Archbold Evangelical Church

The adventure begins! Our first moments together were spent meeting our Group Leaders and Assistant Group Leaders, getting to know one another, and receiving the game plan for the day ahead. Full of excitement, new friendships, and a shared purpose, this was the perfect start to an unforgettable mission trip experience. ✨????

Before diving into our service work, we took some time to explore and pick out special gifts and little trinkets to remember the journey. From handmade keepsakes to unique local finds, these small treasures became meaningful reminders of the people, places, and memories we shared throughout the trip. ????️✨

After a busy morning of travel and settling in, we gathered together for a well-deserved lunch break at Arctic Roadrunner. Good food, great conversations, and plenty of laughter made it the perfect opportunity to recharge before continuing our mission trip adventure. ✨????

Our stop at Beluga Point gave us the chance to pause and admire the incredible beauty surrounding us. With breathtaking views of the mountains and coastline, it was the perfect reminder of the wonder and peace found in creation. Together, we took in the scenery, snapped a few photos, and appreciated the journey we were sharing. ⛰️

After a day of traveling and arriving in a new place, we gathered around the table for our very first meal as a team. It was more than just food—it was the beginning of new friendships, shared laughter, and the mission ahead. As we broke bread together, we began building the community that would support and encourage one another throughout the week. This simple moment marked the start of a journey filled with faith, service, and unforgettable memories.

After our first day of getting settled into the church that would be our home for the week, we gathered together after dinner for a few games of cards. It was a simple moment filled with laughter, friendly competition, and the excitement of the week ahead. As we unpacked our bags and got comfortable in a new place, we also began building the friendships and memories that would make this mission trip so special.

After getting settled into the church and finishing dinner, we gathered around for a few games of cards. It was a fun, simple way to end our first day together—filled with laughter, friendly competition, and the excitement of the week ahead. ♡

These quiet moments of joy and connection remind us that God works not only through service, but through the relationships we build along the way.

A simple moment, lots of laughter, and friendships growing one braid at a time.

As the first day came to a close, we gathered together to share, reflect, and prepare our hearts for the week ahead. A perfect ending to a day full of new friendships, new experiences, and God's faithfulness. ✨

In these quiet moments of worship, our voices came together as one, filling the room with gratitude and praise. ????✨

Our first breakfast together was a little hectic, a little sleepy, and full of excitement for the week ahead. Between grabbing food and getting ready for the day, it was the perfect start to our mission adventure. ????

Our first time gathering as a team to worship, pray, and prepare our hearts for the work ahead. A simple but beautiful reminder that we're serving together with one purpose. ✨

One step at a time, crossing into another day full of adventure, laughter, and memories waiting to be made.

Just two friends enjoying the hike, sharing conversations and soaking in the beauty around them.

A quick stop for a photo and a chance to celebrate making it halfway up the trail together.

Some of the best moments happen along the trail—with good friends and even better views.

The hike may be over, but the memories and laughter from the journey will last long after.

A candid moment of the team making their way down the trail, one step closer to the next adventure.

Arriving at the lake and realizing what came next… the polar plunge!

Three friends, one beautiful view, and a moment worth remembering.

Taking a quiet moment to skip stones and enjoy the peacefulness of the lake.

A quick picture to remember the chilly adventure before the plunge.

Standing in awe of God's incredible creation, surrounded by snowy peaks and endless beauty.

A little courage, a lot of laughter, and one unforgettable run into the icy water.

Our group leaders taking on the polar plunge and making memories right alongside the team. Their joy and willingness to jump in made the moment even more special.

A quick stop on the trail to capture the crew. Between the laughs, the climb, and the incredible views, this hike was one to remember.

A small act of kindness can make a big difference. It was a joy to serve and share a meal with the community

A small act of kindness can make a big difference. It was a joy to serve and share a meal with the community

With every decoration hung and every detail put in place, excitement for Vacation Bible School began to grow. It was a joy to help create a space where kids could feel welcomed, loved, and ready for an unforgettable week.

Lots of laughter, a little silliness, and plenty of dancing as the team learned the VBS songs together. Getting ready to lead with joy was half the fun!

With a big smile and an even bigger heart, one of our students joined right in, leading by example and sharing the joy of worship through every move.

A fun moment of learning and laughter as our pastor got a quick lesson on the soundboard from our church partners. Even the little moments of teamwork help build lasting friendships.

Smiles, happy hearts, and a whole lot of excitement after an amazing first day of VBS. We can't wait to see what the rest of the week has in store!

Fully embracing the VBS theme with plenty of laughs and a little bit of silliness. Some memories are just too fun not to capture!

The connections made on this trip go far beyond the work we do—they become friendships that feel like family.

A little spontaneity, a lot of laughter, and one unforgettable conga line. Joy has a way of bringing everyone together!

We ended the day the same way we began it—together. Reflecting on all that God had done, sharing stories, and getting ready for another day of serving.

One of the first things we did after our morning meeting and devotionals was come over to serve at our local partner food bank!

Volunteers gathered at the start of the day, ready to work together in support of the community and the mission of the Kenai Peninsula Food Bank.

Volunteers worked together in the garden, cultivating fresh produce that will help nourish families throughout our community.

Every seed planted represents an investment in healthier meals and stronger community support.

Every task, big or small, contributes to creating a stronger foundation for community service.

Volunteers used their skills and tools to improve spaces and resources that benefit local families.

Through teamwork and dedication, volunteers prepared and maintained garden spaces that help provide fresh food for those in need.

Behind every successful harvest is a group of volunteers willing to put in the hard work.

Working side by side, volunteers tackled projects that help keep the food pantry running efficiently.

Each project completed helps create a stronger, more supportive community for everyone.

Before putting our hands to work, we joined our hearts in prayer and prepared to serve with humility and care

Volunteers stepped up wherever needed, demonstrating commitment and teamwork throughout the day.

Through teamwork and attention to detail, volunteers helped prepare food for distribution.

In Alaska the weather gets quite cold so the food pantry provides extra firewood to families in need!

Small actions combined to create a lasting impact for families across the Kenai Peninsula.

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Working together to measure, cut, and shape wood, showcasing teamwork, craftsmanship, and the satisfaction of building something by hand.

Mark 10:45: "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

Stumbled upon this charming little historic town near the bluff beach and couldn't resist a photo. Sometimes the best travel memories come from unexpected stops

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”
— Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 (NIV)

In between serving at the food pantry and getting ready for VBS we stopped at the bluff to reset!

We closed the night with worship and prayer to set out intentions for the day coming but also to stop and humble ourselves before our father and give him praise for all he’s been doing on our trip.

Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve.” — Mark 10:45

Serving others is one of the clearest ways we reflect Jesus.

“Serve one another humbly in love.” — Galatians 5:13

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord.” — Colossians 3:23

Behind every act of service is a heart surrendered to God.

The best ministry moments are usually the quiet ones.

After a long day of serving we had to stop and refuel

We finished our night with our team serving our community church with their local VBS kiddos!

On our Rec Day we were able to spend some time resetting and seeing some wild life on our boat tour through local islands in Alaska

After a long week of serving, it came to an end sooner than expected. Such an honor to serve our partner church and a bitter sweet goodbye to a place that was a temporary home for our team this past week!