I was privileged to go with an Etobicoke corps, Toronto, mission team to Freeport, Bahamas, July 3-7, 2006.

Team members included:

Brian, Brenda and Elizabeth Ede
Daniel, June, Miranda and Janine Ivany
Paul Nickles
Sandy Chou
Sharon Dury
Meghan Drummond
Major Bob Gilbert
Major Sophie Gilbert
Monica Hernandez

The mission was to provide one week of Vacation Bible School Construction Zone.

Every day began with pre-class teaching, Bible stories, crafts, games and, of course, snacks and lunch. In the afternoon there were activities, such as water sports and a demonstration of an airport security dog at work.

The children were always hanging onto our hands or climbing on you to get a piggy back ride. This was great as we were able to give the love they longed for. Once some of the children got to know you, they shared their sad stories. A child wrote to one of the leaders wishing that leader could be her mother. Her mother died and her grandmother was raising her.

It was a rewarding experience as we saw the children grow in their love for Jesus, and make commitments. Through this experience I have grown stronger as a Christian and learned how fortunate we are to have the love of family, friends, and God.

It was hard for the team to leave the children, but we know their future is in God’s hands.

by Sharon Dury