The second site I volunteered & photographed along side the Ignacio Volunteers was Bethlehem Home. When I first arrived, I heard tons of stories about this place & how it was many volunteers favorite site, being how it truly gave meaning to serving others. I didn’t know what to expect, other than knowing that Bethlehem Home is a sanctuary & safe haven for disabled children in Kingston, Jamaica. The little time I spent there along side the brothers & other local volunteers once again made me realize how fortunate we are. Not only that, but how much selflessness there is in the world. Bethlehem House is administered by the Missionaries of the Poor. They receive no government funding…let me repeat…NO GOVERNMENT FUNDING. Much of it relies greatly on volunteers, donations of funds and items needed for the kids. The brothers there dedicate their lives to serving these kids, as they unable to do the basic needs of everyday life. Every single day they get up; to bathe them, put diapers on them, put clothes on, feed them, brush their teeth, all while doing it freely, expecting nothing in return. Seriously I can’t even put into words how much of an inspiration these guys are. To give up your whole life for the service of others & not once hesitate about it. I could go on & on but you can read more about Missionaries of the Poor here, where you can learn more & donate.
Bethlehem Home was humbling, inspirational, & grabbed me by my heart strings. All these kids want is your love & affection. I’m blessed to have served along side my fellow volunteers & hope to get back to Bethlehem Home again some day.
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” ― Mahatma Gandhi
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“Love is not patronizing and charity isn’t about pity, it is about love. Charity and love are the same — with charity you give love, so don’t just give money but reach out your hand instead.”
― Mother Teresa
Jesus is true love manifested in human form.