North Raleigh UMC

The team safely landed this afternoon! After a long day of travel, they got to explore around Kincaid Park. We’re getting settled and rested before our week begins. 

This morning we went to Chugach Covenant Church (C3) in Anchorage. We got there early help set the space for service and a few of us helped lead worship. 

We had lunch with Pastor Ben and Blaise this afternoon at C3. He shared about he found his calling as a pastor and how the congregation started. We learned how this congregation has a mission and service hearted approach to their community and we get to partner with them the next few days!

Getting to work! We started today by cleaning up and organizing C3’s property. Then, tackling our project this week: the community garden! Mowing, weed pulling, raking! 

Started our day with a quick coffee stop at Heavenly Cup. Most of the team got iced coffee… which is very NC in this cold weather 

Time for a group activity! We taught the kids the story of friendship and healing: the story of a paralyzed man getting lowered from a roof to get access to Jesus’ healing. They learned how a friend loves and helps. We also got to serve them dinner!

Pit stop to the “beach” before heading back our lodging site. Spent time looking for fun rocks, watching planes land, and skipping rocks. The boys (except Harrison) courageously went in this freezing cold water!!! Thank you Jesus for warmth!!! 

Got some good progress on the greenhouse — but it’s unfinished. Grateful to help C3 get one step closer to their finished project. Pastor Ben reminded us that it’s not necessarily the victory lap or finish line that means the most, but, the steps on getting there. These last few days, we did our part that God is ultimately using to glorify His Kingdom. 

Ended our flex day with some Canes (some of the team having it for the first time ever!) It has been a great week in Alaska and we gained so much — jaw dropping views of Gods creation, friendship, and a heart from the community in Anchorage. Praying for safe travels home tomorrow.

Thanks for joining along our fun and wild week in Alaska. North Carolinians out!