In February, 11 people traveled to Nicaragua, handed out hundreds of Bibles, handed out 275 medical packs, conducted sewing classes, and led 34 people to Christ. In June, even more are going and they will reach out to the people of this impoverished nation in many ways.

Joe Travis, who will be making his sixteenth trip to Nicaragua, said their main goal is to evangelize in the name of Jesus, but they also do many ministries while there.

During the trip in June, Travis said they will be conducting services and doing evangelism while also having medical and dental clinics, offering hair cuts, and giving away glasses, Bibles, clothing, food and more.

In order to help cover the costs of the many things they take to Nicaragua, the Baptist Medical Dental Mission International (BMDMI) Russellville team will hold their annual auction and singing this weekend.

“This is our big fundraiser,” Travis said.

The auction and singing are Saturday, March 6 at 5 p.m. at Logan County High School. The Challengers from Logan County and Still Water from Hopkinsville will be singing and Brent Summers will be the auctioneer. Soup, chili, chips, desserts and drinks will be served. Many items will be auctioned, including a UK quilt and a country ham.

All proceeds from the evening go toward the purchase of Bibles, medical and dental supplies, shipping costs and needs of the mission team.

The mission trip will take place June 12 through 19 and will be to the village of El Higueral in Nicaragua. Travis said they have about 40 team members so far and will take more. They could use another preacher on the trip as there is only one signed up to go right now.

While in Nicaragua, the team stays busy distributing materials, offering medical and dental help, and conducting worship services.

Travis said many on the team have been on the trip before, but others are going for the first time.

“It’s an eye opener,” he said of going to Nicaragua.

“If anyone is interested in serving Jesus, this is a great opportunity to do that,” Travis said. “Or even if you just want to see a third-world country and help out.”

Travis said the singing and auction is always a great evening and they hope many people come out to support them.

For more info on the trip or the fundraiser, call Travis at 539-4604 or email him at jltravis@logantele.com.