Agape Baptist Church Student Ministry

The team has arrived safely in Belize! We got lunch right away at Eustace, our bus drivers, house. We barbecue chicken which was amazing. We left for crooked tree soon after and once we were settled in there were already kids out ready to play with us. They pulled out the balloons and the kids fell in love. It's amazing to see connections already being made. We have a little buddy, valentine. This kid has been hanging out with us nonstop. We are so excited to see what God is going to do this week.

We started with breakfast then went straight to church where Parker preached. We worshiped as one spirit under Christ, with locals and these two teams united as one. That in itself is a wonderful experience. We then had lunch with those who were in church with us. We took a very long walk through the village going door to door inviting people to VBS for the week. We finished the day with another church service. The love that is shown and the unity that is being pursued is amazing!

Today (Monday) we started to day with school ministry. Two boys and two girls shared their testimony in front of the kids and then Daniel shared about Gods love. The kids were so attentive and so well behaved. We spent a couple hours playing games and hanging out with the children. After lunch we split up, some began to paint the pastors house while others went to repair a leaking roof. VBS was a success with about 100 kids showing up for day one! Relationships were made with kids and they were loved. Once we said our goodbyes and all we had dinner at Mrs. Becky's house and worshiped together praising His name for what He has done so far.

Today, Tuesday, was amazing. The love shown all through the day to these locals was such a blessing! How amazing is it that?! There is unity among us, a unity that only comes from above. So much work was done in the Lords name today wether it's by painting making bags of food, or washing feet. After a long day of work and VBS the women did a service just for them! We were able to wash the locals feet and praise and worship the one true King. We prayed over each other and we prayed hard. There were tears and there was laughter.

Parker leading the kids in songs, they had so much fun!

Wednesday morning we had the privilege of going into people's homes in the village and visiting with them, praying with them, and giving them some food and other supplies. Some of the people in the village are living in very humble homes but they were gracious enough to welcome us in and we were honored to spend time with them. VBS ended with a bang and our closing service was very emotional. We will miss the people of Crooked Tree and they will forever be in our hearts and prayers. Some of us are hoping to return next year :)

We arrived on the island of Caye Caulker yesterday (Thursday) and had time to walk around the little island, go shopping, and enjoy lunch (several of us got lobster because it is Lobster Fest this weekend). Most of us went snorkeling in the afternoon!! God's creation is beautiful and breathtaking. We had dinner at Marin's which was delicious and is run by a very friendly older woman. Finally, we had our very last debrief meeting which included highlights from the week and affirmations all around. We are currently waiting (in the rain) to get picked up by our water taxi and to head to the airport. Friends and family, see you soon!!