Growing in faith, community and trust through IVEP

Editor’s note: Nour Abuamsha is a current IVEP participant from Palestine. She has been assigned as communications and community engagement intern with Eastern Mennonite Missions (EMM) in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Top photo: IVEP and SALT participants gathered during orientation in Akron, Pennsylvania, before heading to their assignments in August 2025. MCC photo/Brenda Burkholder
 

I have been searching for opportunities for growth and improvement, and IVEP has truly met this desire of my heart. Now, almost four months into my IVEP term, I can look back and see how deeply this experience has shaped me — spiritually, personally and professionally. Through IVEP, I have met many amazing people, learned new things about life in the U.S., and grown in character and faith. From the beginning, I felt welcomed with kindness, patience and understanding, which helped ease the transition into a new culture.

I am placed at EMM as a communications intern, a role that connects to my academic background. This placement has been a space of learning, creativity and grace. What inspires me most during my IVEP term is the reminder that growth does not have to be rushed. At my workplace, I am encouraged to see my role not only as a job, but as a learning journey. I am given time and space to experiment creatively, to ask questions and to explore areas I feel passionate about; for example, my supervisors encourage me to take time to learn about animation and experiment using an animation program. Moreover, being included in online conferences with my department has also helped me feel valued and reminded me that my voice and growth matter.

Beyond work, IVEP has been a meaningful journey for my faith. Through weekly chapel services, “Called” (a weekend retreat that helps attendees consider the call to ministry or a mission), and conversations with others, I have been reflecting more intentionally on God’s presence in my daily life. I am also planning to attend a “Kairos” course in March, which is a course for Christians at any point in their journey with God, guiding each participant into a biblical worldview. I see this as another opportunity to listen, learn and grow spiritually.

Like many IVEPers, I experienced homesickness after a few months in the program. There were moments when the distance from home felt heavy and unfamiliar. During those times, I was reminded that faith does not mean the absence of struggle, but the presence of trust. This experience has taught me to lean on God more deeply, especially when I feel uncertain. Even in moments of doubt, I have felt God’s quiet reassurance. In addition, I know that it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and I want to create meaningful memories from this experience.

Through IVEP, I also have the opportunity to live in a fellowship community with other young adults who are recent graduates and, like me, are navigating the next steps of life. Living together has been one of the most joyful parts of my experience. Whether we are sitting together in the living room, sharing stories or going out for small hangouts, these moments have created meaningful connections. One of my favorite memories was attending the Renaissance Faire together. It felt like stepping into a storybook, and it reminded me how joy and wonder can be found in shared experiences.

Another special part of my journey has been the intentional creativity encouraged by my supervisor at work. Once a week, we take time during lunch for an activity such as making small crafts or participating in reflective check-ins. These moments may seem simple, but they have taught me that creativity can be a form of reflection, connection and gratitude. They remind me that each person is uniquely created and brings something valuable to the community based on their own journey and background.

My host parents have also been a blessing in this journey. Through activities such as attending a Handel’s “Messiah” concert during Christmas and visiting a farm show, they have helped make Lancaster feel like home. Their hospitality has been a living example of God’s love expressed through care and generosity.

I am deeply thankful for my fellow IVEPers and SALTers, who became friends early on. One of my most impactful experiences with my fellow IVEPers was attending an MCC peace camp, where we learned about peace, justice, forgiveness and reconciliation. What began with nervousness turned into a time of growth, deep conversations and lasting friendships.

Finally, I am grateful for the MCC staff and coordinators who walk alongside us with care. Through IVEP, I am learning that God often works through community, and that even in unfamiliar places, God is faithfully present.