Today was the youth groups last day serving here in Calgary, but regardless of our distaste for ending our mission so soon, the day was busy, exciting, and eye opening as usual.
Group 1 began their day by dropping off a ridiculous amount of furniture at Servants Anoynamous. The items will be used in affordable housing. YAY!
From there, they went to the Mustard Seed Shelter, where they worked in the kitchen. Serving food, cleaning, meeting interesting people, and enjoying the company of the awesome staff there. (Did we mention that their head chef is 79 years old???)
They also went to VBS, where they enjoyed their last visit with the kids they'd come to know.
After returning to JLY, they cleaned the parking lot, good, good.
Group 2 worked at JLY in the morning, sorting groceries that are to be handed out to families (among other chores, ex. kitchen). Then, they went to to Drop In centre for the remainder of the day. There, they prepared food, (like giant turkeys) served, and got to know some of the people. They were very happy to receive such warmth and kindness from all the employees and clients. Including a huge clap as they left.
Group 3 walked to the Salvation Army, Centre of Hope in the morning, and spent the entire day there. They prepared for, served, and cleaned up after lunch and supper. Over 120 people came to each meal. They had a very good time serving the polite and smiling clients, and learning from the kind employees.
At the end of the day, each group was rounded up, and we all went to Tony Roma's for supper. Even though we were all a little sad, realizing we wouldn't be sharing the days exciting, and sometimes sketchy events like this again,we were happy to have a special meal together to reminisce and laugh.
This week had truly been a learning experience for all of us. We're very happy to have come here to serve God in such a variety of ways. From hot chocolate runs, soup kitchens, to kids groups, we've come to realize God is in everything, and most of all, in us.
