By D.C. Veale, Minister for Youth & Missions

After a break of several years due to multiple factors, Glen Mar resumed conducting an urban mission experience in Baltimore City this summer. Twenty-nine youths and adults spent a week working at different ministry sites in Baltimore each morning and afternoon. We were able to work at some  sites that we have partnered with for years, like Manna House, Paul’s Place, Habitat for Humanity ReStore, and Helping Up Mission. We also got to visit new ministry sites like the Maryland Food Bank and Hon’s Honey Marketplace. We had the chance to visit our partner church Ames Memorial UMC and learn about their ambitious Resurrection Sandtown project.

Our group also volunteered to work at Hampden UMC for two days. We had a chance to exercise our creative side by working on quilting and pillowcase projects at Glen Mar and also volunteering for Art With a Heart in Baltimore.

We were also fortunate enough to get a chance to work with partner organizations even closer to home when we served with Sleep in Heavenly Peace and the Day Resource Center, both in Howard County. A fun afternoon at the Maryland Zoo, and an afternoon to learn about some of the history of Baltimore and pray over social justice issues were also included.

Lani Chang enjoyed the prayer tour and the history of Baltimore. “I liked learning about why things are the way they are.” Robby Rhoad enjoyed working at Sleep in Heavenly Peace the most. “I liked carrying the headboards down to get branded and stained. I could feel how my efforts were affecting the community.” Garrett Levin enjoyed working at Paul’s Place. “I felt that I had the chance to serve a lot of people, and they were nicer than I expected.” Paige Schardt was surprised how nice the people were at Manna House when she was serving breakfast. “Everyone said ‘please’ and ‘thank you.'” Charlie Myer noted, “There is so much we can do here so close to home. It’s easy, accessible, and satisfying. It’s really amazing to see all the ways people and organizations are helping.” George Hettchen said, “It’s encouraging to see people doing the outrageous things they’re doing to help others.” Elijah Hettchen said, “I liked sanding the wood to make beds. I liked cleaning the tables at Paul’s Place and greeting people at Manna House. It made me happy. I did good, right?”

We look forward to growing our participation next year and adding more places to serve.