In His Service Amianan recently reignited a cherished tradition, taking eight Auburn Adventist Academy students on a short-term mission trip to Pagudpud, Philippines, during spring break 2023.
This trip, organized by IHSA, has been a highly esteemed activity for AAA students for more than 18 years, often inspiring them to pursue careers in the medical field due to the valuable hands-on experiences in medical and dental work.
However, the journey was put on hold for the past three years due to the global travel restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. It wasn't until fall 2022 that IHSA board members decided to resume student mission trips.
During their stay in Pagudpud, the students not only had the opportunity to work alongside doctors and nurses in medical and dental procedures, but also contributed to construction projects. Over the years, participants have helped build medical facilities, a clinic, a church, living quarters for medical staff, a laboratory, an x-ray room and dental offices. These projects continue to significantly impact the lives of the local community.
This year's mission trip encompassed a perfect blend of experiences, including learning about work in the medical field, visiting beaches, serving others, forging new friendships, witnessing grateful smiles, savoring amazing food and gaining new perspectives.
Esteban Caldera, AAA sophomore, thoroughly enjoyed the mission trip and appreciated the warm welcome and familial treatment he received upon arriving in Pagudpud. "My experience in the Philippines was honestly the best experience I’ve ever had. As soon as I arrived in Pagudpud, I was welcomed so warmly, and everyone was super kind. They treated me as if I was family," said Caldera.
“Sabbath was a special time to worship with the Adventist community in that region,” said Elina Kovalchuk, a senior from California who joined the group. “I think one of my favorite experiences was on Sabbath when we, along with some of the local Adventists, went into town and distributed Christian literature. It was awesome watching them hand out books. I learned so much from them that day. We did something similar with Pathfinders when I lived in Ukraine, so being able to spread the Word of God with the people of the Philippines was truly a blessing.”
Jasmine Helter, AAA junior, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve and connect with her fellow students. She said, "We had wonderful opportunities to share the love of God through ministry and serving, as well as build loving bonds with each other that will leave us with good memories we can look back on."
The mission trip not only impacted the lives of the students in seeing how God blessed their mission efforts, but also left an indelible mark on the communities they served. Through their dedication and hard work, they provided vital medical and dental services to those in need and built essential facilities that will benefit the local residents for years to come.
The intergenerational and career-inspiring bonds Auburn Adventist Academy students experience through a mission trip with In His Service Amianan to Pagudpud, Philippines, are fostering future missionaries and medical professionals.
