Our good friend Russ McDowell recently visited for a mission trip.
Russ has a generous heart and is dedicated to helping others, brought with him several hundred pairs of reading glasses. This seemingly simple act of kindness profoundly impacted many lives here.
The visit began with Russ arriving at the Precious Moments School and orphanage, where we dedicated much time and effort. Equipped with his large supply of reading glasses, we organized vision exams for 200 individuals. The school and orphanage is a place of learning and care and a beacon of hope for many in our community. For many of the children and adults, this was the first time they had ever had an eye examination.
People started lining up early, and the process was smooth and efficient, thanks to the coordination between our staff and volunteers. Each individual was given an eye exam, and those needing glasses were provided with a pair that suited their vision requirements.
Following the school and orphanage event, we extended our efforts to a local church in the town of Pastors. Here, we continued our mission, providing eye exams and distributing glasses to members of the congregation and the local community. The church, known for its active role in community welfare, was the perfect setting for this outreach. The turnout was impressive, and the gratitude from the recipients was heartwarming.
We distributed 120 pairs of reading glasses to those who needed them. Each pair represented more than just improved vision; it was a gift of renewed independence and quality of life. Among the many touching stories was that of a 92-year-old lady struggling with her vision for years. When she received her new glasses, her face lit up with joy. She was especially thrilled to be able to read her Bible again, something that had become difficult for her due to her failing eyesight.
This experience was a testament to the impact that a single act of kindness can have on a community. It also highlighted the importance of vision care, something often taken for granted but crucial for daily life and learning. For the children at the orphanage, having the ability to see clearly means better performance in their studies and more enjoyment in their activities. For the elderly, it means regaining a sense of independence and being able to continue with their beloved pastimes.
As Christians, we are called to serve others in the way they need it most, reflecting the love of Christ through our actions. Russ McDowell’s visit was a shining example of this calling. His generosity and compassion mirrored the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized caring for the needy and serving others selflessly. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” This scripture reminds us that acts of service are seen and valued by God, no matter how small.
Russ’s actions reminded us all that we have the ability to make a difference in the lives of others, embodying the essence of Christian faith through service.
We are immensely grateful to Russ for his generosity and to all of you, our close colleagues, fellow believers, and supporters, who helped make this initiative a success. Your support and prayers were invaluable. As we look forward to more such events in the future, we are inspired by the joy and gratitude of those we serve. Your continued support is not just a duty but a reflection of our faith, bringing us closer to the heart of Christ’s message of love and compassion.
