My Best Life in Jewelry
MY HEART IN ZIMBABWE: REFLECTIONS FROM AN UNFORGETTABLE MISSIONS TRIP
Published: Oct 8, 2025
One of our very own, Judy Pertet of Van Scoy Jewelers, recently embarked on a life-changing missions’ trip to Zimbabwe. Below, she shares her powerful experience.
I recently returned from an unforgettable missions’ trip to Zimbabwe, and it’s difficult to fully express just how impactful the experience was. After a long 15-hour flight, our team of nine arrived filled with anticipation, excitement, and open hearts—ready for whatever lay ahead.
One of the most meaningful parts of the trip was the opportunity to minister to the incredible children we met. Their joy, warmth, and sweet spirits were contagious. We had the privilege of leading children’s ministry—laughing, singing, teaching, and simply pouring love into them. Despite having so little in terms of material possessions, their genuine smiles and happiness were a powerful reminder that true joy isn’t found in things, but in the heart.
We also had the opportunity to hold school assemblies and take to the streets for ministry, boldly and compassionately sharing the love of Jesus. The hunger for connection and truth was so evident everywhere we went. It was incredibly humbling to witness—and be part of—what God was doing in those moments.
One of the highlights of the trip was helping to start two new churches. This is a huge step in brining lasting change to these communities. We made many new friends along the way and completely fell in love with the culture, the people, and their deep sense of community.
And yes, we even had a chance to soak in the beauty of God’s creation with a safari adventure, where I got to fee the elephants up close something I will never forget.
This trip opened my eyes in so many ways. Zimbabwe may not have much in terms of material wealth, but the people are rich in joy, generosity, and love. They showed me that happiness isn’t about what you have, but how you live and love. I came to serve, but I left feeling like I received far more than I gave. A trip of a lifetime.
I recently returned from an unforgettable missions’ trip to Zimbabwe, and it’s difficult to fully express just how impactful the experience was. After a long 15-hour flight, our team of nine arrived filled with anticipation, excitement, and open hearts—ready for whatever lay ahead.
One of the most meaningful parts of the trip was the opportunity to minister to the incredible children we met. Their joy, warmth, and sweet spirits were contagious. We had the privilege of leading children’s ministry—laughing, singing, teaching, and simply pouring love into them. Despite having so little in terms of material possessions, their genuine smiles and happiness were a powerful reminder that true joy isn’t found in things, but in the heart.
We also had the opportunity to hold school assemblies and take to the streets for ministry, boldly and compassionately sharing the love of Jesus. The hunger for connection and truth was so evident everywhere we went. It was incredibly humbling to witness—and be part of—what God was doing in those moments.
One of the highlights of the trip was helping to start two new churches. This is a huge step in brining lasting change to these communities. We made many new friends along the way and completely fell in love with the culture, the people, and their deep sense of community.
And yes, we even had a chance to soak in the beauty of God’s creation with a safari adventure, where I got to fee the elephants up close something I will never forget.
This trip opened my eyes in so many ways. Zimbabwe may not have much in terms of material wealth, but the people are rich in joy, generosity, and love. They showed me that happiness isn’t about what you have, but how you live and love. I came to serve, but I left feeling like I received far more than I gave. A trip of a lifetime.