A Mission House year, for me, consisted of 5 amazing projects, 5 house mates, a house leader & project leader, a caring foster Church and a wise mentor.
My week started guiding in my foster Church. I help keep the church open for visitors and this brings a small amount of revenue for the church to further its mission.
Tuesday is spent working in a homeless shelter taking on a number of different and challenging roles. After work I get the afternoon to think about "Blikveld" the youth brand of the Amsterdam Protestant Church.
In the evening we have a zin moment which gives one person a week the chance to explore a subject of their choosing. No two evenings are the same and in my year we explored water, love and a mock terrorism exercise!
Wednesday brings me to the after-school club. First we eat lunch together, play a few games then explore the bible in a child friendly way. Wednesday reminds me of the importance of staying young at heart.
Thursday I return to the same homeless shelter but for the afternoon which offers different tasks and challenges - never a dull moment!
Friday brings me to a different homeless shelter which is run by christian volunteers. It is a large, busy and caring environment. I was truly blessed to be able to work there.
Finally Saturday comes around and it's time to spend the day with teenagers with learning difficulties. I walk, shop, cook & laugh with these wonderful people helping them to learn social skills that will enable them to live a more fulfilled life in their respective communities.
Sunday brings Church and family time, a great relaxing and recharging day which prepares me for the week ahead.
In between all these hours I find time to play badminton, socialise with youth in the church & hang out with the other Mission House volunteers. It may feel busy but honestly the weeks fly past and I always loved having my diary busy, as long as I left enough quiet time for me!>
