Italy was more than we could have hoped for on this school-sponsored trip, and getting to experience it together with students, parents, and staff made it even more special. From the very beginning, there was a shared sense of excitement that stayed with us throughout the journey. Seeing places like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, Vatican City, Assisi, and Florence in person is something we will never forget. These were not just landmarks we had read about or seen in pictures. They felt real and meaningful, and being there together made each moment even more memorable. It was incredible to watch everyone take it all in and recognize how special this experience truly was.
The food was just as impressive as we had heard. The pasta and pizza were consistently delicious, and the gelato quickly became a favorite for all of us. What really made the trip stand out were the experiences we shared along the way. We took part in a cooking class, spent time painting together in a park, and even tried fresco art in a studio. Those moments gave us the chance to slow down, learn something new, and enjoy each other’s company in a different way. By the end of the trip, it was not just about where we had gone. It was about the time we spent together and the memories we created as a group.
16 students and 3 staff spent Spring Break on the Great Abaco Island in the Bahamas. We served with Convoy of Hope and another organization called Many Hands for Abaco. Abaci is the island most devastated by Hurricane Dorian in 2019, and our team was a part of helping the community rebuild. Our students were given amazing opportunities to serve. They spent time at CAPS, the Central Abaco Primary School. Here, they served breakfast to students, mentored them in classes, provided tutoring, and played games. We spent time in a church running events and activities for their youth programs. Our students helped to teach the fruit of the spirit, specifically goodness, using interactive activities and fun skits.
Our labor included helping a new farmer establish a plot of land to begin planting corn. This was special for our students as they were the tip of the spear when it came to helping restore agriculture to the island. We assisted with the painting inside and outside a family home that Many Hands for Abaco was restoring. On Sunday, we attended an amazing church service and spent the afternoon delivering food to families in need around the island.
Meeting a local Pastor and hearing his story of survival during and after the hurricane was very moving for our team. Our nightly debriefs and “God Moments” were opportunities for students to share the impact each day was having on them. These were beautiful times that inspired student testimonies, a commitment to following Jesus, and bonds being built that will last for many years. .png){kind=small}
