We started the day with a quiet morning. After breakfast, Ryan led in devotions with the group and then we had an hour to scatter for solitude and reflection. We circled up again and Patrick led a debrief where everyone shared something that they learned or observed on the trip so far.
Soon after 11:00, we headed for Blessings of Hope in Leola. They immediately ushered us upstairs for a luncheon where we got to meet the founders of the ministry, Aaron and Dave, and heard their stories and passion for service.
While we ate, we got to talk with the ministry founders, Dave and Aaron.
exponentially increased their reach.
to build a 22,000 square foot addition.
At 1:00, we were guided to various posts along the box production line. We joined a group of 50-60 people on the line and in two hours we packed 1,500 grocery boxes that will go to neighboring states. Our experience at Blessings of Hope was a beautiful one of seeing what vision and passion can do. Several men wanted to use the resources around them to help the less fortunate. They used what they had–immense amounts of food that would have been discarded, and ministries who needed food and storage space–and brought the needs and the resources together.
Around 5:00 we headed into Lancaster City to explore the shops that were open late. Students were given the assignment to try a new food and engage in conversation with someone they don’t know. It was a beautiful evening to be out, and the streets were festive and relatively empty, so we didn’t have many chances to talk with people.
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