The Missions small group was formed in 2024, partly out of the mission trip to Camp Lutheridge in Arden, NC in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
The Arden trip was chock full of opportunities; roof repair, mold remediation, and replacing drywall. Witnessing the need from local folks and the difference they could make planted the seeds for further missions ministry.
After returning home and putting together the small group, they spent their first meeting exploring mission sites in the United States and nearby countries. Their stated goal was to share the Good News and humanitarian aid with people experiencing extreme generational poverty. Through prayer and spiritual discernment, they felt God calling them to serve the poorest of Antigua, Guatemala.
In the mountains of Antigua, there is great need for outside help to educate, inspire, and provide tools to enable the next generation break their cycle of poverty. The team plans to share the Gospel, build homes, and provide vented stoves to counter chronic lung problems. They hope that by giving households a helping hand, it will help perpetuate success in their lives.
The estimated cost of travel expenses and materials to build several homes in Antigua is $30,000. One of the fundraisers the church held was a Valentine’s Day banquet with a special meal. A visit from a Valentine’s-Ready Elvis brightened the evening.
There was also a silent auction through most of February. Members of the congregation donated generously to the auction, including works of art, jewelry, hand-crafted quilts and rugs, as well as restaurant and vacation vouchers. The two February events added more than $6,100 to the Missions fund.
Additional fundraising events will be announced in the coming days.
