August 15- Pilgrimage Director Eric Neubauer
Final Thoughts
What an exciting summer of service I had with Wonder Voyage and all those who made up the four teams I was privileged to lead. This summer was my first as a team director and what a fun / exciting time WE had reaching those in need while learning the principle of loving and serving one another. Traveling to Colorado,
New Orleans (2X), and also to San Antonio we participated in a variety of service opportunities like cutting down trees, working with the mentally handicapped, assisting the National Parks Service, and being a part of the rebuilding process in New Orleans.
The first thing that stood out to me this summer was the heart of the High School and Junior High students I worked with. Watching young people take part of their summer to go and live out the gospel message was amazing. I saw young people working all day with mentally handicapped children as if they were best friends. Teens going into houses filled with mud from Hurricane Katrina and cleaning up until the floors were visible - ready to be rebuilt again. Young people from different denominational backgrounds loving people while learning what it means to be a follower of Christ!
The second thing I observed was desire! These young people had a desire to learn - learn what it means to be an active participant in community (being part of a team). Each of them had a desire to grow spiritually, leaving what hindered their walk with Christ behind, while embracing the principles that helped them to mature in their faith. Young people, not only willing to serve, but willing to spend time journeying towards a deeper, more personal relationship with Jesus! Wow - what more could I ask for?
Finally, I am home again - a month on the road and I am now ready to relax, reflect and prepare myself for my next Wonder Voyage. Come and join us...