La Sonnette Ensemble Ministers in Jamaica he La Sonnette ensemble recently performed concerts at various churches in Jamaica. The students were most impressed by the Jamaican people whom they found very kind and accepting. Maddie Bornman (’11) was impressed with “their openness when it came to praising God,” she said. Luke Lebo (’12) agreed, adding, “They were really giving. They did all they could to help us.” The locals frequently told the students how good it was that they took the time to praise God and minister through music. The student musicians said the trip was an eye-opening experience where they learned that God definitely takes care of His people. On their last day, as they traveled to the airport, a wheel on the bus started wobbling. They had only about two hours to fix the tire, and soon realized that they would be cutting it too close. They arrived at the airport 10 minutes after their flight departed. They spent most of the day trying to figure out how they were going to get home. The airlines wanted each person to pay an extra $120 for switching flights. They didn’t have that money, so they prayed. Miraculously, God provided them with lodging for the night, and they obtained tickets on a flight with no extra fees!—Rebecca Richards (’11)
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Rebecca Richards (’11) assists students in striking the bells.
Mexican Mission Trip Inspires Students group of students, parents and staff recently went on a mission trip to Tzucacab, Mexico. While there, they helped build Sabbath School classrooms and held a nightly Vacation Bible School. One student noted that their work at the church was “hard but invigorating.” They poured concrete, painted, wired the rooms with electricity, hauled rocks and tore down a hut. Students noted that the villagers appreciated their hard work. The village was very small; however, the kids were plentiful. Little girls and boys followed the BMA group everywhere. Another student said they believe their group truly touched the hearts of
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Mark Ringer (’12) tosses debris from the roof of a hut into a truck below. 30 | VI SI TOR
these little ones with the kindness of Jesus Christ. The mission trip afforded many bonding moments. Morning and evening, they got together to sing and worship God. Jeff McAuliffe, DDS, (a parent) and Chaplain Shawnessey Cargile challenged them to take their insights and experiences back to BMA and to be missionaries wherever they were. At the end of the week, seven group members rededicated their lives to God and were re-baptized.—Amanda Ashburn (’11) and Rachel Wilson (’11)
Communiqué is published in the Visitor by Blue Mountain Academy 2363 Mountain Road, Hamburg, PA 19526 Phone: (610) 562-2291 ■ Fax: (610) 562-8050 bma.us ■ Editor, Kathleen Sutton E-mail: kathys@bma.us Copy Editor, Louise Corbin