We went in with no expectations other than a fun time, a finale to our high school years. It was just a beach trip with movie nights and hanging out with friends. What we found out was that this was anything but just a trip.

               From drifting a distance from shore to playing rounds of Gartic Phone, God’s gift of community shone through. There was not a drop of disagreement when it came to cleaning or ride arrangements. Everyone offered a hand in crafting our elaborate sushi dinner, whether it be frying tempura sushi rolls or mixing the miso soup, and everyone enjoyed the delectable products of our willing cooperation.

               Even in the midst of possible dangerous marine life and hiding in the garage, there was a strong sense of community and support. Through the horror movies and ankle-twisting, we shouldered the fear and difficulty, showing our compassion and care for each other.

               Despite our previous strictly superficial relationships with one another, this vacation paved the way for a full display of community and closeness. The experience was truly one of the best closing chapters to an era of life and was a testament to the beautiful amalgamation of talents and skills that comes with Christ-led community.

Some personal reflections:         

               Katelyn: My favorite part of the senior trip was getting to cook together.

               Gary: My favorite part of senior trip was Andrew’s foot getting bitten by a shark. (joke). What really happened was we ran into two dolphins. I also enjoyed Pastor Sion’s singing at night.

               Richard: My favorite thing from the senior trip was going out to the ocean and swimming and just like spending time with all the seniors and spending fellowship and just getting to know each other.

Samantha: My favorite part of the senior trip was getting to hang out with everyone and playing games together.

               Shirley: Hi, seniors. First of all, I wanted to express my gratitude to you guys. Thank you for your trust and for allowing David and me to be your guardians for the senior trip. I have to admit that it was an extraordinary and exciting experience for the both of us. And thank you for letting us be a part of your senior trip memories.

               One of the most memorable moments for me was the head-counting. Ever since we arrived at the Florida beach house, I started counting subconsciously. The counting experience reminded me about Jesus’ Parable of the Lost Sheep. I knew this story well, but it was only head knowledge. There were 11 of you in total. On one occasion, I only counted to 10, and my heart was grasped by fear. Who was the last sheep and where was he? Praise the Lord that He had mercy on me. I found the lost one sooner than I anticipated. I remember one of the verses in the parable: “He (refers to the shepherd) is happier about the one sheep than about the 99 that did not wander off.” Never did this passage resonate so deeply within me until that moment when I was with the 10 and found the one. God is so great and amazing, isn’t He?

               Another memorable moment was observing you guys bonding together, either through making a gourmet meal or helping your injured classmate. I saw the Holy Spirit working and Christ’s love flowing among you all.

               I am excited that you are entering into a new stage of life. I wish you all the best and also want to remind you that this church is your home, your spiritual shelter. You are always welcome, regardless of what happens. Tonight, we are sending you off, not with a “Goodbye” but a “See you again!”

With love, Shirley at the Senior Night