Josh Atkins had great things to say about the Junior High missions trip to Village Grace in inner city Cleveland. Twenty-one people comprised the team. I am posting several pictures of their departure.
Josh shared at staff meeting how the adult leaders were a great help. They guided the students in devotions, lead them in service projects, and interacted with them throughout every activity. Two leaders of the adult leaders, Mike & Denise Molter, were impressed with the character of the students on the trip. The students inspired them as adults.
Mike shared how neighborhood clean-up ministered to both our students and the community around Village Grace. I agree with those who pick up trash compulsively, "For most people, picking up trash is an unwanted chore." Read more how trash pickup impacts society here.
As the team picked up trash and removed debris, a very huge African American man walked through the lot. He stopped. He towered over the students and said, "Thank you very much, you don't know how much this helps our community." Rich Bartley informed the group how community care is one thing that gets overlook. In fact, many have given up trying to pick things up and throw things away. Yet this act of service by our kids demonstrated God's heart in a clear way.
Pastor Bob also shared at a district board meeting this past week, Rich spoke in appreciative words about how grateful Rich is that our church sends people to help in his ministry.
May God continue to help us develop fully-devoted followers of Jesus every day.
