Summer is the season for Vacation Bible School. Many of you have extensive experience in that department—volunteering through your church, taking your own kids to VBS, or praying for the week as it unfolds. I led a team to Haiti recently, and the kids at our Children’s Homes couldn’t have been more excited for their special VBS.

One of our team members happened to be a former elementary school teacher, so naturally we put him in charge of the week. He is great with kids, and the kids love interacting with him. When we do a VBS, we present the program with the help of a translator, because of the language barrier. Our kids were incredibly attentive and excited, regardless—almost like they didn’t notice that anything needed translation.

It’s always a blessing to be part of this week with our kids. All of our children came to us out of the slave trade, so they bring some heavy baggage. These are sweet kids who tend to be shy and often have trust issues. Seeing these children in an environment where they are loved and cared for, surrounded by brothers and sisters who share the same situation, is an amazing encouragement. VBS is an extension of the work that goes on year-round in our homes.

Our team spent the week interacting with these kids on a personal level. I’ve noticed that spending time with the children in smaller groups tends to make a big impression on them, and it makes them even more excited for ministry events in the future. Serving for a week, alongside our excellent staff and ministry partners in Haiti, can make a massive impact in the lives of these children.

Every day, I was reminded of God’s faithfulness, and every trip gives me an even greater love for the Lord and the work He is doing in Haiti.

If you’re interested in sponsoring a child through Connect 2 Ministries, visit connect2ministries.org/sponsor-a-child.

Wiley Kennedy serves as Director of International Ministries with Connect 2 Ministries. To learn more about Wiley, visit Who We Are, and to learn more about how you can pray for the ministry, visit Pray.