Spiritual Formation | 12/13/2025 8:01:00 AM

Written by: Liza Corso and Neeley Giessinger

Our trip started bright and early as we left campus at 4:15 a.m. Despite the early hour, the group was full of joy and excitement for what was to come. God's protection was with us throughout our travels, especially with a tight connection and a bag that was left behind. We arrived in San Salvador and were greeted by the 90-degree weather and the warmth of the SII staff (Sports Impact International). They welcomed us with open arms, and their love for God and for our team was felt immediately.
 
During the drive from the airport to our hotel, Humberto shared about an amazing encounter he had with God and spoke about the power of listening and acting on God's call to serve. While waiting at the hotel before heading to the SII offices, I (Neeley) had the opportunity to sit with Humberto and catch up since the last time I saw him. His humble wisdom and complete dependence on the Lord were both an encouragement and a challenge to my own faith. He shared that having faith isn't about our circumstances, but rather about the ability to see God in every season.
 
We then headed to the SII offices and were reminded once again that while we come to serve the SII staff, they are constantly looking for ways to serve us. When we arrived, they had a birthday celebration set up for Andy—happy birthday, Andy!!
 
At the offices, we split into two groups: one group helped teach an English class, while the other prepared food baskets for families that SII sponsors in the community. In the English class, we broke into small groups and had conversations with students so they could practice their English. I (Liza) had a conversation with a man named Alejandro, who was learning English to better prepare himself for a job. Through half English, half Spanish, and lots of laughter, we were able to learn about each other and our families. It was eye-opening to hear how learning English can open so many doors for people in El Salvador and to see an example of how God breaks through language barriers.
 
We also listened to the testimony of a man named Stanley, who went through the SII English program while simultaneously learning about the gospel. He shared how much of a blessing it was to learn English for free through the support of Humberto and his staff, as well as the life-changing power of the gospel.
 
Downstairs, another group worked on making baskets for the sponsored families, packing items such as beans, milk, rice, cereal, and other essentials. After finishing, we unpacked Lipscomb gear and sorted it into bags.
 
Even after a long day of travel, this group has shown passion and genuine excitement for what's to come this week. We look forward to the many memories ahead!