we are awaiting our next flight in the London airport which should leave in about 2 hrs. we are looking forward to seeing you all soon and sharing our exciting stories with you. See you all in about 14 hrs!!!
A
Friday, July 11, 2008
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Last Day
Good morning everyone! This is Becky writing. It's 7:30 on Thursday morning and the sun is rising here over the coastal town of Muizenberg. Later today we plan to go to the refugee camp and hand out our pillows, sleeping bags and coats. After that we're packing and heading home.
It feels weird to know that I'll be home so soon even though most of you that are reading this are thousands of miles away right now. Not that I don't want the comforts of home, but I would rather just stay here. Anyway, please pray for safe and smooth journeying.
Now let me tell you what we've been doing the past couple of days. On Monday morning after the last blog we headed for the farming community. I imagined we would be spending the day playing in the rain and sleeping in a muddy shanty. I'm really glad my assumptions are wrong so often. We came to the Community Center, which is a pretty big building with a stage and curtains in the front. We hung out with the kids there--played basketball, soccer, rugby, and even taught them how to play American football.
That evening, we had a little service where we invited the kids to ask Jesus into their hearts--out of the fifty or so that had come, only a couple knew him. Several times during the songs you could tell they wanted to accept him, but they were too afraid. But God was still working. A handful of the kids accepted Christ and I believe that very significant seeds were planted into their hearts. Our hostess told us that this was the first time missionaries weren't too busy to play with the kids, serving them through something so simple.
That night we spent the night in two cabins on a vineyard property. Our car alarm went off at about four, so loud that it sounded like a siren. The next morning again we played with the kids and left the place for Worcester at about one-twenty. We picked up our iPods there and ran off for Muizenberg.
On the way there, we passed an enormous shanty town stretching for a couple of miles that held about a million people. We also passed the Indian ocean. We couldn't get in because we were cold, we were in a hurry, and there was threat of sharks which nature freaks probably know about.
When we got to the YWAM we unpacked and explored. This place is amazing--it seems like it was a ritzy hotel in the early 1900's. That night we showered, played cards and ate candy.
The next morning, Wednesday, we were told that it was going to be our fun day, and it was awesome. We went to two markets in Capetown and a lot of people from our group went broke there. We drove towards Worcester after that but weren't told why. We stopped for lunch at Wimpy's the fast-food restaraunt (a big thing here, Dad) and that's where we learned we were going on a safari.
How can I describe it except to say very happily that it was a magnificent trip? We saw wildebeest, lions, rhinos, ostriches, springbok, and I know I'm missing some. It was a very interesting combination, though, to watch lions prowling around and then look up and see snow on the mountains so close by. About halfway through, our touring truck got stuck in the mud so we hopped out. It was raining and almost at freezing temperature, but we still had a great time. After that we had pizza at the Worcester mall and drove back to Muizenberg.
That's just a brief description of everything, but I have to finish up now.
I feel like I've learned so much during my stay here, but it's not really something I can write down. God is in this place, and he is working. There are so many broken things here--hearts and homes and lives, and I can't say we've fixed it all but we've made an impact on many. Keep praying for the people here, that God would bless them and use them and love them.
It feels weird to know that I'll be home so soon even though most of you that are reading this are thousands of miles away right now. Not that I don't want the comforts of home, but I would rather just stay here. Anyway, please pray for safe and smooth journeying.
Now let me tell you what we've been doing the past couple of days. On Monday morning after the last blog we headed for the farming community. I imagined we would be spending the day playing in the rain and sleeping in a muddy shanty. I'm really glad my assumptions are wrong so often. We came to the Community Center, which is a pretty big building with a stage and curtains in the front. We hung out with the kids there--played basketball, soccer, rugby, and even taught them how to play American football.
That evening, we had a little service where we invited the kids to ask Jesus into their hearts--out of the fifty or so that had come, only a couple knew him. Several times during the songs you could tell they wanted to accept him, but they were too afraid. But God was still working. A handful of the kids accepted Christ and I believe that very significant seeds were planted into their hearts. Our hostess told us that this was the first time missionaries weren't too busy to play with the kids, serving them through something so simple.
That night we spent the night in two cabins on a vineyard property. Our car alarm went off at about four, so loud that it sounded like a siren. The next morning again we played with the kids and left the place for Worcester at about one-twenty. We picked up our iPods there and ran off for Muizenberg.
On the way there, we passed an enormous shanty town stretching for a couple of miles that held about a million people. We also passed the Indian ocean. We couldn't get in because we were cold, we were in a hurry, and there was threat of sharks which nature freaks probably know about.
When we got to the YWAM we unpacked and explored. This place is amazing--it seems like it was a ritzy hotel in the early 1900's. That night we showered, played cards and ate candy.
The next morning, Wednesday, we were told that it was going to be our fun day, and it was awesome. We went to two markets in Capetown and a lot of people from our group went broke there. We drove towards Worcester after that but weren't told why. We stopped for lunch at Wimpy's the fast-food restaraunt (a big thing here, Dad) and that's where we learned we were going on a safari.
How can I describe it except to say very happily that it was a magnificent trip? We saw wildebeest, lions, rhinos, ostriches, springbok, and I know I'm missing some. It was a very interesting combination, though, to watch lions prowling around and then look up and see snow on the mountains so close by. About halfway through, our touring truck got stuck in the mud so we hopped out. It was raining and almost at freezing temperature, but we still had a great time. After that we had pizza at the Worcester mall and drove back to Muizenberg.
That's just a brief description of everything, but I have to finish up now.
I feel like I've learned so much during my stay here, but it's not really something I can write down. God is in this place, and he is working. There are so many broken things here--hearts and homes and lives, and I can't say we've fixed it all but we've made an impact on many. Keep praying for the people here, that God would bless them and use them and love them.
Coming Home
Hey parents I know that an email has gone around about the pick up and we would love to suggest that all parents meet us at the church. We are very much looking forward to seeing you all please keep us in your prayers as we fly tomorrow. It has been a privalage to be a part of your students lives these past almost 3 weeks. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
A
A
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Blog...Mattye Earle
So just as a side note, I will not be able to remember all our experiences and have so many more stories to tell. So I am completely in shock right about now. I didn't exactly expect anything that we have been through. First off I'd like to say that I am making Allen take us back here next year. Thats an order. So I was on the VBC team so that means we get to cordinate and plan crafts, games, activities, lessons, skits, puppet shows etc. and that also means that we got to be around the kids for four days pretty much all day. The kids were completely grateful and absolutely LOVED that we were there and playing with them. Although there was a bit of a communication barrier, I really felt like I connected with them and they responded to every bit of it. I absolutely loved seeing the children so happy and seeing something different about them that we don't always see in the states, and that seemed to be a genuine happiness and gratefulness and the presence of the Lord. Some of the children spoke English so they could translate for those who could only speak Afrikaans or Zorosa (spelling..?). On Friday we had to say goodbye to our children which was the hardest, most heart wrenching experience. I told myself all throughout the week that I wouldn't cry and that my children wouldn't mind us leaving. But Friday. I lost it, our kids chased after the combi's yelling and waving. Then they would ask "Tomorrow?" and we would have to say "No" and their faces dropped. A couple of the English-speaking children would say "Then I will see you in heaven" or "See ya in America!". We clearly impacted those kids' lives and I cannot wait to come back.
I have grown so much in the Lord and am as close as ever to Him. As a team we have grown together and are a little too close. I love everything about this mission so far (haha, so far..) and am so stoked in the Lord and all His works I see. Seeing the people of People's Church (where the band played worship and Allen spoke) worship and love the Lord shocked me, I don't think I've ever seen a body in the Lord worship the way they do. So enthusiastically and reverent to the Lord, I was simply overwhelmed.
We are leaving today (Monday morning) for the farm in Mousinburg (spelling..?). There we will be ministering to young teens living there, then we will leave there tomorrow.
I also can't wait to come home and share Gods works and all our experiences and show the change in us. This is a mission I will never forget.
Thank You all for praying as we can feel Gods presence and your support!!
Love you guys!
~Mattye
I have grown so much in the Lord and am as close as ever to Him. As a team we have grown together and are a little too close. I love everything about this mission so far (haha, so far..) and am so stoked in the Lord and all His works I see. Seeing the people of People's Church (where the band played worship and Allen spoke) worship and love the Lord shocked me, I don't think I've ever seen a body in the Lord worship the way they do. So enthusiastically and reverent to the Lord, I was simply overwhelmed.
We are leaving today (Monday morning) for the farm in Mousinburg (spelling..?). There we will be ministering to young teens living there, then we will leave there tomorrow.
I also can't wait to come home and share Gods works and all our experiences and show the change in us. This is a mission I will never forget.
Thank You all for praying as we can feel Gods presence and your support!!
Love you guys!
~Mattye
Flights coming home!
Cape Town to London Heathrow
Thursday, 10 July 2008
Departure: 8:15 PM
Arrival:06:50 AM +1 day(s)
Airline: British Airways BA058
Change of plane required. Time between flights = 4:35
London Heathrow to San Franscico
Friday, 11 July 2008
Departure:11:25 AM
Arrival: 2:15 PM
Airline: British Airways BA285
Arrival at SCBC at ~ 4:30pm/ will call when we leave the airport!
Thursday, 10 July 2008
Departure: 8:15 PM
Arrival:06:50 AM +1 day(s)
Airline: British Airways BA058
Change of plane required. Time between flights = 4:35
London Heathrow to San Franscico
Friday, 11 July 2008
Departure:11:25 AM
Arrival: 2:15 PM
Airline: British Airways BA285
Arrival at SCBC at ~ 4:30pm/ will call when we leave the airport!
***NEWS UPDATE***
With regards to our decision to move to Robertson:
Robertson is small rural community about 40 minutes from here. Some time back, the base received a request to minister to their youth on a farm up there. Their youth had little direction, as this was the basis for their request.
With us being here, we were the perfect (and only) opportunity to meet this request since issued. Please understand that my context here on the ground is much different than yours back home.
Our decision to move to Robertson adds ZERO risk or danger to our current mission. If anything, Robertson is a safer context than here in Worcester. The YWAM team we've been ministering with, will be with us in Robertson.
Now having spent sometime here in S. Africa, I feel much more at ease about ministry here (as you should). I would much rather have my own daughter walk the mall here in Worcester than the mall in Santa Cruz any day of the week.
All emergency contact numbers remain the same, and as always, I have my cell phone on me which works here.
Please pray for us, as we will only be in Robertson for a day. This is not much time to reach the hearts of their youth. Our hope is that God will pour His annointing on this divine appointment.
-Allen
Robertson is small rural community about 40 minutes from here. Some time back, the base received a request to minister to their youth on a farm up there. Their youth had little direction, as this was the basis for their request.
With us being here, we were the perfect (and only) opportunity to meet this request since issued. Please understand that my context here on the ground is much different than yours back home.
Our decision to move to Robertson adds ZERO risk or danger to our current mission. If anything, Robertson is a safer context than here in Worcester. The YWAM team we've been ministering with, will be with us in Robertson.
Now having spent sometime here in S. Africa, I feel much more at ease about ministry here (as you should). I would much rather have my own daughter walk the mall here in Worcester than the mall in Santa Cruz any day of the week.
All emergency contact numbers remain the same, and as always, I have my cell phone on me which works here.
Please pray for us, as we will only be in Robertson for a day. This is not much time to reach the hearts of their youth. Our hope is that God will pour His annointing on this divine appointment.
-Allen
Felicia by Tiffany Eiriksson
The first day we went to Avion Park a girl named Felicia glued herself to my side. Everyday for both the morning work on the field and the afternoon VBS she was always with me. There were a handful of other children that spent a lot of time with me as well, but none as much as Felicia. At first she would try to fight off other children who she considered to be competition for my affection and attention- pushing them away and getting mad at them. But I would tell her not to be mean to them and gave them love too, but making sure to pay her attention as well. She would often play with my ring that I wear. It has a cross in the center of a heart on it and I explained to her that it represented how I have Jesus Christ in my heart. The next day she showed up with a ring on the same finger that I wear mine on. The second to the last day of the VBS we sat down after singing a song and there was a boy named Gereldo in front of me who was too short to see over the other childrens heads. Felicia would always sit in my lap every chance she got, but this time she had just sat close beside me and I pulled Gereldo into my lap so that he could sit higher and be able to see. Then later we got up for another song, and when we sat back down Felicia picked up Gereldo and sat him into my lap! This was just one of many examples of the change that Felicia had gone through over the coarse of the week and it was such an encouragement to get to see that change in her!
It was very hard when we had to say goodbye to the children on Friday. There were many crying faces, including mine. But when we left I gave Felicia a bible that I keep in my purse and I just pray that she will treasure it as much as I treasure her because although we went to be a blessing to those children, they were a blessing to us.
I also really feel like God has been stretching me and growing me. Everytime that we have gone into a hospital I feel uneasy not knowing how I am going to be able to help and feeling like whatever I do is going to be uneffective, but God gives me the words to say or the love to pour out and a way to put a smile on someones face and I leave thinking "wow, I didnt think that was possible" and trusting God more because of it.
I thank all of you at home praying for us and want you to know that your prayers are working, because God is doing wonderful things. And you should all be proud of these students- I am. I feel very blessed to get to be here with them and seeing the Lord use them, and them stepping up and just blowing my mind. Every once in a while I just stop what I am doing so I can just watch THEM, they have been so bold, so loving, so completely amazing. All you parents are very lucky to have such great kids.
Mom and Dad I love you! Hope everything is well. See you in about 6 days!~Tiff
It was very hard when we had to say goodbye to the children on Friday. There were many crying faces, including mine. But when we left I gave Felicia a bible that I keep in my purse and I just pray that she will treasure it as much as I treasure her because although we went to be a blessing to those children, they were a blessing to us.
I also really feel like God has been stretching me and growing me. Everytime that we have gone into a hospital I feel uneasy not knowing how I am going to be able to help and feeling like whatever I do is going to be uneffective, but God gives me the words to say or the love to pour out and a way to put a smile on someones face and I leave thinking "wow, I didnt think that was possible" and trusting God more because of it.
I thank all of you at home praying for us and want you to know that your prayers are working, because God is doing wonderful things. And you should all be proud of these students- I am. I feel very blessed to get to be here with them and seeing the Lord use them, and them stepping up and just blowing my mind. Every once in a while I just stop what I am doing so I can just watch THEM, they have been so bold, so loving, so completely amazing. All you parents are very lucky to have such great kids.
Mom and Dad I love you! Hope everything is well. See you in about 6 days!~Tiff
My Day By: Garrett Ifland
Hey guys,
Hope you're all doing great! I've been having a great time over the last week with all the different ministries we've been doing for the people here.
This morning was a bit of a typical Sunday for us. Myself and the rest of the worship team woke up a bit earlier than the rest in order to get over to the church that we've been attending for the duration of our stay. Our team led the worship for this morning and Allen delivered the message. It was a great morning with them and they were so greatful to have us there. Pastor Paul, the head hancho at their church, asked us to come back again in the future.
After leaving the church we came back and started packing up our stuff, doing laundry, etc. At about six, we left and had dinner at a place called Dros. I ate Schnitzel! ...I think that's how it's spelled. After that we came back and have just been hanging out. It's about 9:15 over here right now... so you guys are probably just getting lunch.
The time that we have spent here has really been amazing for me. The people here are more receptive of the gospel and of our presence than any others that I have met. It is such a different culture here, and it's hard as an American to get past the world views that our own culture places on us. Even though everything around us is so different, I'm amazed at how similar the people are to us.
A few days ago Greg came and told us that there was a farm community about 45 minutes outside of Worcester that had specifically requested a team from YWAM to come and minister to their children and teens. The leaders wanted to get our input on whether we should follow the original plan or go to the farm so they talked with us, and we all prayed and unanimously decided that it was what we needed to do. So, as of tomorrow morning we will be leaving the base for the next and last three days of our ministry.
I can't wait to see and talk to all of you guys, and I miss you all... and I miss tacos. =]
Well, the guys are going to try to sneak out now and have man night... Need to escape the estrogen!!
I love all of you,
Garrett
Hope you're all doing great! I've been having a great time over the last week with all the different ministries we've been doing for the people here.
This morning was a bit of a typical Sunday for us. Myself and the rest of the worship team woke up a bit earlier than the rest in order to get over to the church that we've been attending for the duration of our stay. Our team led the worship for this morning and Allen delivered the message. It was a great morning with them and they were so greatful to have us there. Pastor Paul, the head hancho at their church, asked us to come back again in the future.
After leaving the church we came back and started packing up our stuff, doing laundry, etc. At about six, we left and had dinner at a place called Dros. I ate Schnitzel! ...I think that's how it's spelled. After that we came back and have just been hanging out. It's about 9:15 over here right now... so you guys are probably just getting lunch.
The time that we have spent here has really been amazing for me. The people here are more receptive of the gospel and of our presence than any others that I have met. It is such a different culture here, and it's hard as an American to get past the world views that our own culture places on us. Even though everything around us is so different, I'm amazed at how similar the people are to us.
A few days ago Greg came and told us that there was a farm community about 45 minutes outside of Worcester that had specifically requested a team from YWAM to come and minister to their children and teens. The leaders wanted to get our input on whether we should follow the original plan or go to the farm so they talked with us, and we all prayed and unanimously decided that it was what we needed to do. So, as of tomorrow morning we will be leaving the base for the next and last three days of our ministry.
I can't wait to see and talk to all of you guys, and I miss you all... and I miss tacos. =]
Well, the guys are going to try to sneak out now and have man night... Need to escape the estrogen!!
I love all of you,
Garrett
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Dentist Appt. needed(By: Tyler Hurst)
Wow I can't believe we are closing in on the end of our trip. I want to let all the parents know that if they have a student on this trip they should be very proud of them. The students have been doing a great job at all of our ministry sites. I have been very impressed with them. The band has been doing great dispite both Garrett and Carly almost losing their voices. VBS team has finally finished and did a great job adapting to the suprising number of kids and haveing to deal with the rain. The hospitals have been intense to see, but the team has done a great job with them.
The stuff we have seen during ministry has stunned me at points. For example a week or so we were at this Hospital and Allen and I watched a family greive at the loss of their mother and baby sister. Today we returned to that hospital and in the room that was once filled with sadness their was a mother and her now healthy child. When I saw that today I wondered if that mother new the pain that had been in that room only a week before.
So far I think the highlight of the trip for me has been the work we did on a soccer field just outside of this shanky town. we leveled the field and put up goal posts for a large group of kids in the community. As we started working the kids were just watching us, but as we came and went they started to realize what we were doing and seemed to want to be a part of it so they joined us and began helping us dig and level. It was as if the work gave them some sort of purpose for a time and maybe a sence of pride in their community.
The only thing I can ask is that you pray for rest, and health as the work gets hard, the nights get short, and the rain comes in. See you soon
Peace out
Ps Mom I chipped my tooth, so please make a dentist appt. for a couple of days after I get back.
The stuff we have seen during ministry has stunned me at points. For example a week or so we were at this Hospital and Allen and I watched a family greive at the loss of their mother and baby sister. Today we returned to that hospital and in the room that was once filled with sadness their was a mother and her now healthy child. When I saw that today I wondered if that mother new the pain that had been in that room only a week before.
So far I think the highlight of the trip for me has been the work we did on a soccer field just outside of this shanky town. we leveled the field and put up goal posts for a large group of kids in the community. As we started working the kids were just watching us, but as we came and went they started to realize what we were doing and seemed to want to be a part of it so they joined us and began helping us dig and level. It was as if the work gave them some sort of purpose for a time and maybe a sence of pride in their community.
The only thing I can ask is that you pray for rest, and health as the work gets hard, the nights get short, and the rain comes in. See you soon
Peace out
Ps Mom I chipped my tooth, so please make a dentist appt. for a couple of days after I get back.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Wow, we've done so much!
Hello from South Africa!
Wow, south Africa is definitely not what I was picturing it to be like. The weather is quite cold in the morning, but in the afternoon it warms up. At the current moment it is breakfast time and I am sitting with a large jacket on and a warm Benni, trying to type this.
Yesterday was a great day of ministry. In the morning, about 10:30, we arrived at the park/Field we had been working on for the last couple days. The day before we had set the goals (6" PVC pipe) in cement. So when we showed up, they were nice and dry. The last thing we had to do, was to fill the pipes with concrete. Now picture this, about 5 guys and 2 girls tyring to pour wet cement from a 5 gallon bucket into a 6" inch pipe that was sticking in the ground 10 feet into the air.... Can you picture that? (I really wish I could attach a picture, it was quite entertaining. Ha ha) Well after the first couple tries we found we were counting the outside of the pipe more the filling the inside. We had to find an easier way to do this, we had 4 more pipes to fill! Taking one of the buckets, we cut a hole in the bottom and placed it over the pipe. It kinda worked as a funnel which made it much easier to fill the pipes. After finishing filling it was great to play a game of soccer with the kids and see them enjoying their new soccer field.
I am part of the outreach/worship team, and I just want to say that we have had the privilege of doing some great events. Last Saturday we did a concert for a youth group at a church. Sunday, Brandon and I were invited to join their churches worship team on the bongos an percussion. Then every day this week we have been playing songs for the kids at VBS. The YWAM base asked us if we would lead worship for their community night, so last night we did that. Then tonight we will being doing some more worship for the youth group of the church I was talking about for the 4th of July party that they are doing for us. And we will also be leading worship this Sunday at the church. Wow, I just kinda scared myself.... we've still got alot ahead of us!
Alright, I have to go. I have been on this computer too long already. I hope every one is doing well!!! See you soon!
-Tim
Wow, south Africa is definitely not what I was picturing it to be like. The weather is quite cold in the morning, but in the afternoon it warms up. At the current moment it is breakfast time and I am sitting with a large jacket on and a warm Benni, trying to type this.
Yesterday was a great day of ministry. In the morning, about 10:30, we arrived at the park/Field we had been working on for the last couple days. The day before we had set the goals (6" PVC pipe) in cement. So when we showed up, they were nice and dry. The last thing we had to do, was to fill the pipes with concrete. Now picture this, about 5 guys and 2 girls tyring to pour wet cement from a 5 gallon bucket into a 6" inch pipe that was sticking in the ground 10 feet into the air.... Can you picture that? (I really wish I could attach a picture, it was quite entertaining. Ha ha) Well after the first couple tries we found we were counting the outside of the pipe more the filling the inside. We had to find an easier way to do this, we had 4 more pipes to fill! Taking one of the buckets, we cut a hole in the bottom and placed it over the pipe. It kinda worked as a funnel which made it much easier to fill the pipes. After finishing filling it was great to play a game of soccer with the kids and see them enjoying their new soccer field.
I am part of the outreach/worship team, and I just want to say that we have had the privilege of doing some great events. Last Saturday we did a concert for a youth group at a church. Sunday, Brandon and I were invited to join their churches worship team on the bongos an percussion. Then every day this week we have been playing songs for the kids at VBS. The YWAM base asked us if we would lead worship for their community night, so last night we did that. Then tonight we will being doing some more worship for the youth group of the church I was talking about for the 4th of July party that they are doing for us. And we will also be leading worship this Sunday at the church. Wow, I just kinda scared myself.... we've still got alot ahead of us!
Alright, I have to go. I have been on this computer too long already. I hope every one is doing well!!! See you soon!
-Tim
Mom, can I bring a kid or two home with me? (by Caitlin Taylor)
This morning after breakfast we read Philippians 2 for our devotional. It was encouraging, yet at the same time challenging. Paul challenged the church at Philippi to "do everything without complaining or arguing." Today, that was what motivated us to forget how sore we are from holding kids or shoveling or building, and to remember that we are called to "shine like stars".
We returned to the same field that has hopefully been mentioned in previous blogs to finish putting in goalposts. While five or six people worked on that, the rest of us played with the innumerable children fighting for our attention. I love having so many people to play with. We san songs like "A-roos-ta-sha" and "Boom-chicka-boom" and had piggy-back races. At one point I had four or five girls playing wih my hair, three sitting on my lap, and who knows how many boys running around me in circles. A few days ago this situation would have intimidated me, but now I just smile and start singing some random camp song.
When we came back for VBC, it was starting to look stormy, so we played outside for a little while and then went inside the church for the actual program. Lindsey and Meghan did an awesome job of keeping things organized and moving. The band is also amazing, but pray for them to not lose their voices. Becky, Kristin and I did a puppet skit, and then everyone made gospel bead bracelets. It never actually rained, so we went back outside to play for a little while longer. There are a few girls that I've been hanging out with for the past few days, and one of them, named Junitha, gave me a big sloppy kiss on the cheek.
We came back, started planning for tomorrow's Fourth of July celebration, and ate dinner. Soon we'll go over to Glory Hall for YWAM's community worship night.
Every time we say goodbye to the kids they all have their arms wrapped around and we're being pulled in every direction. The feeling is similar to being caught in a riptide at the beach, just a lot more loving. I wonder what it will be like tomorrow, when we say our final goodbye until heaven.
God has taught me a lot about love and self-sacrifice so far this trip. I don't know a whole lot about what others have been learning, but I can assure you that your support, financially or prayerfully, has not been wasted.
See you in a week,
Caitlin : )
We returned to the same field that has hopefully been mentioned in previous blogs to finish putting in goalposts. While five or six people worked on that, the rest of us played with the innumerable children fighting for our attention. I love having so many people to play with. We san songs like "A-roos-ta-sha" and "Boom-chicka-boom" and had piggy-back races. At one point I had four or five girls playing wih my hair, three sitting on my lap, and who knows how many boys running around me in circles. A few days ago this situation would have intimidated me, but now I just smile and start singing some random camp song.
When we came back for VBC, it was starting to look stormy, so we played outside for a little while and then went inside the church for the actual program. Lindsey and Meghan did an awesome job of keeping things organized and moving. The band is also amazing, but pray for them to not lose their voices. Becky, Kristin and I did a puppet skit, and then everyone made gospel bead bracelets. It never actually rained, so we went back outside to play for a little while longer. There are a few girls that I've been hanging out with for the past few days, and one of them, named Junitha, gave me a big sloppy kiss on the cheek.
We came back, started planning for tomorrow's Fourth of July celebration, and ate dinner. Soon we'll go over to Glory Hall for YWAM's community worship night.
Every time we say goodbye to the kids they all have their arms wrapped around and we're being pulled in every direction. The feeling is similar to being caught in a riptide at the beach, just a lot more loving. I wonder what it will be like tomorrow, when we say our final goodbye until heaven.
God has taught me a lot about love and self-sacrifice so far this trip. I don't know a whole lot about what others have been learning, but I can assure you that your support, financially or prayerfully, has not been wasted.
See you in a week,
Caitlin : )
The Difference - Daniel Halverson
South Africa is a different country. The government fancies itself to be first world, although in many ways it is just as third world as Mexico. There are mile (sorry, kilometer) long slums around every major city, and just like in India the government has the right to move or deport them anywhere it wants anywhere in the nation. Trash is everywhere. Many people don't really care wheather or not they just dump trash on the sidewalk. They don't really see a problem with it - after all, it's just one more bit of trash.
We've been helping to create a level soccer/rugby field here for the past few days, and it's coming along beautifully. Two days ago when we were packing up to leave for the night, I saw a young boy pushing a small toy truck along the ground. I didn't really notice anything odd about it until I realized that the two rear wheels were worn halfway down til they were semi-circles. So, that got me thinking: In America, if a kid's toy was worn down like that, it would simply be thrown away into a landfill where some green politician would attempt to pass an expensive bill to make toys more bio-degradable. Here, no one cares. I have only once seen a pair of parents watching thier kid(s) play with us. The parents simply tell thier kids to be back by dusk and assume that they will do anything else needed to survive here. Meanwhile the parents walk miles to get a single bundle of firewood or a peice of scrap metal that can be melted down for selling.
As I sit here typing this blog, I am filled with an oftentimes overwhelming sense of shame and guilt that people are actually allowed to live like this. Our team comes in here like paladins of light, crusading into here for the good of the poor South African. It takes courage to see the slums and shantytowns and not to cringe with horror at the living conditions of these people. One thing I do not want to do is to come back home and not be changed. It's often so easy after these trips to go back and realign myself with my old lifestyle and to forget the many things that happened while I was down here. The difference between changing things and being changed by things is to realize the difference. The numb-er you get to the rest of the world, the more the rest of the world is your world.
We've been helping to create a level soccer/rugby field here for the past few days, and it's coming along beautifully. Two days ago when we were packing up to leave for the night, I saw a young boy pushing a small toy truck along the ground. I didn't really notice anything odd about it until I realized that the two rear wheels were worn halfway down til they were semi-circles. So, that got me thinking: In America, if a kid's toy was worn down like that, it would simply be thrown away into a landfill where some green politician would attempt to pass an expensive bill to make toys more bio-degradable. Here, no one cares. I have only once seen a pair of parents watching thier kid(s) play with us. The parents simply tell thier kids to be back by dusk and assume that they will do anything else needed to survive here. Meanwhile the parents walk miles to get a single bundle of firewood or a peice of scrap metal that can be melted down for selling.
As I sit here typing this blog, I am filled with an oftentimes overwhelming sense of shame and guilt that people are actually allowed to live like this. Our team comes in here like paladins of light, crusading into here for the good of the poor South African. It takes courage to see the slums and shantytowns and not to cringe with horror at the living conditions of these people. One thing I do not want to do is to come back home and not be changed. It's often so easy after these trips to go back and realign myself with my old lifestyle and to forget the many things that happened while I was down here. The difference between changing things and being changed by things is to realize the difference. The numb-er you get to the rest of the world, the more the rest of the world is your world.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Ruined for the Ordinary by Lindsay
7/2/08
Another long day, and another early morning. Yesterday was our busiest day. We woke up at the normal time, grabbed some breakfest and then headed out on the field. We have been doing some things here and there; Sunday School, Youth Group, and one hospital trip, but yesterday really tested us. After breakfest, we went to a township where we will be making a roof to cover between one lady's house and a metal shipping container that 50-80 kids will sleep in at night. This convering will give the kids a place to play and protection from the elements. Another project that we are doing in that area is cleaning and leveling a field for the kids to play on. Sounds simple. Not really. You have to know the contition and the need for these kids. Broken glass-everywhere, and most are barefoot. Huge rocks stuck halfway in the ground. Holes and valleys-perfect for twisting an ankle. This is all they have, and they love it. A few soccer balls, bur their favorite one is completely flat with a hole the size of a tennis ball. They stick their hand into the hole to expand the ball all the way. But does that really matter? This is all they have and they have so much joy. We spent all morning there, playing (including the girls playing with and braiding our hair), working, loving them, and then came back to the base for lunch.
Heading back to the township, everyone was looking forward to seeing their new friend again. We were going to start our VBC program today and I know that I was very excited. We were expecting maybe 40-60 kids, but here you learn not to expect anything. One girl was with me constantly, Edwenia, and she was constantly holding my hand. The kids here respond more to physical touch than anything else. They get almost nothing from their parents. We did several songs, a craft and face paint. We ran out of the craft due to the fact that we were expecting so mant kids. Instead of having 40-60 kids, we have about 100-150 kids. All on the first day, and they say it will double each day-for four days. That's a lot of kids!
We're tired. We're cold. We're sore. We're still going strong no matter how we feel.
It's not to us, but to His name. Be the glory.
He is the hope of nations, and mighy to save.
Love ya'll!
Lindsay
(P.S. Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad!)
Another long day, and another early morning. Yesterday was our busiest day. We woke up at the normal time, grabbed some breakfest and then headed out on the field. We have been doing some things here and there; Sunday School, Youth Group, and one hospital trip, but yesterday really tested us. After breakfest, we went to a township where we will be making a roof to cover between one lady's house and a metal shipping container that 50-80 kids will sleep in at night. This convering will give the kids a place to play and protection from the elements. Another project that we are doing in that area is cleaning and leveling a field for the kids to play on. Sounds simple. Not really. You have to know the contition and the need for these kids. Broken glass-everywhere, and most are barefoot. Huge rocks stuck halfway in the ground. Holes and valleys-perfect for twisting an ankle. This is all they have, and they love it. A few soccer balls, bur their favorite one is completely flat with a hole the size of a tennis ball. They stick their hand into the hole to expand the ball all the way. But does that really matter? This is all they have and they have so much joy. We spent all morning there, playing (including the girls playing with and braiding our hair), working, loving them, and then came back to the base for lunch.
Heading back to the township, everyone was looking forward to seeing their new friend again. We were going to start our VBC program today and I know that I was very excited. We were expecting maybe 40-60 kids, but here you learn not to expect anything. One girl was with me constantly, Edwenia, and she was constantly holding my hand. The kids here respond more to physical touch than anything else. They get almost nothing from their parents. We did several songs, a craft and face paint. We ran out of the craft due to the fact that we were expecting so mant kids. Instead of having 40-60 kids, we have about 100-150 kids. All on the first day, and they say it will double each day-for four days. That's a lot of kids!
We're tired. We're cold. We're sore. We're still going strong no matter how we feel.
It's not to us, but to His name. Be the glory.
He is the hope of nations, and mighy to save.
Love ya'll!
Lindsay
(P.S. Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad!)
Amazingness!-kristin hayes
Hey everyone! This whole experience has already been so amazing. I thought it was going to be freezing here, but there has actually been some really warm days. Basically the weather is really confusing. The food is fine and yes I am having a great sleep each night. Today, we went to a village and started to help level and create a field where the kids could play on. As soon as we started working the kids flocked to us. They were so excited to help move rocks and pick up trash. Sometimes all they wanted was a hug. Just something so simple like a hug brought smiles to there faces. After we ate lunch (chicken nugget type sandwhich things) we went to do VBC at a church in the same village we were at earlir that day. I think we were only expecting about 75 kids, but about 150 showed up. God is so amazing. I played with the kids and they enjoyed playing with my hair. Many of them did not know what to call my hair color (BLONDE) and they found it so amusing. There was this one girl (who was about five) who would not let go of me and She would not let me out of her sight. It seemed like she did not get very much attention at home and all she wanted was to be loved. I am so glad God put her in my life.
After the VBC, I went back to help work on the field we were working at earlier that morning. I was able to get a little work done before I was swarmed by kids. Before we got back in the Van to go "home", I was surrounded by girls and boys wanting one last hug from me. When we were able to finally get into the van and stared going down the rode, the kids chased after the van, blowing us kissing and waving. I t was neat to see how much they appreciated us spending time with them and how much more time they wanted to spend with us. God works in amazing ways and is already changing my life. I better stop writing or else I might write a whole story. Love you mom, dad, and carter. Parents: Don't worry.....everyone is alive and fine.(maybe a little tired, but we're good). Thank you so much for your prayers. I have already seen God touch so many people's lives. SO thank you so much. See everyone when we get back....which is in I don't know how many more days.:-)
After the VBC, I went back to help work on the field we were working at earlier that morning. I was able to get a little work done before I was swarmed by kids. Before we got back in the Van to go "home", I was surrounded by girls and boys wanting one last hug from me. When we were able to finally get into the van and stared going down the rode, the kids chased after the van, blowing us kissing and waving. I t was neat to see how much they appreciated us spending time with them and how much more time they wanted to spend with us. God works in amazing ways and is already changing my life. I better stop writing or else I might write a whole story. Love you mom, dad, and carter. Parents: Don't worry.....everyone is alive and fine.(maybe a little tired, but we're good). Thank you so much for your prayers. I have already seen God touch so many people's lives. SO thank you so much. See everyone when we get back....which is in I don't know how many more days.:-)
Hair Styling by Amy
Hi everyone! Ok so today we went and helped level out a field and build a roof for a daycare center place. There were many children there all very excited to help out. Being the get builder and land leveler that I am, I played with the kids. :) The kids were very sweet and excited to play with anyone! In fact most of the time I was sitting on the ground and 3 or so girls and a few boys would be playing with my hair and kissing it. I did help dig out some rocks and use them to make a line and it was so cool to see how happy kids were to dig for rocks. I think we did a pretty good job there considering there was glass and trash everywhere when we first got there. Then after lunch we headed over to a church near the field we were clearing earlier in the day. That was a lot of fun because when we first got there we, the band people, were practing a few songs to sing and there was a very young boy there who came over and started singing with us. I think it is so neat to see how even in a place were kids walk around barefoot on glass and have barely anything to eat each day, can still sing joyfully to God. I dont think I mentioned before that we were doing VBC at the church. Anyway once children started coming to the church it was sweet to see that many of them were ones we saw earlier that day! I sat down with a few girls and also instantly they started braiding my hair and this time at least 5 were playing with my hair and a few were singing songs with me. I also got a chance to rap with a little boy, I dont think they liked it very much or they thought it was really funny. I think it went something like this, "I like swiss cheese on my toast in the morning! It taste so good and makes me really happy!". The day was very tiring and took a lot of energy out of us, but it was most definitely worth it! Tomorrow we are doing some similar things and maybe even going to the hospital again! Hi mom and dad. I hi sam and stevers hope you dont miss me too much!!!! Thanks for your prayers everyone!
Monday, June 30, 2008
Today's blog 6/30/08
This morning:
- We woke up at the usuall time from 6:30 to 7:15
-Once everyone was awake we went down to the dinig area
- We waited till everyone had come down to the dining area, once we had all got down to the dining area we went and got breakfast
- After breakfast Alen asked to spread out within and around the buiding and read Psalms 139
-Once we had read the passage we went to the DTS( disciple trainig program) where we spent some tme worshiping the Lord and talking about the passage the we had just read.
-After we were given till lunch to break out in our teams and prepare for the next coming week
-The out reach team spent the time working on songs, the hospital team spent that time preapring any last minute things for what was goig to come during the night
This Afternoon:
-We had lunch at one and then set out to go out to the streets and minister to the people of Cape Town
-We spent an hor going around and spreading the gospel to others
-After all of went to a fielding where we were split up into two groups
-One of the groups went over to one side of the field and played soccer, football, and rugby with some of the kids.
- The other half went over on the otherside of the park and sang songs, did skits and prayed with all of the famiies that were living on that field.
The Evening:
-We got back from the park and went to dinner
- After we had about ten minutes to go up to our rooms and get the stuff that we needed
- Once evetone had gotten their stuff we all loaded onto two combis and went to children's hospital,where we spent time with the families and pray for them
- We got to play with the kids that were there and also prayfor them
-Each team was given a couple of bracelets to give to the kids and we were also given a pupet so that we we interact with the younger kids that couldn't talk of if they had a disability.
-We came back and went to bead so that we could rest up for whats in store for tommorow.
-Brandon Ammon
- We woke up at the usuall time from 6:30 to 7:15
-Once everyone was awake we went down to the dinig area
- We waited till everyone had come down to the dining area, once we had all got down to the dining area we went and got breakfast
- After breakfast Alen asked to spread out within and around the buiding and read Psalms 139
-Once we had read the passage we went to the DTS( disciple trainig program) where we spent some tme worshiping the Lord and talking about the passage the we had just read.
-After we were given till lunch to break out in our teams and prepare for the next coming week
-The out reach team spent the time working on songs, the hospital team spent that time preapring any last minute things for what was goig to come during the night
This Afternoon:
-We had lunch at one and then set out to go out to the streets and minister to the people of Cape Town
-We spent an hor going around and spreading the gospel to others
-After all of went to a fielding where we were split up into two groups
-One of the groups went over to one side of the field and played soccer, football, and rugby with some of the kids.
- The other half went over on the otherside of the park and sang songs, did skits and prayed with all of the famiies that were living on that field.
The Evening:
-We got back from the park and went to dinner
- After we had about ten minutes to go up to our rooms and get the stuff that we needed
- Once evetone had gotten their stuff we all loaded onto two combis and went to children's hospital,where we spent time with the families and pray for them
- We got to play with the kids that were there and also prayfor them
-Each team was given a couple of bracelets to give to the kids and we were also given a pupet so that we we interact with the younger kids that couldn't talk of if they had a disability.
-We came back and went to bead so that we could rest up for whats in store for tommorow.
-Brandon Ammon
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Greetings from Africa by Meghan Kelly
yesterday was our first day of ministry. the VBS team, mattye, lindsay, tyler, jenni and myself, had the opportunity to host the sunday school for the local church. there were about 30-40 kids from 3 to 11 years old. everything went really smoothly. we played simon says, sang some songs, did a puppet show, a craft, and played aroostsha witch the kids loved. it amazing to see how excited the kids are to see us and how ready they are to learn . we were all very excited at how everything turned out. we had a wonderful interpreter who helped with the kids and was a joy to work with.
after church we went to the mall to have lunch and went to see The Hulk. its interesting to me how much the American culture effects South Africa. i would have never guessed walking out of the movie theater i was here.
South Africa is such a beautiful place. I'm so glad we all got this opportunity to come here and serve the people. i miss everyone back home but i know what I'm doing here is life changing.
see you all soon.
God Bless,
Meghan
after church we went to the mall to have lunch and went to see The Hulk. its interesting to me how much the American culture effects South Africa. i would have never guessed walking out of the movie theater i was here.
South Africa is such a beautiful place. I'm so glad we all got this opportunity to come here and serve the people. i miss everyone back home but i know what I'm doing here is life changing.
see you all soon.
God Bless,
Meghan
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Being stretched like silly putty! BY: Carly Gerwig
Hello Everyone!!!
This is Carly and i already have so much to tell you guys, so bear with me cuz its about 10:13 pm here and i'm a little out of it. i am learning so much while i am here it's unbelievable. the main thing is that i am starting to experience god in such a new and intimate way. it really has been unreal and it's only been a cupole of days. we have been preparing and training for our ministry and that has been intense to say the least. i can't really explain it but i feel like god is revealing himself to me little by little and showing me what i need to work on. we have had amazing worship and that has been really neat to be a part of. also today we had a concert at the griffens church and it was really neat to interact with the africans here and see god working throughout the night. i meet a girl named Cori who i have a lot in common with and it was really cool because i felt that god has brought me over here so that i can meet people like her and share what i am starting to learn more of my self. i can not tell you how excited and energized this all makes me and i cant wait to come home and share all my new and amazing experiences with you.... or when i blog next. i love you all so much have a good night or morning? well love you, be praying god is up to something mindblowing but than again isnt he always?
Lots of love,
Carly
This is Carly and i already have so much to tell you guys, so bear with me cuz its about 10:13 pm here and i'm a little out of it. i am learning so much while i am here it's unbelievable. the main thing is that i am starting to experience god in such a new and intimate way. it really has been unreal and it's only been a cupole of days. we have been preparing and training for our ministry and that has been intense to say the least. i can't really explain it but i feel like god is revealing himself to me little by little and showing me what i need to work on. we have had amazing worship and that has been really neat to be a part of. also today we had a concert at the griffens church and it was really neat to interact with the africans here and see god working throughout the night. i meet a girl named Cori who i have a lot in common with and it was really cool because i felt that god has brought me over here so that i can meet people like her and share what i am starting to learn more of my self. i can not tell you how excited and energized this all makes me and i cant wait to come home and share all my new and amazing experiences with you.... or when i blog next. i love you all so much have a good night or morning? well love you, be praying god is up to something mindblowing but than again isnt he always?
Lots of love,
Carly
Friday, June 27, 2008
first couple of days
Hey everybody! jenni shipley speaking (...or typing) and i was chosen to do the first blog (WOO!)
Anyways, the first couple days of our trip have been long, unenjoyable (sorta), sleepless, but ok :)
The two plane trips were 9-11 hours longs, and there were certian times we had to go to bed. Also, time in the airports seemed endless, but we luckily passed the time with some games. When we arrived in London, several people walked around JUST to hear the amazing accents :) When we finally arrived in South Africa early in the morning, we immediatly set off to go to an isolated spa, on our way to Worcester (Vu-ster) this was fun because all the pools were from natural springs, so it felt like a giant hot tub. After some chilling time (literally), we headed off to our final destination- YWAM. This site is a place for people from over 40 nationalities to come together for several different reasons: some to take english classes to continue their goal of missions, others are here with their families for many things. So today (Friday) we were constantly busy, either listening to some teachings or unpacking. But the most significant event that we did today was the prayer walk at the local mall. Now, although your thinking, Africa, 3rd world, this mall looked like your average Capitola mall in California, in English and everything!
So, back to the prayer walk; in this exercise we (in groups) were to walk down the mall and each take turns praying out loud to God. For me, this was a little nerve wraking because i had never done ANYTHING like it before. After a couple of minutes of prayer, our group (Alyssa, Lindsey, Mattye, Kristen, me and Natalie) decided to go outside into the parking lot and prayer over the cars owners and lives. We did this for a while, and ocassionally we ran into owners and we asked them if they wanted prayer too, and most of the time they said yes (Ha, in Santa Cruz, if we did that, they would freak out!) So there were several that we came across the really stuck out in my mind: One coupld we came across asked us to pray for the deliverence of a baby, one very Christian man told us about how he gave up his career (20 years of teaching) to go make a chirldren's center to bring Christ to his community (this one meant a lot to me), another man said to Kristen, after they prayed together, "Thank you so much, I really needed that." So although we felt weird about doing this at first, afterwards we almost felt exillerated! This definitely is the start of God's work and will for us.
So all I can say to you worried parents, is that we are very jetlagged and need some encouragement and endurance (and maybe a little patience :) ) and i just hope that you parents and siblings will just keep on praying for us to listen to God's will and to show His love to this community.
Peace and love
Jenni
Anyways, the first couple days of our trip have been long, unenjoyable (sorta), sleepless, but ok :)
The two plane trips were 9-11 hours longs, and there were certian times we had to go to bed. Also, time in the airports seemed endless, but we luckily passed the time with some games. When we arrived in London, several people walked around JUST to hear the amazing accents :) When we finally arrived in South Africa early in the morning, we immediatly set off to go to an isolated spa, on our way to Worcester (Vu-ster) this was fun because all the pools were from natural springs, so it felt like a giant hot tub. After some chilling time (literally), we headed off to our final destination- YWAM. This site is a place for people from over 40 nationalities to come together for several different reasons: some to take english classes to continue their goal of missions, others are here with their families for many things. So today (Friday) we were constantly busy, either listening to some teachings or unpacking. But the most significant event that we did today was the prayer walk at the local mall. Now, although your thinking, Africa, 3rd world, this mall looked like your average Capitola mall in California, in English and everything!
So, back to the prayer walk; in this exercise we (in groups) were to walk down the mall and each take turns praying out loud to God. For me, this was a little nerve wraking because i had never done ANYTHING like it before. After a couple of minutes of prayer, our group (Alyssa, Lindsey, Mattye, Kristen, me and Natalie) decided to go outside into the parking lot and prayer over the cars owners and lives. We did this for a while, and ocassionally we ran into owners and we asked them if they wanted prayer too, and most of the time they said yes (Ha, in Santa Cruz, if we did that, they would freak out!) So there were several that we came across the really stuck out in my mind: One coupld we came across asked us to pray for the deliverence of a baby, one very Christian man told us about how he gave up his career (20 years of teaching) to go make a chirldren's center to bring Christ to his community (this one meant a lot to me), another man said to Kristen, after they prayed together, "Thank you so much, I really needed that." So although we felt weird about doing this at first, afterwards we almost felt exillerated! This definitely is the start of God's work and will for us.
So all I can say to you worried parents, is that we are very jetlagged and need some encouragement and endurance (and maybe a little patience :) ) and i just hope that you parents and siblings will just keep on praying for us to listen to God's will and to show His love to this community.
Peace and love
Jenni
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
London
In London safe and sound after a short delay in SFO. We are here for about 5 hrs waiting for the flight to Cape Town around 6 tonight!
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
14 days.....
In 14 days 17 of us from Pipeline will load a plane for ~21 hours of flying stopping through London for a couple hours to land in Cape Town, South Africa the next day. Follow along on our journey as we each take a turn letting you see South Africa and the people of Worcester through our eyes.
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