Our first full day is coming to a close here in Blackstone at the Virginia United Methodist Assembly Center (VUMAC). The Farmville District Youth Mission Camp is going great so far! Today we had our first mission project assignments:
Holly, Dante, and Kate all went with the group to Butterwood United Methodist Church where they weeded and put in some new landscaping around the church grounds.
Quante was with the group that stayed in Blackstone and wood stained some of the benches and the outdoor amphitheater at VUMAC.
Amanda, Rachael, Lionel and I were with the group that went gleaning. We began with picking up 15 rows of bean plants while others from the community harvested the beans from the plants. While the community members were picking the beans, we headed over to another farm to glean corn. The goal was for us to finish the field of 80 rows of corn (which our Society of St. Andrew leader, Mike, was hoping we could accomplish but did not think it would actually be possible). Well, after a long day in the hot sun, we completed the field by pulling, bagging and counting (and even getting to distribute some of the) over 8,500 ears of corn! All the harvested produce will go to those in need in the surrounding area.
After we all got back from our mission locations, took showers, and had a wonderful meal provided by Olive Branch UMC, we headed to a talent show! This week, VUMAC is also hosting Camp Rainbow Connection (http://www.vaumc.org/Page.aspx?pid=386) which is a week long camp held for individuals with intellectual disabilities. It was such a blessing to see the Camp Rainbow participants sing, dance, play piano, and even do an impression of the TV show "Deal or No Deal!" For me, it was even more of a blessing to watch as the youth cheered, sang and danced along with the talent show participants.
What a wonderful, full day of ministry! It is amazing to see the hearts of service the youth in our district have. Tomorrow: Gleaning, Glory Reigns Ranch (http://www.gloryreins.com/index.php), and the Amelia Thrift Store!
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