EduDeo is an organization supported by our churches and I was familiar with their vision and mission statements. When opportunity arose, I felt called by God to go on a trip with other people I knew. It was through that trip that I really saw the impact that Christian education was having on the lives of the students, parents and communities of Nicaragua. The whole experience did not leave us unchanged either!
No matter how raving the reviews are of those that have gone on trips; I never feel it does them justice. Everyone should experience an EduDeo trip.
There is nothing more exhilarating than worshipping with Christians of another culture; seeing their joy and gratitude as you help them / work with them in achieving their goals of a Christ-centered education for their people.
My favourite experience was meeting with the principals and hearing / seeing their heartfelt stories of commitment, prayer, determination and praise. They love their communities and want to bring transformation and thus improvement for their fellow man.
The most challenging part was the inability to speak Spanish – however in an amazingly short period of time we were able to communicate in other means with the local workers who we worked alongside.
When participating in missions that utilize volunteers and local labor –both sides win. Both sides grow in understanding of each other, which eliminates the ‘us’ and ‘them’ phenomenon. Local men receive employment, which provides for their families.
We all learn to understand the other culture, persons, different ways of doing things, and experience the joy of working on a job together that benefits the whole community. It is a team approach and we learn and grow from each other.
A HANDS trip is about going with God and trusting that He will work in and through you in your experience. You and the recipients will be blessed!
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