Mission Trips Testimony Night

By Kathy Carlson, Director of Admissions

Wednesday night began with our Sentinel Slices Café, where the aroma of fresh, hot pizza and crisp salad welcomed families, faculty, and staff into a time of relaxed conversation and community. It was a warm and fitting start, setting the table—both literally and figuratively—for an evening centered on connection and shared experience before the mission trip testimonies began.

The evening then unfolded into a truly meaningful time of sharing, reflection, and discovery as we heard from students about their experiences in Washington, DC and El Salvador. Representatives from each team spoke with clarity and sincerity, describing the work they engaged in, the people they encountered, and the cultures they stepped into. More than simply recounting events, they offered a window into how these experiences shaped both their thinking and their hearts.

After the presentations, the two groups divided for a time of questions and answers. This portion of the evening brought even more depth and color—filled with laughter from memorable (and sometimes hilarious) moments, as well as thoughtful insights into how students were challenged, strengthened, and encouraged by one another. It was especially powerful to hear how stepping outside their comfort zones allowed them to grow in confidence, compassion, and perspective.

The evening carried a sense of connection and celebration from beginning to end, and it concluded in the best possible way: gathered together over ice cream, continuing conversations and enjoying time in community.