Eastern Kentucky missionaries build houses, visit orphanages
BY PHILL BARNETT
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
SANTA MARIA DE JESUS, Guatemala — Louisa-based 828 Global Ministry Partners took a team of locals to Santa Maria de Jesus, Guatemala, to build houses and visit orphanages June 1-8. The team of 13 included two Martin Countians, Blake Dials and his stepfather Eric Mills.
“We built two houses alongside the ministry down there, over the course of two days,” Dials said. “The other part of what we did was we went to orphanages,” where the team spent recreational time with local children.
The teams also distributed food to those in need.
Dials described the living conditions of the children in the orphanages.
“It’s heart-changing, my friend,” said Dials.
In general, Dials said the team was “just trying to be a light for God and spread the Gospel.”
“This trip was life-changing and the perspective it gives you is life-changing,” said Dials, recommending the trip to everyone.
Dials offered advice to those interested in going on a mission trip like this.
“Just be ready to serve, and try to be a light once you arrive,” he said. “Appreciate what they appreciate. Go with an open heart and an open mind.
“But that advice is not going to do it all the way,” added Dials. “It’s easy once you get down there just to be immersed in the joy these people are radiating. I don’t know if you would have to give anyone any advice once you get boots on the ground.”
828 Global Ministry Partners is a nonprofit operated by Lawrence and Tammie Vinson. The ministry has been taking mission trips to Guatemala since 2012.
“In addition to our work in Guatemala, we stay active in our local and regional communities with many different ministry opportunities,” Lawrence Vinson said. “Our goal is to ‘Love. Serve. Inspire.’ And we believe that when we do that while following the example of Jesus, others will follow suit and spread the good news of the Gospel.”
Dials and 828 Global Ministry Partners recommend more get involved and join the cause. Learn more by visiting the 828 Global Ministry Partners Facebook page.
