At the end of January, North Hills Christian School returned to Costa Rica for the third consecutive year to serve alongside Rice and Beans Ministries, continuing a partnership rooted in long-term gospel impact. A team of ten, six students and four adult leaders, traveled to serve local communities through Vacation Bible School, food distribution, and prayer.

Rice and Beans Ministries has been faithfully serving in Costa Rica for nearly 20 years, ministering year-round in the same communities. This consistent presence allows mission teams to join an ongoing work rather than a temporary project, reinforcing trust and relationships already established.
“Our desire is not just to expose students to missions and the world, but to invite them into what God is already doing, putting the school’s mission into practice by impacting the world for Christ,” said Ray Carter, Spiritual Life Director at NHCS. “Rice and Beans doesn’t just visit communities, they walk with them year-round. That consistency shows our students what faithful, gospel-centered ministry truly looks like.”

Each mission day followed a purposeful rhythm. Mornings were spent in local communities hosting Vacation Bible School programs, reaching upwards of 90 children across two different neighborhoods. Through Bible lessons, worship, games, and crafts, students shared the message of Christ in joyful and relational ways.
Senior, Sarah Barringer noted, “Seeing the kids’ excitement and joy made me realize how little it takes to make an impact. They were so happy just to be loved and noticed.”

In the afternoons, the team packed and delivered food bags to families in impoverished neighborhoods. These bags had been decorated and prayed over by NHCS lower school students before the trip, creating a powerful connection between campuses and communities. The food served as a tangible expression of care and a doorway to prayer and gospel conversations with families in their homes. “Food opens doors,” Carter explained. “But the gospel is always the goal. These moments, praying with families, listening to their stories, are where students see their faith come alive.”

For many students, the trip proved deeply transformative. Several shared how the experience reshaped their perspective on joy, contentment, and faith.
“I thought we were going there to bless others,” Senior, Layla Bush said. “But I realized we were the ones being blessed. Their joy didn’t depend on what they had, and that really challenged me.”

This year also marked the second consecutive mission trip for mother and daughter Michelle and London Droddy. Michelle, a physical education instructor and coach at NHCS, returned to Costa Rica alongside her daughter to continue building relationships formed during last year’s visit. “Coming back a second time allowed us to see the lasting impact of this ministry,” said Michelle Droddy, physical education instructor and coach at North Hills. “Watching London reconnect with people she met last year reminded me that these trips are about relationships, not just service projects.” London, a senior, shared how meaningful those reunions were to her.
“Getting to see the two sisters again was unforgettable,” London said. “They remembered me and were so happy to see us. It showed me that this isn’t just a one-time trip; what we do here really matters.” As North Hills Christian School reflects on its third year serving alongside Rice and Beans Ministries, the impact continues to reach far beyond the trip itself, shaping students’ hearts, strengthening their faith, and reminding the entire school community that the gospel is lived out through humble service and enduring relationships.