Over the spring break, Chowan University’s Campus Ministry group embarked on a transformative mission trip to Ecuador. The students, led by Reverend Mari Wiles, spent a week serving in four villages – Atapo, Jatun Loma, San Francisco, and Cajabamba. The ministry Rescue Ecuador, based in Cajabamba, provided the students with an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of the local communities.

Throughout the trip, the students engaged in various service projects, including painting two churches, performing concrete work, and clearing debris. Additionally, they organized a children’s camp where they shared Bible stories, facilitated crafts, and led recreational activities. The students’ dedication and enthusiasm were evident as they embraced the opportunity to serve and connect with the people of Ecuador.

The breathtaking landscapes of the Andes Mountains provided a picturesque backdrop for the students’ mission work. Reverend Mari Wiles expressed her admiration for the hardworking and gracious people of Ecuador, particularly the women who tirelessly balanced their responsibilities of cooking, herding livestock, farming, and road repair while caring for their children. The students were deeply inspired by the devotion and work ethic they witnessed during their time in Ecuador.

Malachi Cobb, a senior Music major at Chowan University, reflected on the impact of the trip, stating, “I don’t need a place to live, I need a place to serve.” This sentiment, shared by Rev. Manuel of Rescate Ecuador, resonated with Cobb as he contemplates his future after graduation. The trip provided him with a sense of humility and tranquility as he considers his options of teaching, pursuing graduate school, or working in full-time ministry.

Chowan University’s Campus Ministry group continues to foster a spirit of service and faith, encouraging students to explore their passions and make a difference in the world. The mission trip to Ecuador served as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of service and the importance of connecting with diverse communities.