By Amina Kyser

“I got closer to my classmates, made new friends in a new country, and strengthened my relationship with God through mission work,” shared Joel, an 11th-grade student from Milo Adventist Academy who served as the team videographer during the trip.

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His words reflect the impact of a life-changing mission trip taken in March 2026, when a team of 18 students, staff, and family members from Milo traveled to northeastern India to serve alongside Grace Advent School and Bakenang Seventh-day Adventist Church.

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Each morning, the team led VBS programs for local children, filled with Bible stories, songs, games, and crafts. In the afternoons, they helped build an outdoor assembly pavilion for the school and assisted with work on the new church building.

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A meaningful part of the trip was a student sponsorship initiative, with each Milo student sponsoring a child’s tuition at Grace Advent School. Team members also formed lasting friendships while worshiping together, visiting homes, and experiencing the faith and generosity of the local community.

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Wendy, another 11th-grade student, shared, “My mission trip experience was amazing. The hospitality we received felt like family, and they showed me God’s love through the way they treated us.”

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That same impact was felt by staff members as well. Dannia reflected, “Our India Mission Trip was a bucket list item that allowed me to serve and opened my eyes to true appreciation. Those we traveled around the world to serve showed great appreciation and wanted to serve us in turn. Witnessing honest gratefulness and enthusiasm for our presence and persons was life changing. God’s love poured out of the children and adults onto those of us that had chosen to travel the world to pour out His love on them!”

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Before returning home, the group also visited Delhi and Taj Mahal. The whole experience reminded everyone that when we go to serve others, God often blesses us in return.

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