Mission Makers
In January in Ala., the days are cold and dark. So, when our team of ten boarded our flight to Nicaragua on January 13, 2024, we were all in for a happy surprise when the plane wheels touched down with a high of 97 and not a cloud in sight. Each time I return to Nicaragua, I look forward to spreading the love of Christ and reuniting with our friends there who are continuing to do the Lord’s work even when we are far away.
Project H.O.P.E, the international ministry of The Lutheran Church of Vestavia Hills, has the goal of offering H.O.P.E for tomorrow and for eternity through Christ to those who live in impoverished nations. The ministry works to address the health needs of the people, fund projects that offer income for congregations and individuals, and promote education for young adults and children. The ministry also encourages the participation of people being served. What I love about this ministry is that even when we aren’t in Nicaragua on our week long mission trip, Bible studies, food distribution, and homes are still being built by volunteers who are constantly on the ground there in Nicaragua.
During our group’s time in Nicaragua, we provided a VBS-type Children’s ministry in six different communities. The theme of the program was Come and See – Go and Tell based on the story of Jesus’ discussion with the Samaritan woman at the well in John chapter 4. We began each morning with songs, dancing, and the Bible story, all led by our Nicaraguan volunteers. Then, we divided into groups and rotated through different activities that focused on our lesson. Our Nicaraguan volunteers will continue to bring this powerful message to the rest of the villages we support in the weeks to come. We also participated in the construction of a one room house for a family in need while we were there. Their previous house consisted of tree branches and a black plastic tarp that had been blown over in a storm. Despite the differences in language, relationships were built and love was shared. The house was not finished while we were there, but that will happen soon.
Our time in Nicaragua always goes by too fast, and I always pray that, Lord willing, we will be able to return year after year to see friends and spread the love of Christ. But, my favorite part of our ministry in Nicaragua is that even if we aren’t there, Christ is still moving, people are still getting fed, and weekly activities are still happening thanks to our incredible Nicaraguan volunteers. Each year when we return home from Nicaragua, I know we are all so thankful to be able to play a small part in the Project H.O.P.E Mission Statement: Offer HOPE for a better tomorrow and for eternity through Christ.
-Katie Smith
