September 6, 2018
Prince Fine Arts Students On Mission to Estonia
In the midst of busy summer vacations, camps, jobs, and special events, five Prince Avenue Performing Arts students took the time to participate in the 2018 Estonia Fine Arts Mission Trip. Sophomore Emma Allen, Juniors Emilie David, Charlie Graffin, and Riley Wilson, and graduate Sara Thompson were accompanied by Drama Teacher Hannah Hunt, her husband Noel, and Fine Arts Director LaMurl Morris.
The students worked at Camp Gideon, a Christian camp in Estonia. They used their talents in Fine Arts to share the love of Jesus while teaching English to campers. The theme for the camp was “Glow in the Dark” where campers were encouraged to allow Jesus to be the light in their lives.
The group worked long hours beginning each day at 7:30 am and concluding at 10:30 pm. The basics of their routine included teaching English class, arts and crafts, games, and recreation. In the evenings, the students led worship that included improvisational games, worship songs, the dramatization of a Gospel lesson, a testimony shared by a PACS student, and times of prayer. Many campers expressed their faith in God outwardly and requested prayer for physical and emotional needs.
Prince Fine Arts Director LaMurl Morris was encouraged by the dedication of the PACS students and their commitment to sharing the love of Christ through all that they did. “Throughout our trip, our students were stretched emotionally and spiritually. They learned that when we are called to minister, we must do so through the power of the Holy Spirit at all times, especially when we are tired or don’t feel well.”
Mrs. Morris also explained that students were able to gain an understanding of another culture and international travels. “Our students learned about eastern European culture, gained an understanding of being a Christian in countries where there are very few Christians, and even pick up a little Russian and Estonian vocabulary.”
Sophomore Emma Allen describes the trip as life-changing. “My experience in Estonia was one of the best I have ever had. There are so many things you can learn from there, and the kids and the camp were absolutely amazing. I loved spending time with them because I felt joy inside of me when I was with them.”
Junior Emilie David agrees that the time in Estonia was like no other experience she has had before. “My trip to Estonia was definitely eye-opening. It was my first ever mission trip, and I was incredibly nervous about meeting foreign people in a foreign country. Going on the trip made me realize that serving God by teaching English to others can really make an impact.”
The PACS Fine Arts Department has established an excellent partnership with Camp Gideon. Mrs. Morris explains, “The camp directors and interpreters were amazed by how our students loved all the campers. Although we do not minister to receive earthly recognition, it is encouraging that people recognize the love that our team desires to give the campers and camp staff.” Mrs. Morris says that plans are already underway for next summer’s trip to Estonia and Camp Gideon.
