Trinity Presbyterian Youth Group

Saturday:

Our Trinity Presbyterian Youth mission team, filled with eager hearts and a spirit of service, touched down at the Barahona airport today. As we stepped onto Dominican soil, a wave of anticipation washed over us, fueled by the prospect of making a positive impact on the community of Villa Central (Batey Central).

Before embarking on our journey to Villa Central, we indulged in a culinary delight that tantalized our taste buds – the best Italian pizza in the country, courtesy of Pizarelli. The symphony of flavors and textures set the stage for a week filled with unforgettable experiences and meaningful connections.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we boarded the bus, ready to embrace the adventure that awaited us. Along the way, we made a pit stop at La Sirena, a local grocery store, to stock up on essential supplies for our mission week. The aisles overflowed with an abundance of goods, a testament to the vibrant culture and diverse offerings of the Dominican Republic.

This morning, we gathered at the local church in Villa Central. The air crackled with anticipation as the pastor delivered a powerful message about the man who lay ill for 38 years at the pool of Bethesda (John 5). His words resonated deeply, reminding us of the transformative power of faith and the unwavering hope God offers even in times of hardship.

The story served as a poignant reminder that healing can come in many forms – physical, emotional, and spiritual. As we embark on our mission week, we carry this message close to our hearts, ready to offer support, compassion, and a helping hand to those in need.

As the sun began its descent, casting long shadows across the landscape, we embarked on a prayer walk through the heart of Villa Central. With hearts open and hands clasped, we navigated the narrow streets, pausing at each home to offer prayers for the families within.

Our voices rose in unison, echoing through the air as we sought divine blessings upon the community. We prayed for healing, for strength, for hope, and for the unwavering presence of God in their lives. Our prayers were accompanied by the gentle breeze and the rhythmic hum of daily life, creating a symphony of faith and compassion.

Today marked our first day at the construction site, where we embarked on the inspiring task of building a new church in a fledgling community. The air hummed with anticipation as we gathered alongside members of the local congregation, eager to transform the pastor's dream into a tangible reality.

The site, nestled amidst the community's humble dwellings, was a beacon of hope for the future. We envisioned the church rising from the ground, a symbol of faith, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of this growing community.

As the afternoon sun cast its warm glow over the community, we gathered for an unforgettable VBS session, our hearts brimming with excitement to engage with the children. Over 50 eager faces greeted us, their eyes sparkling with anticipation as we prepared to embark on a journey of faith and fun.

The air crackled with energy as we launched into a chorus of uplifting songs, our voices blending in a harmonious symphony of praise and joy. The children's laughter echoed through the space , their spirits soaring as they embraced the rhythm and melody.

With captivated attention, they listened intently as we delved into the inspiring story of King David, his humble beginnings, and his rise to become the revered king of Israel. The tale unfolded like a captivating adventure, highlighting the power of faith, courage, and perseverance.

As the session drew to a close, the children's faces radiated with newfound knowledge and a deeper understanding of the values embedded in the story of King David. We bid them farewell with warm hugs and hearts filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share this special moment with them.

The VBS session served as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of storytelling and the profound impact we can make on the lives of children. We left the venue with a renewed sense of purpose, eager to continue spreading joy, inspiration, and the message of faith through our interactions with the community.