Minnewaska

Our team arrived safely this evening! We settled in, unpacked, and got a tour of Jesus People, the community we are staying at for this week! We then did orientation and got ready for a fun week ahead! We are so excited for what the Lord has in store this week in Chicago!

After lunch we got to hear the story of how Jesus People came to be and got a tour of their living space and building.

We spent the afternoon at Montrose Beach! What a great, relaxing way to start the week!

We woke up this morning and headed to breakfast, and then KC from Jesus People led us in an inequity activity! We learned about how resources aren’t distributed easily, and what we can do about it! It was a very eye opening experience and we will look for the ways we can apply it this week!

Yesterday, we spent our ministry time helping Ms. Maria serve lunch to the unhoused. Many of the group members stepped out of their comfort zones and had intentional conversations with those being served.

This morning we took a walk down to the lake and explored the bird sanctuary. Taking in and reflecting on God's creation. Afterward we reflected on what we saw, learned, and heard out looking at the lake.

After our devotion we walked to the meal ministry to help Ms. Maria prep and serve food to the community! We also had the privilege of hearing the testimony of some of the staff who serve this community day in and day out, and it was amazing to see how God used their stories to help make change in the community!

After ministry we got to walk down to the beach and spend some time before dinner! It is such a fun way to spend time together!

This morning we went back to Uptown Baptist and had the privilege of leading worship for the members of the Bible study every Wednesday! It was such a privilege to use our gifts to serve the Lord this morning! Afterwards, we went downstairs and served them breakfast alongside Ms. Maria! It has been a joy to serve with her this week!

After breakfast ministry, we walked over to cornerstone community outreach, a long term homeless and transitional housing ministry! We organized donations, watered plants, and moved supplies! They do so much for the community and it was amazing to hear how the Lord has provided for them!

Last night, we spent some time in worship with the community. We even got to celebrate all the July birthdays!

We had our rec day and had a blast exploring downtown Chicago! We shopped, went to the beach, and had great food at Portillos and Giordanios! We are so grateful for the time we got to spend together !!!