Mission OKC

The timing of Naomi and Danielle's second summer mission trip with Crossfire Youth fell nicely right after Vegas -- was probably good to get right with Jesus! 😅 So off they headed to Oklahoma City to stay and work for a week at our former pastor's new church: Sunny Lane United Methodist Church (Del City, OK). The group included 19 youth and 5 adults. (Side note: While Naomi is no longer in high school, she is still 17 and was welcomed along!)

The main goal of the trip was to host a 4-day Praise Camp for local kids. The kids rotated through stations for art, music, recreation and story time. Naomi was a group leader and Danielle was a recreation leader and group leader. 

In the afternoons, the group helped out at two different local organizations: Lazarus Community and Skyline Food Pantry. They sorted food and clothing, and whatever else was needed.

The evenings were filled with a variety of activities -- some planned, some concocted by middle and high schoolers! (I hear there was a Febreze war...and something to do with Sprite and not burping). Ping-pong, 9-square and worship time was all sanctioned and well-controlled. Everything else... 🙈

The group ventured out for dinners...always in matching shirts or shirts for theme days.

The outings included a couple of site-seeing tours. Everyone enjoyed Mix Tape (a repeat for Naomi and Danielle):

Everyone bawled after learning about the tragedy at the OKC Federal Building. Apparently the memorial is incredibly well done and very impactful. 

Two traditions that carried on during this trip: Paper Plate Awards and travel stops at Buccee's. 

Danielle: In-a-Pinch Helper
Naomi: Bounce-Back Award (she was puny the first 24 hours)

Once again, Naomi and Danielle had a fabulous experience and both gave it a 10 out of 10 rating! They did claim there was a bit more "drama" this year (perhaps due to the extra free-time they had) and some nausea at morning mealtimes, but things always improved after distraction, water and sleep. Many thanks to all those who supported them financially and with prayers.

UPDATE: The youth led church and each had a role to play! Danielle at 11:37 and Naomi at (59:49)