Twenty-seven men. One week. Countless reminders that God still changes lives.
This past week, a group of men from Violet traveled together to Chanku Waste Ranch for a mission trip that none of us will soon forget. What began as a construction project quickly became much more than building walls and installing siding. It became a picture of brotherhood, sacrifice, service, and the transforming power of the Gospel. Throughout the week, our team worked hard to build an addition onto a house at the ranch and re-side one of the large buildings on the property. Long days, sore muscles, early mornings, and plenty of sweat were all part of the experience, but every man served with a willing heart. It was incredible to watch different skills, personalities, and generations come together with one purpose — to serve others in the name of Christ. One of the most encouraging parts of the trip was seeing how God worked not only through the projects, but also in the hearts of the men who went. Around meals, prayer times, work sites, and evening conversations, real relationships were built. Men encouraged one another, prayed together, laughed together, and challenged each other in their faith. The greatest moment of the week came when one of the men on the trip surrendered his life to Jesus Christ. Watching him publicly profess his faith through baptism was a powerful reminder of why we go on mission in the first place. Buildings matter. Serving matters. But changed lives matter most. There is something special that happens when men step away from the normal pace of life and intentionally serve together. God uses those moments to strengthen faith, deepen friendships, and remind us that the church is called to actively share the love of Christ. Thank you to everyone who prayed for the team while we were away. Thank you as well to those who supported and encouraged the men who went. Please continue to pray for the ongoing ministry at Chanku Waste Ranch and for the lives that were impacted during the week.
We came home tired, grateful, and reminded once again that when ordinary people say “yes” to God, He does extraordinary things.
Men, mark your calendars now for next year’s trip: May 1–8, 2027.
Brian Naess Associate Pastor briann@violetchurch.com
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