Mission 646
Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built.
Luke 6:46-48
Each year, the Grade 9 students at Kootenay Christian Academy embark on a journey that goes far beyond borders. In partnership with Yugo Ministries, our students travel to Ensenada, Mexico, to build a new home for a local family in need—an act of love that transforms not just the lives of the family receiving the home, but the lives of each student and chaperone who serve.
In just four days, the KCA missions team constructs a safe, sturdy home that provides a fresh start for a deserving family. This year, we had the honour of serving the Cadena Heredia family—Ana, Omer, Nathan, and Allison—blessing them with not only shelter but also a tangible expression of God’s love.
Faith in Action
The mission begins long before the students ever board a plane. Throughout the school year, the Grade 9 class works hard to raise funds—covering the cost of construction, their travel, and expenses for chaperones. Generous KCA families go above and beyond, donating beds, appliances, furniture, linens, and curtains, ensuring the house is a fully furnished home when the keys are handed over.
But this trip is about more than building walls and hammering nails. It’s about preparing hearts.
Students spend months getting ready—learning construction and painting skills, practicing Spanish, and preparing songs and skits to share with the local children. They also engage in deep spiritual preparation, praying together, writing personal testimonies, and focusing on how they can be the hands and feet of Jesus.
A Commissioning and a Calling
Before departure, the KCA community comes together for a special Commissioning Service, praying over the students and chaperones as they are sent out. We pray for new eyes—to see people as God sees them, new ears—to listen without judgment, and new hearts—open to the work of the Holy Spirit.
A Lasting Impact
For many students, this trip becomes a defining moment in their faith journey. They return home forever changed—having experienced what it means to serve selflessly, love deeply, and witness God at work in powerful ways.
We are deeply grateful for your continued prayer and support for our team:
Students, chaperones (Mr. Malfair, Mr. Pelletier, Mr. Astaforoff, Mrs. Brown, Mrs. Morrison, and Miss Pelletier), and especially for the Cadena Heredia family. May God bless them abundantly in their new home.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:16-20
We’ve Arrived! A Joyful Start to Our Mission
We’re happy to share that we arrived safe and sound at the Yugo compound! Travel went incredibly smoothly, and all of our students are healthy, happy, and in great spirits. Thank you so much for your prayers—they were truly felt along the way.
From security to customs to crossing the border, everything went seamlessly. God is so good!
Upon arrival, our team had the opportunity to meet the wonderful family we’ll be building the home for, along with the local pastor, his family, and the incredible Yugo staff. Students were able to introduce themselves and share a delicious meal together at the Yugo campus.
The campus facilities are fantastic, and the students are loving the café, ping-pong tables, basketball courts, and the vibrant community atmosphere as we look forward to chapel tonight.
Tomorrow, the real work begins as we come together as a full team to start building the house. Though a bit tired from the journey, everyone is filled with energy, excitement, and a deep sense of purpose. We’re ready for what God has in store!
Day One: A Strong Start to Building More Than Just a Home
We kicked off the build with a fantastic first day! The team made incredible progress—completing the walls, painting most of the exterior, and even beginning the electrical work.
One of the most heartwarming highlights of the day was watching our students connect with the neighborhood children who came by to help and play. It was a beautiful reminder that language is never a barrier where God’s love is present.
This mission is about more than construction—it’s about community, connection, and living out our faith. They’re not just building a house; they’re helping build God’s Kingdom.
Day 2: Sun, Smiles, and Serving in Ensenada
Day two was another incredibly productive and joy-filled day of doing God’s work here in Ensenada!
With plenty of sunshine, laughter, and hard work, both teams made amazing progress in their missions.
Team One, led by Mrs. Brown and Ms. Pelletier, brought to life the VBS program so thoughtfully and prayerfully prepared by Mrs. Castella. Over 30 local children joined in, hearing the Good News of God’s love and Jesus’ sacrifice. The kids sang, danced to worship songs, created beautiful cross crafts, and played games on the soccer court. It was a powerful experience for everyone involved—our students were just as blessed by the joy and energy of the children as the kids were by their presence and care.
Team Two made great strides on the house build—framing the roof, painting trim and baseboards, installing drywall, and even getting a solid start on the roofing shingles. The progress is tangible, and the teamwork on display is inspiring.
It was a beautiful day, and while our students were definitely feeling the tiredness, their spirits remained high and hearts full.
Tomorrow, the teams will switch roles—Team Two will lead the VBS program, and Team One will pick up where the house construction left off. In the evening, we’re looking forward to a special church service with the local congregation—a time to worship together and reflect on all that God is doing through this trip.
Day 3 in Ensenada – A Day of Impact and Connection
Wow — what an incredible third day here in Ensenada! The students continue to pour their hearts into blessing this community and the family we’ve come to serve, and God’s presence is evident in every moment.
Team Two led another vibrant day of Vacation Bible School, sharing the Good News through stories, drama, music, crafts, and games. We welcomed 13 children in the first session and nearly 28 in the second — each child engaged with joy and energy, especially during playtime with the Canadian teens. It’s been beautiful to see genuine connections forming through laughter, song, and shared experiences.
Meanwhile, Team One made phenomenal progress on the house build. Today’s accomplishments included completing the roof shingles, finishing drywall and mudding, painting most of the interior walls, and installing windows. The house is truly beginning to look and feel like a home.
One of the most powerful moments of the day came during the evening church service at the local congregation. The pastor’s message was moving, and three of our students — Nathan, Mia S., and Keziah — shared heartfelt testimonies that deeply touched the congregation, bringing both tears and a resounding chorus of “amen!” It was a beautiful moment of vulnerability, encouragement, and spiritual connection.
God continues to guide and bless this journey. The students are not only witnessing the impact of their efforts on this family and community, but also experiencing transformation in their own lives.
Thank you, Jesus, for another blessed and unforgettable day!
Day 4: A Full Heart and a Finished Home
Our final day on the house build was nothing short of incredible. Every last detail on the home was completed, and we had the beautiful opportunity to bless the family, their pastor, the local church, and even another family in need within the community.
The day was filled with meaningful moments, including:
- Finishing touches on the home—trim, paint, and careful cleaning of the floors
- Installing the kitchen cabinets and fully stocking them with food
- Building beds, hanging curtains, and setting out fresh linens
- Sharing a generous food blessing with a neighbouring family
- Holding a heartfelt house dedication where each team member spoke words of encouragement and blessing over the family
- Handing over the keys and watching the family explore and enjoy their new space
To top it all off, the family, church, and friends treated us to an incredible homemade lunch—fish tacos that were both generous and delicious.
Later, we spent some time at the ocean where many of the students braved the cold water to splash, collect shells, and jump through the waves. It was the perfect way to celebrate a job well done.
It’s been a full and deeply rewarding day. Our hearts are overflowing.
Looking Ahead:
Tomorrow we’ll share breakfast together before leaving Yugo at 9am, crossing the border back into San Diego, and enjoying some downtime at Mission Beach.
“Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.”
John 20:21-22
