Hope in Hazard: A Week of Service and Transformation

In July 2024, a group of students and leaders from Hershey Free Church in Hershey, PA, embarked on a 9-hour journey to Hazard, Kentucky, for a week-long mission trip full of service, ministry, and transformation.

The Journey Begins

We hit the road filled with anticipation, prayer, and excitement. As we began our drive to Hazard, we couldn’t wait to see how God would work through our team and in the hearts of the people we would meet. Thanks to all who prayed us safely to our destination — we arrived at our host site, Clear Creek Church, and quickly got to work unloading, settling in, and preparing for the days ahead.

Day One: Flexibility in Action

Our first full day was a reminder of one of the most important lessons we had been taught in training: be flexible. While some teams remained at the host site to tackle painting, landscaping, and exterior projects, others ventured out into the community to assist with drywalling, painting, and even electrical work at two local homes.

We also had the opportunity to engage with kids in the area, beginning to build meaningful relationships. That night, we gathered to reflect, share carabiner moments, and pray together.

Prayer Highlights:

• Unity and growth within our group

• Clear skies for outdoor projects and upcoming events

• Opportunities to love and share the Gospel

Day Two: Deeper Connections

Tuesday brought more progress and deeper relationships. With each swing of a hammer and brush of paint, we connected with homeowners and their families. We ended the day celebrating a birthday in our group and enjoying some much-needed downtime after another round of carabiner reflections.

Looking Ahead:
Our team prepared for Wednesday’s Community Night, a special event meant to invite and bless the local community. We prayed specifically for good weather and open hearts.

Day Three: Community Night Success

Wednesday was a true highlight of the trip. After a half-day of work, we shifted focus to host Community Night at Clear Creek Church. The weather held out, and the church grounds were buzzing with activity, joy, and meaningful conversations.

One student put it best: “Tonight was an opportunity to help the community heal and know that they have their church back.”

It was a beautiful picture of restoration — both physical and spiritual.

Day Four: A Strong Finish

Thursday marked our last full workday. Teams wrapped up projects at the church, visited a few additional job sites, and spent time reflecting on the week’s impact. As a special treat, two of our team members, Nick and Ezra, baked homemade cookies to share with everyone over a hearty dinner.

The day closed with a sense of fulfillment and gratitude — for the people we met, the work accomplished, and the many ways we saw God’s hand throughout the week.

Wrapping Up

On Friday, we began packing up and cleaning the church to prepare it for future mission teams. We also took time to explore the local area and process everything that had taken place — the stories shared, the lives touched, and the ways our own hearts were changed.

Final Thoughts

This trip to Hazard was more than just a service project — it was a journey of faith, flexibility, and fellowship. We saw firsthand how God uses willing hearts to bring light and healing to communities in need. Thank you to everyone who prayed, supported, and encouraged us on this adventure. We’re returning home different than we came — with stories to tell and hearts full of hope.

(Photo credit: Hershey Free Student Ministries Facebook Page)

Do you have a mission experience to share?  We'd love to hear it!  Send an email to cs@lifesizemissionary.com!