Acapulco 2025

Orangewood Church August 5, 2025

Written by Caroline Clark, our Student Ministry Coordinator

Want to learn more about our upcoming trips? Check it out here!

On July 22nd, eight students, one student ministry intern, and five leaders made the trek to Acapulco, Mexico. There, they spent three days immersed in the community at Casa Hogar. In the mornings, they were tasked with painting the inside of the home. In the afternoon and evenings, they spent quality time building relationships, making friendship bracelets, playing soccer, laughing, and singing together.

Our Acapulco Team!

“One of my favorite moments,” said Alex Simpson, “took place around 11 pm. We always regrouped as an Orangewood team and reflected on our day. Davis brought his guitar, and we’d finish off the evening with a worship song. What we didn’t know was that one of the girls heard us singing and was watching us from the balcony. She asked if she could join us next time. The next day, we had children from the home sitting with us in a circle, worshipping. I learned that the love of Christ dwells deeply at Casa Hogar. The children there give love to one another so freely and without any reservations.”

Davis playing his guitar with some kids

Alex with a friend at Casa Hogar!

This trip was scattered with moments of the Lord’s intentionality. While on the trip, our team discovered that a student at Casa Hogar had been studying Mandarin. The Lord provided Timothy Wang, a part of the Orangewood team, to spend hours practicing Mandarin with this student. God used Timothy as a practical resource and spiritual influence. God knows no coincidence, and His perfect plan uses our talents and skills for His glory.

Timothy teaching mandarin

Our team members hard at work!

Oftentimes, when traveling to another country, it is natural to be apprehensive about the language barrier. Our team had five Spanish speakers with us, but many didn’t know how to speak Spanish! “I got to play with the kids and enjoy being together, despite the language barrier. We made bracelets and played soccer,” said Alayna Shepherd. “I didn’t need to speak Spanish to connect with them and have a great time.” Visiting Casa Hogar has been a part of Alayna’s childhood, and each year she gets the opportunity to connect with the child her family sponsors. “We’ve grown up alongside each other. This year, my mom bought us matching dresses.”

Alayna with her sponsor child in their matching dresses!

Though far away, the children and staff at Casa Hogar are our neighbors. The Lord has shown his faithfulness for years and continues to work in the lives of the children who reside there. Continue to pray for Casa Hogar and the work being done there. Will we see you on our next trip to Acapulco?

Want to learn more about our upcoming trips and how YOU can get involved? Check it out here!

See more trip photos below!