The Joy Brigade is in Honduras!

Sunday, August 11, 2024

Our journey with the Friends of Barnabas Foundation has officially begun, and what a remarkable start it has been! As we touched down in Honduras, the warmth and hospitality we encountered were nothing short of extraordinary. We arrived at Alfredo's house, where a wonderful dinner awaited us. The atmosphere was alive with the buzz of excitement as we met our fellow volunteers and the dedicated staff. Alfredo's house, a welcoming haven for our team, provided the perfect setting for introductions and initial bonding.

The next morning, we gathered around a delightful breakfast spread, savoring local Honduran coffee that invigorated us for the day ahead. With our spirits high, we set out on an adventure to Cataratas Pulhapanzak, a stunning waterfall park. The trek through the lush greenery was awe-inspiring, and some of our braver team members took the exhilarating plunge by zip-lining across the majestic waterfall. The view from above was simply breathtaking, and the experience left us all in high spirits.

Returning to the campus, we rolled up our sleeves and got to work. We spent the afternoon pill-packing and assembling "well bags" filled with essential medicine and vitamins. Each bag was a small but significant part of our mission to improve the health and well-being of the communities we will be serving. Our dedication was palpable as we meticulously prepared these kits, knowing they would soon make a difference in many lives.

Later, we had a medical briefing where we went over our assignments for the week. This was a crucial moment for aligning our goals and ensuring that we were all prepared for the tasks ahead. The briefing not only provided us with important information but also solidified our commitment to the mission.

After a productive day, we headed to a local Peña Blanca restaurant for dinner. The flavors of the local cuisine were a delightful end to a fulfilling day. It was a great opportunity to relax and reflect on the day's events with our new friends and colleagues.

As the evening settled in, we gathered for a group meeting to learn more about the community we would be visiting the following day. This session was both informative and inspiring, setting the tone for the impactful work that lay ahead. Our volunteer, Alex, led a team-building devotional that resonated deeply with all of us. It was a moment of reflection and connection, reinforcing the shared purpose that binds us together.

Our first day in Honduras was a beautiful blend of adventure, preparation, and fellowship. We left with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the week ahead. As we head into the heart of our mission, we carry with us the warmth and spirit of this incredible start, ready to make a meaningful impact in the communities we are here to serve.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey with the Friends of Barnabas Foundation. Thank you for your support and encouragement as we embark on this life-changing mission.

~Lindsay