Mission Trip

There is that sense of anxiety that comes upon people when they realize that an important day is coming up, and it is less than a week away. There is the flurry to make time available to get what you need done, as well as prepare yourself mentally for the day. It seems that this isn't the place that I am at.

Next Sunday, July 28th, the youth from Warren Center Baptist Church will be headed out on a work team based missions trip. Pastor Larry Jennings, his wife Annette and I will be leading the group to Altoona PA. There, we will be attending TeamEfforts projects for the week. Most of the anxiety I get from a trip or heading off to Alaska has been replaced by joy as I see the anticipation and excitement the youth have shown. For some, this is their first mission trip. For others, it is a completely new experience.

While in Altoona, TeamEffort will be sending us out to various work projects. It can be anything from roof and painting, to building wheelchair ramps on residents homes. I'm not sure what to expect. But the unknown is an exciting factor when it comes to mission trips. You never know what God is going to present to us. This trip also throws another curveball at me. In the past, I have been the one youth member going on a trip. I have helped lead ROCC group retreats, but I think this is the first "mission" trip that I am a leader. There is a lot of responsibility behind it, and I go to God seeking His direction and wisdom on the trip ahead.

During the trip, I hope to capture the work the teens are doing. I'm bringing along some of my gear in hopes of getting a shot in here or there. We will see how it goes. Just like any other trip, I just have to play it by ear and see what happens. My goal in capturing the trip is to produce something that will be a lasting memory for the youth. It may be something that they don't view again till later down the road in life. But when they do view the end project, they can see a milepost in their spiritual walk.

Be praying for our group next week (July 28th - August 3rd). Pray for the work that we will be doing, as well as opportunities to share the love of God with those we come in contact with.

Grace & Peace,
Daryl J. Howard

A blip of info.

Not too much to report right now. Trying to get information on how summer camp is going at Victory.
Recently I have been working at The Community Cup Coffee & Tea House in Towanda, PA. It has been a fun experience, as I get to use and share my love for coffee/espresso. I have also been able to share my passion for serving in Alaska with those asking about my time and work in Alaska. Hope to have the next update out before the end of the month.

Upcoming Events:
- ROCC Monthly Outreaches: Every third Sunday ROCC meets to host an event for the local teens.
- Warren Center Baptist Church Youth Group Mission Trip: July 28th - August 3rd, a group of youth will be headed to Altoona PA to help with some outreach projects.

- Daryl