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Rachel's Service - St. Francis Borgia Regional High School |
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Rachel assists a volunteering dentist in Honduras
What motivated you to work with people in a foreign mission country?
When I was a freshman, a few upperclassmen went to Honduras. They presented pictures and stories to my Spanish class of their experiences in Honduras through the Washington Overseas Mission. This was the first time I realized that serving in a foreign country was actually feasible. Seeing their pictures made me very interested. It looked like something I would really enjoy. The information they relayed to me influenced me to get involved myself. I applied to be a part of WOM my Junior year and was accepted. After returning back to the United States I applied again for my Senior year.
What was your best and most meaningful experience while volunteering in a foreign mission country?
I honestly cannot choose one specific experience. I think the overall gratefulness of the people carries the most meaning for me. It is the elderly lady that hugs you for giving her reading glasses to allow her to read her Bible and sew. It is a father who shakes your hand for giving his child parasite medication. It is watching the children receive new clothing and toys. It is the feeling that even if it was simply medicine, clothing, or dental work, you helped someone – and they appreciated it.
Rachel and a classmate pose with a girl from the village of El Nispero, Honduras
What impact has volunteering abroad had on the way you live your everyday life?
Volunteering has had a huge impact on my everyday life. It drastically affected the way I spend my money. Also, it allowed me to put everything into perspective. I worry about dances and tests, while most Honduran women my age already have to provide for a family. It made me finally realize the magnitude of the gifts and opportunities I have been given. Volunteering abroad in Honduras instilled a desire to incorporate service into the rest of my life as well. It was one of the best experiences of my life and definitely helped positively shape myself as well as my future.
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Archdiocese of St. Louis: Mission Office
20 Archbishop May Drive, Saint Louis, MO 63119 • missions@archstl.org
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