Amazing-Part 2

The first test:
The struggle started Saturday night at a schueduled prayer service. From 11:30p-1:00a, members of the church gather to pray. This is done commual (everyone at once) and in tougues. As many of our group, myself included, were not accustom to such styles, the service appear caotic and sometimes scary. A sence of uneasiness had settled over the entire team and many looks were exchanged during the service. At one point, a team member felt compelled to step out and we chatted on the steps about the verses on speaking in tougues.

After such an intense experience the team needed time to process, but suddenly we found ourselves being driven downtown. Earlier we had discussed partnering with some Canadian missionares in town to serve coffee and tea to thoes getting out of the pubs and clubs, but nothing had been finalized, until we found ourselves in the midst of it. We were able to start some conversations, but the whole night had made much of the team edgy. As I made conversation with thoes that were around, I was unawear that some members were feeling the imediate need to leave. Jes told me later that she wanted to get out of there and did not like me being so close to the youth that were out. Jeremy had one youth tell him numerous times that we should get his friends out of there. Strangly this echoed what another man said to me. We left with much tension and haste; Riley leading the way and Jeremy protecting the girls.

That night I had Jes fill me in on what everyone else was feeling. I felt comfortable being downtown, but apparently I was the only one. The whole night left us uneasy and we stayed up until 4a talking and praying.

The next morning, as a team we decided to call our leaders and ask for wisdom on the situation. They were able to meet with us and the meeting resolved on a positive note. They listened to our worries and gave us a new perspective. It was during this meeting that I realized how much like the body of Christ we were; so united.

So much for our first few hours in Cavan. Thankfully we had a day off on Monday.

Dublin: Say it to me now!
The team took the bus into Dublin for a day of relaxation and sight seeing. Here are some highlights:

Scene from the film Once

Dublin Castle

Love Wins

Let the work begin: So what did you do?
Our morning were spent doing a kid's club for the local community. The number were not large, but the attention was specialized. We taught a lesson, did a craft and sang songs. Waves of Mercy proved a crowd favorite. My specialties included leading the games, and tag teaming with Riley to teach the lessons. Jeremy played his guitar and Ilona, Erika, and Jes made sure the kids felt comfortable and included.

Lord I Life Your Name on High

Riley speaking on 'Does Jesus Really Care'
We used the story of Jesus sleeping in the midst of the storm.
His disciples might not have thought Jesus cared, but Jesus was always in control.
Jesus cares for you even when you don't think he's listening.

Jes taught the kids to make oragami boats.

Friday, I told the story of the paraletic man and Erika assisted with this visual aid.

Friday=Balloon Day

Two of my favorite children, Rachel and Chelsea.

After the lesson on Friday, Riley asked the kids if they had a Bible. When no said hey had, we were able to make sure every kid got one. They began to run to each of us and asked us to find the stories we had taught them that week. Later on Saturday as we played in a nearby park, one of the kids ran home to grad her new Bible. This is one of my favorite memories.

Friday night our team also hosted the youth group. Now I should preface this by saying the youth at Hosanna House are amazing. We had interacted with them throughout the week and their love of Jesus shines. We talked to them about making missions part of your life and not something you do in another country. We split the group into small groups and had them discuss practical ways they could serve, support, and share their story. I had the privilege of steering the discussion for the night and I truly feel that this is part of what I was created to do. I love to facilitate. Everyone seemed to have a great time. I know I did.

I passed out the stack of Love Wins stickers after the discussion

We also partnered with the Canadian missionaries for an event at the rugby club. We played capture the flag (I had a shining moment of victory!), sang songs, made balloon animals, and painted faces. It gave the kids in the community a chance to get out of the house in the summertime and have something to do.


There's still more to come on the people we met and those that touched our hearts. Also some thoughts on the prayers that were answered. Stay tuned.