The Impact of Going on a Short-Term Missions Trip

In June, a group from Woodside served at the Great Getaway, a camp partnering with Hurdling Handicaps Ministries to run a camp for families affected by disabilities. Our Woodside team served in various ways throughout the week, as buddies to an individual with special needs, by running a coffee shop and a salon, and some served by spending time with siblings of those with a disabled brother or sister. We asked some of the volunteers from the week to write how God moved in their lives as they served during the week, and here is what they said:

“The Goodness and Glory of God was fully displayed at the Great Getaway! As a self-proclaimed ‘perfectionist in recovery,’ it can be a temptation to hide my imperfections from others. The things I might believe to be broken, shameful, or not good enough can be easily masked to the outside world. To live life authentically is of high value yet can seem to come at a price. To expose your vulnerabilities, challenges, and struggles to others can be a daunting way of living. However, shape-shifting, or becoming an ideal representation of who you want to be, isn’t always an option for some. To get to know and serve someone with Down Syndrome, autism, Cerebral Palsy, or any other disability is to realize that it is not always within their ability to be anything other than who they were created to be. Although their lives are not without challenges, there is freedom found in living with transparency. What the Lord is teaching me, through these amazing people and families, is that the broken pieces are to be used for God’s glory, and it is I with the special need that only Jesus can redeem.” — Kristyn Augustyniak

“Going into the week at GG, I was at ease with the work required of me but nervous about the week ahead. I’ve struggled with chronic illness for 10 years, especially this past year. With my physical pain, I’ve been struggling with my worth, depression, and hopelessness. Part of the training before campers showed up emphasized Psalm 139, ‘I am fearfully and wonderfully made.’ Right now, while sick and in pain, I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Before I was born, God knew the number of my days and that I would be sick for most of my life. And in my body right now, I am STILL fearfully and WONDERFULLY made. I was tremendously encouraged by this teaching, Psalm 139, and the song Canvas and Clay we sang throughout the week. God used my time at Great Getaway to encourage my heart and mind while experiencing joy and love from the GGMs (great getaway missionaries), leadership, families, and campers that week.” — Hannah Gould

“The Great Getaway was a gift. I was hesitant at first, but I knew the ministry needed servants for the camp, and the Lord allowed the pieces to fall into place for me to put my reservations aside and serve. I praise Him for that. He used the week to teach me the value of a community that desires to serve and does so with compassion. The outpour of love from all the volunteers was unavoidable; these people made the best moments better and the hardest moments easier. I expected to see a lot of faithful people who were trying really hard to be supportive of the campers and faithful to the gospel mission. I was wrong. There was no “trying” involved — these things came naturally to many as an overflow of the Holy Spirit within them and their genuine unconditional care for the campers. I witnessed a sort of love from volunteers and campers alike that could only come as a reflection of the way that Jesus has loved us. I witnessed the instillment of an intrinsic value that comes not from worldly perceptions but from being created in the image of God.” — James Elling

“The Great Getaway was a Gift from God that we never imagined! Just a week before camp, my husband’s mom passed away. We were left in shock and disbelief and ushered into the dark days of mourning. We packed up our car five days after her memorial service to embark on our third year serving at the Great Getaway. Amidst the darkest of days was the oasis of the Great Getaway. A week full of wonder gave us a glimpse of glory. Where everyone at camp is free from pretentiousness, and we can experience unhindered and inclusive worship sessions. It wasn’t until the end of the week that it finally clicked; you see, my mother-in-law taught special needs preschoolers for 30 years. It was an AHA moment when I realized that ministry was a way for us to honor and live out her legacy. It was a healing balm for our broken hearts. A great gift from our incredible God.” — Ann Marie Garvin

An adult who attends Woodside’s Special Needs class on Sunday mornings attended camp. When asked how the Great Getaway impacted her, this is how she responded:

“God has opened my eyes to different individuals and new friends. God showed me that I have people in my life who care about me and want me to be closer to Him, which strengthened my connection to others and made me become on fire for God. When I needed help, people were there to assist me without any judgment, and the large group classes were all tied to how we carry God’s testimony and share it proudly with others. I was changed by not being ashamed of who I am. I used to hide my true self from others. Since joining special needs classes and going to camp, I have become more aware of the support I have in the church.” — Mallory Sampley

God used the time at Great Getaway all for His glory. He moved in great ways. The time spent at camp was nothing short of the kingdom of heaven on display; it was just a glimpse of heaven.

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” -Ephesians 2:10

Where will you go? If you are interested in a Short-Term Missions Trip, click here!