Ten Avondale University students and staff members have volunteered two weeks of their time to help at an international school in the Isan region of Thailand.
Half the team built a new fence to improve safety for students while the others served as aides to teachers at the Ubon Adventist International Mission School (UAIMS). The “invaluable hands-on teaching practice” particularly benefitted team members studying education, said trip leader Jasmin Ringrose.
Beyond the physical work, the pre-graduation trip fostered meaningful relationships. Each morning, two team members took the UAIMS staff worship. With the help of a translator, the faith-based messages reached “everyone from teachers to maintenance workers and kitchen staff,” said Ms Ringrose.
Avondale Student Life coordinator Pastor Sean Berkeley notes the bonds that developed. “Our students loved learning the language and culture” and “the opportunity to serve in a place that was so hospitable and grateful to have us.” The camaraderie among the “close-knit” students and the warmth of their hosts showed “God shone on us.” The trip, said Pastor Berkeley, inspired many team members to consider future mission work, with some even considering dedicating a year to overseas service.
One team member, Brooke Howard, highlighted the diversity of experiences—from assisting in classrooms and leading after-school programs to joining local church worship—the trip offered. She remembered evenings exploring temples and markets and tasting local cuisine, often led by UAIMS director Udom Saengsawang. “The love of the community we connected with was probably the most impactful experience. We felt at home in Ubon even though we were there for only a short time.”
The trip reaffirmed Ms Howard’s belief that serving others is an important part of our lives as Christians. “I love being able to see different places in the world and how God is working in those places. . . We’re called to serve, and God will always use those who are willing.”
Ms Howard’s sentiment mirrors Avondale’s motto, “for a greater vision of world needs.” Since its founding in 1897, Avondale has empowered graduates and staff to serve the world for good.
