Powerful things happen when people step away from their routine. When we are in a new place, meeting new people and experiencing new opportunities or challenges, God often moves in profound ways.
There is so much learning that happens during these unique episodes in our lives. Each one of us has been called to serve humbly, to be willing to stretch ourselves to serve others. As Paul wrote, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves” (Philippians 2:3).
Each year, Hope Haven Rwanda brings teams together to actively demonstrate the love, hope and truth of Jesus Christ in one of the most vulnerable communities in Rwanda. This summer, we will have our second “Family Mission Experience” which will unite families in monumental and memorable ways!
Why should you serve with Hope Haven Rwanda? When Jesus washed the feet of His disciples on the night He was betrayed, He challenged them to reflect God’s love in the way they loved each other: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35). Jesus calls us to treat everyone we meet with deep respect, to treat them as we wish to be treated and to convey His love to them as fellow image-bearers of God. This is the “why” behind what we do at Hope Haven Rwanda.
On our campus, we promote a culture of love and respect within our staff, faculty, students and the families that we serve. This is a critical part of our mission to transform Rwandan families through a holistic approach to education and discipleship. As a member of a mission team, you will be able to experience the transformation that is happening first-hand, and to be the hands and feet of Jesus, demonstrating His love in Rwanda. As God uses you to serve others, you will be transformed as well!
Gary McCusker has served as a pastor at Parker Evangelical Presbyterian Church since 1994. He and his wife Debi have been married for 44 years and have three adult married children and three precious granddaughters. Their family loves to travel and they have visited over thirty countries, with Gary leading over twenty mission trips to many of them. Gary, Debi, Kimberly and I will work alongside each other to lead your family through this life-altering experience with perspective-giving guided discussions, biblical learning and practical application.
Here are some of the things you can expect as part of the Family Mission Experience: working with our amazing Rwandan students and staff, local community outreach, restoring damaged homes, staff training opportunities, community immersion experiences, cultural and historical orientation, Men of Hope discipleship, agriculture assistance, shopping and dining excursions and more…
Does this sound like something that God may be calling you to do this summer? Learn more here about this life-changing experience or reach out to me directly. We’d love to chat about ideas!