Today we worked on the playground. Some people split into groups and focused on different areas. One group worked on moving mulch, while the other worked on staining a deck. The mulch group began by clearing the ground of remaining roots and rocks. To prepare for the mulch, they laid down a tarp and then started spreading the mulch on top of it.

Yesterday, our youth participated in a fun and creative photo competition, tasked with capturing their best artistic shot. While one photo was ultimately chosen as the winner, we believe each and every participant did a remarkable job showcasing the beauty of this special place.

Congratulations to Abby, whose photo stood out and earned top honors! As a fun twist, Abby will now serve as the judge for the adult photo challenge, where the theme is Friendship and Community. We can’t wait to see how the grown-ups rise to the occasion.

Today was a beautiful, sunshiny day! We started off with breakfast and then jumped right into work. Robb gave us the task of working on the playground. Some of us were scooping out mud that needed to be removed—yes, a couple of shoes did get stuck in the process (lol). Others were scooping the sandy stuff, and thankfully Kyle helped with that too… though he may have gotten stuck a few times!

We also laid down a tarp to get ready for the mulch. It was a lot of hard work, but because of everything we accomplished, we got to enjoy some well-earned rest time at the pool. Tomorrow, we’re right back at it!

—Harper Riesterer

Today the work begins—but thankfully, we don’t go it alone. This week, we’re joined by new friends from Monica Park Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) all the way from Texas—and we thought we had a long drive!

After a night of fun and fellowship, we discovered an amazing connection: one of their adult leaders has a son who just graduated from TCU and is headed to Vanderbilt Divinity School this fall. His good friend? None other than our very own Dominic Minatel, who will also be attending Vanderbilt Divinity School this fall. Small world, right?

We ask for your prayers—for safety, meaningful service, and maybe even some cooler weather. Stay tuned for photos and updates as the day unfolds.

Today’s weather caused the need for us to be flexible, so instead of participating in a high ropes course we went to Walmart and took a scenic ride to see some of the hurricane damage.

-Izzie

Today we went to a brunch place called the Board Game Café and sat in the back room with two big tables. It took a while for some people to get their food, but once everyone had eaten, we played games like Uno and BS. After we finished, we walked around Asheville and explored some shops.

– Braden

This morning we woke up and ate a few pastries before gathering for a group prayer and heading to Asheville for our free day. Once we arrived, we went to a board game café and ate lunch while playing games together and sharing lots of laughter. Afterward, we walked around the city and stopped in a few stores to shop for souvenirs!

– Selena

While our church family worships back in Indianapolis and Fishers, we have gathered here to pray, to praise, and to share in communion with one another and with God.

Our first full day on this service learning journey begins. While some still sleep, others are already stirring. Today will be a day filled with play and laughter—a gift of joy and community building as we prepare for the work that awaits.

There is much that has been done, and much still to do here in the hills of western North Carolina. We step into the day with open hearts, ready for what it will offer.

To help us begin, a poem:

Fresh Morning

by Joyce Rupp

I awaken to the sun’s hush

spilling gold on my windowpane,

to a wind-scented breath of dawn

inviting me to begin again.

There is grace in this newness,

quiet hope wrapped in sky and dew,

as if the earth herself were praying:

“Be renewed. Be light. Be you.”

Every trip brings new, wild, and wonderful opportunities. Here are a few reflections from some of those making the journey.

Harper

I hope to learn new skills this week and hear people’s stories. I also hope to build new relationships and make a positive impact in the community!

Miriam

I’m so excited for the ropes course tomorrow and everything else planned for the week. Christmount is one of my favorite places, and I hope to help rebuild what was damaged by Hurricane Helen!

Piper

I’m hoping to grow closer to Jesus on this mission trip. I want to become a better Christian and serve those in need.

Sage

I hope to become not only a better Christian but also to strengthen my relationship with God. I want to grow as a person and help those who need it!

Lila

Two things I hope to get out of this trip are the chance to make an impact and to try something new. I want to feel like I’ve made a difference, because it’s an amazing feeling to help people through life-changing experiences. I’m also excited to try new things—especially building projects—and to learn skills I can use in the future.

Selena

I’m excited to help people this week and spread love and positivity to those who need support. I’m also looking forward to growing closer to other youth and making lasting memories!

Grace

I hope this week brings new friendships and opportunities to grow in my faith through service to the community. I truly want to draw closer to God and glorify Him in all I do. I hope everyone’s work this week reflects how God uses His people as His hands and feet to share grace and mercy with others.

Ava

This week, I want to have a lot of fun while helping the community and making a meaningful impact.