Amy Biko: Embracing Mission and Faith on the AYP Journey

Amy Biko: Hi, my name is Amy Biko, and I’m a newly minted special education teacher and seasonal young professional from Frisco, Texas. I have a passion for missions, dating back to my first mission trip in 2010 with non-Adventists. When I learned about AYP and its community of young Adventist professionals, I was eager to grow spiritually. I initially wanted to join the Los Angeles mission trip but couldn’t due to my teaching schedule. This year, with permission, I seized the opportunity to serve in Miami and deepen my faith.

Amy Biko: The most impactful moment for me was during our outreach event in the Echard SDA community in North Miami. As we distributed tracts and conducted surveys around the church, I was struck by the warmth and openness of the neighborhood residents. Their receptiveness reminded me of the power of community and reaffirmed my commitment to sharing God’s love through missions.

Amy Biko: The morning devotionals played a significant role in strengthening my faith. Each day, we gathered as a team, sharing scriptures and words of encouragement. This experience grounded me, especially after a challenging school year. Hearing familiar scriptures and receiving encouragement from my teammates reinforced my belief that God is with me through every trial.

Amy Biko: This mission trip taught me the importance of embracing trials as opportunities for spiritual growth. Just as our devotionals discussed trials and tribulations as exercises for our faith, I now see challenges as opportunities for God to strengthen me. As I return to teaching next year, I plan to approach difficulties with renewed faith and resilience.

Amy Biko: If you’re considering joining an AYP mission trip, I encourage you to follow your heart and the leading of the Lord. This experience has been incredibly rewarding and has deepened my faith in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Don’t hesitate—step out in faith and experience the joy of serving others through missions.