Costa Rica is absolutely amazing. We worked at a school for people with Cerebral Palsy, which was truly a life changing experience. At first I was nervous and apprehensive, but the people at the school made us feel so welcome by being so hospitable. It didn’t matter whether I spoke English or Spanish; love and an eagerness to help was all that was necessary to communicate. As well as the mission work we did, we also did some fun stuff. I saw wildlife and beauty in the rainforest that I never even dreamed of seeing. One of my goals was to see a sloth and I saw three. Being in Costa Rica was such a wonderful change of pace.
Everything is so much more laid back there. The Costa Rican motto is Pura Vida, which means Pure Life. To me Pure Life means being truly happy and enjoying life, which is something we should all learn from the Costa Ricans.
Pura Vida,
Allyson Rogers, Mission Trip Participant 2003
Costa Rica, besides being the most beautiful place I've ever visited, was the best experience I've had with mission work to date. The people were friendly and appreciative of any help we had to offer. They almost felt bad about making us work. The children were adorable. The work was meaningful. The atmosphere was hospitable and familial. I would go again in a heartbeat. We also had a great time viewing the beautiful landscapes and taking advantage of the natural hot springs and gorgeous beaches. I hold it among the best of my memories.
Amanda Sonnier, Mission Trip Participant 2003
In our time of service, we were strengthened by the "can do" attitude our Christian brothers and sisters displayed, despite the adversity they confronted courageously. We were all reminded of our global unity in Christ.
James Sicks, Mission Trip Participant 2003
Costa Rica is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. I love it there! The weather is the perfect temperature all the time and while I was there, it felt like I was in a magical place. It was all so surreal. Being in Costa Rica gave me a new appreciation and zest for life. I came back feeling refreshed and energetic. One of the greatest feelings in the world was when I was working with the kids at the school and I knew I was helping them. I knew that our being there was making a difference in their lives. The first day we were at the school, it was really hard for me. It made me realize just how lucky I am but it was difficult for me to handle working with the kids because it was all so sad. By the end of the week, we had come to know the children very well and we had shown them God’s love for them through the many friendships we made. I could tell God was all around us because of the smiles that were brought to each child’s face every time we walked into a room or the way their faces would light up when we said “hola” to them. Even though there is a language barrier, it doesn’t matter because the language of love knows no bounds. This was and probably will be one of the greatest experiences of my life.
Stephanie Kehr, Mission Trip Participant 2003
