Ryan Locke Northern Ireland Fundraiser

Hi Everyone! My name is Ryan and I am a sophomore at Gordon College. This winter I will be part of a small team from Gordon College who will be traveling to Belfast, Ireland from January 2nd- 13th, 2020. I first became excited about missions back in high school when I was able to take part in several missions’ trips. Through these trips I was able to have my eyes opened to another way of life and was able to experience the love of Jesus Christ in a whole new way. I learned about servanthood, compassion, how to trust in God, how to take risks and have courage. I fully believe that by having the opportunity to participate in those trips God was preparing my heart to serve the people in Belfast in this service-learning trip.

The trip to Belfast will combine my love for serving others along with my passion for politics and community development. Years of conflict in Northern Ireland have torn communities apart. There is still so much hatred, violence, and generational divisions from two groups that claim to believe in Jesus Christ. Yet the road to reconciliation is underway through several organizations. We will be partnering with the 147 Trust, an organization that focuses on reconciliation through community development. Through 174 Trust we will have the opportunity to work alongside government officials and scholars who come together to talk about reconciliation. We will also be spending time with the children of Belfast through tutoring and after school programs. 

I would appreciate any financial help that you can give me with this trip. I would also welcome everyone to pray  for the safety of our team and pray that our team has the opportunity to make a difference in Belfast. Thank you for your support!