Can You Take Pictures at My Wedding?

My time at Agape Development has been filled with beautiful learning opportunities and relationships. 

At the beginning of the year, I was able to attend the women's retreat and had a blast getting to know the those from the neighborhood. Although I take the hour-long (if I'm lucky) commute from Fifth Ward to Third Ward, working here has made me feel like I'm a part of the community. At the core of what the organization believes, I've seen (and learned) that Christian Community Development happens first by building intentional relationships and working alongside those in the neighborhood to bring about change. In order to build these relationships, all the staff live within a 5-mile radius from the office, which is unique to this organization. This has created opportunities for staff and neighbors to have holistic relationships. 

Kirk and Amanda Craig (Executive Director/Founders of Agape Development) and their kids. Kirk and Amanda have been a great example and source of support this year as I navigate through my second year with Mission Year. 

I know I've learned a lot of spiritual and professional lessons this year and it's been a gift to do it in a space that is grace-filled and supportive of my leadership formation. Throughout the year, I've gotten to know neighbors who have come to Agape Development and speak so highly of the impact that this community has had on their lives. 

One of those people is Ava. Ava told me the other day with tears in her eyes that she doesn't know what she would do without Agape Development. The relationships she's experienced are authentic and challenge her to be a better mother, wife, and community member.

About a month ago, Ava asked me to take pictures for her wedding. I hesitated. Every chance I had, I wanted to remind her that I am no where close to calling myself a photographer. She kept insisting and reassuring me that she doesn't care and just wants someone who can capture as many pictures of her day as possible. I hesitantly agreed and humbly chose to take this as a learning opportunity. 

David Hill (Program Director and Pastor, and pro-Gardener) officiated the wedding at the garden.

The wedding was held at Agape Development's community garden and the main area of the office was transformed into a reception hall. It was beautiful to be interacting with co-workers (and friends) and neighbors on a weekend and for a special moment for Ava and Terri's lives. I learned a lot (I mean A LOT) about using a camera (I've been borrowing one of my generous housemate's camera) and capturing sweet moments. I had to take a zillion photos just to get a few really good ones. I learned that it is hard and a gift to learn be "invisible" and out of the way while taking pictures.

I stepped out of my comfort zone big time...and what I'll remember about this day is not the pictures that I took, but more so the lessons of community, relationships, service, and love that I've learned at Agape Development.

This is Jessie, the Women's Ministry/Young Adult something, at Agape Development. When we're in the office together, we barely get any work done and talk about funny moments from Jimmy Fallon (#hashtag). She's so great at what she does and her heart and passion to love people and share God's love for them is beautiful....and I thought this was a beautiful picture. #longestcaptionever

Celebrating with cake to wrap up the evening at Agape Development.