After our final day of service in New Jersey, today was the first of our travel days back to Nebraska. It was also a day to say “thank you” to all the people who made our stay in the Garden State so great. We were blown away by the hospitality of the folks at Georgian Court University in Lakewood, who opened their doors to our group and served us hot, nutritious, and delicious meals. Our lunches the first day were provided by the fine people of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Lakewood. All our opportunities to serve were coordinated by our partners on the ground, chief among them being the staff of Lutheran Social Ministries of New Jersey.

Besides the “thank yous,” it was a solid day of traveling. We passed the time by napping, watching movies, playing games (like our paper airplane contest, which included all six buses and was dominated by our very own Bus 5), and enjoying the company of both new and old friends.

We’ve had a great trip, but I think we’re all looking forward to the familiar surroundings of home and “the Good Life”. It has been a privilege to serve, and it will be a joy to share our experiences with the people of St. Mark’s, St. Peter’s, and St. Paul’s. Thanks again to you for your prayers, support, and the opportunity to make a difference for the people of New Jersey.