Sharing Hope in New Orleans

This summer, Abby is serving in New Orleans through GenSend, a six-week North American Mission Board experience that places college students in cities across North America. The goal is simple: live in the city, serve its people, and learn how to share the gospel through everyday relationships.

For Abby, the decision to go came from a growing burden. “God has placed a burden on my heart for people who are often overlooked or forgotten,” she says.

New Orleans is full of life! There is music in the streets, cultural celebrations, and several rich traditions. But underneath the energy, Abby sees something else.

“Behind the vibrant colors and fun-filled events, there’s a lot of darkness and hurt,” she says. With nearly 2,000 people experiencing homelessness in the city, she senses the need not just for physical help, but for spiritual hope.

She carries Isaiah 58:10 with her as a reminder of her purpose: “If you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness.” 

For Abby, that’s more than a verse...it’s a way of life.

Not every moment is dramatic. Much of Abby’s day involves walking the streets, making conversation, and joining local ministries that serve people in practical ways. But she believes deeply that every small act matters.

“I feel called to bring light into those dark places, not with judgment, but with the compassion and truth of Jesus,” she says.

In a city where noise never stops, Abby is learning to slow down. She keeps thinking about how Jesus ministered. “Jesus always stopped for one,” she says. That example shapes how she serves: never in a rush, never overlooking the person in front of her.

Abby’s desire is to be a peaceful presence in the middle of constant motion. “New Orleans is filled with lots of noise, all day, every day,” she says. “I feel called to be a quiet voice of peace and to carry His presence with me everywhere I go.”

She believes that breakthrough can begin with something simple like being seen and being heard. Her goal is not to do something big, but to stay faithful in small moments.

As Abby continues through her summer with GenSend, she’s learning that ministry often looks like availability, attention, and compassion. She’s not trying to solve every problem. She’s showing up, listening well, and trusting God to work through each conversation.

How You Can Support 

Pray for Abby and the GenSend team as they continue to serve this summer. 

Give to help support students stepping into cities with the gospel. 

Go by exploring a GenSend opportunity yourself or sharing it with someone who may be called.

Abby’s story is still unfolding. But already, she is seeing that the gospel moves forward not just through programs or events, but through presence—one person, one moment at a time.