We're tired and excited at the same time.

by Anne Marie Cox | January 18, 2025

Nine Iowans and I are kicking off this Jubilee Year of Hope by going on a Blessman International mission trip to rural South Africa.

Led by retired Father Ray McHenry, the group left first thing Thursday morning and arrived in Johannesburg at 8 pm Friday, having traveled more than 9,300 miles. So were a little tired. The flight from Atlanta to Johannesburg - which went smoothly - was more than 14 hours long!

We're also anxious to get to work. Each person in our group has a special place in their heart for children. We will be serving some of the poorest children in the world. Through various outreaches like shoe distribution, eye glass fittings, and some labor at a retreat center, we hope to be the hands and feet of God on the ground.

I invite you to join us by following this blog and by praying for a successful endeavor. Through this blog, we'll share our experiences.

We're not on vacation. We've traveled far and will forgo the comforts of home to help others. I invite you to follow along. And, if the Spirit moves you, talk with Father Ray or Blessman International, based in Urbandale, about how you can be a part of a future mission trip.