Spring Term Blog

Day2:  Church and VBS

Written by Alana Long, Upper School Faculty

The day began with a delicious breakfast buffet that fueled us for everything ahead. From there, we traveled to a house church in Cuchora, where we worshiped alongside a loving church family and the children from Pueblo de Niños. It was a powerful time of community and praise, made even more meaningful as two of our students courageously shared their testimonies to close the service.

After worship, we stepped outside the church walls and into the community to share the gospel. For many students, door-to-door evangelism was a brand-new experience—one that stretched comfort zones and strengthened faith. God met us in beautiful ways along the journey. One group was welcomed with fresh mangoes, while another was invited to pick peaches straight from a tree—a simple but sweet reminder of the generosity we encountered throughout the community.

Following lunch, the afternoon slowed into free time spent doing what the students love most: playing and connecting with the children. The fields quickly filled with laughter as fútbol (soccer) and volleyball games took over, while others simply enjoyed sitting, talking, and spending time together outdoors. These moments of joy and relationship-building were just as impactful as any planned activity.

Later in the day, we gathered for VBS with the children at Pueblo de Niños. Through music and the Bible story of creation, the children were engaged and excited to learn more about God. The craft time was a huge hit with everyone—children and NCCS students alike—as they made colorful “God’s Eyes” using yarn, each one uniquely designed and full of meaning.

We ended the day with a powerful worship time led by representatives from our Academy Singers. Students then shared where they saw God at work throughout the day—many pointing to the evangelism experience as a moment of growth and clarity. The evening concluded with a thoughtful devotion led by Troy, sending us into the night encouraged, reflective, and grateful for all God had done.

 

---

Day 3: Mountaintop Memories

— Bill Parker

After another fantastic breakfast buffet, our Peru team laced up their boots and headed for the Andes. The day’s adventure included a 5.8-mile hike and more than 800 feet of elevation gain—and every step was worth it.

When we reached our destination, our host was waiting with sandwiches and chips, which were very appreciated. But the real highlight wasn’t the food—it was the view. Standing atop the mountain, surrounded by God’s creation, we were reminded just how big He is. Laughter filled the air as our team played and connected with the children from the orphanage, turning a mountaintop moment into a memory none of us will forget.

Later that afternoon, we gathered again for VBS—this time welcoming children from the city of Cachora. Sixteen kids joined us for games, food, and to hear the message that Jesus is our friend. Their joy and excitement set the tone for an evening that was only just getting started.

As night fell, we shared dinner before gathering around a bonfire for worship and student testimonies. It was a powerful, sacred moment—one where God’s presence felt unmistakably close.

I can confidently speak for the entire leadership team when I say this: the young men and women on this trip are representing both God and NCCS incredibly well. We are proud of them and grateful for how God is moving through each of them.

---

Day 4: Farewells and Painting

After an emotional goodbye to the children at Pueblos de Los Niños, we boarded the buses and set out on another mountain drive to our next service project: painting.

We spent the day helping prepare a new orphanage by painting rooms. Students embraced the challenge, prepping and painting walls—but many will probably remember scrubbing paint off the concrete floors as the real work of the day! After several hours of painting, we paused for a picnic lunch, soaking in yet another breathtaking view of God’s creation in the Andes Mountains.

The afternoon brought more painting and scrubbing, but spirits stayed high. We were spoiled by our amazing chef, who traveled with us and prepared a wonderful dinner. Afterward, we returned to our lodging for the night—a hotel near the orphanage. Even though the rooms were nice, many students (and teachers!) planned to turn in early after a long, rewarding day of work.

—Alana Long

---

Day 5: Home Visits

After another wonderful breakfast at the Alma orphanage, we headed to the Zona Zegura ministry center just outside of Cusco. We were warmly welcomed by the staff, some of whom wore traditional Incan clothing. Each of us received a cozy alpaca wool hat and enjoyed special teas and snacks.

Once we settled into our beautiful rooms, we returned to the “comedor” and split into two groups: one baked chocolate chip cookies, while the other wrote encouraging cards in Spanish, complete with scripture, for church members. Lunch featured trout, vegetables, and sweet potatoes, followed by a fun volleyball match where our NCCS students came out victorious!

At 5 p.m., we divided into groups of five to deliver the cookies and notes to church members in their homes. Spending time with these precious families was truly sweet. Students shared verses and words of encouragement to help them stand firm in their faith. My group included Morgan and Troy, who sang part of “The Blessing” before we prayed—a very special moment. Bill and I were also delighted to recognize a few people we had met last year.

Returning to the ministry center, the students excitedly shared how they had seen God at work. Many said they now feel much more confident sharing the gospel with others!

—Carrie Peterson

---

Day 6: Machu Picchu!

Today was all about Machu Picchu! Our 2.5-hour visit took us from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., including four bus rides and two train trips—but every minute was worth it.

Words and pictures can’t fully capture the awe of seeing these ancient Inca ruins, remarkably intact after centuries, nestled in a high valley of the Andes Mountains. Our guide Israel—who has been our main guide and interpreter all week—led us expertly through the site. Having visited Machu Picchu over 100 times, he knows just how impressive this Wonder of the World truly is.

Afterward, we enjoyed a pizza dinner in Machu Picchu Pueblo. The wood-fired pizzas were delicious, and everyone ate to their heart’s content (though the leftovers didn’t survive the night!).

When students reflected on where they saw God at work today, many mentioned the beauty of His creation and noted how the Incan builders, like our Creator, were both creative and attentive to detail. They also recognized God’s hand in the logistics and safety of our trip—every connection and transition went smoothly, a reminder of His guidance throughout the day.

—Alana Long