The Week That Took Me By Surprise

I was not prepared for what I was going to experience this week. Plain and simple. Our team meetings before the trip gave me an understanding of what to expect culturally, and even with the project we were to work on, but emotionally, I was less than prepared.
You see, I am an emotional person, most anyone who spends any time with me knows this. I often say, “no one cries alone when I’m around.” I was prepared to fall in love with the people of El Salvador, but I was not prepared to be beyond blessed by my travel companions. Many of our group members are familiar faces from church, and I know most of them, but getting to spend the week with such amazing people who exemplify servanthood and being like Christ is a blessing to me and to Sheridan. The opportunity to sit and listen to the faith stories of some, as well as the reasons why they serve (and continually return to) El Salvador is life-changing. Don’t get me wrong, leaving on our last work day was very difficult, but knowing I have these faith mentors coming back with me is comforting. The Sheridan community is blessed by these leaders, that give so freely of themselves and their time to share the love of Christ with others. It was a joy to watch smiles shared, hugs exchanged and even tears as we worshiped together on our last night sharing how God was present this week.
Because of the continued dedication of this El Salvador team, Sheridan’s partnership with the Cristo Rey church was strengthened from this experience. Having the opportunity to work alongside the families that have received homes in previous years and for them to take such honor and pride for their church reminds me of so many people at Sheridan that would turn around and do the same thing. We have many great leaders as a part of our community.
It was a blessing to be a part of this amazing experience. To put faces to the names in the stories from years past, and to serve in the name of Christ.
Blessed to Serve,
Amy Wagner
Communications Coordinator for Sheridan Lutheran