“We weeded, planted seeds and made a pen for goats,” McCormick said. “It was a lot of work!”
The labor, in hot, humid weather, proved to be the biggest challenge, according to South Anchorage High School senior David Novcaski.
“There was lots of work involved, from mixing and pouring cement, digging holes and painting to landscaping,” he said. “But it was worth it to be able to help the people and see the gratitude and happiness in their own lives.”
SURPRISED BY JOY
Youth say they were struck by the joy of the Jamaican children.
At a location that ministers to children with AIDS, a boy who simply went by the name Donavon was especially memorable.
“He used a wheelchair and followed us everywhere,” Bowers said of the boy who was filled with joy. “He couldn’t talk, but he liked to be around us.”
For adult leader Jones, the opportunity to sing and pray together brought the greatest joy.
“A memorable moment for me was praying and singing evening devotions with the residents of Sophie’s Place,” Jones said. “They were so grateful for our singing — they loved to praise God through song.”
Novcaski agreed.
“We grew closer to God and were able to see first-hand how some people live in poverty,” he said.
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Jones said she believes it was the first time many of the Alaskan teens had ever seen true poverty.
According to a recent United Nations report, 23 percent of Jamaicans live in poverty in the southern and rural areas. For orphans, children with AIDS and pregnant teens, organizations like Mustard Seed are vital for survival.
Despite the living conditions, the vibrant faith of the locals — in the midst of abject poverty, illness and disability — inspired the Alaskan youth.
“They are more aware of their blessings,” Jones said. “And I think they were inspired by the faith of many of the residents and how thankful they were.”
TAKE NOTHING FOR GRANTED
“It helped me to see that you shouldn’t take anything for granted,” McCormick said. “Most of the kids at Sophie’s Place couldn’t even feed themselves, but yet they were still happy.”