Spring Break Road Trip

Back row: Adrienne, Kaylene, Tamara,
Demarcus, Julie, Raymond, Jerry, Temirea
Front row: Charis, Talia, Nessia

We were given the opportunity to take 5 student leaders on a spring break road trip to Montgomery, Alabama, where Common Ground Ministries graciously offered to host us. So Julie and Jerry, along with Jerry's wife and three precious little girls, packed into a 15 passenger van and drove 13 hours straight to Montgomery, where a week of service, Bible study, and good conversation over long meals ensued.

Our students were superstars throughout the entire trip: they sought out opportunities to pour into the children in Common Ground's after school program, they had joyful spirits when they cleaned and painted, and they remained grateful even when us leaders served them the same leftovers for two or three meals in a row! It's becoming evident that we've got some godly leaders emerging from within the community here in West Dallas.

We also got the opportunity to visit several of the Civil Rights Museums during our time in Montgomery, including the Martin Luther King and Rosa Parks Museums. Our kids were struck by the impact of these leaders at such a young age (King was only 26!). It was a blessing to unpack all the complex emotions that resulted from this, as we spent at least an hour around the table talking after each meal.  Our kids were profoundly inspired by the opportunities available to them now -- opportunities that were bought at a high price by those who have gone before them.

As we returned to West Dallas and processed the trip with one another, the students continually mentioned the fact that the people of Montgomery took it upon themselves to transform their neighborhood. They decided as a community that they didn't want the crack-heads and prostitutes running through their streets, and the crime rates are rapidly decreasing as a result. Our kids returned feeling empowered to BE the change they wish to see here in West Dallas, which is a testament to the Spirit working deep within these young leaders' hearts!