quest

Stephanie....

That's right we finally made it, and it was amazing. The flights went smoothly and we arrived with good time. Our group over the past months has grown close as a whole, and this helped us to accomplish great things through God.

The thing that was said everyday more than once a day was "God open my eyes." Our goal was to see things more than on the surface level, and we all had at least one experience that God opened our eyes to. One big thing for me was I just really saw God's throughout the country. Everywhere we went people were so welcoming and loving. When we would go prayer walking people would ask us into their house and give up every chair they had, and keep in mind they were welcoming about five people into their home which is about the size of many living rooms. They were all just so giving and caring offering us whatever they had, which wasn't much.

More of God's love was shown to me during a time of worship. I was holding this young girl who fell asleep in my arms I just felt this overwhelming love for her, and I didn't even know her. And the biggest thing I will be bringing back with me from this trip is to love. To love those who love me, to love those I don't know, and to love the un-loveable. I thank God for this trip because it truly opened my eyes to great things and I will never forget it. Thanks you for your prayers.

Nicholas....

Going on the trip to the Dominican Republic was one of the most eye opening events I have seen. Going to all parts of the DR and seeing how all of the Dominicans live compared to how we live in the United States. The people there always showed a smile when they came up to you and wanted you always to hang out. Seeing their love for God when they have nothing was amazing. Some of the churches were just the foundation with just a roof. But when everyone was worshiping they praised God like I have never seen like in our church. Also it was meaningful to hear the people's testimonies of how they come to God and how they live their lives.

Lauren....

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you my  righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

This verse I kept close in my heart all week. This trip to the Dominican Republic was really an eye-opening, learning experience. The trip was my first time on an out of the country mission trip. Every moment was unique and could never be re-lived with the same impact. During our time in the DR my eyes were opened wide to so many new things. I was pushed to step out of my comfort zone by trying new things. I saw the eyes filled hearts ands spirits beaming with excitement for God from everyone we met. I have grown from the trip knowing that God is with me for every step I take. I pray that this Q8 team will go back home and keep the excitement and pure love for the Lord as we did there. Keep us all strong and bold! God bless! Que Dios le bendiga!

Devin...

The thing that brought my Dominican experience above and beyond every expectation was the time spent with Marsha. Immediately she welcomed us all with open arms and an open heart allowing us to come into her home and use it as a base for our work in Santiago. She had such joy and love for her work and toward us for our willingness to aid her. That feeling overflowed to the entire Quest team. Many of the best moments of the trip occurred in her home while stuffing our faces with the best Dominican food. She was very generous to everyone on the team and to all the people we were ministering to.

Marsha had a meekness like I have never seen. You could see the power and love of God coming from her every action. It is no wonder she has been so successful in her ministry. All the passion trickled down and made all of our efforts in various towns stronger and our own connections with God grow.