A Day of Service and Connection in Nashville

Tuesday was a day filled with purpose, teamwork and spiritual reflection for our high school youth group in Nashville. The day began with a hearty breakfast and a sense of anticipation as the group prepared for their service projects. Splitting into two teams, one group headed to the Habitat for Humanity ReStore, while the other made their way to ThriftSmart.

At the Habitat ReStore, the team rolled up their sleeves and got to work. Some members built TV stands and moved furniture, while others cleaned and rearranged shelves. Maya, one of the participants, shared her experience: “I had to organize things on a shelf and also had to clean the shelves as well. I felt oneness as we did everything together and we got things done! The volunteer coordinator, Carly, said that she hasn’t ever seen the shelves this organized.”

Meanwhile, the ThriftSmart group was equally busy. They sorted clothes, untangled and packaged cords and helped organize the store. Anna, who was part of this team, reflected on the day: “When our group arrived at ThriftSmart, we met the coordinator, Lily, and then got right to work. We sorted clothes and untangled and packaged cords to be sold. Then, when our work was finished, we shopped around in the store.”

Both groups found moments of joy and connection in their work. Maya noted how she saw God’s presence in their service: “I saw God helping us through my service project and helping us to not be too tired throughout the process.” Anna also shared a touching moment when she witnessed God’s presence: “An elderly man came into the store and recited a beautiful poem about how God is king.”

The day didn’t end with the service projects. In the evening, the group participated in a GooseChase photo scavenger hunt, which brought plenty of laughter and fun. The day concluded with devotions, providing a moment to reflect on their experiences and the ways they had seen God at work.

Tuesday in Nashville was more than just a day of volunteering – it was a day of unity, service and spiritual growth. As Maya beautifully put it, “I felt oneness as we did everything together.”