Author: Carryn Oleksy
Today was our last concert for the mission trip which took the place of the Sunday morning message. It was such a blessing to be a part of the service. One of the cool things about Christian brotherhood is that when you try to be a blessing to others, you end up being blessed back, and I certainly felt that today. It is so cool to see how God uses the words and emotions of songs to stir people’s hearts— for both saved to be encouraged and the unsaved to plant the gospel seeds. On this trip we’ve talked about faithfulness over fruit. I have to remind myself sometimes that we might not see how God uses us with these concerts, but God blesses faithfulness.
Author: Hailey Taylor
What an amazing way to end our missions trip here in Europe! We had the opportunity to minister to the people at Chiesa Biblica Battista in Grosseto, Italy. Pastor Frank Maietta allowed us to present our music during the Sunday morning service. After we presented our music, we enjoyed a wonderful lunch presented to us by the church members there. The hospitality we experienced was such a blessing and an honor. After lunch, we got to eat some delicious gelato ice cream at a nearby shop. After a much needed time of rest back at the hotel, we enjoyed a cookout hosted by the Childers. As we waited for the food, we were able to go on horseback rides and play with the bunnies and kittens they had. (My personal favorite was holding the bunnies.) Once the food was served, we enjoyed a wonderful time of fellowship. We talked and laughed over food with good friends both new and old. I am so grateful for the many friends that I have made on this missions trip! I am so thankful for the people God has allowed me to serve along side during this trip. Even though we all come from different backgrounds and from different places, we are all united in Christ with one goal: to spread the gospel. As this adventure comes to a close, I will never forget the people I served with and how I got to see God work in the lives of those listening to the message we had (and still have) to share.
