This winter, OCP will be sending a group of students to Israel for a student leadership conference. They will be learning about leadership, as well as doing some sightseeing. Last year, some of the same students also attended a leadership trip to Germany. These trips are offered through a company called Global Next, which is an Christian organization run by Dr. Phil Johnson dedicated to teaching leadership skills to young people. Last year, during the Germany trip he taught our students life skills and how to build a better life. This year, he is focusing on middle eastern history, Jewish conflict, and the impact of various views of Biblical prophecy.
Being selected to represent OCP for this trip is an honor. Students had to meet academic qualifications (3.5 GPA or higher) as well as have no disciplinary write-ups. Students then had to submit a minimum 500 word essay explaining who influenced them to be a leader in life and how that affects them. The students had their essays reviewed by Mrs. Jacobson and Mrs. Millett, who then narrowed down the students who would be invited.
Sophomore Jacob Brommer, who will be a first-timer on an OCP leadership trip, commented he was extremely excited to partake in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel to another country, and added that he has always wanted to see the western wall in Jerusalem. Jacob is hoping to learn more about Israel's history and learn new ways to lead in his community and make a positive impact. He is grateful for Global Next and Dr. Phil Johnson, as well as OCP, for giving him this great opportunity.
Junior Megan Soucie, who attended the trip to Germany and is also attending the Israel trip this year, commented that she was grateful for the Germany trip, where she learned about her strengths and passions. She also learned a lot of the history of Germany that she had not previously known. Regarding the upcoming trip, she says she is excited to walk where Jesus walked when he was on Earth, as well as to float in the Dead Sea. She also added she is excited to learn more about the Israeli culture, and as far as leadership aspects such as how to communicate better with people and relate to them on a more personal level. Megan would like to thank Mrs. Jacobson, Global Next, and anyone donates money or buys popcorn to support the trip.
Overall, the students attending the trip are very excited and grateful for the opportunity to experience another country and learn new leadership skills that can be applied to their lives. They are thankful to God, Global Next, and anyone involved in the process of sending them to Israel. Our students still need our help, however. They each have to raise about $3,200, so we encourage all Warriors to pitch in and help out. The students attending the trip are currently selling gourmet popcorn, and they also appreciate donations of any amount. This is a great time to show Warrior spirit in giving to a great cause! Let’s also support them with prayer: that they’ll raise the money they need, have a great experience, and safe travels. Go Warriors!
