Mission Trip to Costa Rica Reflects God's Love

Story by Barbara Delaney and Elayna Barnhill Moffitt, Mission Trip Coordinator Team Members

Recently, a group from Lake Nelson Adventist Academy (LNAA) went on a mission trip to Costa Rica. Their mission was to help a public school that had been neglected for many years. The plan was to paint a few classrooms and lead programs for the children. Little did they know God had an even greater plan in store. In the limited time they were there, they successfully painted every classroom and significantly enhanced the appearance of the school facilities. The teachers were grateful for the team’s willingness to improve their school and acknowledged the dedication the group had for education. The locals enjoyed interacting with the mission team, playing games and learning more about God’s love.

Some highlights of the week included throngs of students warmly welcoming and cheering the team upon their arrival each day, working as a team, completing a large mural depicting scenes from Costa Rica and holding a special dedication service for the local families.

The team worked closely with Maria Jose Priego, director of a growing center of influence outside the capital city of San Jose, which focuses on developing programs and working with the local community surrounding the Universidad Adventista de Centro Azmérica (UNADECA).

Costa Rican native Mario Thorpe, New Jersery Conference Adventist Community Services director, and John Hakizimana, LNAA mission coordinator, helped Priego with planning the day-to-day schedule and transportation, as well as the organization of meals and recreation.

Mission work encompasses not only serving others but also enabling young adults to recognize their own worth, say team leaders. It fosters a personal connection with the Lord and emphasizes their role in God’s unique plan for their lives. The students left Costa Rica with a deeper appreciation for the needs of others and witnessed the profound impact of simple acts of kindness in reflecting God’s love.

The LNAA family thanks all who support mission, value Adventist education and play a vital role in training children for God’s kingdom.