MFUGE Week 5 - Sports and Adolescent

Shelby McDonald
Pensacola, Florida
Pine Terrace Baptist Church

My experience at Mission First was only for a short time, but it was very eye-opening. The youth at Mission First, as well as the staff are some of the happiest and most friendly people I have ever encountered. Though they do not always have the most to work with, they take what they are offered and still shine with God's love. I never thought that just playing with someone for a few hours could create great friendships. I loved hearing about the student's live and some of the struggles they face. It was so easy for me to connect knowing that I had some of the same concerns in life.

I could not wait to meet all the youth the first day. I was a little nervous, but excited. We walked in and immediately they smiled and put their hands up for a high five. I felt God moving me. I felt so humbled because of these students. They came running to me with arms open wide. I thought to myself, "How could someone who does not even know me?" I kept asking myself that question over and over again. They loved me and I loved them.

Finally, I came to realize many of us have God in our hearts. He really did shine through more than ever to me during the week. Although we were all in a gym playing games, we could do it in Gods name. I can see a passion in these youth which I often check myself to see if my light shinned like theirs. If anyone loves youth as much as I do, then Mission First is the place to be!

MFUGE Week 5 - OASIS

Samantha Hall
Pine Terrace Baptist Church
Age 15

This week during Mission Fuge I did children's ministry with Mission First. It was a great experience because I had an advantage coming to Mission First last year. Some of the children even remembered me. What I love about Mission First is that it is truly a Christian-based place. When I came here, I was so excited to know that the children would know exactly what we were talking about when we talked about Christ. I personally got attached to the children. Some of the ones that I connected with the most were Shakeba, Shanatarian and Jo-Jo.

These children are amazing! Many of them have something that isn't just perfect in their life. All they want is love and someone to care for them no matter what. As soon as I walked in the room each day, they would run up to me and start hugging me. I am so excited that the children at Mission First opened up to me and loved on me as well. I know that I will NEVER forget my incredible Mission First experience!