Hope's World Assembly testimony

My trip to Mexico is one I know I’ll never forget ever in my life. It was a trip filled with excitement, joy and learning. A journey to remember.

I have to say first of all World Assembly was completely different from what I thought. It is a gathering of the I.S.C.F. groups around the world. It only takes place every four years and next time it will be held in South Africa.

Praying in small groups at Student Gathering

During the first couple of days a Student Gathering was held where we got to talk about our different I.S.C.F. groups. Can you believe that most people don’t even know where Grenada is located, or what a nutmeg even is?

Sharing about Grenada at Meet the Regions

At first a thought occurred to me that everyone here seemed somewhat older than me. This suspicion was soon confirmed when I realised that I was indeed the youngest person at World Assembly. There were over 1,500 people here at Mexico and I was the only one in secondary school. You could just imagine how I felt: overwhelmed and scared. I even felt like I wanted to return back home, because I was certain that I would not make friends with anyone.

But that changed when I met the other delegates from my region. My lasting impression will be the friendliness of the different Caribbean people. The way they greeted and accepted everybody. The way they made me feel like part of their family like a long lost cousin or something.

Meal time with Caribbean friends

Every day we had a schedule of different activities we were to attend. There was worship every morning and it was really good. It felt like God was right next to you.

Time of worship at Student Gathering

We had small groups, scripture readings, and since the meeting was held at a hotel, we of course had time to go swimming in the pools! :)

Chilling in the pool during free time

I met so many people from places I didn’t even know existed like Germany, Singapore, Brazil, Venezuela, Japan, Suriname, Martinique, Antigua and Barbuda… almost 150 countries were represented.

Some of my new friends

Some of the things I learnt were:

• We are blessed as a country to be able to pray and read the Word of God without fear of persecution and rejection from family and friends. Some of the countries represented at World Assembly weren’t so fortunate. Some of the representatives actually snuck away to be able to attend.
•  I learnt about different cultures and backgrounds
•  I learnt about standing up for God, no matter how small or weak I may seem
• I learnt that through challenges and bad times, God is there too. He promises to be there even though He may not always deliver us.

Helping set up the prayer room

How I have been changed:

•  I now have more confidence in myself and what I have to say because, although I am young, my opinions and views do matter
•  I am more thankful to God and appreciative of what our country and people have

Playing a flute solo during worship

In conclusion, I’d like to say a very heart felt thank you to everyone who donated in one way or another. Without your help this trip would not have been possible. Thank you so much and may God bless each one of you :)