In late July, the senior class traveled to El Salvador for a week-long mission trip that worked with local communities. 

Based out of K59 in La Libertad, the group, led by the Waisanen family, visited schools, orphanages, and even prisons, sharing supplies and preaching the gospel.

From July 19–24, the seniors stepped away from their summer routines to experience ministry in a new culture. Their mission was simple: to give back. Scholars carried out projects ranging from connecting with school children to leading worship services and sharing testimonies in prisons.

Senior Zadiel Vientos reflected on the gratitude of the students and teachers despite having so little. 

“The students are grateful for what they have, even though they don’t have a lot,” Vientos said. “They’re very passionate about learning. The teachers are really happy there, and they truly want to teach the kids.”

But not every part of the trip was easy. Jeremiah Schilling described the excitement of walking into a Salvadoran prison for the first time. 

“What impacted me the most was seeing them after Pastor Tim and I shared our testimonies,” Schilling said. “Watching them weep at the feet of Jesus showed me that no matter how far gone someone is, you’re never too far.” 

Schilling added that the experience has softened his heart and given him a passion to share the gospel wherever he goes.

Others described the trip as a personal turning point in their faith, as Cru Rapchinski said he came to El Salvador uncertain. “During El Salvador and after, it’s almost impossible for me not to believe because of what I saw and went through,” Rapchinski said. “Being baptized in the Pacific Ocean is something I’ll carry for the rest of my life.”

The class also grew closer together spiritually. Gigi Dottore said, “Almost our whole class went, and just seeing the way people stepped out in faith was incredible,” Dottore said. “Some who never spoke up before began praying out loud and encouraging others. There were breakthroughs, healings, and restored relationships within our class. We left El Salvador not just closer as friends, but as brothers and sisters in Christ.”

Outside of ministry, scholars also bonded with the community through soccer. Caden Tucker says, “I’m not very skilled, but the locals taught me new skills and it was just a lot of fun,” Tucker said. “We couldn’t always speak to each other, but soccer showed how much fun we could have without needing to talk.”