Liberty Students Serve in the Dominican Republic

A group of 13 Liberty University students enjoyed 10 days in the Dominican Republic and experienced both the luxury of the country and its immediate need for service. 

The trip was sponsored by the families of senior Ike Monestina and senior Samuel Leon. Monestina’s father, Rafael Monestina, owns a school in the Dominican Republic while Leon’s father is associated with an orphanage in the area.  

The tour — which began on March 7 — balanced extravagant excursions with purposeful engagement. Students cruised on yachts across baby blue seas, strolled through tropical settings and relaxed in luxurious mansions. But amidst the moments of extravagance, they immersed themselves in an equally opposing world by touring children’s homes and connecting with local impoverished communities. 

“The Dominican Republic was incredible, but what struck me the most was the people,” senior Camden Etter said. “One day we’d be on a yacht, and the next day we’d be kicking a ball with kids who had maybe only one shoe.” 

The students went on several recreational excursions, including riding ATVs through dense rainforests, snorkeling in crystal clear waters and sampling authentic Dominican cuisine at upscale resorts. But it wasn’t all fun in the sun; it was also an educational foray into the lives of the destitute. 

As students visited nearby orphanages, they came with gifts in hand, played with children, provided love and attention and shared the gospel. Simultaneously, they were able to conduct small acts of service by painting houses and providing useful materials to the communities. 

“For many of us, this was an eye-opener,” said junior Micheal Hendricks. “We saw extremes of poverty and extremes of wealth in one day. It helped us understand what is most important.” 

The group, made up of students from various majors, soaked up the entire range of experiences the Dominican Republic had to offer. 

Rafael Monestina explained why they decided to invite a group of students to visit the country by opening up their homes.  

“… Jesus taught us that the Christian life is meant to be lived in community,” Monestina said.  

When the students came back to campus, they held on to enduring stories of bonding, trust and respect for the things the Lord had opened their eyes to. 

“This experience wasn’t about having a good time — it changed us,” Etter said. “We came back different people.” 

Rising is a news reporter for the Liberty Champion.