In May, a small team of British volunteers travelled to Athens with a simple goal: to build a greenhouse for refugees. But what God built through them was far greater than wood and breeze blocks.
Partnering with One Heart, an organisation serving refugees through medical care and community, this team completed a project begun the year before. “It was an absolute joy,” said team leader Alan. “We built the greenhouse together, but more than that, we helped build community.”
For Karen, the trip was a deeply personal calling. “I’m all in,” she said. “I love working with my hands, and to use that in a way that brings glory to God and helps others… there’s nothing better.”
Not everything looked promising at first. When Dave arrived, he struggled to see how the available materials could possibly work. “I didn’t sleep the first night,” he admitted. “I cried out to God because I just couldn’t see how we were going to build it.” But the next day changed everything. “We prayed, and the team just gelled. Everyone used their skills - we just got on with it. It blew me away!”
They also worshipped alongside refugees from many nations. Tony shared, “You hear the word ‘refugee’ so often, but meeting the people, hearing their stories, it was inspiring and humbling.”
For Monika, it was the unity that stood out most. “It felt like we’d known each other for years! God helped us achieve so much in such a short time.”
Because of your support, hope is taking root in Athens, both in the soil and in people’s lives. And this is only the beginning.
Could God be calling you to serve?
Short-term mission teams are a powerful way to use your skills, grow in faith, and support ministries around the world. Click here to find out more.
