Olivia Gehring and Olivia Curtis
The Kairos team returned to Augustine’s farm to wrap up their projects before heading to the local church to host an unforgettable kids camp. From building piggyback-ride bonds to witnessing pure, resilient joy, team members Olivia and Olivia share how God showed up in the smallest, heart-warming moments. Read the full update to experience the incredible power of quality time and connection on the island!
As we have finished another day here in Abaco, we have experienced many impactful and unforgettable moments. To start off the day, we went back to Augustine’s farm to help complete our chicken coop and pig pen projects. In doing so, we made our connections stronger, not just with each other, but with Augustine and Colin themselves.
After a quick lunch break, we were back at it, helping with the kids camp at the church. It was unbelievably heartwarming to see all the kids’ faces light up with so much joy and laughter, as well as seeing our fellow teammates full of joy.
We were very appreciative to visit the church today and connect with lots of the kids at camp. These kids have been through a lot, things that most of us would take for granted. As many of us had amazing individual connections with the kids, here is an example of our stories.
Olivia Gehring: When I first sat down with this 5-year-old boy, he was eager to talk, but he was still on the timid side. By the time he was leaving kids camp for the day, he would not stop hugging me, smiling, calling me his “BFF”, and waving to me nonstop. Throughout the two hours I spent with him at the camp, this kid was the definition of joy and happiness, and brought it out in me as well. He was constantly asking for piggyback rides, help during a craft, wanting to play catch, or even showing me his tumbling skills. Through this experience, God showed me that quality time with an individual (whether in need or not) can change everything. Watching this little boy light up with just the few hours I was with him showed me God’s love and presence in the room. I believe that no matter the background, God works through individuals to aid and bring out joy in others.
Olivia Curtis: As the kids started walking into the church, I was eager to get to know the story behind the smiling faces in front of me. As I began talking to a few of them, it was interesting to hear their different backgrounds and to see how happy they were to be there. Even through the hardships they may be going through at home, whether that be food scarcity or family troubles, each and every one of them had their own story to tell. This one little girl I had the privilege to hang out with brightened my day with her sweet giggling joy. She was such a joyful little girl who warmed my heart as I played with her, and I am so grateful that I was able to be a part of her time at kids camp! Through this experience, it was proven to me that God can show up in the slightest ways that make a huge difference.
– Olivia G. and Olivia C.
