Jadyn Jensen & Anjali Kathikar
The Kairos team from Lutheran Church of Hope Ames hit the ground running for their first full day on the island, partnering with a local farmer to rebuild a hurricane-devastated farm. Beyond pouring concrete and building fences, the team was deeply moved by Augustine’s unwavering faith and contagious joy despite years of hardship. Read the full update from team members Jadyn and Anjali to see how God is already working in unexpected ways!
Today was our first full day on the island, and it’s safe to say we already see God at work! This morning we ventured to a farm on the island. There, we met Augustine, the farm owner, and his helper, Colin. Together, the two are working to rebuild the farm that was destroyed by the hurricane.
During our time with them, we worked to finish a canopy and build a new fence for the farm’s pigs. We also started pouring a concrete floor for the new chicken coop being built. We will return to the farm tomorrow and hope to finish the canopy and concrete work.
On Friday of this week, they hope to bring chickens into the coop. Though there was importance in our work, the conversations and connections we made while there were far more impactful. We got to hear Augustine tell his story about life during and after the hurricanes, including Hurricane Dorian. Although his life has been filled with hardships and tragedy, his faith remains unwavering.
Even with our work being left unfinished, Augustine and Colin’s joy and gratitude were abundantly clear. This reminded us how much we can take for granted and how sweet it can be when we entrust our lives to the Lord, even when the future is unknown. We are so thankful for the time we spent with Augustine and Colin today and look forward to what God has in store for us the rest of the week!
– Jadyn & Anjali
