Jamaica
Mission Trips
As we close out the rest of Mustard Seed Communities’ 2025 building season, we reflect on the incredible legacy that this strong cohort of volunteers continues to grow each year.
Since welcoming our first mission volunteers to Jamaica in 1993, a strong foundation of friendship and service has taken root. Building teams are made up of skilled individuals who return time and again to lend their talents, many hailing from Kentucky, Ohio, Georgia, and Rhode Island. Whether in carpentry, plumbing, landscaping, or electrical work, these volunteers play a vital role in shaping our campuses into safe and expansive homes.
We are proud to share these accomplishments from the second half of 2025’s building season…
Accessible Pathways at Jacob’s Ladder
At Jacob’s Ladder, the Saint Andrew the Apostle Builders poured 200 feet of fresh concrete, forming a safe and sturdy pathway that now connects residents directly to CarePlus, a multi-purpose center for activities and community connection. The Greenwell team also worked on sidewalks around the campus, leveling 100 feet of uneven surfaces to create a smoother, more accessible route for wheelchairs.
Transforming Ephesus Village
Saint Jude and Bob’s Builders worked to improve living spaces at Ephesus Village, home to over 50 children from Haiti. The Saint Jude team installed metal roofing, laid floor tiles, painted interiors, ran electrical wiring, built shelving, repaired plumbing, and updated lighting. Bob’s Builders installed metal roofing along with reflective insulation to help regulate temperatures indoors.
Shady Walkways at Blessed Assurance
Building on the work of previous teams, the Whalen team completed metal roofing on a newly constructed covered walkway at Blessed Assurance. The addition ensures residents now have a shaded and dry path for moving between buildings, rain or shine.
A Beautiful Gathering Space for Jerusalem
The Jerusalem gazebo received a stunning and functional makeover this season. The Haught/Rose team installed a tile floor in a stunning cross pattern, which was finished by Team Jehn. Later, the Greenwell team added ceiling fans and lighting, transforming the space into a cool, well-lit spot for gathering and reflection.
Jerusalem Bathroom Renovations
To improve hygiene and comfort for residents, teams Haught/Rose and Jehn worked on much-needed bathroom upgrades at Jerusalem. They tiled showers, installed a new changing table, and refreshed the floors—making the space safer, cleaner, and more accessible.
The fun continued for the builders and MSC Jamaica community!
Throughout the season, everyone enjoyed activities that sent laughter across the mountains, including…
Bingo and Talent Show
From cheering at the talent show to strategizing through bingo, teams and residents bonded over simple joys.
Crafting Lasting Memories
The Saint Andrew the Apostle Builders added a personal touch to the week by helping residents design picture frames and print cherished photos, turning memories into lasting keepsakes.
Staff Appreciation, KFC Style
In a delicious gesture of gratitude, the builders treated the dedicated Jacob’s Ladder staff to a KFC lunch, celebrating their hard work with good food and great company.
The MUSTard SEEd Market Makes a Comeback
Bob’s Builders brought back the beloved “MUSTard SEEd Market,” a play on the words “Must-See Market,” where residents explored lots of goods and enjoyed the freedom to choose their favorite things. The women of Bob’s Builders also brought along plenty of yarn to spread their knitting knowledge!
Tradition of Thank You Thursday Mass
As always, each mission trip week winds down on a meaningful note with Thank You Thursday Mass at Jacob’s Ladder. Many builders cherish this time for reflection, gratitude, and celebration.
To all the volunteers who gave their time, talents, and heart:
Your impact goes far beyond the physical work. You’ve helped lay a foundation for hope, dignity, and connection that will last for years to come. Congratulations on a building season well done!