The Liberty Mission team went on our first ever foreign trip in September of 2004.  We ventured to Nicaragua to meet the needs of the people both spiritually and physically.  We were anxious but somewhat nervous not knowing what to expect.  One thing we did know was that God had called each of us to this ministry.

Once in Nicaragua we were able to set up medical clinics in three communities.  The people had already heard we were coming, so they walked for miles to line up early and stay late without any complaints.  Their needs were surely great.  The clinics were set up in stations, the first being the gospel presentation, then followed triage, full examination, treatment, pharmacy, and finally treats.  Some of us were well trained professionals, but most of us had instant "on the job training."  Our days were long, emotionally and physically exhausting, but with God and our fellow team members we carried on.  The rewards definitely outweighed the obstacles we faced on each step of our journey.

Two souls were saved and 700 people were treated.  What a great work God was doing.  We felt so humbled to be a part of God's plan.  The language was one obstacle we thought would be an issue, but amazingly we really understood each other.  Love really is a universal language. 

While there we went on visitation.  The people warmly opened their homes to us.  Church services were definitely on our agenda, as well as the feeding kitchens, the hospital, and the schools.  It was a grand experience to become so involved with the people. 

Yes, we ventured "out" into the far country but realized once home that the far country was now and forever would be "in" our hearts.

-by Cheryl Gazaway, Nicaragua Mission Team Member