The Tracy Lutheran Youth Group ventured to Rapid City, SD, recently for its annual mission trip. The group consisted of 15 youth, two chaperones and a bus driver. The destination was the the South Dakota School of Mines, where they stayed in dorms from July 26-Aug. 1.
The trip was booked through a company called Mission Discovery, a Christian mission organization that connects churches, youth groups, and volunteers with local organizations and service projects, creating opportunities to share Christ’s love through practical acts of service.
The group’s service location was Love INC, which stands for Love In The Name of Christ. They took in, sorted, and delivered donations; marked items for their annual parking lot sale; cleaned bikes for their bike ministry program; sanded furniture; and helped clean and organize their facilities.
“Throughout our time at Love INC., we were blessed to meet many amazing volunteers and staff members who shared their time, stories, and passion for serving others,” said Sara Swenhaugen, one of the chaperones. “It was a rewarding experience that reminded us that even simple acts of service can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while allowing us to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Most importantly, our youth came home changed — strengthened in their faith, more aware of the needs of others, and inspired to continue serving in their own communities. They learned that mission work is not simply about what we do for others, but about how God works through us to share His love. We all returned home with grateful hearts, meaningful memories, and a renewed desire to be the hands and feet of Jesus wherever we are called to serve.”
