Youth News

This summer's mission trip to West Virginia provided unforgettable experiences
for the Grace youth who shared their time, talents and love.

Mission Accomplished:
West Virginia 2005

While preparing for West Virginia, I was definitely a little shook up. It was my first mission trip ever with people I've only known for a few months now and we would be serving the Lord together for a week. Over and over, I questioned to myself, "It's alright.  You will have your big sister to guide you...but what if I don't fit in or have a hard time connecting with God?"

Next thing I know, we were loading our stuff into the vans and hit the road. The car ride was a blast! Puzzle games with Dan Close and everyone singing along to the music took me right out of my comfort zone. My thoughts were quickly changed, "This is going to be a trip I will never forget!" I knew "The Journey" had begun.

I took a giant step forward in my faith on this mission trip. One of the days of the trip some of us went to a nursing home to meet some of the senior citizens of the town. Feeling alone and scared, I was nervous to strike up a conversation with a complete stranger. On the other hand, I knew what I was there for and I introduced myself to an older woman sitting in a wheelchair. As I knelt down she immediately took my hand as comfort, showing her appreciation and love. I felt Jesus' presence near as we talked about our favorite past times. Without Jesus on my side, I would have never found the courage to meet such a wonderful person with a big heart.

  For most of the trip in West Virginia I spent my time with an adorable 7-year-old boy named Austin. Everyday he would run up and greet me with a big smile and hug, making me feel welcome. I found myself acting as a whole new person when I was giving piggyback rides and playing in the mud with him for hours each day. I knew God had blessed me with a great friendship and it made it seem like nothing else in the world mattered at the time. On our last day together, I was convinced that I had touched Austin's heart as he kissed me on the cheek and said, "I'll miss you, Dana."   I then realized that this entire week of playing proved to me that this little 7-year- old had touched my heart, too.

My week in West Virginia helped me understand the importance of putting myself third from others. Acting as a servant helped me appreciate life in general, as we helped with the poverty of West Virginia. From this unforgettable experience, I feel that my life has been changed forever for the love of others around me and to appreciate life the way it is handed to me. I have been brought to my next level of faith, and I am excited to say it's only the beginning!

-Dana Eriksen

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