Four NRHEG students embark on life-changing mission trip

This July, four local students took time out of their busy summer schedules to make a difference in Accompong, Jamaica, with other members of their youth group. 
New Richland-Hartland Ellendale-Geneva (NRHEG) students Katie Crabtree, Nicole Edon, Nate Krause and Torrie Stencel were part of a group of 20 people, affiliated with the Crossroads Student Impact (CSI) Youth Group, who took part in a mission trip to Accompong in July. The mission trip was available to CSI students in grades seven through 12. The students agree that the trip was eye-opening and forever changed the way they view their world. 
“They don’t have as much as we do,” said Nicole Edon, referring to the citizens and children of Accompong. “Here, we’re always wanting more and we’re never satisfied. There, they are so happy and grateful.” 
Edon also adds that she was moved by the children’s desire to be loved. “They would cling to you,” she said. “They were so hungry for your love.” 
“It also opened our hearts,” said Torrie Stencel. “I am very grateful for the life I do have.” 
In Accompong, the students assisted with a Vacation Bible School program for local children, in addition to handing out coffee plants, bibles and toothbrushes. The students even hosted a movie night for local people. During the trip, the NRHEG students and their peers also got a first-hand look at life in a developing country. 
Before beginning their journey, however, the students had to raise funds for the trip. Each student worked to raise approximately $1,000, and also assisted with a fundraiser at their church. The students added that they are thankful for everyone who helped support them. 
“(The trip) also really strengthened your relationship with God, too,” said Edon. “It’s amazing to listen and hear what He has for you.” 
The trip was offered through a partnership between the Crossroads Church’s student ministries leadership team, an organization called AZ-One (composed of different people in Albert Lea) and a ministry JACOM. The students stayed in the Peterson Center, which was built by an Albert Lea resident and owned by JACOM. In 2014, youth from three Albert Lea churches traveled to complete mission work in Accompong and, last spring, some members of the student leadership team also had the opportunity to visit Accompong. 
Nate Krause, who had previously visited Accompong, said he felt that God was calling him to make another trip. This time, he said, was especially rewarding, because he enjoyed working closely with the children and learning more about their lives. 
“It was really a life-changing experience,” said Krause. “We got to experience something out of this world, help others and show God’s love.”