FPC Student Missions

San Diego - 8 Evening

2011-07-30T23:01:00.000-07:00

The 4 vans and 38 tired travelers (30 kids and 8 adult co-leaders) left Flagstaff, AZ at 8am PDT and made it back safely to First Pres Colorado Springs' Weber Street Center about 9:40pm MDT. (Note: 3 kids traveled home with parents or other relatives separate from the large group)

First Pres students and leaders circle up at Christ's Church of Flagstaff for an early breakfast prayer before enjoying grab and go breakfast.

The 4 vans are packed and lined up ready to depart from Flagstaff, AZ

At Christ's Church in Flagstaff during breakfast, travelers review a large wall map of the travel route from San Diego to Colorado Springs

Vans arrived in Colorado Springs and fueled up. All travelers helped clean their team's original themed window paint. Above from the left are Kelsey (co-leader), Will Tibbitt, Collin (co-leader), Suzanne Goodale, and Tristan Robertson.

San Diego - 7 Evening

2011-07-29T22:23:00.000-07:00

Heyyyyyyy mom. Tara and I r doing just fine..........well tara is. =) c u at 10pm tomorrow night or maybe earlier depending on traffic. We r just sitten around and hang'n do'n stuff. ok bi
Robyn Camera
7th grade

Robyn completes her blog at the computer in Flagstaff, AZ

Well, we are back in Flagstaff, Arizona again on our way home...San Diego was a great trip! I had a great experience. We've been talking about being different in a way that God wants us to. I had a lot of good experiences but the most memorable one took place last night. We did footwashing like Jesus did to his disciples...it sounds a little wierd at first but then one of our leaders read a scripture in which Jesus washed Peter's feet. One of our leaders, Kelsey washed my feet and prayed for me and it touched my heart. THANKS KELSEY!!! After that, we had small group time and we went around the circle and each person talked about something personal or something unique about you. I cried a little bit...my small group leader was Collin Grant and I think he is an awesome leader! Throughout the trip, I realized how important God is in my life. I never really paid attention to that as much as I should have. It was very sad when we had to leave. I don't want to forget a single second of this trip. I made many memories and will never forget the people I met. well I have to go! Love and miss u family! And u too sherina!:)

Tiara Heitman
Grade 7

Hi there!!! Going to San Diego was an aammaazziinngg experience. After devotions in the morning, my group and I went to a Senior Center. The people at the Senior Center LOVED playing bingo. Not joking. I'm estimating that we played about 9 hours of bingo during the four days we went. Then after the Senior Center, we went to a place called Special Delivery. At Special Delivery, we packaged food for people with life threatening diseases who can't leaver their homes like you and I can. All of the people that work there are volunteers (in other words, they don't get paid to work there, they choose to work there). Another thing that I loved about being in San Diego is the... Palm Trees!!! I've hugged about 10 of them while I was there.

Brooke Martin
8th grade

Hello there everybody!!! San Diego was awesome and such an amazing experience. I loved every minute of it. It was wonderful. We talked about how Jesus was the Lord of the universe and how he got down on his knees to wash his disciples' feet. The leaders went around a circle and washed our feet and then would say a special prayer for each of us. I bawled because of mixed emotions such as: happiness, sadness, amazement, and it was just such an amazing experience. Oh... I cried for soooo long. It was kind of funny because I didn't really know exactly why I was crying. I felt really special. This trip has changed me in so many ways. I learned that I should serve others before myself. I love bringing joy to others. It's a magnificent feeling. I miss the really nice lady named Arline from the Adult Nutrition Center. She was soooooooo sweet. I very much enjoyed every minute of this trip for different reasons. I miss everyone and will see you all tomorrow! Got to go play games! TTFN....... P.S. I love you Mommy, Daddy, Taryn, and Savannah!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Starr Samkus
7th grade

Tiara (left), Starr (center) and Brooke (right) hang together at the overnight stop at Christ's Church of Flagstaff, AZ enjoying blogging about the San Diego trip

Wow! This has been an absolutely amazing week!! Looking back I have enjoyed every minute of it. It was a definately a different experience this year from my past two years. In the morning, I worked at a Soup Kitchen that was called St. Vincent's and it was amazing! Over one thousand homeless people live there and the leaders try to help improve their lives. Working and serving all those people that need help was an eye-opener for me on how lucky I am to have a home and a nice and warm bed. I realized how much I take for granted in life and when I get home I will definately change that. In the afternoons, my group went to a place called Catholic Charities which is a food bank that gives out food to people that need it. It was fun to put together the meals as well as grocery bags full of food for the people. This trip has been amazing and last night we were able to have our feet washed by our leaders. While I was getting my feet washed, I realized that no matter how clean we are, our feet will always be dirty. It reminded me of sin and how no matter how much we repent from our sins we will still sin more, but we need Jesus in order to clean our feet.
This week has definately changed my view on the world because there are many people out there that need help, but who is there to step up and help? When I get home, I am going to try to find a way to get more involved in my community. This trip was phenominal and as a last trip with middle school, I am so glad I came!

Suzanne Goodale
9th Grade

WOW GREAT WEEK GREAT WEEK!
TITUS GRANT
Grade 7

This week has really been an amazing experience. My crew and I worked at an Adult Health Day Center in the morning and a lot of the elderly people had great personalities and were a lot of fun. Old people officially have the ability to crack me up, because I find it awesome that they still make random jokes and make fun of each other. One of the favorite people that I met was a woman named Deliah and she and her best friends were always laughing and they were just fun to be around. I also met a 104-year-old man who was a World War II veteran and had really cool stories about the War that were fun to listen to. After that, on the first day we went to Balboa Park because the place we were supposed to go after lunch was closed on Monday. We walked around the park (which was supercool) and picked up trash and handed out hygiene packets to homeless people.
One of the craziest things we did this week was have a more-than-2-hours talk with a homeless person named Linda. She had really interesting stories and it gave us a lot of insight into the true lives of homeless people, which are usually stereotyped and confused. For the rest of the week, we went to Catholic Charities, which was a sort of food bank for families who aren't able to get enough food. Maggie (Tibbitt) and I started to really get the hang of the place and soon we had a system figured out that let us fill orders in seconds! It was completely mental. Anyway, there were also a lot of great volunteers that were friendly and welcomed us happily to the ministry.
On the last night- wait, hang on...random note: we went to the beach, which was awesome and the pizza was delicious. Sorry. On the last night, we had our church leaders wash our feet like Jesus did to his disciples. It was really an inspiring opportunity. After that, the leaders prayed for us individually and I had a powerful moment with God and I felt like he was trying to tell me how he wanted me to continue to live my life. Ooookkkk I got really carried away and the people watching me here are giving me death threats because I'm taking too long to write this blog. It was an amazing first Youthworks trip and I hope I can do more in the future. See you all tomorrow!

Nate Bennett
Grade 8

Titus (left), Nate (center), and Suzanne (right) sitting by the computer after they finished a four square game at Christ's Church of Flagstaff preparing to blog

Can't blog right now ... play'n poker
Josh Borst
8th Grade

Hi this is Zachary. I've had alot of fun. bye
Zach Reddish
7th grade

Maggie Tibbitt reads her Bible during the morning devotionals "Devos" at New Life Assembly Church in San Diego

Yuma Arizona lunch stop 7-29-11

Collin Grant and Tristan Robertson enjoy the lunch break

Travelers play games (Salad Bowl organized by FPC co-leaders Stephannie Finley and poker organized randomly--no real betting) at Christ's Church in Flagstaff, AZ before overnighting and departure to Colorado Springs early in the morning.

THANKS CHRIST'S CHURCH

San Diego - 6 Evening

2011-07-29T00:31:00.000-07:00

So far, I am having a great time. I've never felt so close to God than I do at this trip. That feeling of feeling great when you have made someone happy is what I am feeling all the time now. I'm also getting tired waking up early and going to bed late and full planned days, but it is all worth it. I hope I can go on another trip like this again. I'm sad to be leaving tomorrow, but excited to see my family.

Holly Huffman
8th grade

Holly (4th from left) works with First Pres students Zach Reddish, Sydney Lane, Anna Hortik and Noah Reeverts (far right) carrying material for volunteer tasks

I have been to several camps and mission trips before but truly this one, because I have matured, has completely changed me. Within the past month or so, I have felt a different and much closer relationship with God. I have been begging him to take full control. This trip has helped me open my heart and take an extra step twoards that goal.

Noah Reeverts
Grade 9

This trip has been such a great experience from the bus ride to the last night. I have gone from sorting rotton tomates to preparing meals for sick homeless people. And packing boxes and boxes of food with Anna to backing cookies. But nothing compares to being able to become closer to God. I love sitting with everyone to eat dinner and just hanging out in free time. I have made so many new friends and it's just been amazing! I don't want it to end but I miss all of my friends and family at home and am excited to see everyone in Colorado!

Sydney Lane
8th grade

**********************
Hi! I'm in California right now! It is so amazing with warm weather, gorgeous palm trees, awesome friends, and the BEACH!!!! I'm having so much fun! It has been very interesting serving others here and I hope to take these lessons to Colorado Springs where I can do them there too. I've learned lots about God, met tons of cool people from Washington and managed to sprain my ankle I think!

Emily Wilson
8th grade

Emily (second from left) shares her white painted arms from working with her group including two Vancouver, Washington students and Robyn Camera from First Pres (third from left)

I've had so much fun here this week! California is amazing. The group I have been working with had the chance to go to a nursing home and meet several senior citizens. One woman, Shirley, was very inspiring to me because of her stong faith even though she was in pretty bad shape from a health standpoint. Every few sentences, she would say something like, "Praise Jesus!" or "My blessed Jesus, he is always here with us." Not only Shirley, but quite a few of the people at the nursing home were like this. I could see Jesus working through every single one of them because even after only two minutes of speaking with them, they were already telling you that they loved you and how grateful they were for you coming to visit.
One man named Inocente gave me a bracelet he had made on the first day that I met him. We also met a man named Leonardo who was deaf and mute, but he found ways to connect with us without using words.
Today was the last day to talk to our friends at the nursing home, and it was very hard to say goodbye. After getting tears in my eyes as Shirley gave me one last hug, we left to go to our second work site, a local food bank. We have been doing different jobs there throughout the week and today included separating red tomatoes from green tomatoes. We had a contest to see who could find the biggest, smallest, and most rotten tomatoes. It got pretty disgusting to see how gross the rotten ones were. Making slightly boring and tedious jobs more exciting by doing things like contests really helped me grow close to my small group of people I worked with at the sites. It's been great to have fun by helping other people here in San Diego, and I know that I am truly going to miss it when we have to head back home tomorrow.

Caroline Russell
9th grade

Caroline (3rd from left front row) prepares food trays with other First Pres kids: Megan Dibble, Ryan Henderson and Nicole Kalletta (thumbs up in background)

I have gone to First Pres. Church of Colorado Springs only like 3 times and I am already on my first mission trip. I think this mission trip has really changed me. At first, I wasn't really excited about going on mission in San Diego, but once I got here I was really having a lot of fun. I have made a lot of new friends here. My group has been working at a company called Special Delivery and it's a place that only volunteers work at. While volunteering there, I met an amazing lady named Ruth. She is the owner of Special Delivery and has been for twenty years. Her story was truly amazing and I was amazed how God has changed her whole life. At first the point of the company's existence, it was to help people with AIDs and who didn't have the energy to get up and make their own food or go to the grocery store. Then she found out about other people with diseases who didn't have the energy to make their own food so she started deliver to all kinds of people around the city of San Diego with the help of some volunteers.
I think that she is a really great person doing a very good cause. Marven, who also volunteers at Specia Delivery, volunteers every day of the week for more than nine hours. I thought he was a really cool person and God Bless to him.
My group also volunteered at the San Diego Food Bank and I think we all got to know each other there because we all worked together and I really enjoyed what I was doing there. I have to thank Noah for taking me to First Pres Church for the first time and Katie for convincing me to go on this mission trip. Also I have to give a huge thanks to Isaac, a high school kid from Vancouver, Washington for being the most modest, honest, kindest, hard working person I have ever met. I am glad to say that he is my friend. I send "Gnarly Knucks" to Isaac, which is one of our ways at Youth Works to acknowledge good things about other people.
This trip has really changed me and I hope I can take what I have learned here home and be a better person. Thank You.

Jared Tabel
9th grade

Jared helps to sort food at San Diego Food Bank while First Pres Adult Co-Leader Stephannie Finley is pictured in the background

Well, this week has been...exhilirating! with tons of fun new people to meet and things to do. It was pretty awesome. San Diego has been pretty good with the whole weather thing. It was sunny and breezy nonstop. I guess God wanted us to have a less exhausting time.
Any who, serving this week at the adult day center was so fun and soooooo new! I loved the people and the way they were. Their faces lit up with joy when they saw us coming every day. The same with the charity where we worked. Handing the food to the people felt so good, serving them brought me, them, and God joy. Serving in his name to love and to shower other people with happiness is my purpose this week and for the rest of my life. My faith in Him has grown so strong, as I see him working in other peoples lives.

P.S. I love you mommy! And yes, I forgot something after all that. :P

Alex P.
Grade 9

Before heading out for a swim in the Pacific Ocean, Alex (left front) prepares for beach side pizza and other dinner goodies at Coronado Beach with the combined Colorado Springs and Vancouver, Washington kids and adults. Other First Pres students pictured include (from center left to right) Chloe Lewis, Tory Louis, & Robyn Camera.

San Diego - 6 Morning

2011-07-28T08:56:00.000-07:00

We are having a great time in San Diego. We went to the beach a couple days ago and the water felt awesome. Yesterday we went to Balboa Park and I had hoped to go to the Championship Sports Hall of Fame museum but it was only open from 10am to 4:30pm so it was already closed during our evening visit. Today my group is going to a barbeque at the Adult Day Care. We are having a fantastic time in San Diego.

Kyle DeWeerd-8th grade

Kyle (far left) and Tara (forefront) help residents draw at the Senior Day Care Center

On the 3rd room from the left in the New Life Church in San Diego, California in the United States, NorthAmerica, Earth, Orion Arm of the Milky Way Galaxy, I am having alot of fun. I have been helping out at the Special Delivery Program here and it delivers food to the people who have illnesses and can't make their own meals. We also worked at the food bank where I won the smallest potato contest. We got to wear hair nets, aprons, and gloves. We also visited the beach and that was really fun because I got to play in the waves and dig holes that were 2 feet deep. We also have been playing with the neighborhood kids around the church and we have lots of fun with them.

Zachary William Reddish
Grade 7

Zach Reddish digs in the sand at the Pacific
Ocean on Coronado Beach

Another early morning! This amazing and eye-opening experience has flown by very fast. It is amazing how the van ride here seemed so long and being in San Diego is almost over! The whole group has worked very hard on every work site we have been to. God has really worked through every kid here to make San Diego a better city. I have really enjoyed getting to know other kids from my own church and the kids from Washington. I also really enjoyed talking to the people I served. I know I will have these memories for a very long time.

P.S. I love you mommy and daddy and don't worry about me!

Maggie Tibbitt
Grade 7

Maggie (right) with Delia, one of the residents at the Day Center

It's been a great experience getting to feed the homeless. I love all the people we were able to meet. It was also cool that people from a different state were helping out with us too. (THANKS WASHINGTON STATE KIDS!!)

Julia Angevine
Grade 8

Julia (left) and Claire colorfully and exquisitely display 2 of the 1,200 "Naked" brand fruit smoothly bottles (almost expired) that they are handing out to the residents of Saint Vincent's Village in their soup kitchen in Downtown San Diego

San Diego 5 Evening

2011-07-27T23:25:00.000-07:00

Working in the food kitchen is pretty amazing. I helped the handicapped people get their food trays and walked alot. It is nice to see their faces of joy when I arrive with their food.
Last night we went to the beach at Coronado Island. The water was so super cold that many of us wanted to leave as soon as we got there, but some other really nice people shared their beach fire with us so we stayed.

p.s. Josh and Claire are both sick and it sux. They were both lazy.

Love,
Anna Wilson

Anna Wilson (yellow top) and Josh Borst (red, white and gray trunks) at the Pacific Ocean's water's edge with other YouthWorks kids from both First Pres Colorado Springs and Vancouver, Washington on Coronado Beach

This week has been a very fun week and also an eventful one so far. I have made a bunch of new friends at the basketball camp where I work and I have 3 staples in the back of my head. I work at a basketball camp where kids that can't afford a camp can come for free and learn to play and have all sorts of fun. I am the only one in my YouthWorks group that plays basketball so I go out and do the drills and connect with the kids and I have a lot of new friends. Unfortunately, yesterday I was sliding down a railing for fun and I fell backwards and slammed my head into the concrete below. Now I have 3 staples in the back of my head and I somehow also strained my knee so I have a brace on it and I can't play basketball. But, today I did what I could and I still hung with my friends and had fun. PEACE OUT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
LEE WUZ HERE,
Andrew Lee
9th Grade

This week has been absolutely amazing! My YouthWorks group called Laguna has been working at two different stations everyday. The first job is called "Special Delivery", run by an amazing woman named Ruth who has run the non-profit organization for twenty years with entirely volunteers. We make meals for people with AIDS and other diseases. In the second half of the day, we go to the food bank and check for rotting food and pack boxes for the needy. God has been in so many places through out this trip and I'm really glad I came. I'm having an amazing time :)

Love,
Anna Hortik
Grade 8
God Bless!

Anna Hortik (far right) enjoying fellowship at sunset with Holly (center) and Sydney (left) at Mount Soledad, the highest point in San Diego overlooking the Pacific Ocean, La Jolla, Mission Bay, and Downtown San Diego

San Diego - 5 Afternoon

2011-07-27T12:56:00.000-07:00

After a few visits to medical professionals, we have one student with strep and one with an ear infection. They both have the proper meds and are resting. So far no one else from our First Pres group has complained about feeling sick. I pray everyone else will remain physically healthy. This is good news!

All the rest of the kids are out at their afternoon work sites - some are at a basketball camp for youth, some are helping prepare meals for shut-ins, some are visiting with the elderly, and others are sorting food at a food bank. Tonight, we will attend a worship service at the church where we are staying.

Thanks for the prayers and comments on the blog. We try to relay the messages to kids, so keep them coming!

Blessings!
Katie

San Diego - 4 Evening

2011-07-27T00:02:00.000-07:00

I'm sneaking in a quick blog before hitting the pillow. It's almost midnight and it has been a crazy day. The kids are fighting the fatigue of long days and so are the leaders. The high of yesterday has in some ways been lowered. For reasons that have not been explained, our two main Youth Works staff people had to cut their summer short, it sounded like a family emergency, but we really don't know. Please pray for all our Youth Works staff - Esther, Jake, Lindsay, Blake, Ben, Lisa and a new guy, Bryan who will be introduced to us tomorrow. This sudden shift has taken a toll on the Youth Works leaders and they need our prayers.

As for our First Pres group, the fatigue has aided in one of our kiddos falling while sliding down a handrail (his parents have been notified) and it resulted in a couple staples and a knee brace - Co-leader Collin Grant got to hang all evening in Urgent Care facilities with him. And it seems we might have a small outbreak of strep throat. One confirmed case and perhaps another unconfirmed - I'll be making phone calls tomorrow.

In the grand scheme of things, these are minor set backs for the group, but for the individuals involved it can really put a negative spin on things.

In lighter news, the kids all got to experience the Pacific Ocean today. It was overcast and cool, but that didn't deter kids from playing in the surf, burying each other in the sand, and throwing around a football. From what I heard, the work groups continue to do well and feel connected to their projects.

Please pray for health and rest tonight.
Katie

San Diego - 3 Evening

2011-07-25T23:50:00.000-07:00

Today, my group worked in the soup kitchen in downtown San Diego and served lunch to over 1000 homeless people. Most of the people there were really grateful and nice and although it was tiring, we had a good time. Then, after enjoying our lunch in the park, we went over to a food pantry to help out. Next came our one-minute showers (slightly stressful) and then dinner (pasta... yum!). It has been a pretty good first full day here, and I am sure our experience will continue to get better and better.
And, to my family- Hi! I haven't been homesick at all and when I get back I will have lots of fun stories to tell :)

-Megan Dibble
Grade 9

Kate Walker and Megan Dibble share the serving line
responsibility as hot food trays are handed to incoming guests

Today I have experienced serving many people at a homeless shelter. Seeing all of those people smiling when they get their food reminded me that you don't need everything to be happy. Also today I went to the war memoral at the top of the mountian with a view from all directions including La Jolla and Mission Bay and Downtown San Diego and so much more. The mountain top was a reminder of my grandad and how remembering that when he died on Thanksgiving a couple of years ago, and remembering that he had a great experience in helping the war was simply amazing!

-Nicole Kalletta
Grade 9

First Pres Colorado Springs Group (partial) at San Diego's Mount Soledad Memorial awaiting sunset overlooking the Pacific Ocean

Today we had the amazing experience to serve homeless people while serving God at the same time. It made me happy to see the people's faces when they saw what we were doing, but sad when i realized how much we have compared to how much they don't. It will be interesting to see if the same people come again tomorrow and I recognize most of them. We get to have a bon fire tomorrow night on the beach and a pizza dinner too. This is such a nice place.

-Josh Borst
Grade 8

We had a great time at our first mission site, a nursing home, and I learned that the elderly really can be active people when they danced the chicken dance and played instruments with us. (There was also a coffee-throwing fight between two of the residents that was pretty interesting.) Later at the food bank, our other site, the two teams there sorted food and decided which foods could be passed on based on their expiration dates. I was a little shocked to see donations dating back to when I was born, but it showed me that many people don't donate to help people, but give away old foods that they won't even eat. Still, knowing that we controlled the quality of the foods that will eventually be on people's plates was a good experience. Looking forward to going to the beach tomorrow night.

-Tory Louis
Grade 9

Hello everyone, we had a great day at our first mission work site. First, we went to an elderly home type thing and talked for awhile then played a really fun game of bingo. Then, second we went to a food bank type thing and packed food for people who have Aids and stuff like that. To end the great day, off we went to an AWESOME lookout and saw the sun set into the ocean ... and we played a litle football during that time too. So far a really good experience.

-Titus Grant
Grade 7

Will and Titus enjoy lunch between worksites with FPC students: Brooke, Starr and Tiara

I finally have gotten a hold of a computer with no kids around! :) Moms, Dads, Friends... this trip is amazing. I really honestly feel like I am on holy ground with this group. There are kids testifying to God's movement in their lives - conviction of complacency, dreams for the future, and a real desire to love and serve other people. I'm leading a small crew of great kids - Tiara, Starr, Brooke, Will and Titus. They really connected with the folks at Senior Nutrition Center - we played bingo and the boys learned to play dominos.Our second site was called Special Delivery and it prepares and delivers three meals a day, five days a week to those who are desperately ill - from HIV/Aids, MS, cancer and other illnessess. Two of the men we worked with today are HIV positive - I have to say that is a first for me and I guarantee for many of our students. We had a great talk in the car about what HIV is and how people can get it (I'm kinda surprised that they didn't learn this in health class, but perhaps that's next year's curriculum). That opened up the possibility to have some good conversations about how Jesus calls us to love others - even if lifestyle choices or health status are different or scary.

I've learned a few things about my crew: Brooke loves the palm trees (complete with hugging them) and has french braided my hair twice and is willing to jump in wherever, Will has been PRECIOUS in looking after his younger sister and invaluable as a navigator (thank you, Dad for teaching him!), Starr has the gift of encouragement and is always upbeat and happy, Tiara is beyond sweet and does an amazing job of connecting with the people we are working with, and Titus is observant and funny and ready to help whenever asked - especially when I need strong arms to carry heavy things (like our water jug).
I also want to say that I'm so impressed with my small group: Nate, Josh, Chloe, Nicole, Maggie, Tory, and (a guest appearance by small group stowaway Anna Wilson). They were so engaged in the lesson tonight and in the discussions that followed. God is at work. Big time.

So much love and thankfulness to God for how he is at work in my life and the lives of these kids.

Katie Harris, 78 Director

Will helping to prepare meals at Special Delivery.

San Diego -3 Afternoon

2011-07-25T17:15:00.000-07:00

Today our groupe (English spelling) worked at a soupe kitchen and fed over 1000 homeless people within 2-1/2 hours. Then we went to the park and had lunch with our leaders. After our tasty and nutritionious meal, we went to help out at a place where we box up food to give out. When we finished that, we rushed to the showers where we got 3 minute showers each and I still have the soap in my hair. On our way back to the New Life Assembly Church, our gnarly leaders, Randy Case and Julia Hodges bought us 7-11 slushies and now we are having free time before dinner and bible study and group...full day oh yea and we got to see the Pacific Ocean where we have dinner tomorrow night (:
PS love you mummy and daddyo!

Claire Eppley
9th Grade

Julia Angevine and Claire Eppley in hair nets, plastic gloves and aprons serve juice bottles to over 1,000 people in a single lunch time

San Diego -2 Evening

2011-07-24T23:23:00.000-07:00

Today we drove for another 8 hours. As we entered California, we saw the border of Mexico and the United States which has a big fence and we also saw the All American Channel which has lots of water in it. There were two border checkpoints on the highway where they check every car for illegal aliens from Mexico trying to sneak into the US. We also had many rest stops. The New Life Assembly Church where we are staying is very fun and has a lot of space. We had Club tonight, where the whole group comes together to sing and worship God. There is another church group from Washington here including 20 kids and 4 leaders. I am looking forward to service projects tomorrow and enjoying California as a whole.

Will
8th grade

Today we have arrived in the city known as San Diego. To me, it looks almost the same as some other major cities in the desert that we have driven through to get here, only bigger. I am sure as the week progresses, I will begin to see its quirks and uniqueness, not to mention the ocean. When we arrived, I was pleasantly surprised with the pictureesque look of our church. The girls have been deemed to sleep in the chapel area and so we have mostly taken to sleeping on pews. It may seem a little odd but I believe it feels very... right too ... like it was meant to be so. The water here is grotesce as the texture and cloudy taste is inferior to the crispness of water at home. The church has a little playground outside the main building and for our game tonight we played there. It is quaint, but also very fitting. There were obvious signs of loving by the locals and seemed like somewhere many childhood memories would be made. I am excited to begin work and really see what San Diego will hold for me and how God will appear in my life during the trip and on the work sites. I think my favorite variation of the trip from before is having my younger sister, Robyn to accompany me because it gives me a rare opportunity to see God working through her too. I have noticed when she is paying attention to the lessons, that she is really hearing what they are trying to say and its uplifting.

- Tara Camera 9th Grade

Border Patrol car at one of the highway checkpoints

Chloe Lewis hugs the famous Arizona Saquaro...OUCH.

New Life Church Assembly San Diego (Host site for overnights, breakfasts and dinners & Club)

Kids and adult leaders enjoy the first night of Club singing

San Diego - 2

2011-07-24T07:01:00.000-07:00

Good morning from Flagstaff, Arizona
Every one slept great last night and every one has had so much fun.(excluding the 10 hour hot van drive to Flasgstaff and it is extremely smokey from a forest fire somewhere around here). Eating breakfast and having worship here and then another van ride to San Diego about 8 hours.

Devyn
7th grade

Hi guys!! I slept really well. Although there were a few bugs and spiders in the church...getting ready for worship here.

Brooke
8th Grade

Where we stayed last night and will overnight again on Friday

Thanks Christ's Church of Flagstaff!!!!!!!!!!!!

San Diego 1.0

2011-07-23T21:15:00.000-07:00

Well, we finally arrived in Flagstaff. Sitting in a car for twelve hours wasn't exactly comfortable, but it was still fun to be able to hang out with friends on the way. Hopefully everyone gets a good night sleep, and we will be in San Diego sometime tomorrow.

Tristan Robertson
Grade 9

Travelers circle for prayer before dinner in Flagstaff, AZ

We had a long drive to Arizona. I'm so happy we are here. we are having lots of fun!!!

Tiara grade 7

At long last we are here!!! We had such a fun drive. Thanks for letting me go to San Diego! I love it here!To my family... I miss and LOVE you all!!! Another long drive tomorrow. First work thing tomorrow as well.

Starr Grade 7

Finally! After a crazy long drive, we're...at long last, at the church in Flagstaff, AZ. So far it has been a lot of fun. Nobody died or was severely injured, which was lovely. Anyway, the church is awesome and we have already played a basketball game, eaten unhealthy fast food, and gotten to know each other so basically it has been completely amazing. We're all excited for tomorrow.

Nate, Grade 8
P.S. Mom, I wore my seat belt. Just so you know.

Girl's Room in Flagstaff Church

It was a long day in the car with many bathroom breaks... having loads of fun! Well toodles!
Gotta go to Bed!!!

Kate Walker The Best 8th Grader EVER!!!

Some of the girls just couldn't wait until Monday to take a shower.

Holly, Anna, and Sydney taking a "spit bath"

Las Vegas 3 - 4th of July

2011-07-04T23:18:00.000-07:00

Hey,
Our mission projects started today - the group I was with spent time at the Prestige Assisted Living Center. We ate lunch, watched a magic show, and sang some songs with the residents. Tonight we went to a park a few blocks down the street and watched the fireworks for a while. I'll try to get some students to post some tomorrow - but for tonight here are some pictures from Zion and the Assisted Living Center.

Las Vegas 2 - Zion Natl Park and Las Vegas Arrival

2011-07-03T23:29:00.000-07:00

Our trip to Zion National Park today was spectacular. Our whole group conquered the Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald pools trail and the trail between the Lodge and the Grotto - I can't remember the name. A group of 12 of us then ascended to the top of Angel's Landing. It was an incredible hike - Barry led us to the very top - about 1600 feet of elevation gain in 2.5 miles with some good exposure all around. I've got pictures from this, but they are on the big camera and I will have to try to get them uploaded tomorrow.

We celebrated Stephanie Yassa's birthday today and got on the road to get to Las Vegas - the time-zone change was very helpful for us as it gave us an extra hour to get into our site on time - it will not be so friendly on the way back.

Arriving in Las Vegas / Henderson / Lake Mead we found our location with no problem and were greeted by very excited Youth Works staff. We've been busy all evening getting unpacked, having a club session (our time with the whole group where the YW staff lead us in singing and a time of worship. Our theme for this week is "Be Different" and is based on Luke 6:27-36. Lights Out was at 11:00pm and I snuck away to update you guys on our trip. I'm gonna go get some sleep because morning will come very soon. We've arrived at our destination and everyone is healthy and safe!

Hope to have some students sharing a bit about what they have learned later this week.

-- Spencer

Las Vegas 1 - St. George

2011-07-03T23:18:00.000-07:00

We pulled in to St George right on schedule. We were able to easily find Good Shepherd Presbyterian and Wayne helped us get in without any trouble at all. We got all of our sleeping bags and gear off the bus and set up sleeping arrangements before heading out for dinner. We had passed an In and Out Burger on our way through town to find the church and most of the students were clamoring to eat there. Most of us leaders had not eaten there before either - Greg had and shared the "secret menu" with us. Things like the neopolitan milkshake, well done fries and 'animal style' burgers were ordered all around.
We headed back to the church to play some ultimate and have some family time before bed time.
Tomorrow we are headed to Zion National Park to hike for a bit before heading to vegas.
Here is a picture of the group after in and out burger.

in zion - cant update full blog from phone. will post later today

2011-07-03T08:49:00.000-07:00

Kansas City 4

2010-07-29T18:19:00.000-07:00

PARENTS - I left messages on each of your phones and our new estimated time of arrival on Friday is 6pm. We'll call from the road if we will be significantly earlier or later.

I have been so impressed with our kids this year. They have all been friendly with the other churches, engaged in their work projects, and I hope that we hear of renewed commitments to God. This final night can be quite impactful for the students, so if you are seeing this please pray for their hearts to be open to what God might want to speak to them.

I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow!
Katie Harris, Youth Director

Today we went to the water park. It was called Super Splash. When we went to the UniverSoul Circus with our 3rd graders yesterday, they enjoyed our help so much, they invited us to come with them to the water park the next day. So the water park was realitivly small, nd the kids, as long as they were with one other person, were aloud to roam around by themselfs. We tagged along with some of the groups and had a lot of fun at first. Then the kids all grouped to gether for lunch, and since we had already eaten, we just roamed around. Then the life gaurds told us we had to get out of the pool on storm danger. There was only a few little clouds in the sky, what ever. So then the clouds got closer as we were roaming around and it started to thunder, but we still weren'y too worried. Then it started to drizzel just a little and people started to leave. We decided to stick around with the kids, besides, it was only a drizzel. Thenwith a few thunder claps, it was a total downpour. There were pepole screaming and kids running around. we ran back to were the 3rd greaders were having lunch to save our stuff. They were screaming and they were all huttled under the tarps. We had to wait for a long time in the rain for the school buses to come pick us up. I was with Caroline at the time and since we were already dreanched with water we stood around and helped pick p trash in the pouring rain. We danced around a little too and ended up having a lot of fun. Soon all the 3rd graders were loaded onto their buses and on their way back to the school. By the time we were out in the parking lot waiting by our bus, the sun was shining and the water was already starting to evorate on the sidewalk. I swear, the ammount of water, either in humidity or rain, it just amazes me. I really enjoy Colorado's dryness.

Tara C., Grade 8

John R. and crew painted a house today and it was fun. Tonight we did an embarrassing dance. And we had a cookout and the food was good! The End.

John R. (as dictated to Katie Harris because he didn't want to blog), Grade 8

The Boys Room... Fast Asleep.

New Orleans 4

2010-07-29T16:11:00.001-07:00

What continues to astound me about this city is that the people are so thankful for what we are doing here. My connection with New Orleans began last year on our Youth trip, where we stayed and worked with Canal Street Presbyterian Church. I am so grateful for all of the ways we saw God on that trip through New Orleans natives, VBS kids, and fellow students on our trip. This year my family had the opportunity to host a young woman named Joel Dyson. When my dad first introduced the idea of hosting someone from New Orleans, I thought, "Sure, that's cool," but I had no idea how much it would mean for me and my family.

Joel Dyson is an eighteen-year-old woman, born and raised in New Orleans, and has done and experienced more than most of us have by that age. She is one of many who were affected deeply by Hurricane Katrina, losing her home and becoming separated from her family for an entire school year in order to attend a boarding school in Boston. Her reason for coming to Colorado Springs? She would be attending the Windrider Film Forum put on annually by our very own Colorado College and was in a documentary that would be shown about a production of the musical "After the Storm" in New Orleans.

In 2007, a group of award-winning artists including Gerry McIntyre, James Lecesne, and Randy Redd, went down to New Orleans and decided to help out by renovating the local community center, St. Mark's, and putting on a musical. They auditioned a bunch of kids from all over the city and eventually made up a cast of young teens that each had talent and a story to tell about their hurricane experience. Joel was fourteen at the time and was cast as the lead role, Ti Moune. The documentary, directed and produced by Hilla Midalia, followed all cast and crew involved in the production and goes deep into the lives of some of the cast and crew, showing how they were affected by Katrina.

This documentary is a truly unique one that puts in perspective the affect Katrina had on people's lives. The chance my family had to meet Joel and hear her story in person was amazing and our church group was extremely lucky to be able to catch up with her in New Orleans this year. We got the chance to attend a powerful service at the church where her dad is a pastor and were overwhelmed by the love the congregation showed us.

New Orleans presents a new challenge to this society daily. The people have an amazingly strong spirit in a city plagued with problems. This trip has been a great experience for all of us to discover a new culture, draw closer to God, and put our hands to work. It's sweaty and dusty and grimy work, but the relationships we gain are indispensable.

-- Jennifer Cage

Kansas City 3.1

2010-07-28T20:24:00.000-07:00

Today we went to the elderly people home and met fun people, we played bingo and helped people play bingo, and I meet the 105 year old guy named Homer - he was so cool and RAD!!! Then we went to eat lunch at the park and we didn't know what to do next so we hung there, then we went to this place called Miami Ice and had shaved ice with orange syrup, it was yummy. So all in all, today was awesome and I'll see you all in a few days. Peace!!!!

Keagan G., Grade 7

Kansas City 3

2010-07-28T20:14:00.001-07:00

Slept and ate today and also chipped a house. Tomorrow we're painting it.

Ryan C., Grade 8

Today we were supposed to paint a house but instead we chipped the paint that fell off. The heat and humidity was awful and I was half asleep while we were there. Then we went to the Jazz and Baseball Museum and got a "tour" there (more like self guided). We still have like 20 minutes left before we go downstairs.

Jessica A., Grade 8

Today, while the other groups did outdoor labor, our group went to the circus with the kids that we have been working with. They are very sweet and three have become close with me, and they even gave me some bracelets. After that we went to the Jazz Museum and Negro League Baseball Museum. There were two birthdays so we had pizza and cake after the museum. We've had so much fun and today was the best yet!

Tory L., Grade 8

This week we have been working at a school called Upper Room. Our group works with third graders. The first day we went I was thinking that the kids wouldn't want to talk to us and wouldn't really want us there. When we got there, we read with the kids and helped them take reading tests. They were all very happy that we were there, which surprised me. The second day, the kids were even happier that we were there then they were the day before. A couple of the kids I had read with already wanted me to read with them again. Today we got to go to the circus with them and it was crazy. As soon as they saw us they all started screaming and jumped over to us so they could give all of us a hug. It was amazing how much the kids got attached to us. I have grown close to them and will be sad saying goodbye to them tomorrow.

Caroline R., Grade 8

It has been a great experience and fun. Today (Wednesday) we went to a nursing home. One guy named Don thought he was 39. There were a lot of old people there one guy was 105 he was very funny his name was Homer. There was also a guy that thought I had a wife.

Tabor M., Grade 7

'Ello everyone. I had a great time at a nursing home with some really great people. I made many new freinds there. Homer and Don were really awesome people. Don was in the Navy and he thought he was 39. I also made lots of friends during my stay at the church. My new friends include; Steven from Fishers Indiana, Caytlin from Fishers Indiana, Tabor from Colorado Springs Colorado, Brendan from Fishers Indiana, Jim ,our bus driver, from Fishers Indiana, and my favorite, a toad I found while digging a hole, I found him and did the unbelievable... I kissed him, thats right, I kissed him. Friday is my last day and I hope to enjoy my last day with all my friends.

Ryan H., Grade 7

"And we're marching, we're marching, here we go, here we go, here we go! I said let me see you boogaloo! What's that you said? I said let me see you boogaloo! What's that you said? I said let me see you boogaloo! What's that you said? I said oohh ahh ahh ahh oohh." I love that song, but yeah, we worked at a park the first day; it was a historical park with buildings from the 1800s. Then the next day we went to a nursing home and there was a couple that was celebrating their 65th anniversery. Then today we were at a house scraping the paint and trimming trees but the catch was it was 100 degrees. And tommorow we are painting the house tommorow. (I am sorry mom for my terrible typing skills.)

Tobin M., Grade 9

Kansas City 2

2010-07-27T20:12:00.000-07:00

Chloe Lewis on the HIGH DIVE!!!

So today the Gypsy Crew all went to Harvesters which is a food bank that has thousands and thousands of people they support and who donate food. Our group boxed 3600 eggs, 1200 cans of soda and 950 bottles of water. We probably boxed about 5800 items.

Courtney M., Grade 7

So on Monday we went to the Community of the Good Shepard which is a place for mentally troubled adults. We helped pull weeds and we helped sort boxes of food and paper products for people who live there and what's surprising is they live freely, it's not like a nursing home. And also the food and other stuff they get is from a food place called Harvesters and we also volunteered there and we cleaned eggs and water bottles. And today we went to a pool which was awesome and we went to the Plaza for a scavenger hunt yesterday and we got ice cream which was yummy. So long for now. Peace.

Keagan G., Grade 7

Today we went to Pleasant Valley Home. It is a place for not only the elderly, but adults too, to live if they cannot care for themselves. It was interesting to visit with these people because all of them have different stories about their lives. We talked to a couple of Spanish speaking ladies who had a translator. We also helped some residents paint pottery. We talked about all sorts of things and I learned that even though the people we talked to couldn't care for themselves in thier own homes, they weren't that different from us. They had pets, and families, and they all loved having visitors. I guess it was just eye opening, in a way, to see how different, and similar two people can be at the same time.

Tara C., Grade 8

Michael Neuder at Operation Breakthrough

We have been working at Operation Breakthrough. It is a children's day care for kids who need a place to be while their parents are at work. Most of them can't be at home alone because they live in bad neighborhoods. The kids are great and very nice. After we are with the kids for about two hours we eat lunch, and do extra work around the building. Today we went to the pool, and after our van went to Sonic! It's been a great time, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the trip.

Michael N., Grade 8

Kansas City 1

2010-07-26T18:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the whole team drove from First Pres to Kansas City, it went much faster than we could have hoped for and we all arrived without incident (parents - we may be returning to the church earlier than anticipated on Friday, please stay tuned and be ready!). Last night the kids got to tour the church we are staying at (THANKS to Immanuel Lutheran for hosting Youth Works this whole summer - and for having AC!!!), they had their first Club program and small group processing time with other First Pres kids. Today our youth were divided into four different teams and sent out on different projects - some kids worked outside, some inside. Two groups tutored children, two groups did some more physical labor, one group spent some time in a nursing home - our kids are definitely getting a variety of experiences. Tonight we participated in a scavenger hunt around a higher end shopping district called The Plaza.

Katie H., Youth Director

A note from students:

It's only been one day and already we visited our work sites for the week and we have walked 'round the plaza playing scavenger hunt. I am so psyched for this week, even though the air is really humid and it is very hot outside, it should be fun. I have met some awesome kids from other states and learned some history 'bout a small reenacted town called Shoal Creek Living History Museum.

Suzanne G., Grade 8

Today I helped at The Good Shepherd, which is a facility where grown ups with mental disabilities live. We helped label and load boxes that carried emergency water supplies. Then we unloaded them into two different houses that belong to The Good Shepherd. Then we weeded the fronts of some of the houses on the main campus. It was hard, but we finished and one of the ups is that we got to eat in an air conditioned building. I got to really know the people that I am going to work with this week. So even though it was hard and hot, it was fun.

Chloe L., Grade 7

New Orleans 3

2010-07-26T04:52:00.000-07:00

Its Monday, first work day, alright!
I honestly have no idea what kind of work we’ll be doing. we’ve heard rumors of everything to demolition to painting. I think a lot of us are worried about heat, not me, i’m more of a humidity hater myself. Oh well we’re just going to have to deal with it the best we can. From what i’ve seen so far group dynamics have been great which is amazing given that this group is almost twice as large as any other mission trip i’ve been on. i pray this continues when the work starts, when heat and humidity can easily rob us of our currently sunny disposition. I think we can handle it, its just matter of coming together when it gets hard, rather than holing up.From New Orleans With Love,Ian Hood, 11th

Good morning from New Orleans. It’s day two and we start work today. All I really have to say is that I hope the heat wont get to me as I’m most likely going to be gutting an old hospital that they’re turning into a nursing home (or something like that, its early). Yesterday brought back so many memories of the gospel service in Korea. The music was energetic, people were clapping and dancing, and everything was happy! This morning we were woken up to “This Little Light of Mine” and “Ice Ice Baby” performed by Jeff and Nate. Everyone agreed that the songs were a great way to wake up, then they turned on the lights. The entire room groaned as we were collectively blinded. Now we’re sitting in the dining room, waiting for the huge line to die down and get some food. I’m gonna stop now. I’m too tired to be writing this.
Daniel Lewis, 12th
Here are some pictures from our trip so far.
Shawn, Peter, and Bryan jamming out at Project Nehemiah where we are staying in New Orleans.
Looking at the Mississippi River from the Ferry:Jamie Cross, Michelle Cage, and Nikki Flemate chompin' down on beignets from Café DuMonde

New Orleans 2

2010-07-25T08:41:00.000-07:00

Hey peeps!!! SO... As you know we had an adventure today. We had a seemingly fast and flawless drive from the church that we stayed at to Shreveport, where we stopped for lunch. However.. once lunch was over and we got on the busses again well... Not far for the first bus, it made it around the corner before everything stopped and a horrific smell came from the engine. Seeing as we were blocking traffic we had to move the bus to a parking spot.. How you might ask? The GIRLS pushed it over the median into a perfect parking spot! All the busses played various games in a grassy area that was painfully discovered to be a home to fire ants. After some time we decided to shove all the kids possible onto the working busses, and a few of us stayed behind (Jennifer, Rachel,Josh, Nate, Felicia, Katie, Paige and a good amount of leaders.). Many things can done when stranded as we creatively discovered, such as going into Wal-Mart for AC and entertainment, and Wendy’s for water and shakes, we quickly became favorite there. Also one of the more exiting things was people selling puppies on the side of the road by the van! The first was a lady and her toddler with 5 Doberman-labs for 25 a piece. We believe she sold all her dogs in the end but we can’t be sure. Later a man with 5 pure breed Old English Bulldogs, for 500 a piece (he might have sold one). It was very fun to meet the people and pet the cute doggies!! Most of the time however was spent in wall-mart finding gauges for Felicia (we couldn’t find any and ended up making them out of rolled tape. AWESOME) and entertaining ourselves in other ways. With the grace of God the van finally got fixed by the most shnazzy mechanics of all time! The mechanics refused the large amount of money for their work, and we went out to Wing Stop for a great dinner that couldn’t be beat and then hit the road!! All in all we where there for 6+ hrs. and should arrive in New Orleans around midnight if were lucky! :)

BETHANY ALVAREZ
GRADE 10

New Orleans 1

2010-07-25T08:40:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! It has been such a crazy experience so far and it is only the first (full)day! Well after a night in Dallas and donuts in the morning we headed off to New Orleans. We got to Shreveport for lunch then as we left to get back on the road the bus I was on broke down... Luckily the was no curb on that side of the road and a parking lot not to far over a grassy area... The engine wouldn’t start so we (bethany, jennifer, rachel, leah et...) pushed the bus over the grass into the parking lot to the amazement of the boys :) After spending a while burning in the parking lot a group of us decided to go to a little park. I then got bitten by fire ants all over my ankles. After a few trips to wal-marts airconditionedness we decided the other 3 vans should go. So Bethany Rachel Josh Nate Jennifer Felicia Katie me and a few leaders stayed behind with the dead bus. Thankfully two sets of people we selling puppies right by us (we got to pet them a lot :0 ) We hung out in Wal-Mart and Wendy’s A LOT! because of the ac... Thankfully some mechanics noticed us on the side of the road and came to our rescue... Not only did they drive us around town for the parts (air compressor) they installed it for us with no charge (with mechanic over $1000!) We are now just leaving Shreveport (~6) and after seeing Gods way of working through people, we have all had experiences that we would of never thought could of happened. Wish us luck in our 5+ hr. journey to NO now!

PS Rachel looks like a Zebra after she sleeps on the floor
PPS Because of the engine problems we have no ac in any bus (prevent breakdowns) (luckily it’s cooler now)
Paige E. - Grade 10

VANCOUVER- Final Pics

2009-07-28T17:28:00.000-07:00

The group praying for each other after the foot washing.

Nate and Tom washing K.C's feet and praying over him.

Nikki during worship

Real men hug.

Voodoo Donuts in Portland

The group couldn't resist getting into the fountain in Portland

A couple of pics to prove we are alive!!

2009-07-24T00:24:00.001-07:00

This could be a postcard taken by Dr. Slack

Ahhh

Sean and Connor being Sean and Connor

One section of a HUGE WALL OF GUM in Seattle

The Group0

They worked hard on this one at Spanish Banks Beach

2009-07-23T16:42:00.000-07:00

So, my day was full of cutting banana's and peeling potatoes with a cool contraption. Also, I hate throw up and one of the groups are throwing up left and right:(

-Leah

2009-07-23T16:37:00.000-07:00

Now that is it the last day of our four days in Vancouver, I have had a chance to look back on this week to see what has happened. The fist day was fun (water park!) but I got ditched. The next two days I felt rejected and as a group that was just there. the last day we really bonded with Camp Peace people and had a great time. I'm just mad it was the last day! Overall it has been a great week.

Paige

vancity

2009-07-23T16:34:00.000-07:00

4th day in VANcouver and we went to this wicked suspension bridge and michael freaked out...it was epic. Everything is so beautiful and downtown vancouver is amazing as well. tonight is the last night here and we leave tomorrow for oregon. Awesome so far

/sean sleppy

Van City 8

2009-07-23T08:39:00.000-07:00

Today is our last full day of work at our sites. Our group is a wee bit tired but they continue to press on. I've been impressed with some of the conversations we have had in our family time. Last night we looked at POWER, the abuse of it and the POWER that God gives us. It was neat for the students to realize that they have certain powers that they can abuse or that they can use for the glory of God. They realized that what comes out of their mouths can bless or curse somebody, which is POWERFUL. One commented that being an older sibling was a position of power that can be abused or used to His glory as well.

While some of our work has been different than we originally thought, our students have been challenged on many fronts and I'm proud of them.

Blessings

nate

2009-07-22T18:15:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things about our time so far has been working with the Union Gospel Mission staff. They are incredible people- so passionate about the work they are doing, so full of life and fun, and so encouraging of our efforts. I think a big part of my team's efforts this week is supporting and encouraging the staff. It is so thrilling to be able to pray for them as well as the children from the East Hastings neighborhood. We took them to the beach today (rough, I know) and as I looked out over the water towards the skyline of the city, the words of the worship song "God of this City" were rushing through my head. the lyrics: You're the God of this City
You're the King of these people
You're the Lord of this nation
You are

[Verse 2]
You're the Light in this darkness
You're the Hope to the hopeless
You're the Peace to the restless
You are

There is no one like our God
There is no one like our God

[Chorus]
For greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this City
Greater thing have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done in this City

Praise God!

Katie Dayton

2009-07-22T16:51:00.001-07:00

I have really enjoyed my week so far in Vancouver. The people I have met and the places I have seen are so beautiful! Before I arrived, I really had no idea what to expect. The group I am in is ministering to a local church and helping with their camp for kids. On the first day I was assigned to the kitchen to make snacks and meals. At first I didn't really see the significance in this. I had this notion in my mind that serving God is all about the "big things," like working with the homeless. But over the past few days, I have come to realize that as long as you are serving God it doesn't matter what exactly you are doing. God is in all things, big and small.

Julia Morin

12th Grade

Evangelical Christian Academy

2009-07-22T16:43:00.000-07:00

Dear curtis and kris / Dad and Mom

I am having a great time here and it is a great experience for me. I really like working with kids they are so cool. I would really love to do this again next year. and I know that i am getting closer to god also. This is a great city but it is also a little messed up and its fun to try and fix it. And i learned how to be a good husband by this one girl named moly. Sorry dad i havent read yet and i cant read in cars so sorry bout that.

P.S. I LOVE YOU TWO SO SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Love,

Davis Olson <3

Van City 7

2009-07-22T16:39:00.000-07:00

Hey Dad, Paul,

Im working at a kids camp thingy at a church. Im having fun we are taking some cool field trips, and the kids are great. Vancouver is AWESOME. Its beautiful we went to the beach and saw an awesome skyline of the city. All the states we have been in are cool. This trip is so fun. ill see you when i get home.

Love You,

Michael Fertig

Van City 6

2009-07-22T07:09:00.000-07:00

Nate here.

Our team is doing really well. Their attitudes are great and they continue to gel as a family. We actually have "family time" each night as a group to process the events of the day and highlight ways in which God is stretching us and how He shows up in the little things during the day.

None of the students at this site have been able to call home yet and we probably won't until thursday as we head back. We might be able to get a calling card and try to find a pay phone if possible. I promise you every one of the chillins is doing well!

blessings

nate

7-21-09

2009-07-21T16:34:00.000-07:00

so, i am part of the Nonaimo group, where we are helping at this church just off of hastings and nonaimo, just blocks from where we were last year. at the church we are surrounded by small kids from the city, most of which come from single parent families. these kids are simply awesome! i'm having lots of fun. we've also been sure to help out around the building to serve not only the kids, but the awesome staff that mostly volunteers their time to hang out with these kids; we've madelots of food and cleaned up lots around, played music, sanded tables and lots more. i cant wait for the next couple of days

Peter Hyde, junior, Doherty

2009-07-21T16:25:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody! This mission trip has been a blast, but it has been hard work. We took the little campers to a water park! Tough, right? Those water slides can be a real challenge... Anyway, thank God that we're all safe and please pray for our further safety.

David F.

2009-07-21T16:20:00.000-07:00

hello to everyone from Vancouver! we are having a great time here and are doing a lot for the city including going to a water park (the sacrifices that we make!) Anyways, we are having an awesome time here and don't worry about us we are FINE! RENFREW CREW ROCKS!!!!!

Love,

Paige

Van City 5

2009-07-21T16:13:00.000-07:00

It's day two in vancouver and i'm loving every minute of it.

This experience is helping me grow mentally and spritually in God.

I'm missing everybody.

Laters

Kc Ward 9th grade palmer

Van City 4

2009-07-20T16:59:00.000-07:00

Today was our first day of ministry in Vancouver. We were split into groups and sent off to different ministries within the city. My group(broadway group) was sent to serve in the east side of Vancouver. We will start to take a group of children on field trips over the next few days. tomorrow we will take them to a water park. We didn't meet the kids today so we helped sort clothes in a thrift shop.

Im having a great time so far and I have made many new friendships with FPC kids and the kids from other churches.

Connor Jacobs

Hey, its Felicia and Leah. We made a bunch of sandwiches today around 500 sandwiches at the first place. Than we headed over to the Salvation Army and made some more sandwiches, cut some cabbage and squeezed frozen ham. We were also told that there was a cool guy that made smoothies and so we asked around. The real smoothie maker wasn't there but a sweet young man made us a banana, nut, strawberry and raspberry smoothie. (yessss mama i ate fruit- leah) Nikki just stated that she misses her mom! All in all today has been very good. We are getting ready to eat some din din and then heading over to the beach.

Love Felicia and Leah <333

Hey there,,,, from CANADA....its amazing here..the skies are blue...the trees are green and very tall....the mountains are big and beautiful...the beaches are salty and refreshing...there isnt one place i havent seen the lord..i cant wait to show you all my pictures...I'm meeting news friends and news people....this journey just keeps going..iam getting closer to god by the hour!!! well, so long...lots of love from me and the big C.... (Canada that is)

Jamie Cross

Vancouver 3

2009-07-19T22:55:00.000-07:00

We worshipped this morning at University Pres. Church in Seattle this morning after staying the night there last night. After church we hit Pikes Place Market and saw flying salmon, the first Starbucks, an enormous alley wall full of Gum and several incredible street performers. Crossing the border was a bit crazy. We waited in line for a long time just to be told we had to go back to the US and go to another checkpoint for buses. We ended up waiting over 2 hours, but eventually made it.

We arrived at the "warehouse" which is an Huge youth building with all kinds of goodies, AC and plenty of room. There is one group from Washington State and another from MN. All the Youthworks staff are Canadian eh? We get up super early and begin our work. Some of us will be working at a shelter, others preparing food for the homeless and most of us will be running programs for kids including sports, crafts, skits, music etc.

Here are random comments made during family time tonight when I asked them, "Where have you seen God?"

* 3 students who haven't been active in the FPC Youth Ministry all said "I feel like I'm a part of this new family and I love it"

* Some were touched by some of the people we have seen already who are in homeless situations.

* Many saw the creative hand of God in the amazing mountain views and sunsets in Butte and coming into Seattle.

The list goes on and on.....these students have bonded quickly!!! I really am amazed.

Continue to pray for us and make comments!!!

God is Good

nate

ps. the students will blog about their thoughts later in the week.

Vancouver 2

2009-07-17T21:12:00.000-07:00

We have made it to Butte, Montana. We arrived around 9:30pm and getting ready to go to bed here in a minute. The students were incredible today! It was a long drive but we were blessed with seeing a Bald Eagle and all kinds of wild life on top of an incredible sunset as we arrived into Butte.
Tommorrow we shower at the Ymca here and the head to Seattle.
God is Good
Nate

PS- all your kids have brushed their teeth and said their prayers and I will tuck them in!

Van City 1

2009-07-16T13:34:00.000-07:00

It is thursday night and we are having our Pack and Pray before we leave at 6:30 am tomorrow. Our prayer is that You God would show up in every conversation, thought and experience that we have over the next 10 days. Help us to listen with your ears, to see with your eyes of compassion, to go where you would send us and to speak with Your healing words.

Our prayer is that You would continue to change the word through changing us.

God is Good,
Nate

New Orleans: In Pictures

2009-07-01T14:36:00.001-07:00

New Olreans: Video

2009-06-27T17:53:00.000-07:00

Here is the Katrina Video Spencer mentioned below

New Orleans - 12

2009-06-26T22:29:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys,
We had our last full day in NOLA today. Our groups finished up the work they were doing with the various organizations. Gumbo had their last day with NENA working in the Lower Ninth Ward. We worked on Mrs. Bobbie's house, which was the same house we worked on yesterday. We finished getting the yard flattened out which was a big project. She was so grateful, and her thankfulness really touched a lot of our youth. During our Family Time tonight, many of them shared about how seeing people who have so little be so thankful has really showed them how true faith can look. We also watched a video that Pastor Mike brought us which was pictures of the storm from the various news outlets set to music. It was a very powerful experience. Seeing the pictures that some of us had seen before we came, and now seeing them after having seen the actual destruction of the area first-hand made everything seem more real and tangible.

VBS had their last day today. From the beginning we weren't sure how many kids would show up for that, whether we would get 5 or 30, but after everything was over, the final count was 48 kids. It may not seem like a lot to a big church, but Pastor Mike was talking about how huge a number that was for a small church in the middle of the city in New Orleans after Katrina. All of the families had been touched by how happy and excited their kids were too. One of the parents asked for information on how to get in better contact with the Church because of the ministry of the VBS and Sports Camp.

To close out our time here, there was a BBQ (the church does it Monthly) where the whole neighboorhood was invited, we specifically invited all of the families from VBS and the sports camp to come, and many of them did. It was a fantastic time of fellowship and community bonding.

After that was all said and done, we set about cleaning the church. We have just now finished almost all of the tasks and are headed to bed now. (everyone else is in bed as I write this) Bright and early tomorrow we will leave for Wichita Falls, TX where we will spend the night tomorrow night before heading home on Sunday. Keep an eye out for short cell-phone posts while we are on the trip back indicating our progress.

We've had a fantastic week and almost everyone is sad to leave. It really does feel like this week has flown by. We have done so much here, and yet there is still so much to do. I'm headin to bed. Good night.

-- Spencer Norman, High School Assoc. Director

Rapid City - 7

2009-06-25T22:48:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

This is going to be super quick because it is almost midnight and tomorrow is going to be early and super long!

Tonight we had a foot washing ceremony, which always makes me cringe unless I JUST had a pedicure! But it was so precious. Michelle Cage immediately joined the YouthWorks staff member in washing my feet and prayed an amazing prayer on my behalf... from there it just seemed to snowball for the ladies (I can't really speak for the guys because they were on the other side of the room with Randy and John). There are few things more humbling for a youth director than youth who actually PRAY for each other, hug each other, care for each other. I know these experiences can be fleeting, but I pray this one isn't. I pray it is a seed in these young lives that grows a huge harvest for the Kingdom of God. I pray that truth was spoken over each child that helps them see the truth of the Gospel of Christ and propels them to seek their own special calling in the world.

I was blessed.

Katie Harris, Youth Associate

Rapid City - 6

2009-06-25T14:55:00.000-07:00

this week we went to a youth development program and we got to spend a little time with some kids. then we went to a nursing home and hung out with people as old as 109! at the nursing home i learned a card game called canasta. two people called Edna and Joe taught us it. through all of the fun i learned to look to start looking at people more through God's eyes than mine. hope you guys are having just as much fun.

Paul F, Grade 8

During this riveting week we had a lot of good times! First we went to the youth development program for native Americans, while we were there I met this very interesting little boy. His name is Jacob, the first day I think he was shy so he tended to be mean and obnoxious. But the next day we were playing basketball and I was being a very good teammate to him, so a little while after that he became very nice and he asked if i could give him a piggy back ride and of course i said Yes! When we were leaving he gave me a hug. Later that night we went to Mount Rushmore. The next day we went to a nursing home and Paul and I met this very smart woman. Her name is Ruth, she is a author with Multiple Sclerosis, so she has a voice commanded computer and she is very smart. Later that night we had a scavenger hunt around the city and we saw the thirty-five metal presidential statues. Tonight we will be having a cook-out here at the church, and at this event the homeless people and other underprivileged people. Also tomorrow we will be leaving this magnificent city. This week will soon end, but the memories will last forever!

Tyler C, Grade 8

This week has been one of the most eye-opening times of my life. God has definitely been working in this youthworks station. One of the highlights definitely had to be meeting the vivid characters at the Valley Springs Nursing Home. These people really do enjoy singing, luckily a girl in our group could sight read on the piano. Just playing a few hymns brought a crowd into the dining hall. Only those few moments that we spent with these people will stay in my heart until one day I'll be the one that the next generation will be singing to. In addition to staying at the nursing home I sorted food at the food bank. It was a very new and disgusting part of this week. I really don't think that mayonnaise should be that color, but now I think that I will be much more careful when I clean out the fridge! Dinner crew started about ten minutes ago and I think that I'm on tonight. Pray that I don't burn down the church!

Michelle C, Age 13 grade 8

Rapid City - 5

2009-06-25T08:11:00.001-07:00

listening to peoples stories before u judge them is a good idea. old people are really cool. u have to talk really loud when u say anything... ha,ha,ha . i have made a lot of new friends... :) i love my group leaders. they help a lot with the planing and stuff. they ROCK!

Cara S, Grade 8

hey peoples back in Colorado or where ever you are. this week has been an amazing experience this week. we aren't doin' that much manual labor cause this week everyone is focusing on the community and what the community needs is help with the old peeps and from kids from 5-15. the leaders are amazing here. if u r hurt they will stay up all night with you!!!!! lol. they amazing and then the directors are so amazing cause they are like up all night planning for the next day with us!!! this week has been amazing!!!!!

Suzanne G, Grade 7

Rapid City - 4

2009-06-25T07:47:00.001-07:00

Hey friends!

I'm sorry for the day and a half of silence, we have been super busy and tired and it has been hard to get time for kids to come in and type an entry... we are hoping to have a couple in this afternoon.

Last night the Lakota tribe drummer and dancers were unable to make it to the church to perform for us, so we did a scavenger hunt in downtown Rapid City. Every street corner has a bronze statue of a president and the kids had to answer questions about each presidential statue. John R literally ran to every statue and Tara did a great job of researching all the answers. For bonus points we took a picture of our whole group in front of a Native American statue of a woman and child... and you'll all be proud to hear that FPC represented a pulled out a win! Our prize was a box of Hostess Ho Ho's.

Yesterday a couple of our crews switched sites. My crew moved from working a half day with Native American children and a half day in a nursing home to working a full day in a different nursing home. This nursing home was definitely different than the first, but our kids are fantastic at jumping in and serving and loving the elderly they meet. Many of our kids participated in morning chair exercizes, some kids helped residents fold laundry, some delivered and read mail, some watered plants and took residents for "walks" outside, and some used their creative minds to design a new bulletin board for the nursing home entry.

Another group reported on their time at the Blackhills Workshop for mentally and physically disabled people. The highlight was when the people who go there sang karaoke - many couldn't sing the words, but they danced and hummed and made other singing sounds. All the kids reported that the handicapped people had so much joy when they were singing.

There are two more crews, but I'll leave those stories for when we return or when youth come and blog.

Last night we spent a few hours in a gorgeous park! Many kids climbed trees (ask Claire about her experience), played kickball, hung out and generally just had a ton of fun.

Please pray for the health of our kiddos and those we serve - there has been a small outbreak of flu-like symptoms. We are taking steps to ensure the safety of the young and elderly we serve, but apart from withdrawing completely, there is no guarantee. So pray that we don't do more harm than good on this last day and that our youth stay healthy. So far none of our students have gotten sick - don't worry moms!! :)

Katie Harris, Youth Associate

NEW ORLEANS 11: The French Quarter

2009-06-23T21:09:00.000-07:00

God shows up in the "in between" doesn't He? In our family time tonight I asked the group, "Where was God today?" While several answers pertained to the relationships we have built through VBS, Sports Camp and Katrina demo.....God showed up in a powerful way on the streets of the French Quarter. We thought we were going to eat Begnets and Coffee, but God had more.
Many of the students spent a long time with a man in a wheelchair who also happened to be homeless. He was playing a plastic bucket with drum sticks for money. The conversation turned quickly to a sermon and then a time of prayer right in the middle of the sidewalk next to the water. Several of the students felt this man was speaking straight to them about certain areas of their lives. He quoted many verses from scripture and several students were taken back by the man's focus on "mansions in heaven". He himself had no physical home but was excited about the hope offered to us through the gift of heaven.
We also had some of our students walking around the church neighborhood area passing out flyers and inviting people to join our sports camp. They approached a woman who was intoxicated at the time, but sounded interested in the camp. To make a long story short, she showed up with her son this morning who she called Dalton but this 6 year old introduce himself as Dolphin. The boy had a blast at sports camp and the mother ended up showing our students how to eat Crawfish. We almost had to push them out the door when we left, they didn't want to go and we really didn't want them to leave either.
God always has more f0r us doesn't He?
As my mother says: "Our cup is overflowing, so we're drinking from the saucer"
God is Good,
nate

New Orleans - 10

2009-06-23T11:12:00.000-07:00

Hey you guys,
Thanks for following and praying for our trip. Team Gumbo just got back from our morning work project in the Ninth Ward. I wanted to share with you guys some pictures of the work we are doing. We did a lot of debris removal for this house, we picked up a couple hundred cubic feet of hurricane leftovers and hauled it to the trash and then fixed up the yard. We removed a broken fence and did a considerable amount of other work on the yard. This took us only about 3 hours.
Team Gumbo is: Buzzy, Alli, Kim, Emmit, Lincoln, Andy, Nikki, Alaura, KC, Colin, Julie, Spencer, and Matt

Rapid City - 3

2009-06-23T07:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we went to Black Hills Workshop to help mentally challenged people. When we went I started out very nervous and thought I couldn't do this. As soon I met a guy named A.J. I felt more comfortable. He liked to play basketball and he was very funny. I then started to open up and meet the others. After we helped, we ate and then went to Mt. Rushmore.

David D, 8th grade

(Picture on Above: Cara & Ali folding napkins at a nursing home.)

Yesterday I had an eye opening day. For my work project, 10 people from the church (including me) went to the Black Hills Workshop. This workshop is a place for mentally disabled people. At first I walked in and all of the people there came over just to meet us and I was completely taken out of my comfort zone. Then I met some wonderful people there who really opened my eyes to God. One lady I met was named Kathy and she was so polite and always smiled. After that the workshop was so fun and I loved talking to all the people. Later yesterday night we got to go up and see Mount Rushmore which was so cool. I had such an amazing day yesterday.

Mikaela M, 8th grade.

(Picture Above: FPC kids pointing at Mt. Rushmore.)

I'm co-leading the Blackhills Worshop team with a youth leader from a Lutheran Church near Minneapolis. Our crew is a mix of FPC and kids from his church. Blackhills is a place for mentally disabled folks who stay with other care-givers in the evening, but come come there for the day. It's called a "workshop" because they take in easy jobs for the people to do to feel productive and even make a few dollars. One such project is a job kitting components into bags for a local hospital. By and large the people we ministered to had enough capacity to engage in limited conversation and connect at some level. They love having the kids around and like to work together on little activities or just talk. We will be at the same facility with the same people for 4 days to give the people some continuity in who they see and can build some week-long relationships. All our kids are doing exceptionally well in giving of themselves in service and are representing Christ and FPC in a great way!

John F, adult leader

(Picture Above: Kids standing in front of Mt. Rushmore with one YouthWorks volunteer named Jennifer - and Katie.)

New Orleans-9B part 2 Volume 1 section C

2009-06-22T20:20:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!
Today the zydeco put on a vacation bible school for all the neighborhood kids from 9ish until 12. It was awesome! We had no idea how many kids were coming or if kids were coming. So we were soooooo incredibly excited when we had about 30 kids with ages ranging from 3 to 12. It was a busy morning with crafts, games, movies, and snacks.
Then right around 12 we got on the bus and headed to a charter school that we were going to help paint. We spend the afternoon painting, moving furniture, and scraping paint. It was hard work, but at least we were in air-conditioning! :)
This evening we on a tour around New Orleans with Pastor Mike. We went down to the 9th Ward which was mind blowing for me. We saw things like buildings that looked like they were hit by Katrina a couple of months ago. the thing that struck me the most was the front porch steps that stood all alone because the houses that were connected at one point were completely swept away. That is a picture that will stick in my mind forever.
Katrina LeBlanc

New Orleans - 9

2009-06-22T20:05:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone today the Gumbo after we ate breakfast all went down to the Lower Ninth Ward and hooked up with an organization called NENA which is an organization that works down in the neighborhood helping people getting people get back on their feet after the Hurricane. Some of the work we did today included cleaning debris from her yard which included trash and a broken down shed. Then we had to shop down weeds in the yard that were at least eight feet tall. Unfortunately while i was working on chopping down the weeds i was stung by a wasp twice on both of my legs which is funny cause i am alergic to them. After i got stung i took some alergy medicine and was fine but just out of it the rest of the day. After we were done working on the yard we left the Ninth Ward and went back to the church where we had a soccer camp that only two kids showed up for. It was fun because we just played soccer with these two kids for two hours and the kids ended up having a great time. tonight we ate dinner at the church and then went and took a tour of the city.
Buzzy Obenauf

2009-06-22T15:48:00.001-07:00

First day went well. We are currently on our way to go get Snowballs which are snowcones with icecream in the middle. Sounds good to me.
Comments work now too.

Good to Hear from Ya'll - FPC 1

2009-06-22T08:00:00.001-07:00

Great job keeping us all up to date here at home - we're praying for you and enjoying the cool, dry air :) Spencer - nothing happens when I try to post a comment on the blog - some glitch somewhere I think? I'll keep trying...Kathy

Rapid City - 2

2009-06-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

Totalling in about 9 hours in the bus, we finally got safely to the church. On the way we stopped at Burger King and Arby's (although almost everyone went to Arby's). People played cards, Catch Phrase, and Mad Libs all the way there. We had a delicious dinner leaving us full and happy. After dinner we sang and did a handful of fun games. Now that we were terribly tired, we finally rolled into bed. Breakfast was just as good (or better) as dinner. Soon we will be doing service projects with our groups.

John Ruhnow, Grade 7.

Finally we arrived in South Dakota after riding on a very bumpy bus for eight hours with only four stops, however when we got to the church we were so ready to fall fast asleep and not wake up until noon the next day, however we had to stay up till eleven and we did skits, songs, and more fun stuff, and in one of the skits I was in we were told we were to act like we were on a roller coaster but they told the audience that we were going to act like we were on the toilet. (Picture on the right.) Today we ate breakfast and packed our lunches and we're ready to go to our sites to work, although our group was split up into four groups we will have a great chance to get to know other people.

Hannah Bowlby, Grade 7

The ride up went really smoothly, no car sickness, no fights (as far as I know), and no mechanical issues. I've been so proud of our FPC kids... they have been volunteering for EVERYTHING that the YouthWorks staff have asked volunteers for - hence the picture of Hannah riding a roller coaster, I mean "using the toilet." Tobin, Stephanie, Tyler and Michelle also participating in this little activity. Last night's talk was about being "free" - free from our hangups, habits, bad thoughts, etc in order to be free to be who God has created us to be and do what he has created us to do. Sleeping was pretty hot last night, we have a lot of kids and leaders crammed into small rooms with just a few fans. Our boys slept in the lap of luxury in a large fellowship hall with tons of airflow. (I'm only slightly jealous.) :)

Today we'll be heading out to our different sites - most of our groups will be helping out at nursing homes, but one group will spend the week with the mentally and physically handicapped. I believe one of our groups will also assist at a food bank. Tonight we'll go to Mt. Rushmore.

Please continue to pray for our openness to what God wants to do this week. I think the overall theme is SO pertinent to us as leaders and to our middle school youth. Think about your own children, friends, etc... what are they in bondage to? Body image issues? Trying to be "cool" all the time? Anger? Low self-esteem? Depression? Self-absorption? Please pray that we'd release these things to God.

Much love to all of you,

Katie Harris - Middle School Associate

NEW ORLEANS: 7

2009-06-22T06:14:00.000-07:00

It's monday morning and the vbs kids are on their way!!! We have several work projects going on today as well. Last night we ate frog legs, aligator, crawdads and more. We even had a bunch of kids on the dance floor trying to dance to Zydeco music (i think that's what they were doing)
Katrina L. tried frog and gator last night.....big step for her.
Alli Williams hauled Andy Stieber onto the dance floor for a few milaseconds. I found this more than humorous.

We are partnering with another church from Virginia to do VBS and found out that half of their group has become sick. We are being very cautious and even I am washing my hands.

This evening we are going on a prayer tour of the city including the super dome and 9th ward.

Please pray that the Lord would be present in all the little details and the chaos of the first day.
Pray that those who are sick from the other group would be healed.

MARINATE ON THIS: Why in 1 Samuel in Hannah's prayer does it say "The Lord sends poverty and wealth"?

God is Good
nate

New Orleans - 6

2009-06-21T07:17:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,
We are at the Canal Street Church, it is Sunday morning and we are heading off to service. After service we have plans to tour and figure out what we are doing this week. It is super dooper hot! Last night when we were meeting in "Heaven" Nate was talking to all of us when all of a sudden a cockroach ran across the stage behind Nate and everyone started to laugh. Tonight for dinner we are going to a restaurant that has free Zidaco dancing lessons. There is going to be another youth group coming from Virginia to help us with VBS and they are also coming to the church service today with us.
We want to wish all the father's a Happy Father's Day.

- Felicia, 10 Grade, Fountain Fort Carson High School
-Alaura, 9 Grade, Air Academy High School
-Nikki, 11 Grade, Palmer High School

2009-06-20T19:22:00.001-07:00

we have arrived at Canal St Pres.
more updates to come.

New Orleans 4: HOT!!

2009-06-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

Nate here.

Got to the Big Easy yesterday and have been preparing for the group to arrive.

The picture above is actually me. It's so hot that i've gotten old, blind and sweaty!!

I'm really excited to team with such a neat little church and great pastor.

New Orleans - 3

2009-06-19T19:41:00.001-07:00

We made it to FPC Dallas. We are all tired but excited to be here. Our trip tomorrow should be shorter and (hopefully) more scenic. We are hitting the hay right now and will be up bright and early tomorrow morning to finish the drive to New Orleans. Everyone is safe and sound and misses their mom greatly. We will brush our teeth and change our underwear.

Also, if you had trouble commenting, I have changed the way that works and it should be easier (and possible if you don't have any account) now. Can't wait to here from you guys.

- Spencer Norman, High School Associate Director

New Orleans - 2

2009-06-19T08:44:00.001-07:00

We stopped and filled up our tanks in Raton, NM. We are now off the interstate and on US-87/US-64 headed East towards Texas. We are eating lunch in Amarillo TX and will probably get there around 1:00.
- Spencer Norman, High School Assoc. Dir.

Rapid City - 1

2009-06-16T13:34:00.000-07:00

Saturday, June 20 is our Pack & Pray then we meet and leave on Sunday morning at 8am. I (Katie Harris) spoke with our YouthWorks site coordinator this morning and it sounds like we have a lot of challenging and stretching experiences ahead of us. We will be seperated into several crews, some people will stay at a site for an entire week and others will rotate to different experiences. It sounds like we will have a lot of students hanging out at nursing homes helping, hanging out, singing, and maybe even painting fingernails! Some students might end up working in a boys' ministry all week playing games and hanging out. Others could be assisting the mentally and physically challenged with arts and crafts or helping them with some micro enterprises.

On the fun side, I have confirmed that we will be visiting Mt. Rushmore on Monday evening, treated to a live performance from members of the Lakota tribe on Tuesday, a picnic in the park on Wednesday, and a community cook out at the church on Thursday.

It's going to be a busy week! I can't wait!

Katie Harris, Middle School Associate

New Orleans - 1

2009-06-16T10:22:00.000-07:00

We leave this Friday am for New Orleans. I am really excited about the time our group will spend together exploring this great city and serving our awesome God. Note the picture of yummy beignets and coffee. We will be eating this tasty treat at least once on our trip.

I am praying that as we prep for this trip God will continue to work out the details and that he will be preparing the heart of each person on the trip. If you are reading this blog please commit to pray for our health, safety, service and growth. More to come...
- Collin Grant

T Minus 1 Week

2009-06-13T21:23:00.000-07:00

We are excited that our first trip out will be our High School group who is headed to New Orleans to serve the neighborhood of Canal St. Presbyterian Church. Please pray for us as we Coloradans are gonna be shocked by the humidity! We will post pictures and student blogs throughout the week. Please post comments below so we don't feel like goobers for posting blogs that nobody reads.