Wednesday was our final day together, and it was such a beautiful, joy-filled way to wrap up our time in the DR. What had been forecasted as a rainy day turned into hours of sunshine and warmth, a sweet gift from God. The boat ride to Catalina Island was full of laughter as students danced to Spanish music, played games, soaked in the views, and enjoyed the sun. Once anchored, Mr. Roads kicked off the fun with a cannonball into the water, quickly followed by a wave of excited students, amazed by the turquoise water and white sand.
The rest of the afternoon was pure play — football, volleyball, baseball, signs, and swimming in happy clusters. Some students even invited the Dominican boat crew to join in. They sipped drinks from pineapples, got their hair braided, and picked up a few last souvenirs, soaking in every final moment.
As we waited to head back, the rain arrived — and the ride home became quite an adventure. Wind, rain, and rough waves made for a wild return trip, but looking around, students were laughing, joyful, and embracing it as one last shared memory. Being together made it fun. Once back at SCORE, warming up was the top priority before one final night in the Upper Room. Mrs. McMahon shared and challenged the students to carry forward what God has done this week and to continue encouraging one another when they return home. Judging by the sleepy faces the next morning, many made the most of their final night together.
This morning, the entire class gathered for sunrise on the beach. Mr. Woosley led worship, read Scripture, and commissioned the students to carry what they have learned into the mission ahead. Chaperones prayed over each student, speaking specifically into the ways we have seen God working in their lives this week. It was a tender and meaningful send-off.
We are all feeling the bittersweet reality of going home. We know this trip had to end, but we leave having grown closer to one another and to the Lord, which makes saying goodbye hard. Please pray for safe travel, strength for those not feeling well, and smooth transitions through the airport. Thank you for your faithful prayers and support while we have been here; they have truly been felt. The 2026 Senior Trip is officially a wrap.