June 13th our youth group embarked on our 2nd mission trip to Lake Charles, Louisiana, where we had the privilege of serving a community still recovering from the aftermath of recent hurricanes. Our team of passionate young people, guided by faith and a desire to make a difference, worked together to support local families and organizations in need.
A Purposeful Trip
The trip to Lake Charles was not only about providing physical help but also about deepening our faith and growing together as a community. The devastation caused by natural disasters in the area left many families struggling to rebuild their homes and lives. Through our work, we were able to assist with cleanup efforts, home repairs, built beds and organized a donors appreciation dinner. Each day brought new challenges and opportunities to serve, but the impact of our efforts was felt far beyond the work we completed.
Building Connections
In addition to the physical labor, our youth group spent time building connections with the people of Lake Charles. We were welcomed with open arms and, in return, had the opportunity to share stories, prayers, and laughs. Whether it was worshiping, sharing meals, or simply listening to their experiences, the bonds formed during this trip left an indelible mark on our hearts.
Faith in Action
One of the most powerful moments of the trip came when we gathered for nightly reflection sessions. After a long day of service, we would come together to share what God had been teaching us. Many of our SWAG members expressed how their understanding of service and faith had deepened through their experiences. We saw firsthand the difference that faith in action can make—not just in the lives of those we helped, but in our own lives as well.
Ryan, SWAG Leader