Mission Reflections
Team Reflections from Metlakatla, Alaska – July/August 2019

"There are so many special memories from the Alaska Mission trip it is hard to capture in a few words. First, the beauty of Alaska was breathtaking from the rain forest, to the ever changing waters, to the misty sky. Second, the people we met left a special place in my heart forever. They showed such joy and kindness in both their words and actions. Third, was the extraordinary culture and deep history of the Tsimshian people. Learning just a small part of the culture through a community tour of the Totem Poles, the Killer Whales dancing, rowing in a canoe across the clear waters, and conversations at dinner was a privilege. Last but not least —the special and unforgettable fellowship with the team who came together to serve others. This amazing team sanded and painted, trimmed and mowed, dug ditches and hung gutters. They sewed, prayed, played cards, connected with the community, shared communion, cooked meals, cleaned dishes, and learned through conversation. I walk away from this experience a changed person humbled and grateful for every moment and thankful for the friendships I made. Maya Angelou said, “Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take but by the moments that take your breath away.” The Alaska Mission Trip took my breath away! What a blessing."

 -Carrie Tolstedt

“We were impressed with a group of strangers coming together for the common purpose of a faith mission becoming such good friends and work companions on short notice. Painting the Presbyterian church in Ketchikan while raining, helping with their food give away and loading scaffolding on top of an old Subaru. Who needed a truck? Once again we were impressed with Pastor Jeanie, Nancy and Candy's organization as we trooped to the island of Annette and Metlakatla with all our supplies. We saw God's Grace in a simple hello leading to friendships and partnerships surrounding the almost 100 year old Presbyterian church with it's beautiful stained glass windows and Pastor Larry, who welcomed the youth of the island with a safe haven. Our interaction with the youth and the people of Metlakatla touched our hearts forever. They generously shared their culture with us every day, stopping by with homemade treats, a word of encouragement as we worked, a canoe ride, tribal dancing and a thank you. They are dedicated to preserving their Tsimshian heritage, as are we after spending this rare opportunity of sharing and caring."

 -Karen and Bob Johnson

 "While in Metlakatla, the team worked to fix up a Presbyterian Church that is in its 99th year of operation. The goal was to get everything ready for next year’s 100th year celebration. I had an opportunity early on to run the backhoe and I became the primary operator over the next few days where the goal was to create a trench for drainage pipes. (The joke was that I planned to trade in my car for a backhoe after getting back home!) The trip was amazing on so many levels. All who participated were blessed in many ways. Not the least of which was the opportunity to be in the presence of a friendly and appreciative native people AND in the midst of natural beauty that was both awe–inspiring and utterly amazing! This was my first mission trip experience and this trip “opened my eyes” on many different levels."

-Bob Disher

"The Adult and Youth participants were inspirational on our Alaska Mission. Each person shared their gifts naturally and without reservation on work projects, vacation bible school and team time. We lived in community and shared fellowship with one another and the local loving Tsimshian people. The drums, dancing and singing resonate in my soul. I felt as if I was viewing a beautiful documentary unfold every day on this trip. Thank you all for sharing “you”. My heart is fulfilled with many precious memories to last a lifetime." 

-Nancy Disher
 Mission Coordinator
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