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MANY HANDS

Abaco Edition

PRETRIP

Dear Impact Team Participants, First and foremost, thank you. Thank you for saying yes to this opportunity, for stepping out in faith, and for allowing us at Many Hands for Abaco to be a part of your journey. Your willingness to serve, to travel, and to be present here is not something we take lightly. It’s a beautiful act of obedience and love—and we are so grateful you’re here. This week is more than just a mission trip. It’s an invitation—an invitation to be transformed by God as you step into a new culture, meet new people, and encounter stories that may look very different from your own. We believe God is already at work here in Abaco, and that you have a unique role in His plan this week. As you serve, listen, and learn, you’ll see His love poured out in unexpected and powerful ways—through community, through service, through relationship. I want to encourage you to slow down and be intentional. Each day, take time to reflect. Ask yourself: What is God teaching me right now? Where do I see Him moving? What is He asking me to surrender or embrace? Let these questions guide you as you go through the week. Don’t rush through the moments—savor them. Let the beauty and the brokenness of what you experience draw you closer to the heart of God. Whatever is happening back home—school, jobs, relationships, responsibilities—I ask that you lay those things down for a moment. This week, be fully here. Be where your feet are. Plant your feet firmly in the soil of Abaco and open your heart wide. If you do, I promise you—God will show up. And not just in the big, obvious ways, but in the quiet, simple moments too. In the laughter of children, in the stories shared over meals, in the stillness of the ocean, and in the gentle nudge of the Holy Spirit. It is our honor and joy to walk alongside you during this time. Our prayer is that you leave this week not only having served others, but having been deeply changed yourself—strengthened in faith, widened in perspective, and awakened to the beauty of what it means to love and be loved by a God who sees every single one of us. Blessings on every step you take.

Laura Johnson Impact Coordinator Many Hands for Abaco

Table of Contents Orientation 1 ............................................................................................................... 6 Orientation 2 .............................................................................................................. 8 Orientation 3 ............................................................................................................. 10 The Second Mile ........................................................................................................12

Orientation 1 A CALL TO GO

SCAN TO WATCH God Has Called You:

Reflect on your own "call" or motivation for joining this Impact Trip. What were your thoughts, feelings, or motivations that brought you to say "yes" to this experience?

What are you most excited about for this Impact Trip? What are you most fearful about for this Impact Trip?

SCAN TO WATCH Many Hands Mission:

Transforming together to be love in action in a broken world. What stood out to you as you listened to Tim explain the mission of Many Hands?

Transforming together: We serve, learn and grow best in community, but this requires coming together with all our strengths and weaknesses. What unique strengths do you believe you bring to this team?

Where do you anticipate needing the support and encouragement of your team members?

SCAN TO WATCH Safety & Accommodations:

Information about safety and accommodations in Abaco. What information about the accommodations helps calm anxieties about the trip?

SCAN TO WATCH History of Many Hands:

God initially called Many Hands to Haiti, but He calls us into more, as that is what love requires. As you consider Many Hands' growth from serving in Haiti to launching Thrift Markets and further global expansion, what inspires you about that journey?

Please prayerfully consider the following leadership roles for the team. Logistics Leader - assist with communicating travel updates to and from Abaco and possibly organizing travel to the departing U.S. airport Hospitality Leader - ensure the team restocks beverages and cleans when needed Spiritual Leader - lead devotions or assign team members to lead devotions Socials Captain - capture a few photos each day and assign team members to write daily reflections

Homework to be completed by next orientation: Turn to page 44 behind the My Impact Story tab and complete the questions under Who I Was Before.

Orientation 2 WHY ABACO?

SCAN TO WATCH How God Opened Doors in Abaco:

During the initial trip to Abaco, Many Hands leadership was open to God's leading ("God, what's present, we're open").

Reflect on your own level of openness to God's direction in your life. When in your life have you felt the most open to listening and obeying God’s leading? What did that feel like?

What does the idea of being open to God’s leading, even in unexpected places or ways, bring up for you? (You can circle any words that apply or add your own)

Hope

Peace

Confusion

Curiosity

Fear

Comfort

Skepticism

Desire

Others

SCAN TO WATCH Personal Conduct:

Circle the protocols that may be the most challenging to follow. Time-Management

Disconnection from Technology

Being Versus Doing

Managing Relationships

Others

Not Sharing Personal Info

Not Being in Charge

Listening

Shared Living Space

SCAN TO WATCH Challenges in Abaco:

Abaco is a community of resilient, determined, and servant-hearted people who have been devastated by the one-two punch of Hurricane Dorian in 2019 and the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. As relief efforts were diverted to address the global pandemic, Abaco was left in a state of disrepair, its people struggled to recover. Many Hands is committed to helping rebuild, repair, and restore the island and the lives of the people who call it home. As you prepare to serve in a community facing complex layers of brokenness, how might this understanding shape your interactions and tasks?

SCAN TO WATCH Serving in Abaco:

Many Hands emphasizes building reciprocal relationships where both the serving team and the Abaconian community give and receive. As you prepare to go to Abaco, what are you hoping to learn from the people of Abaco? In turn, how do you hope to humbly share your own gifts and skills in a way that is truly helpful and builds lasting relationships?

Homework to be completed by next orientation: Turn to page 45 behind the My Impact Story tab and complete the section My Verse/Theme.

Orientation 3

IMPACTFUL MINDSET SCAN TO WATCH Impactful Mindset:

Be Patient, Be Flexible, Be Present, Be Prayerful

Which one of these mindsets will be most challenging for you? Identify some tools to help you boldly step into this mindset. (e.g. prayer, accountability partner, reflection, etc.)

SCAN TO WATCH Abaco:

Island location, impact of Hurricane Dorian, history of the island, & local religion What is something new you learned in this video?

SCAN TO WATCH God's Global Heart:

God demonstrated His immense love for the world by sending His Son. How does reflecting on this profound love inspire you to engage with people from different cultures and backgrounds?

What does it mean to you that God has a "global heart" ? How might this trip help you connect with that aspect of His character?

Cultivating Humility Through Questions: Best Practices It is important to ask questions of the people you meet, of God, and of your community leaders. Here are some guidelines to improve your approach: 1. Adopt a Learner’s Posture • Your primary goal is to learn, not to teach or fix. You are a guest in their home and community. • Listen more than you speak. Aim for listening 80% of the time, and speaking just 20%. • Be comfortable with silence. Don’t rush to fill a pause. It often gives the other person space to think and share more deeply. 2. Ask Permission • Don’t assume someone has the time or emotional energy to speak with you. Start with, “Is this a good time to chat for a few minutes?” or “I’d love to hear a bit about your experience, if you’re comfortable with sharing.” 3. Ask Open-Ended Qustions • Avoid “yes/no” questions. Start questions with “What,” “How,” “Tell me about,” or “Describe.” This invites stories, not just a quick reply. 4. Practice Active Listening • When someone finishes sharing, instead of immediately sharing your own story, try one of these follow-ups: • Wow, thank you for sharing that. Could you tell me more about…? • How did that feel for you? • What did that experience teach you? Follow these guidelines and you are well on your way for a truly transformative and genuinely engaging Impact Trip.

Homework to be completed before the trip: Practice active listening with friends and family before going on your trip. This will better prepare you for listening well and asking great questions. Think through the types of questions you are curious about with the people of Abaco. Take some time to write them out to be prepared for when you meet people. An Impact Trip is designed to challenge you to see your story in a different light by witnessing God working in a different culture. What aspects of your own story or worldview do you anticipate might be challenged or broadened through this experience in Abaco?

The Second Mile

A PRE-TRIP REFLECTION FOR IMPACT JOURNEYERS To be filled out by returning trip participants only. Before you embark on your next Impact Trip, take some dedicated time to reflect on your last journey. Find your IMPACT book and story from your previous trip. Prayerfully work through the questions below, being honest with yourself and with God. This exercise will help prepare your heart for the new work He has for you.

PART 1: RECONNECTING WITH THE PAST (This section helps you ground yourself in your previous experience.)

Review Your Story: Read through your previous IMPACT book. Pay special attention to your daily "State of Your Soul," your journal entries, and the final Impact Story you prepared.

Recall God's Movement: As you review, where did you see God moving before, during, and after your last trip? Jot down 1-2 specific examples.

Remember the Impact Moment: What was the single most impactful moment or experience from that trip? Why do you think it has stayed with you so clearly?

PART 2: THE REALITY OF THE COMMITMENT (This section is an honest evaluation of the time between trips.)

Evaluate Your "Love in Action": Your commitment was to be "Love in Action." On a scale of 1-10, how well do you feel you lived this out? What does that rating reflect?

Identify Barriers & Breakthroughs: What were the biggest barriers that kept you from fully living out your commitment? (e.g., busyness, fear, forgetfulness, lack of community, etc.)

What were the biggest breakthroughs or areas of growth you saw in your life as a result of trying to live out your commitment?

Assess Your Storytelling: Think about when you shared your IMPACT story. What was the general response? More importantly, how did you feel while sharing it, and how did that change over time?

Define a Necessary Change: Based on this reflection, what is one practical thing that needs to change for you to more fully live out your commitment today, even before you leave for this next trip?

PART 3: PREPARING FOR THE RETURN (This section clarifies your purpose and posture for the upcoming trip.) Clarify Your Motivation: Why do you want to go back? What is the primary motivation drawing you to this specific place and people again?

Manage Your Expectations: How are your hopes and expectations for this trip different from your first one?

What unique challenges or temptations might you face as a returner? (e.g., pride, cynicism, acting like an "expert," disappointment if things have changed, etc.)

Embrace Your Role: As a veteran team member, you have a unique opportunity to serve the first-timers. What is one specific way you can use your experience to encourage, support, and empower a new team member this week?

A Prayer for this Trip: Write a short prayer for the person you are today. Ask God to prepare your heart for what He has planned, letting go of what you have planned.

MISSION MINDSET

Mission Mindset We are called to transform together, to be love in action, in our broken world. Through your support and commitment, you've become part of our comprehensive strategy to ignite the generosity of others, build community in underserved areas, and carve new, better paths for living in right relationships with God and others through IMPACT.

Table of Contents The Challenges We Face ...........................................................................................18 One Mission, One Virtuous Cycle ............................................................................ 19 Two Paths to Transformation................................................................................... 20 The Many Hands Model ............................................................................................. 21

The Challenges We Face Transforming lives is a long and difficult process, as it needs to be relational in nature, comprehensive in programming, and sustainable for years. We work in some of the hardest places in the world. On Abaco, the physical and emotional scars of Hurricane Dorian run deep. Roughly 70% of marriages are broken. Around 94% of the food is imported, causing major food instability. And race relations between Haitians and Bahamians is a source of tension. In the United States, our communities are hurting, as isolation, distraction, and distrust have taken root. The divide between people is growing every day. Relationships are few and far between and people have little sense of belonging. The disease of more runs rampant under the disguise of happiness, destroying our generosity. When generosity is gone, little grace exists in relationships, causing strain in all aspects of life and ultimately, breaking the true source of long-term joy - a right relationship with God and with others. There is a better way.

Our Cycle of Transformation

The Many Hands strategic model is brought to life through three core pillars of work. While each is powerful on its own, their interdependence creates a virtuous cycle of transformation. This is how we function as One Team, with Many Hands, and where we invite you to find your role.

Ignite Generosity We Ignite Generosity to fuel our entire model.

Build Community We Build Community to create the structure for transformation.

Live Impact We Live Impact to deliver on the promise of a life with purpose.

God’s love, expressed through the gift of His Son, is the divine spark that first ignited generosity in the world. We believe generosity is the engine for all lasting transformation. Our mission is to be love in action by building and fueling this engine in others. We harness generosity from every corner of our community to make this happen. From our purpose-driven businesses that engage people daily, to our vital partnerships with individuals, churches, and foundations, we invite everyone to take part. The fuel provided by this engine makes everything else possible—it lays the foundation for every Pyramid and provides the resources for every Rowboat's voyage. Together, we ignite this Generosity Engine in over 300,000 people worldwide.

A lasting community is not built by chance; it is constructed with intention, like a great pyramid built to stand the test of time. This pyramid of stability doesn't start with stone, but with families. We partner with them to lay a solid bedrock of life’s essentials: education, safe structures, and sustainable agriculture. Our role isn't to build for them, but with them. The local leaders and families are the true builders. Together, we construct layers of support, forging the relationships where the gospel is caught, not just taught. By building these pyramids of community, we directly impact 30,000 people each year. These communities are not only a testament to love made visible; they are also the very places our Impact Trip crews serve and learn. A life of purpose isn't found by drifting; it's built by intentional action, one oar stroke at a time. We believe when you surrender to Christ, He becomes the Guide of your life’s rowboat. But surrender doesn’t mean sitting still—He gives you unique gifts as your oars and calls you to row. Through local opportunities and immersive Impact Trips, we equip people to discover their 'oars' and put their faith into powerful action by rowing alongside our global partners. We prepare 1,000 people each year for this voyage of purpose. The destination is a transformed heart that knows its purpose. And a person rowing with purpose returns home to become the most powerful new fuel for our Generosity Engine, inspiring others to begin.

One Mission, One Virtuous Cycle The Engine, the Pyramid, and the Rowboat are not separate missions. They are one integrated, self-reinforcing cycle of transformation. Our Generosity Engine provides the fuel to build community Pyramids. These stable communities then become the very places where we equip people to step into their life’s Rowboat, putting their purpose into powerful action. The experience of rowing with purpose transforms them. Then, the cycle comes full circle. These transformed people return home and pour even greater passion and generosity back into the Engine, making it stronger for the next revolution. This is how we are One Team with Many Hands: every role, every gift, and every action contributes to and is strengthened by the whole. This is how we build, together, something much bigger than ourselves.

Two Paths to Transformation Our mission is to see lives transformed in Christ, but we recognize the path is not the same for everyone. The barriers we face are different depending on our circumstances. Therefore, our strategy is twofold: a funnel for cultures of abundance and distraction, and a pyramid for communities facing scarcity and instability. Both lead to a flourishing life of purpose in Christ.

THE PYRAMID: BUILDING THE FOUNDATION In communities facing scarcity, the barrier is the lack of a stable foundation; basic needs hinder hearing Good News. Our strategy builds a lasting Pyramid of support, empowering communities to flourish. We go "an inch wide and a mile deep," committing for the long haul. We partner with local leaders to build this foundation holistically, starting with essentials: education, safe structures, and sustainable agriculture. We add health assistance, skill development, and economic opportunity. This work is done through relationship, where true discipleship happens in shared work. The true gospel is caught, not just taught, in everyday life. A secure foundation creates an immense ripple effect, transforming individuals, families, and communities. The goal is multiplication; a thriving community becomes a living example, equipped to spread hope.

THE FUNNEL: FOCUSING THE DISTRACTED In cultures like ours, the greatest barrier to deep, transformative faith is distraction. Our Funnel channels unfocused energy into purpose. The journey begins simply, through accessible entry points like our Many Hands Thrift Markets and purpose-driven businesses, inviting deeper service and generous giving. True transformation requires a change of heart and mind, fostered through classes, books, and retreats. Profound change often occurs during our Impact Trips. Serving global brothers and sisters reveals faith forged in hardship and God's love in action. Individuals return with a profound revelation: the mission field is "right here"—in our families, churches, and communities. The Funnel turns a distracted life into a focused calling to serve daily.

WHERE THE FUNNEL MEETS THE PYRAMID The Funnel and the Pyramid are two strategies for a single, unified calling. One removes distraction; the other builds a foundation. Both converge to a life fully alive in Christ, empowered by His love, ready to serve, build, and multiply—wherever called.

The Many Hands Model

deepest fear is not that we are inadequate Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us Our

We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a

child of God.

Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about

shrinking

so other people won’t feel insecure around you.

glory of God that is within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone. We are born to manifest the

And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are

liberated from our own fear,

our presence automatically liberates others.

Marianne Williamson

DAILY REFLECTIONS

Daily Reflections True transformation only happens with thoughtful reflection. How might God be using this time during your Impact trip to change your heart, mind, and soul?

Table of Contents The State of My Soul ..................................................................................................26 Understanding Your Impact Story ......................................................................... 28 On the Ground ........................................................................................................... 30 Be Where Your Feet Are ........................................................................................... 31 Seeing God in the Midst of Tragedy ....................................................................... 32 The Story Beneath the Surface................................................................................ 33 A Gift of Beauty...........................................................................................................35 Honoring the Journey................................................................................................ 37 Navigating the Journey Back to Everyday Life..................................................... 38

The State of My Soul

ed elm s h erw les Ov Hope tened gh y Fri Angr ng ed y vi Fra mb d rie osed G u e l p N ess Ex pefu pr ious o e H appy l D nx le A itab e H nkfu a Irr ecur l Th oving L Ins layfu l P yfu ic t o J the l L pa fu NA Em eace O I P OT

SPIRITUAL Awake Passionate Fruitful Joyful Inspired Confused Disappointed Envious Rejected Weary

Flourishing Loving Peaceful Trusting Aware Seeking Dry Disillusioned Ashamed Indifferent

Aban do Isola ned t B e t Res ed r a y Exclu ed Misu entful nd d Jeal ed Disa erstood pp Vul ous Conc ointed n e erne Disco rable d Co u n n e cted Disen raged Pr ga e s e n Acce ged Valu t ed Em pted p Know Com athetic n pa s s io Love nate d

THE STATE OF MY SOUL

ONAL

TION VOCA

RELA TI

ted ppoin Disa fused Con y out Burn lmed Bus e d wh Bore g Over sioned lu rin l i o l s i D Exp stic rned e c i n Co d Optim er tisfie a s g n a t U E feren ent Indif ent Cont ed d i f iz n o g C Ener lled red i f Inspi ate l l Fu ion Pass ing Thriv

Ex ha u F Co rag sted mp ile W rom D Le orrie ised tha d Un raine h Ac rgic Vu eal d ln th Re tive F s rus erab y En te erg d l t e r He et Dis Tire ated Re alth ic c d o sil y Co ura ien n g t Str fiden ed t o Ti ng Vig reles PH s o YS rou IC s

© 2020, Stephen W. Smith, Peter M. Ivey Permission is granted for unlimited use and copies to be made of The State of My Soul Wheel. Please refer to www.pottersinn/stateofmysoul.com for more information and to be granted a license. –2–

Understanding Your I M

Story

discover your life’s work, set out to do it so well that the living, the dead or the unborn couldn’t do it better. When you

And no matter what it is, never consider it

insignificant

because if it is for the upbuilding of humanity, it has cosmic

significance.

And so if it falls your lot to be a street sweeper,

Raphael painted pictures. Sweep streets like Michelangelo carved marble. Sweep streets like Beethoven composed music. Sweep streets like Shakespeare wrote poetry. Sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth sweep streets like

will have to pause and say, “Here lived a great street sweeper, who did his job

well.

Martin Luther King Jr.

On The Ground Start with one word or phrase to describe today. Then, identify a specific moment or interaction that is the reason you chose that word or phrase.

Name two emotions you’re feeling right now - one that is life-giving and one that is challenging. What seems to be the source of each?

Before this trip, you had certain expectations or hopes. How has the reality of being here today met, challenged, or changed them? In that gap between your expectations and reality, what is God inviting you to let go of or lean into?

Be Where Your Feet Are What is different about Abaco that has helped you gain a new perspective on being fully present?

Think of one person you served with or served today (a teammate or a local community member). What is one thing you learned or observed about them by simply being present and watching or listening? How did this interaction shape your perspective of what you were doing?

When was it hardest to stay present today? Was there a moment your mind drifted to your own comfort, your insecurities, a problem back home, or what was coming next? What was the trigger for that mental drift?

How did God use the simple act of serving to speak to you today? Perhaps it was an invitation into deep focus, a nudge to pray for someone, a moment of profound gratitude, or something else entirely. Describe that moment.

Seeing God in the Midst of Tragedy Today, you stepped into situations where darkness - in the form of sorrow, injustice, or loss - was present. Without trying to fix it or find a silver lining, what was one story, image, or feeling that represented darkness for you? Take a moment to sit with that reality, seeing it clearly.

Now, in the midst of that same darkness or another point in the day, where did you see a single ray of light breaking through? This could be a small moment of resilience, dignity, unexpected laughter, human connection, abiding faith, or profound kindness. Describe that glimmer.

The Bible says, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” Reflecting on the darkness you saw and the ray of light you witnessed, what characteristic of God became more real to you? Did you see His faithfulness, His compassion, His justice, or His presence as the Light itself? How did today’s experience deepen your belief in that truth?

The Story Beneath the Surface Think of one specific person you interacted with today - a child, a homeowner, a teammate. Describe the interaction, but go beyond what was just said or done. What did you notice in their eyes, their tone of voice, or their posture that told you a deeper story about who they are or what they are feeling?

By now, the reality on the ground has likely collided with the expectations you brought. What is one assumption you held about the people, the culture, or the nature of poverty/rebuilding that has been most directly challenged this week? How did an experience today add another layer to that challenge?

The Story Beneath the Surface Culture is often revealed in what a community values (e.g., time, relationships, efficiency, hospitality, directness). Based on your interactions, what is one Bahamian cultural value that is different than your own? Instead of labeling it “right” or “wrong”, ask yourself: “What is the strength of this value, and what can I learn from it?”

Often, God uses the discomfort of a challenged perspective to stretch our hearts. As your own assumptions and cultural norms are being shaken up, what specific attitude, fear, or prejudice do you think God is inviting you to let go of? What new quality - like patience, empathy, courageous compassion, or humility - might He be trying to build in you for the long haul?

A Gift of Beauty Close your eyes and choose one specific moment of beauty from today - the taste of a new food, the feeling of the ocean on your skin, the color of the forest, the sound of laughter with a friend. Immerse yourself in that memory. What senses were awakened? What specific detail made that moment a gift to you?

How did the physical work and emotional weight of the past few days change the way you experienced today’s rest and beauty? Did it make the food taste richer, the rest feel deeper, or the ocean seem more cleansing? In what way did serving in the brokenness prepare you to receive the gift of beauty today?

A Gift of Beauty Look back at the “State of My Soul” words you’ve written down each day. What has your internal journey looked like this week? Do you notice a trend or significant change in your feelings and perspective? What has this journey from service to sabbath taught you about God and yourself?

God is the source of both the strength to serve in hardship and the gift of a beautiful sunset. As you hold both the memories of this week’s work and the joy of today’s rest, what are you most profoundly grateful for? Offer a simple, specific “thank you to God” prayer.

Honoring the Journey PREPARING YOUR STORY

Your Impact Story will focus on a specific moment. Now, let’s reflect on the internal change that made that moment so powerful. Think about the person who arrived a week ago versus who you are today. What is the single most significant change in your heart or perspective? What specific lie about God, yourself, or the world have you stopped believing this week? What profound truth has taken its place?

The journey wasn’t taken alone; it was experienced as a team. Before you focus on your individual story, take a moment to honor the group. How has serving alongside these specific people shaped your experience? Describe one moment where you saw God’s love in action demonstrated through a teammate to you, or to someone else. What has this week taught you about the Body of Christ in action?

In your Impact Story, you will commit “to be love in action.” To make this more than just a powerful phrase, let’s think about the reality of it. What does “love in action” specifically look like in your daily routines back home - in your family, at your school, with your friends? What is one potential obstacle that could get in your way, and what is one thing you can do to hold yourself accountable?

Navigating the Journey Back to Everyday Life Returning to everyday life after a significant, transformative experience can be challenging and involve several distinct stages. Here are some common stages of reentry: 1. Exhaustion • You may feel physically and mentally drained upon returning. The excitement and energy of the experience might have depleted your reserves, and you may need time to rest and recover. You may also feel a sense of confusion as you adjust to your familiar surroundings and interactions. 2. Reliving • This stage involves reflecting on and processing the experience, often through looking at photos, videos, or journaling. You may also connect with others who shared the experience to relive moments and discuss insights. 3. Longing • As the initial excitement of being home fades, a sense of longing for the transformative experience and the connections made during that time may emerge. You might miss the feeling of community, personal growth, or escape from daily responsibilities. 4. Acceptance • Gradually, you begin to accept your return to normal life and find aspects of it that you missed and appreciate. You start to re-engage with your routine and reconnect with friends and family. 5. Integration • In this crucial stage, you integrate the lessons and insights gained from the transformative experience into your daily life. This might involve setting new goals, adopting new habits, or incorporating new perspectives into your interactions and decisions. Integration is an ongoing process of weaving the profound experience into the fabric of your everyday existence.

TIPS FOR A SMOOTHER RE-ENTRY • Be patient with yourself: Re-entry is a process, and it takes time to adjust. • Prioritize rest and self-care: Allow yourself time to recover physically and emotionally. • Connect with others: Share your experience with people who understand and support you. • Journal or reflect: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you process the experience. • Set small, attainable goals: Focus on integrating one new thing at a time. • Practice mindfulness: Engaging in mindfulness can help you stay present and grounded. • Embrace challenges as opportunities: View difficulties as chances for growth and learning. • Create a supportive routine: Establish habits that nurture your well-being. • Be open to change: Your transformative experience may have shifted your perspective and desires. • Seek professional support if needed: A coach or therapist can provide guidance and support during this transition.

Re-entry is a natural and important part of the journey after a transformative experience. By understanding the stages and implementing self-care strategies, you can navigate this transition with greater ease and integrate your newfound wisdom to live a more impactful life.

Additional post trip resources are available in the "Map Your Journey" section of this book starting on page 51

MY IMPACT STORY

My Impact Story Crafting a personal narrative starts with understanding who you are and where you're going. Identifying the impact that you want to have and reflecting on your experiences also help to shape your story.

Table of Contents My Impact Story ........................................................................................................ 42 Who I Was Before ..................................................................................................... 44 My Verse/ Theme .......................................................................................................45 My Impact Moment ...................................................................................................46 My Transformation ....................................................................................................47 My Commitment........................................................................................................ 48

Story

4. My Commitment After this journey, I am committed to being Love in Action by....

Them e

re se

3. My Transformation In that moment, the lie I let go of was…

In that moment, the truth I embraced was…

1. Who I Was Before

My hopes and emotions before this trip were…

2. My Impact Moment

My impact moment on this trip was.... Time: Place:

Event:

My emotions around this moment are:

Who I Was Before

Goal: To establish the starting point of your story.

What are your hopes and expectations for this trip? What do you think you are going to do or see?

What is one emotion you are feeling as you prepare to leave on this trip? (e.g. excitement, anxiety, curiosity, fear, anticipation, etc.)

In one sentence, what do you think “love in action” means at this moment?

My Verse/ Theme

Goal: To develop an active lens to ground, guide, and help you see your experience through His eyes. This isn’t about finding a “magic” verse, but about intentionally preparing your heart to listen.

Prayerfully ask God for a verse or theme to anchor you on this trip. As you think about this trip, what words, ideas, or desires keep surfacing in your mind? (e.g., “patience,” “listening,” “true service,” “letting go of control”).

Spend some time reading a portion of Scripture. You can read about the life of Jesus, a Psalm, or a letter from Paul. As you read, what single verse or short passage seems to stand out to you? Don’t overthink it; just notice what catches your heart.

My Verse/Theme:

Why this verse, for you, in this season? What truth about God or yourself does it highlight? How will you use this anchor on the trip? What will you ask God to help you see through this lens?

My Impact Moment

Goal: To identify the single most impactful event of the week. This is the heart of your story.

Close your eyes and think back over the week. What is the one moment you know you will never forget? It could be a conversation, something you saw, a feeling during serving, a moment of laughter, or a moment of struggle. Describe the scene: Time: When did this happen? (e.g., Day 3, serving on the work site) Place: Where were you? (e.g,. painting in the house you were repairing) Event: What was happening? Describe it with sensory (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch) Details. What did you hear? Who was there?

My Transformation - The Aha Moment Goal: To explain the internal change "My Impact Moment" caused.

In that specific moment, how did your perspective shift? What assumption or belief that you held was challenged?

What specific lie about God, yourself, or the world did you let go of in that moment?

What profound Truth took its place?

How did this moment draw you closer to God and give you a new way of seeing life?

My Commitment - Living the Story Forward Goal: To show how the story continues in your life back home.

Because of this transformation, what does “love in action” mean to you now?

How will you specifically practice this new understanding of love in your daily life (at home, at school, at work, with friends)? Give one concrete example.

This is your commitment to God and to yourself as you return home.

MAP YOUR JOURNEY

Map Your Journey You’ve just completed a life-changing experience. Your time in Abaco was more than a trip—it was a powerful experience of transformation, both for you and the people you served. As you return home, this section will help you reflect, process, and apply what you’ve learned, so the impact continues.

Table of Contents I - Immerse Yourself into Life at Home .................................................................. 52 M - Mission Continues .............................................................................................. 53 P - Personal Perspective Shift ................................................................................ 54 A - Action, Advocate, and Educate ........................................................................ 56 C - Challenge to Make Christ the Center ............................................................... 57 T - Transformation in Motion....................................................................................60 Bonus .......................................................................................................................... 61

Immerse Yourself into Life at Home

Week 1

And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.

Hebrews 12:2

What emotions are you feeling as you navigate back to everyday life?

Now that you are home, reflect on the impactful moments from the trip that changed your perspective or deepened your faith. Have some of these moments become stronger while others have faded in importance?

What insights from the Impact Trip are speaking loudly to you as you integrate back into life at home?

Reflection Exercise: List three things that have shifted in priority or have changed in value. Why?

Mission Continues

Week 2

Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always to the very end of the age.

Matthew 28:19-20 Your mission doesn’t end—it shifts. How will you continue serving God and others at home?

As you think about how your mission continues, what unique gifts, passions, or burdens has God placed on your heart that might be helpful in understanding the purpose God has called you to. (Think beyond your current roles.)

What fear or worry might be holding you back from fully embracing and acting on what you sense are your next steps?

Action Planning: 1. Identify one way you can serve your local community. 2. Set a goal for sharing your experience with others (e.g., presentation, blog, social media). You will likely have an opportunity to share as part of your team during a post trip recap. 3. Register for the next Many Hands People for Impact Monthly Connection Call. 4. Join the Many Hands People for Impact Facebook group to connect with other Impact Trip participants.

Personal Perspective Shift

Week 3

Compare and Contrast: Write down specific examples, feelings and observations comparing life in the U.S. to life in Abaco. U.S. Life

Abaco Life

What brings contentment/ satisfaction?

How do people interact with one another?

What creates a sense of security or belonging?

In what ways does our U.S. culture often push us towards individualism and what are the effects?

Where do you find genuine contentment in your U.S. life and how does it compare to what you observed in Abaco?

Personal Perspective Shift

Week 3

Exercise: Write a letter to your “pre-trip self”. What would you say now that you’ve experienced Abaco?

Do not store up for yourselves treasure on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Matthew 6:19-21

Action, Advocate, and Educate

Week 4

You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Matthew 5:14-16

Toolkit for Storytelling: High cost of living, high unemployment, food insecurity and lack of affordable, safe housing are critical daily challenges for many in Abaco. These struggles are most effectively communicated through stories. Sharing a story gives even the most diverse people a sense of community and belonging. God created us to be in community with one another, weaving us together as part of His story.

When telling a story, use this simple 4-part method. 1.

REFLECT on what has happened in the past. What is surfacing from your past that you believe needs to be told?

Then move to EXPECT, which means understanding your emotions around this story, your expectations in telling it, and your desires for others receiving the story. The clearer you can be in this section, the better you can frame your story.

Next, nail down the CONNECT section, which is truly the heart of the story. Understanding what has happened and having a clear picture of your desires for telling this story, you now can connect these two parts into something tangible for others. Target a 5 minute story, and remember, this is a gift to another person to be sensitive to their ability to stay focused. Don’t try to say everything, but focus on the one thing you want them to walk away with.

Lastly, be firm to COMMIT. Where will you tell this story? Which medium do you think is best to properly communicate the story to others (written, video, pictures, in-person)? Whatever you commit to, stick to it. People need to hear your authentic voice.1

Challenge: Using the framework from the storytelling toolkit, craft an impactful story from your life or from your Impact Trip, focusing on the message you want to convey. Remember, a well told story carries the power to help others on their faith journey.

Tim Brand, Standing on the Shoulders, A Legacy Story, A Father, a Son & LIfe’s Greatest Gifts, Tim Brand, 134.

Challenge to Make Christ the Center

Week 5

I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

John 15:5

Devotional: Spend 10 minutes daily for the next several days in prayer and Scripture centered around service, justice, and humility.

SERVICE Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. -Matthew 20:28 Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all. -Mark 9:35 You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. -Galatians 5:13 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ -Acts 20:35 Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. -1 John 3:18

Other passages on service: Philippians 2:3-4, 1 Peter 4:10, Acts 20:35, Matthew 25:35-40 As you read and reflect on the scriptures centered around service, what insights are revealed to you?

Reflecting on your time in Abaco, how did you see Jesus in the people you served? In your teammates? In your own heart?

Challenge to Make Christ the Center

Week 5

JUSTICE He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. -Micah 6:8 Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow. -Isaiah 1:17 To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice. -Proverbs 21:3

Other passages on justice: Amos 5:24, Psalm 82: 3-4, Deuteronomy 16:20; Jeremiah 22:3

In your daily life, where do you see opportunities to "act justly"?

What does this practically look like in your relationships, work, or community?

How can you learn more about specific injustices in your local community or globally that God might be calling you to engage with?

Challenge to Make Christ the Center

Week 5

HUMILTY Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. -1 Peter 5:6 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. -Proverbs 11:2 For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. -Matthew 23:12

Other passages on humility: Matthew 11:29, Philippians 2: 3-8, James 4:10

Where are you most likely to struggle with pride (e.g. achievements, opinions, abilities, appearance, status)?

Who in your life exemplifies true humility, and what can you learn from observing them?

How can you cultivate a more humble heart in your thoughts, words, and actions consistently?

Transformation in Motion

Week 6

Reflective Questions: Turn to your commitment to be Love in Action that you wrote in Abaco (page 42 or 48). Rewrite it here.

How are you doing at making lasting adjustments to your routine, priorities, and mindset?

What practical steps can you take to ensure that these changes are not just temporary but permanent and become incorporated into your daily life?

Your Commitment: • I commit to praying for _______________________ once a week. • I will give ______________________________(time, resources, voice) by ___________________________. • I will return to Abaco or engage in another mission trip by ___________________________. • I will stay connected to Many Hands by ___________________________.

Bonus Staying Connected: • Commit to attend three People for Impact Monthly Connection (Zoom Calls) • Plan to attend a Many Hands Impact Event • Plan a reunion outing for your Impact team • Attend a SENT class to learn God’s instruction for serving others • Select a book from the Impactful Books listed below and invite others to read it with you • Share your story – presentation, article, social media • Write a letter to invite someone to experience what you did on this journey • Set time aside to read your journal and look at pictures weekly to MAKE IT STICK • Volunteer with Many Hands • Sponsor a child or family • Follow Many Hands on social media and share your story and engage with others who have this shared experience

Final Thoughts: Transformation takes time, and your journey is just beginning. Let this Impact Workbook be a tool to keep your heart, mind, and mission focused on Christ—and on what matters most. “Never be the same” isn’t just a feeling—it’s a call to action.

Bonus Impactful Books: • Holy Moments by Matthew Kelly • Standing on the Shoulders: A Legacy Story of a Father, a Son, and Life’s Greatest Gifts by Tim Brand • The Hole in Our Gospel: What Does God Expect of Us? The Answer That Changed My Life and Might Just Change the World by Richard Sterns • When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor…and Yourself by Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbett • Radical: Taking Back Your Faith from the American Dream by David Platt • Lead Like Jesus Revisited: Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time by Ken Blanchard, Phil Hodges, & Phyllis Hendry • Gettin' (un)Busy: 5 Steps to Kill Busyness and Live with Purpose, Productivity, and Peace by Dr. Garland Vance • The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World by John Mark Comer • Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear • The Lighthouse Effect: How Ordinary People Can Have an Extraordinary Impact in the World by Steve Pemberton • Soundtracks: The Surprising Solution to Overthinking (Overcome Toxic Thought Patterns and Take Control of Your Mindset) by Jon Acuff • Winning the War in Your Mind: Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life by Craig Groeschel

Additional Resources:

The Bible Project

The Chosen

YouVersion Bible App

JOURNAL

Journal

Journal “The purpose of a storyteller is not to tell you how to think, but to give you questions to think upon.”

Brandon Sanderson, writer

Journal

“Stories create community, enable us to see through the eyes of other people, and open us to the claims of others.”

Peter Forbes, photographer & author

Journal

Journal “A well-told story is a gift to the reader/ listener/viewer because it teaches them how to confront their own discomforts.”

Shawn Coyne, The Story Grid

Journal “Inside each of us is a natural-born storyteller, waiting to be released."

Robin Moore, author

Journal

Our Mission

Transforming together, to be love in action, in a broken world.

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