Editor’s note: We are pleased to bring you these dispatches from Topsail, N.C., where the youth group from St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Morristown is hard at work on its mission trip. Chaperone Alan Chorun is compiling the commentary.
AMBER TOBIA’S THOUGHTS ON WORKDAY TWO
For the last two days we’ve not only constructed but had the opportunity to interact with the family surrounding us. Her two nieces visited on both days and we have had so much fun with them. A bunch of us have been dancing and talking with them. The two of them made our day more enjoyable because we could tell they were excited to be with us as well. I look forward to the laughs and fun to come and to lean more about what this family is about.
ANDREW SCOTT’S THOUGHTS – WORKDAY TWO
Greetings to all. I am typing this blog entry from the ocean-facing, windswept deck of our residence for the week in Topsail Beach, North Carolina. After toiling for much of the day in hot, sweaty, challenging conditions, there is something so perfect about washing ourselves clean in the warm ocean waters and recharging for another day of service.
Today’s challenge from our Team Effort leaders was to not just build the new deck, and the new staircase, and wash the exterior of the house, and clear the brush, etc., but to do it all with love – to show the love in the labor, the love in the work, but most importantly to bring the love to the residents and neighbors in the community.
Because, it was pointed out, the brush will grow back, the exterior of the house will get dirty again, and the stairs and deck will decay again over the years, but the love we show will always remain with them. In my estimation, our youth met this challenge with flying colors. As leaders I don’t imagine that we could feel more proud of their work effort, their energy, their teamwork, but today especially, the love they spread to this community. Feel proud everyone – the kids are alright. . . Peace, Andrew Scott
The St. Peter’s “Night Squad” assembled for some evening revelation by moonlight, communing on the beach for some team building, recreation and a closing prayer. We’ll rise early tomorrow to catch the Sunrise and then go on what we’re calling our “Firecracker 5K on the Beach” (or maybe at least a two K since it’s a big group)!
MORE FROM THE 2012 TOPSAIL TRIP
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