Day four in Scranton began with a more relaxed morning and the chance for us to bond as a team and eat breakfast as a group. It gave us a chance to connect with each other and enjoy a laid back morning. After this we went to VBS with an all time high of 48 kids and got the chance to get a team picture with the kids. Following the VBS we did a gospel presentation on the square at Scranton with people sitting around. After this we got to hang with the Philly team and relax for the evening after a few 12 hour days. It was a time of growth for both teams as we got to bond more with each other. The days closed with a run in with Lester a giant snapping turtle on our porch as we wished the Philly team a farewell.
Here are some ways the trip has impacted those on the mission team:
Alicia- I have really enjoyed passing out free coffee to random people and spreading the gospel. I really enjoyed the vacation bible school and getting to know the younger kids. I have also enjoyed hanging out and getting to know the everyone better!
Megan- The best memory I will take back from this trip is getting a closer bond with everyone on the team and my experience of fame in the local paper.
John- The best memory that I will take away from this trip will be the fellowship that we experienced with each other. I feel that all of us hear have grown closer to brothers and sisters in Christ!!!
Nathaniel- I really enjoyed talking to people I might normally have avoided and being an outreach into the community in ways I have never done before.
Jon W- I loved reaching out to the older kids, ages 10-12, that at first seemed closed to us coming. Once they opened up and accepted us, they were much more open to listen to anything we had to say. The best part of it was when one guy came up to me the second day and was begging be to say his verses.
Brandon- pizza was good but greasy. i witnessed to my new best friend Rumael! had a great time with the Philly kids! love you guys!!
Jon McMichael- I have really enjoyed getting to know the teens better on this trip and have a chance to work with them in ministry. I have particularly enjoyed the coffee give away as I had a chance to talk to a construction worker two days in a row and was able to establish a relationship and he had many questions. I am hoping and praying he will be there Friday morning and hope to give him a bible to encourage him to read through the gospel of John.
Allie- This trip has really been a good experience for me. From trying to plan and direct crafts with Alicia, to talking to people on the streets, I have had several new experiences. I have also enjoyed getting to hang out with everyone and getting to know them better…. especially seeing the true side of Jon McMichael.
Karen- I loved our coffee giveaways. I got to talk to many people who were very open about their lives and what they believe. Bible School has been awesome. Monday we had 4 girls, but by the end of the day we only had one. Today and yesterday we had 20ish girls! It has been so much fun to show love to the kids and have a good time. I wish we could stay another week. =)
Wade- I loved the fact that God kept bringing more and more little kids to the VBS. I also was super stoked that I found out about Rick. This man is a very strong man of God and is fully submerged into the Lord. Rick gave me his E-Mail, phone number and address to get a hold of him anytime I need to. I also enjoyed VERY much John and I’s turtle services
To end I just want to thank God for all the blessing he has poured out on us and continues to do so. Much love.
Hannah- I have really enjoyed doing the vacation bible school. I really love the kids. I have enjoyed the coffee giveaways!!
Nick- I have had an amazing time here working with the kids in the VBS and talking to people around the community. This is also evident by my last two blog posts if you want to hear more about my thoughts on the week.
With those words from the team we bid you all a good night and will see you on Saturday.