Testimony & Trip Reflection by Jr High & High Vice Principal, Ms. Meg Mathews
In just four days, our students at Academy for GOD made a tangible impact, serving at 18 different locations and touching the lives of over 450 people. This spring break mission trip to Morristown was a powerful demonstration of how God can use willing hearts to transform lives.
Day 1: Arrival, Service, and Host Homes
We arrived in Morristown and were warmly welcomed by Pastor Efrain and Pastora Zenaida from Iglesia Comunidad de Dios, two of the most selfless individuals dedicated to the Lord’s work. Without delay, our students launched into service projects, preparing for a Vacation Bible School (VBS) at an immigrant/Hispanic apartment complex, organizing a Spring Break Bash for adults with disabilities, and planning a celebration for foster children. Meanwhile, other students assessed and began construction projects to support the community.
That evening, our students experienced heartfelt hospitality from host families. Senior student, River Edmondson, shared his gratitude for Mr. Marcos and Mrs. Rosalva, who welcomed him with delicious enchiladas, games, worship, and spiritual encouragement. Another senior recounted an unforgettable Bible study session with her host, Alejandra, where they spent hours discussing scripture, illustrating how God’s Word transcends language and culture.
Day 2: Serving with Excellence & Worship
Students began the day in prayer and devotion, each host home appointing a student leader for the morning reflection. The level of responsibility and joy these students displayed in their ministry was inspiring! We were thankful to have student leaders from The Institute for GOD alongside our Academy team to serve.
That day, our students served at over 10 different locations. They facilitated a Spring Break Bash for adults with disabilities, led chapel services, taught job and life skills, and even conducted a book club. At a local foster home, students organized games, t-shirt making, and an exhortation led by River Edmondson. The children were so moved that they invited our group to stay for dinner, leading to tearful testimonies of gratitude from our students.
Meanwhile, another group led a VBS for Hispanic children at Los Cerritos Apartments, engaging them with puppet shows, Bible stories, and games. Others worked tirelessly to renovate a family's kitchen, tripling their counter space and enabling them to cook indoors for the first time in a decade.
After a day of service, we gathered for a powerful worship night. Students cried out to the Lord, declaring their commitment to be a generation that brings change. Our Head of School, Mr. Gregg Garner, introduced the theme of NuNation, drawing from 1 Peter 2:9, inspiring students to see themselves as part of God’s ongoing story of redemption.
Day 3: Construction, Recovery Ministry, and Celebration
Our final day of service focused on completing all construction projects. Under the guidance of dedicated mentors, students learned vital skills in framing, plumbing, and electrical work—practical knowledge that equipped them for both ministry and life.
One of the most moving moments of the trip took place at a women’s recovery center. Our junior and senior girls led worship, while Sophia Galford and Ms. Vanessa Edmondson shared powerful testimonies that deeply impacted the women. God’s presence was tangible, and the students left with a renewed awareness of His closeness to the brokenhearted.
At Food on Foot, a ministry that provides 1,000 food bags weekly, students met Carolyn, whose testimony of faith and compassion ignited a wave of testimonies among our group. She was so moved by our students’ prayers that she invited us to return next year with even more young people.
To wrap up our service projects, we held a VBS celebration with a giant inflatable slide and piñata, bringing joy to the children. One young girl told Josie, our student leader, that it was "one of the best days ever!" The students' ability to organize and execute this event independently was a testament to their growth in leadership and service.
That evening, we hosted a Community Church for God service at Panther Creek, attended by over 150 people. It was a powerful moment of worship, testimony, and joy, as people from all walks of life came together to experience God’s love.
Day 4: Testimonies and Reflection
On our final day, we gathered for testimonies and fellowship over pupusas. Students shared stories of how God had transformed their hearts, given them clarity on their identity, and allowed them to see people through His eyes. Many testified to experiencing healing, discovering their vocations, and feeling an urgent call to continue bringing God’s kingdom to earth. There was not a dry eye in the room.
Before heading home, we stopped to watch Rule Breakers, using it as a tool to reflect on the trip’s theme, NuNation—a reminder that building God’s kingdom requires breaking societal norms to follow His calling.
This mission trip exceeded all expectations. Watching the next generation step into their calling with boldness and humility reminded us that God’s work is generational. We each play a role in His grand design, a NuNation that transcends time and expectations. May we continue to listen, obey, and build alongside Him.
Thank you for your prayers and support. God answered in ways beyond what we could have imagined!
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