Day 7: Ridgeways Baptist Church & Preparing for VBS

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another." — Hebrews 10:24-25

After breakfast today, we took a half-mile walk to Ridgeways Baptist Church. They had combined both of their services to honor their longtime pastor, Elijah Wanje, who is stepping down. He started the church 38 years ago in a simple wooden building; today, it is a thriving, massive campus.

Pastor Derek Grier from Grace Church in Dumfries, Virginia, came all the way out to speak. He and Pastor Wanje met years ago, and Pastor Wanje became a mentor to him. He preached an incredible message on Luke 15:11-31.

After the service, we headed to "The Chicken Place" (Joel’s favorite!) and everyone enjoyed a fantastic lunch.

Once we got back to Heart Lodge, some of the team went out for a bit of shopping, while others stayed back to get everything organized and ready for VBS.

I think this day of rest was exactly what we needed. We are all carrying so many emotions after this past week. Each night, when we gather to get to know our teammates better, we open up about the hard situations in our lives and weep for one another. It is such a beautiful thing to feel safe enough to lean into each other for support. God is here… God is at home… God only wants what is best for us. He truly deserves all our praise.

May God bless you on this Sunday! I pray you were able to find a place to worship today, too.