Wow! This trip was so much more than I expected. I knew that God was going to do amazing work in my life, but I wasn’t sure how. To give a little background, my dad volunteered to drive down there with us after our initial travel plans went haywire. Pre-trip I was worried that it would be weird having my dad there and didn’t really want him to go, not that I told anyone that. Now, after having him along, I know that our travel arrangements were completely an act of God. Sharing this amazing experience with my dad was such a blessing! We grew so much closer and really got to re-connect.
Another experience God blessed me with was the prayer walk. On this amazing journey, we went to St. Monica’s, the church and school that Castle Rock is renovating, and got to pray for it. This amazing time of prayer not only included Castle Rock’s plans, but also prayers for the former congregation. This got very emotional for me when we were in the classrooms. The date on the chalkboards was August 26, 2005; just 3 days before Hurricane Katrina. We were also able to read the kids’ journals, kids who are my age, and see their comments about the sunny, pretty weather just a few days before disaster. Praying for these kids, who I will never meet, really impacted me. The whole trip to St. Monica’s showed me the awesome power of prayer, something I’d never really thought much about before.
This whole trip really just reminded me how much I have to thank God for. I grew up with loving Christian parents, a nice home, great schooling, a safe neighborhood. The kids down there don’t have these things, yet they are so content with what they have. An hour of my time is enough to make their whole day brighter, yet when I’m at home often I can’t find 15 minutes to help those in need. God really just laid it on my heart that I need to be content with what I have, and use what I have to help others.
I am so thankful that I was able to go down to New Orleans. The experiences I had, the people I’ve met, and the things I’ve learned will stick with me for life. Thank you for all your prayers and support! ~ Kelsey T.
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