On Monday, July 25th, a group of Parkside middle school and high school students will pack up our things and head to a Cleveland-area school where we’ll be spending the week as part of the Unless Project sponsored by World Changers. Once there, we’ll be split into work crews and sent to work on houses in and around Cleveland that are in desperate need of some TLC: under the supervision of seasoned professionals, we’ll help to scrape, paint, and even reroof them with the hopes of demonstrating Christ’s love in a practical and tangible way. Then, at night, we’ll all gather back at the school and have the chance to hang out and worship with students from both Parkside and other churches around the country.
Last year, some of us had a chance to go to SEMP and learn about how to give an answer to those who ask about our faith (1 Peter 3:15). This year, God-willing, we’ll practice living such good lives among non-Christians that people are prompted to ask questions about the hope that we have (1 Peter 2:12).
When are we leaving?
Depart Monday, July 25 from the Warehouse
Return Saturday, July 30 to the Warehouse
Who can go?
Students who are currently freshmen, sophomores or juniors.
How do I register?
Cost: $250 (You will need to bring additional money for two meals during the week)
To register, you’ll need to fill out an application. Apply online or download the paper application and turn it into Dan or Caitie.
Deadline for registration is May 15. There are only 20 spots available. After we have received all of the applications, we will put together a team and have a number of mandatory pre-trip meetings.
What can I expect?
Meet lots of new people
You’ll get to know all kinds of other people from many different church backgrounds. And you’ll grow surprisingly close to the people on your crew, and even closer to the people in your own church. While you may notice differences in how others approach faith, you’ll also realize we have a lot in common. Agree or disagree, but always be respectful.
Help people in need and experience Christ’s love in the process
Jesus lived a life of service…and asks us to do the same. As we serve others with Christ’s love, the number one goal of our mission trips happens-we grow closer to God. This is why we require everyone, youth and adults, to participate in the evening programs, onsite devotions, and evening youth group devotions-it sets purposeful time aside to focus on God.
A challenge!
You’ll work hard on your project…but if you’re like most, you’ll discover it’s very satisfying. You might see some shocking situations that reflect deep poverty. Or, you might encounter situations where the need isn’t as visibly obvious. Whether obvious or not, the people you’ll serve do need help. Show Jesus’ love no matter what. Yes - we get up early. Yes - we may work in the hot sun, sleep on the floor, take showers in a locker room (sometimes with cold water), eat camp food, and live in a facility that may not be air-conditioned. Is it all worth it? Yes! You’re making these sacrifices to help people. That’s what having a servant’s heart is all about. Thank you in advance!
