ministry assignment!!
Location: Lajas de Yaroa
Ministry: Hope 4 the DR
Mission: Hope 4 the DR is committed to bring Christ-centered transformation to the DR through church planting and meeting the needs of hurting children and their families. My team with partner with 2 other all-girl teams to participate in construction, children’s ministry, prayer walking and home visitations.
Getting our ministry site makes it all the more real!! I cannot wait to serve there. To make that happen, I still need about $800 to launch (along with $7000 additionally to stay the whole race). If you would like to support my time in the Dominican Republic, please consider donating to one of my Dominican Republic Jeopardy boxes! This is a great way to walk with me through this country! It also offers a chance to win something from this country, big or small! 2 people have already won a double jeopardy prize!
Adopt the Dominican Republic here
