Last week the first-ever MO Summer Service Spree was held for fourth through sixth graders. During the week, 19 students learned about and helped to meet the needs of neighbors in our community. The young missionaries experienced and discussed the challenges of food insecurity and our call to serve those in need. Each day ended with reflections on where they saw God's love reflected through examples of sacrifice, hope, compassion and perseverance.

On Monday, they participated in learning exercises introducing them to language, concepts and issues surrounding hunger and justice. On Tuesday, they picked through bushels of rotting onions to find and repackage unblemished vegetables to be shipped to area food shelves through Second Harvest. On Wednesday, they sorted clothing and non-perishable food donations to be distributed through PRISM's food shelf and low-cost thrift store.

Thursday's adventures included fun times at Whirlyball and discussions about accessibility at Maple Grove Central Park's new splash pad and all-abilities playground.

Many thanks to Lisa Hansen and leaders Bruce Finley, Julie Hansen, and Annasty Leeper-Webb for their time and energy—and to MO students willing to step out in love to serve our community!