Reflections on the Journey

Here is a recap we received from trip participant Peg Carota. She attends Parker Hill Community Church in Pennsylvania who is partnered with The 410 Bridge community of Karogoto.

Parker Hill Community Church

My trip to Kenya started back in the late 60s, early 70s. The idea came to me from the couch at 2 Elm St.  Peace Corp commercials were abundant at that time and each time I saw one, I imagined myself being part of that picture.  Many years later, advancing to 2009, I started to feel the calling to be part of a Parker Hill visit to Karogoto.  After a year of prayer, encouragement from my small group, and support of close friends, it was time for Peg Carota in Karogoto!

In general, I’m a loner; not a groupie. God started working on me by pushing me in the direction of a joining a small group. My first attempt didn’t go well but God can be persistent! I was led to an awesome small group that has really become family to me. From there, He said, “OK, now I’m goin’ to put you w/ 10 strangers and together you will be ambassadors of My light.”  By the time August 4th 2010 rolled around, these 10 people were no longer strangers, but rather additions to my Parker Hill Family!

No commercials, books, or the stories/pictures of prior Karogoto visits can match the actual experience. God started transforming me from the moment I stepped on the bus that took us to JFK. It’s so difficult to put this into words. For me, it’s all been a “feeling” more than something I can describe. It’s taken several days for me to able to talk about it w/out tearing up and becoming speechless. And I don’t even know what the tears mean! The people of Karogoto are strong.  The women, teenagers, pastors and children just radiate strength, love, and hope.  Their faith is alive w/smiles, hugs, and song.

Our physical mission while there was truly amazing.  Together, side-by-side, we took down a church in 2 and ½ days.  No bull dozers, cranes, or flatbeds.  How ’bout a couple crow bars, hammers, wheel barrels, plastic bags, plastic buckets, rope, shawls, hands, shoulders, legs, and feet.  The people of Karogoto know how to “Use Whatever!”

It was difficult leaving.  I could only say “see you later”, not good-bye.

Peg

Share This

Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Share on Linkdin
Share on Pinterest

More Stories

  A Note from Our Founder

If we’ve spent any time together, you’ve probably heard me this before: pay attention to who walks through the front door. 

That was some early advice from my friend, Lanny, and it held the test of time. It’s important to keep a lookout for people suddenly crossing your path – God just might be introducing you to someone special. So, when Chris Joiner walked through our front door, I paid attention.  

In 2021, Chris reached out just to have a conversation. Over a few breakfasts, Chris and I discussed our shared passion for changing the way the West church engages the poor. At the time, Chris was working for another non-profit organization, but it quickly became clear that we both sought to create a lasting, meaningful impact on the lives of the poor.

Read More »

Meet Chris Joiner

Friends, what a wonderful season of growth we are experiencing here at The 410 Bridge! 

For those I haven’t had yet had the pleasure of meeting, my name is Chris Joiner.  

I’ve had the privilege of working at The 410 Bridge for the past two years, first as Director of International Programs, then transitioning to President in 2023. Today, I am incredibly blessed to step into the role of CEO. 

As we begin this exciting journey as an organization, I want to share more about who I am, my heart for our mission, and where we are headed this year.

Read More »

Introducing Chris Joiner as CEO of The 410 Bridge 

We are pleased to announce Chris Joiner as the new CEO of The 410 Bridge! 

Chris has served our organization for more than two years, initially as Director of International Programs and most recently as President. In both roles, Chris has demonstrated a commitment to servant-leadership and a deep passion for Christ-centered community development.  As President, Chris pioneered our expansion into three new countries this year: Indonesia, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic.

Read More »

Subscribe

Get more articles and updates like this directly in your email inbox!