Panama Mission Trip Report
Stephen Szymanski
Thank you to everyone who supported our mission trip to Panama, financially and prayerfully. Because of your generosity and intercession, we were able to be neighbors to those who needed to experience love and kindness, and to partner with Youth With A Mission (YWAM) and their incredible ministry.
After over 24 hours of travel, we arrived safely in David, Panama, ready to see how God would move. Our journey began with anticipation and was covered in your prayers. Throughout the week, we saw God’s hand in powerful ways. The mission wasn’t about us bringing hope - it was about witnessing how God is already working in places we least expect.
There were countless moments: families in the hills of Potrerillos Arriba living in shacks but radiating joy and rootedness in their land and faith; a man who spoke of finally feeling “shalom” in Panama compared to his past in Pennsylvania; and stories from Discipleship Training School students who gave us fresh perspective on surrender and faith.
One highlight was visiting Dr. Daniel Daves and his superfood farm - a vision for sustainability and a model for gospel-centered stewardship of land and life. His story reminded us that missions aren’t just about people, but about communities and ecosystems rooted in God’s provision. Another unforgettable part was our time evangelizing in the city of David. Before heading downtown, we visited a bus terminal, bringing pizza to a family, and the Spirit highlighted and encouraged people with reminders of Jesus’ love. When local police asked us to stop, we took it as a confirmation to go where we had felt God leading earlier in prayer: downtown.
We saw the fruit of obedience. On our second day there, the Holy Spirit moved powerfully. We didn’t come with an agenda - only open hearts and willing hands. And God met us, and the people, right where they were. We heard stories of heartbreak, war trauma, and helplessness - but in every conversation, we offered prayer, a hug, and a listening ear.
We didn’t stop when the sun went down. At night, we walked the streets again, this time to feed and pray with the homeless. Even though fewer words were exchanged, the pain in their eyes and the gratitude in their responses spoke volumes. Sometimes, being present was enough. And God was there.
An additional highlight for our team, especially in anticipation of Hillside’s upcoming VBS, was being able to host a VBS for local kids. Due to nationwide protests, many schools had closed, so we were thankful to provide consistency, community, and the love of Christ. We were amazed by the biblical knowledge these kids already had, which made it even more joyful and rich.
Before we close, we want to share some favorite moments from our team:
Rae
One theme has remained constant: God truly loves us as His kids. On Wednesday at 4 AM, we said it would be amazing to have a day in the city. That night, due to delays, He gave us just that. We wanted to swim - then, days later, we swam in a massive river with local pastors. We were sad to lose a ministry day, then another flight issue gave us one more. Over and over, He provided.
Brooke
One of my favorite moments was playing with the kids, making them laugh and smile. After seeing their homes - dirt floors, tarps for walls - bringing them joy meant everything to me.
Essie
I loved meeting amazing people and growing in faith with them. Building lasting relationships with believers has been a blessing!
Brent
My favorite part was connecting with the CAC church in David - a church on fire for God! We heard their story, prayed over their land, and swam together in the river. God brought it all together.
Kenny
I loved how fluid our team was. Everyone was in tune with the Holy Spirit and willing to pivot. We became more than friends - we became family. Watching each person grow and lean into God’s purpose was incredible.
Stephen
It’s hard to choose. Even before we left, I felt God would challenge me - and He did. We hosted VBS, visited homes, prayed with the homeless, and shared life. But the most memorable part? Seeing the beauty of His creation and His presence in people’s stories. Every hard thing, every stretch - it was for His glory.
We want to leave you with a conviction the Holy Spirit laid on our hearts:
Jesus didn’t end the Gospel of Matthew with a motivational quote or a gentle nudge. He gave a command - the Great Commission, not the Great Suggestion.
If you’re waiting for a sign to get involved in missions, this is it. The Great Commission isn’t just for those who preach on Sundays or lead ministries. It’s for the accountant, the teacher, the teenager, the single mom, the college student, and the retiree. If you belong to Jesus, this is your job description.
The best part? It doesn’t have to happen overseas. It can happen over coffee, at work, or in your own neighborhood. It’s about waking up and saying, “Lord, where do You want me to go today?”
Friends, the world is broken, searching, aching for truth. And we carry the hope of Christ. No more sidelines. The command is clear, the Spirit goes with us, and the world is waiting. God bless - and I hope to see you with me in Panama next year.
As the Father has sent me, I am sending you. - John 20:21