After stepping away from active youth ministry for the past couple of years, I wasn’t sure what it would feel like to jump back in for a week-long mission trip. But as soon as I stepped on that bus filled with teens from Milwaukee, laughter in the air and bags of snacks already open, something in me lit up again. I realized quickly—I may be out of youth ministry, but the heart I have for the young Church never left.
There’s something sacred about a bus ride that stretches for hours. It’s more than just travel; it’s transformation. Somewhere between stops for gas station candy and midnight hair makeovers, walls came down and hearts opened up. Our teens talked, laughed, napped (a lot), and even braided each other’s hair—well, that is until Ellie decided that even Mr. David and I needed a little hair refresh. I suppose that’s what happens when you’re sitting too close to creative energy.
Our days were full—cutting branches, mulching, working in food pantries—but our evenings were even fuller. Each night, we gathered to reflect on our day, and I watched as our teens began to name the quiet ways God was showing up in their service. They shared how they were challenged, how they were moved, how they felt God’s presence not in thunder or lightning, but in the small and meaningful tasks: handing out food, cleaning up landscapes, offering a smile.
None of this would’ve been possible without the steady, patient, and faith-filled presence of my fellow chaperones. These adults—mentors, leaders, prayer warriors, and at times, substitute parents—gave so much of themselves. Whether they were managing logistics, encouraging a homesick teen, jumping in to help with a tough physical task, or quietly praying in the background, they were the living glue of this trip. Their example of servant leadership made space for the teens to grow, struggle, and shine.
And then there was The Hat. A simple deacon’s hat that somehow became a badge of leadership at each job site. Without any prompting from me, the teens decided that whoever wore the hat was in charge for the day—an “unofficial” but deeply respected rule. And they wore it with pride. The hat passed from teen to teen, each stepping up in their own way, guiding others, lifting spirits, and leading with service. Watching them embrace that responsibility was a reminder that the Church is not just alive—it’s growing in them.
I saw glimpses of the Kingdom in their tears when one broke down over the story of a child he never even met, in their joy when someone gave a good witness talk, and in their fierce commitment to each other. I saw teens become ministers—not just of tasks, but of presence.
As Scripture reminds us, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.” – 1 Timothy 4:12
And as for me? I got to witness it all, laugh until I cried, and even get a makeover mid-ride. So I end this reflection with a smile and a truth I can’t ignore: I may wear the collar now, but I’m still “Nacho” average deacon.
This week reminded me that every step of service, every tear shed, every laugh shared, and every bus ride nap is part of a bigger story—a Journey2Renewal.
I’m honored to walk it with them.
CLICK HERE to see photos from our trip.
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