UPIKE students volunteer on Haiti mission trip
0Written by Abigail Gibson
Students from the University of Pikeville gathered Jan. 2 for their journey to Jacmel, Haiti. Ten students went to Haiti including Caitlyn Dixon, Kara Holbrook, Brandi Howard, Leanna Mullins, Collan McCoy, Harold Taul, Maleena Little, Brooke Hall, Yenlinh Trinh, and Sierra Kiser. Robert Musick, instructor of religion and campus chaplain, led the group.
Dixon said, “We were told that we were an answer to the community’s prayer for a school.”
During their time in Jacmel, they accomplished their construction goal by laying the foundation for a school. The area has an estimated 150 children who do not currently attend school because of distance, money, or both. In the early mornings, they worked construction and in the evenings, they held vacation bible school for the kids. Vacation bible school was a success because several kids came to hear stories of Jesus.
The Pikeville students made crafts with the kids and played several games. Some games they played were parachute, soccer, baseball, patty cake, and jumprope.
Howard said, “Church was very energetic, spirit-filled, and lively!”
Church service in Haiti was powerful and longer than church services here, according to the students. In Haiti’s church service, they sing several songs, dance, and jump and clap their hands for Jesus.
“The people in Haiti were passionate and on fire for what they believe,” Dixon said.
While in Haiti, the Pikeville students experienced Basin Bleu (Blue Basin), which is a natural basin in Jacmel, Haiti. They were able to relax and swim in the beautiful blue water.
Howard has gone on the mission trip three times.
“My third experience in Haiti was just as amazing as my first. I truly love it and the people. I cannot wait to go back,” Howard said.
Dixon has also gone each year.
“This was my third trip to Haiti, and every year I’m blessed in new, amazing ways. It is awesome to go back and see what God is doing in Haiti,” Dixon said.
Mullins has also made this journey for the past three years.
“I would just say that Haiti has my heart and has forever changed me,” said Mullins.