Emmy Shares – Mission Work Camp Echoing Hills
Mission Work Without Leaving the Country
When I was 15, I went on my first mission trip to the Dominican Republic with my church. I fell in love as soon as I got there. I was in love with the country, the people, the food, and the work itself.
During my senior year of high school, I was visiting colleges and trying to figure out my next steps in life. I was a bit overwhelmed, not sure what was next for me. Through praying, I heard my calling. God directed me to take a year off and return to the Dominican Republic. Listening to Him, the trajectory of my life changed that year.
I had been to the Dominican Republic several times since that first trip at 15 years old; however, this time, I was going by myself. I went to teach English and evangelize. While there, a new opportunity presented itself. I had the chance to plan the first ever A Night to Shine event in the country. I wrote the grants, handled the communications, and managed all of the details.
A Night to Shine was my first time working with individuals with disabilities. It was such an amazing experience. It was then that I realized mission work brought me to the Dominican Republic; however, God ultimately called me there to discover my calling in life.
Serving at Camp Echoing Hills these past two years has felt like mission work. The Bible teaches us to go out and reach the unreached. Statistically, individuals with disabilities are one of the most unreached people in the world. Working at camp allows you to work with these individuals, to serve with love, being the hands and feet of Jesus.
If you have considered going on a mission trip, I encourage you to pray about it. Ensure that your goals and the goals of the mission work are in-line with one another. I would also encourage you to consider coming to Camp Echoing Hills. This work allows you to serve someone in a unique way. You get to help someone get closer to God while enjoying activities together. It’s mission work without having to leave the country!
And, the best part, you are rewarded every night with a s’more or two around the fire!
