Here is a recap we received from trip participant Peg Carota. She attends Parker Hill Community Church in Pennsylvania who is partnered with The 410 Bridge community of Karogoto.
My trip to Kenya started back in the late 60s, early 70s. The idea came to me from the couch at 2 Elm St. Peace Corp commercials were abundant at that time and each time I saw one, I imagined myself being part of that picture. Many years later, advancing to 2009, I started to feel the calling to be part of a Parker Hill visit to Karogoto. After a year of prayer, encouragement from my small group, and support of close friends, it was time for Peg Carota in Karogoto!
In general, I’m a loner; not a groupie. God started working on me by pushing me in the direction of a joining a small group. My first attempt didn’t go well but God can be persistent! I was led to an awesome small group that has really become family to me. From there, He said, “OK, now I’m goin’ to put you w/ 10 strangers and together you will be ambassadors of My light.” By the time August 4th 2010 rolled around, these 10 people were no longer strangers, but rather additions to my Parker Hill Family!
No commercials, books, or the stories/pictures of prior Karogoto visits can match the actual experience. God started transforming me from the moment I stepped on the bus that took us to JFK. It’s so difficult to put this into words. For me, it’s all been a “feeling” more than something I can describe. It’s taken several days for me to able to talk about it w/out tearing up and becoming speechless. And I don’t even know what the tears mean! The people of Karogoto are strong. The women, teenagers, pastors and children just radiate strength, love, and hope. Their faith is alive w/smiles, hugs, and song.
Our physical mission while there was truly amazing. Together, side-by-side, we took down a church in 2 and ½ days. No bull dozers, cranes, or flatbeds. How ’bout a couple crow bars, hammers, wheel barrels, plastic bags, plastic buckets, rope, shawls, hands, shoulders, legs, and feet. The people of Karogoto know how to “Use Whatever!”
It was difficult leaving. I could only say “see you later”, not good-bye.
Peg
