Painting, building, working at CAPS, swimming, and giving back—the St. Mary’s Church IMPACT team did it all! Dive into their action-packed day all told through the perspective of Will.
This morning, our team gathered in the chapel for our daily devotion. We read from Matthew 6, a passage reminding us not to worry about the future but to seek God’s kingdom first, trusting that He will provide for our needs. It was the perfect way to start the day, especially knowing Lula and Doreene’s amazing pancakes and sausage were waiting!
After breakfast, we piled into the green van and headed to Zhivargo’s house. Our mission: finish painting the exterior and build garden boxes. We worked diligently until noon, during which time we had the pleasure of meeting Zhivargo’s aunt, Pleasant. She shared her life story with us, explaining how she cares for eleven family members under one roof. She also spoke about the financial challenges of feeding so many, especially with the high cost of food in this area. Yet, despite these struggles, Pleasant radiated joy and faith. She told us she doesn’t worry, but instead trusts in God and seeks Him out—a living example of Matthew 6 in action. Her unwavering faith and joy for Zhivargo’s new safe home were truly inspiring.
Leaving Zhivargo’s, we hopped into the back of a truck for a quick ride to lunch! Afterward, my parents surprised me and my brother with the news that we could return to the Central Abaco Primary School—we were thrilled! We quickly dropped off the rest of the team at Zhivargo’s and then headed to the school. In the library, we were greeted with hugs and high-fives from the kids. We joined them for Ms. Celekah’s lesson, and it was wonderful to reconnect with the friendly faces from the day before.
Back at Zhivargo’s, we found him watching the final touches being put on a large garden box for his plants and vegetables. It was finished! We celebrated with a few photos and a prayer for Zhivargo before heading back to camp. My brother, meanwhile, was having a blast spotting lizards and smelling the fragrant plants in the garden, so we captured those moments with photos as well.
Once we were back at camp, the St. Mary’s crew, and our leader, Liz, wasted no time in getting into our swimsuits. We swam out to a large rock a ways off the shore. Snorkeling and seeing all sorts of sea creatures was a blast!
Later, we enjoyed dinner and our Impact discussion before turning in for the night. Overall, it was an incredible day, and we all had a fantastic time. God provided for us and others throughout the day, and we are so grateful for this experience!
— Will Guess
