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ROC's Winter Break DR Mission
team in front of the "Sacred Heart
of Jesus" Cathedral in Moca, DR. |
Well it’s been a chilly start to the semester, but we are so
excited to get things rolling again. We believe that 2017 is going to be an
amazing year within the ROC community and on the campus of Ohio University.
It’s also been an exciting break for ROC for several reasons.
First, ROC’s Winter Break Mission trip to the Dominican
Republic was amazing. Our group left Ohio December 30th and flew
into the Dominican Republic late on the 31st. We actually rang in
the New Year Dominican style, surrounded by our brothers and sisters in Christ
from the church in Moca.
New Year’s day in the D.R. was rainy off and on, but our
team still found time to squeeze in an afternoon of sports ministry,
relationship building with our new friends, and even a quick
trip to the local
grocery store for supplies for the week. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday were
filled with Vacation Bible School each morning, prayer walks in the afternoon,
and church in the evening.
I was so impressed by my team on so many levels. First the
love that they showed each and every day was truly a reflection of the love
that God has for us, and was only matched by the love that we saw returned to
us by the people of Moca. Our students far exceeded my expectations for their
individual roles within VBS. Our crafts, sports ministry, and Bible times were
excellent and well thought out. Additionally, Dava Clark, ROC’s worship leader
led VBS and each church service in song. It was such a good week of bonding
with our new friends in the D.R. that there were many tearful good-byes when it
was time to leave. Nearly everyone we had met that week made us promise that we
would return soon to share with them again.
Flying back into Atlanta was certainly a change of pace as
we landed in what was being described as a “historical snow event.” This forced
us to stop for the night in Kennesaw Georgia, but I think everyone was okay
with a soft bed and a warm shower that night. All in all, it was one of the
best experiences of my life. I am incredibly thankful for having had the
opportunity to lead such a special team of people.
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ROC Student Dava Clark
poses with some new friends
from Vacation Bible School |
The other big news that happened over winter break was that
we finalized plans for a ROC intern this semester. We first met Bobby Oakley
through Crossroads Missions several years ago. Bobby has long since wanted to
come and spend a semester serving in the ministry of ROC. I hope you’ll take
the time to get to know Bobby more as we have featured him in this month’s
Spotlight section of the Update. Additionally, Bobby will be joining us for
many of our special events and church visits throughout the semester, so
hopefully you’ll be able to meet him in person.
Once again, thank you for your role in expanding the kingdom
of God on the campus of Ohio University and around the world! We are so
thankful for partners like you who allow us to invest in the lives of students
in real ways. Please know that we are praying for each one of you, as we know
that you are also praying for us. If we can ever be a blessing to you in any
way, please do not hesitate to ask.
In Christian Love,
-Dodger Vaughan
