Jamaica Mission Trip March Zoom Fellowship Highlights

The recent fellowship gathering the first Sat. of March provided an encouraging opportunity to reflect on the powerful ways God worked during the latest mission trip to Jamaica. The team shared photos, testimonies, and stories from the trip, beginning with the time when photos from the project sites were presented, helping everyone see firsthand what had been accomplished.

A total of 20 people, including two videographers, traveled to Jamaica to serve in rebuilding from Hurricane Melissa in several communities. The group worked on a variety of projects, including repairing a pastor’s parsonage, rebuilding a church that was completely destroyed and rebuilding walls at another church. What began as a small team of four quickly grew as more people felt led to join, and by late-January the team had expanded to twenty volunteers, each bringing different skills that helped make the work possible.

Reflections from the Team

During the sharing time, several team members reflected on how meaningful the trip had been. Clarence described helping rebuild church structure and the local children who eagerly joined the work. Although many of the children did not attend the following Sunday service, the project still made a lasting impact, as local believers continued improving the building after the team left. Leadership from local workers, including a local benefactor Paul Lee (coming from a hour and half away), helped keep the work moving forward.

The difficult road conditions and visible needs in the communities were challenging to see, yet the kindness and gratitude of the Jamaican people left a deep impression on everyone. Again and again, the team saw how even small acts of service brought encouragement to the churches they visited.

God’s Provision Throughout the Trip

Many also spoke about the clear provision of God throughout the trip. Every need was supplied — from volunteers to materials to finances. In one situation, the team had exactly the right amount of funds left over to help widows, just as had been requested. There were also moments that felt nothing short of miraculous, such as solving construction problems with precise measurements and having the right skilled workers available at the right time for plumbing, electrical, and building work.

Safety was another theme that came up repeatedly in the reflections. Despite difficult travel conditions and physically demanding work, the group experienced God’s protection throughout the trip. There were a few close calls, including a fall from a roof and landing feet first on scaffolding that broke his fall and a dangerous moment on the road, yet no one was seriously injured. The team expressed gratitude for the careful drivers, the help of local workers, and the unity among the volunteers, which made the work both safe and enjoyable.

Serving Churches and Local Communities

When the team was working on construction projects at two churches and two parsonages, those who served alongside local workers shared how encouraging it was to see the dedication of the churches, even with very limited resources. Teresa Janzen noted how important it is to continue supporting local congregations that faithfully serve their communities despite hardship. The group also spent time in prayer, including lifting up Pastor Godfrey’s wife after she was injured.

One story that especially stood out was about rebuilding a church that had been damaged by a hurricane. Only the foundation remained, but through cooperation between the local congregation, visiting volunteers, and supporting partners, the initial locally- built frame was strengthened and the first service was held in the rebuilt building the day we left. The effort also inspired new ideas for helping widows and vulnerable families through small agricultural projects, such as growing seedlings in handmade containers created from recycled plastic.

Faith, Prayer, and Encouragement

Members of the videography team shared how deeply they were moved by the strong faith of the Jamaican people. Even after the destruction caused by the hurricane, many believers showed courage, determination, and hope for the future. The group ended the sharing time with prayer for Jamaica, asking God to continue meeting both spiritual and physical needs in the communities that were visited.

Looking Ahead to Future Missions

Looking ahead, plans are already being discussed for future mission work. Possible projects include training in agriculture, helping restore fruit trees damaged by storms, and developing income-generating skills for local families. There is also interest in partnering with other ministries and organizations so that the work can continue long after each trip ends.

The fellowship concluded with a reminder that mission opportunities are available for people with many different skills and backgrounds. Upcoming trips to several countries are being considered this Fall, and everyone was encouraged to pray about how they might be involved — whether by going, giving, or supporting in prayer.

The Jamaica trip was a clear testimony that when people are willing to serve, God provides the people, the resources, the protection, and the results far beyond what anyone expects.

If you would like to join the Jamaica trip this Fall please reach out to Dan Janzen 616 676-6684 or dan@fcfi.org