First day went well. We arrived early so we did a little shopping at WalMart and ate some good ol’ chic-fa-le. We didn’t have any trouble crossing into the border. A federali inspected our vehicle a little bit but eased up when we told him we were a church group going to build some houses. As we crossed there was a slight silence. A few questions like “do the people really live in those houses?” and remarks of grief, thinking we had it bad in the U.S. It’s a true eye-opener seeing such poverty and observing them being thankful for the things they do have. They might not have an Xbox 360 or the newest purse—actually most of them don’t even have shoes, but what they do have is their family. The smiles on their faces playing soccer in rubble that you wouldn’t even want your dog to walk on, but they’re truly happy and that’s all that matters.We unpacked and set up everything early so we hit the town. Headed to the famous “shed” for some good ol’ Mexican tacos, where a wonderful guy came up and sang for us (wait until you see the video). Second day started a little bumpy, my alarm didn’t go off. I’m lucky I made it to breakfast—thanks to my brother. We loaded up the vans with lunch and water and headed out.
Arrived at the worksite, anxious and excited. Gloves on, boots tight, ready to rock n roll. Our bricks were quite a bit further from the house than we wanted, but so were team #3’s. So, being the nice gentleman of team #2 we marched over to help them move their bricks onto the foundation where the house will be built. (For some reason team #1 was nowhere to be found. It figures—ha-ha. We were successful in moving all their bricks, so they returned the favor. We got to work. Guys started sifting gravel and preparing for the mixture of mud (cement). Then the fun began—laying bricks, letting the meistro (boss) fix all our mistakes so the walls weren’t built crooked. Then the fun started falling out of the sky—shaped in little raindrop forms. Some continued to work while others took shelter under a pavilion. Then it started raining really hard, so we couldn’t exactly make a good quality product with a wet soupy cement. At that point we went for shelter. Then magnificently it started hailing. Yes: hailing! In Mexico! We headed hurriedly to the vans. Getting back to the VIM. Calling it a day just in time for lunch. As everyone gathered I began looking for my brother to share some stories.
At one point along the way we noticed a car was on the side of the road, knee-deep in water. A woman’s head popped out, a face begging for help. Her car was stuck in the mud and there was another woman and a toddler inside. So I asked if I could help. I got into her car, took about five minutes but I got it unstuck and had to drive it down the road to dry land. If you could have seen the woman’s face of gratitude, it was amazing.
I’ll keep you posted!
Shannon Ortman
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Saturday, November 08, 2008
Monterrey, Mexico Medical Update
Another beautiful day in Monterrey. We have been blessed with lovely weather, so sunny and pleasant. Each morning has been cool, the afternoons warm, but dry and comfortable. The city is basically a desert valley, surrounded by dramatic mountains. Markedly different than Tulsa!
We moved our clinic today to Mission, a village about twenty minutes farther than Zapata. It is even poorer, with dusty, dirt roads winding through shacks made of wooden pallets, corrugated tin, and items scrounged from the junk pile. Stray dogs and chickens roam freely. Other than roosters crowing occasionally, it is very quiet: no radios or televisions, no cars or truck traffic, no sounds of industry.
This poverty was reflected in a different type of clinic patient than our previous days'. Not as many cavities, as they don't have access to the same sugary--and relatively luxurious--treats. Instead, more profound gum disease that puts all of their teeth at risk. Lots of uncontrolled high blood pressure and diabetes. Several children came in with the physical symptoms of vitamin deficiencies. On the one hand, it felt good to be able to serve, as their needs were so great, anything helped. On the other, it was somewhat depressing, as you know you can't change their underlying problem: extreme poverty. That last part, however, is very convicting to continue to serve however you can as a mission volunteer.
Altogether, it's been a great trip: our team has worked well together, our different skills and personalities have been complementary, God has been good and provided for us--as always.
Leslie Roark
We moved our clinic today to Mission, a village about twenty minutes farther than Zapata. It is even poorer, with dusty, dirt roads winding through shacks made of wooden pallets, corrugated tin, and items scrounged from the junk pile. Stray dogs and chickens roam freely. Other than roosters crowing occasionally, it is very quiet: no radios or televisions, no cars or truck traffic, no sounds of industry.
This poverty was reflected in a different type of clinic patient than our previous days'. Not as many cavities, as they don't have access to the same sugary--and relatively luxurious--treats. Instead, more profound gum disease that puts all of their teeth at risk. Lots of uncontrolled high blood pressure and diabetes. Several children came in with the physical symptoms of vitamin deficiencies. On the one hand, it felt good to be able to serve, as their needs were so great, anything helped. On the other, it was somewhat depressing, as you know you can't change their underlying problem: extreme poverty. That last part, however, is very convicting to continue to serve however you can as a mission volunteer.
Altogether, it's been a great trip: our team has worked well together, our different skills and personalities have been complementary, God has been good and provided for us--as always.
Leslie Roark
Friday, November 07, 2008
Monterrey, Mexico Medical Update
Friday, November 7
Our second day in Monterrey started much more smoothly than Thursday. After another delicious breakfast, we traveled to Zapata where we were alread set up to see patients. There was a line of people waiting to see us, and our day was very productive.
We saw over a hundred patients, with illnesses ranging from the common cold to cardiac problems. One elderly gentleman made an impression on us because of the before/after contrast he demonstrated afer receiving a pair of eyeglasses.
Our team's daily Bible reading focused on mercy and compassion today. We didn't know when the day began how these qualities would be reflected in our experiences. The dental schedule for the rest of the day was full by 1pm, with people lined up in chairs waiting for their turn; however, three patients arrived late with major, obvious dental needs. Our entire team came together to work things around to accommodate these extra patients, as we were all overcome with a desire to help those in distress and improve their quality of life. It made for a long day, but everyone was peaceful and fulfilled as we returned late Friday night.
Another special aspect of the day was that it was two team members' birthdays: Don England, Asbury member and frequent mission team member, and Juan Carlos, a young man from Monterrey serving as one of our translators. Both seemed thrilled to be celebrating their birthdays by serving others, which was great to be a part of. We were able to take a quick break and enjoy another of Humberto's fabulous, home-cooked, Mexican meals and participate in a traditional, Mexican birthday event: breaking open a pinata.
It was a long day, but a rewarding one.
Leslie Roark
Our second day in Monterrey started much more smoothly than Thursday. After another delicious breakfast, we traveled to Zapata where we were alread set up to see patients. There was a line of people waiting to see us, and our day was very productive.
We saw over a hundred patients, with illnesses ranging from the common cold to cardiac problems. One elderly gentleman made an impression on us because of the before/after contrast he demonstrated afer receiving a pair of eyeglasses.
Our team's daily Bible reading focused on mercy and compassion today. We didn't know when the day began how these qualities would be reflected in our experiences. The dental schedule for the rest of the day was full by 1pm, with people lined up in chairs waiting for their turn; however, three patients arrived late with major, obvious dental needs. Our entire team came together to work things around to accommodate these extra patients, as we were all overcome with a desire to help those in distress and improve their quality of life. It made for a long day, but everyone was peaceful and fulfilled as we returned late Friday night.
Another special aspect of the day was that it was two team members' birthdays: Don England, Asbury member and frequent mission team member, and Juan Carlos, a young man from Monterrey serving as one of our translators. Both seemed thrilled to be celebrating their birthdays by serving others, which was great to be a part of. We were able to take a quick break and enjoy another of Humberto's fabulous, home-cooked, Mexican meals and participate in a traditional, Mexican birthday event: breaking open a pinata.
It was a long day, but a rewarding one.
Leslie Roark
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Monterrey Medical Team Update
Good news from Monterrey!
After a delicious, home-cooked Mexican breakfast, we divided into two vans: one on to the colonia to set up the clinic, the other to the airport to pick up our remaining supplies from customs. By late morning, we were reunited and seeing patients. All told, we saw over 60 patients, some medical, some dental, some optometric--some all three!
We enjoyed some fellowship and the evening meal at the clinic, and then returned to Monterrey for ice cream and a late visit from Dana and Tom Harrison and other special guests.
We are all tired, but it's not the weary kind: instead, I think we all feel the satisfaction of a long day's work done well. Thank you for remembering us, and for continuing to pray for us and our patients!
Leslie Roark
After a delicious, home-cooked Mexican breakfast, we divided into two vans: one on to the colonia to set up the clinic, the other to the airport to pick up our remaining supplies from customs. By late morning, we were reunited and seeing patients. All told, we saw over 60 patients, some medical, some dental, some optometric--some all three!
We enjoyed some fellowship and the evening meal at the clinic, and then returned to Monterrey for ice cream and a late visit from Dana and Tom Harrison and other special guests.
We are all tired, but it's not the weary kind: instead, I think we all feel the satisfaction of a long day's work done well. Thank you for remembering us, and for continuing to pray for us and our patients!
Leslie Roark
Monterrey, Mexico Medical VIM team update
Greetings from balmy Monterrey! Thirteen volunteers for this medical mission departed Tulsa at dawn Wednesday morning; after a quick layover in DFW, we arrived at our Mexican destination. Two others had landed earlier today, joining another pair who came yesterday to prepare for our arrival.
Fortunately, we had an uneventful trip: on-time departures and arrivals, our bags were waiting for us, no one got lost. We encountered a glitch once here, though: the customs officials were reluctant to release our medical bags, carrying all of our supplies that would allow us to provide medical services at the clinic starting tomorrow...boxes of eyeglasses, crates of dental equipment, cases of medications, all somewhere in the airport. Our team leader and a fluent physician spent literally hours at the airport negotiating with officials for our supplies. Even the local bishop, who was at the airport to pick up another Methodist guest (coincidence? I don't think so), was unable to facilitate the disposition of our goodies before we left today. We are optimistic that we will be able to retrieve them tomorrow on the way out of town; however, any prayers that would pave the way for an easy pick-up tomorrow morning would be welcome!
So, learning a little bit about patience and flexibility. We ate lunch in the airport, and I hate to say: we came all the way to Mexico to eat at Carl's Jr. Only here, a six-dollar burger is a nineteen peso hambuergesa.
We drove through big-city traffic to the church offices, and settled into the dormitory. It is modest, but clean and pleasantly cool. We walked to the nearby John Wesley Seminary, where the Director and a first-year student gave us a tour. The building is over a hundred years old, and they were rightfully very proud of their facilities. They were also very specific in showing us how previous construction crews from Asbury and elsewhere had helped improve their building; their gratitude was evident, and they were quick to acknowledge God's hand in their lovely church home.
We're getting ready to eat dinner here, have some devotional time and then--hopefully--to an early bed. Our group is all getting along well: we really do all have different, but complementary gifts, and it has made a long day enjoyable and interesting. Please remember us all in your prayers tomorrow as we collect our supplies and travel outside the city to serve.
Leslie Roark
Fortunately, we had an uneventful trip: on-time departures and arrivals, our bags were waiting for us, no one got lost. We encountered a glitch once here, though: the customs officials were reluctant to release our medical bags, carrying all of our supplies that would allow us to provide medical services at the clinic starting tomorrow...boxes of eyeglasses, crates of dental equipment, cases of medications, all somewhere in the airport. Our team leader and a fluent physician spent literally hours at the airport negotiating with officials for our supplies. Even the local bishop, who was at the airport to pick up another Methodist guest (coincidence? I don't think so), was unable to facilitate the disposition of our goodies before we left today. We are optimistic that we will be able to retrieve them tomorrow on the way out of town; however, any prayers that would pave the way for an easy pick-up tomorrow morning would be welcome!
So, learning a little bit about patience and flexibility. We ate lunch in the airport, and I hate to say: we came all the way to Mexico to eat at Carl's Jr. Only here, a six-dollar burger is a nineteen peso hambuergesa.
We drove through big-city traffic to the church offices, and settled into the dormitory. It is modest, but clean and pleasantly cool. We walked to the nearby John Wesley Seminary, where the Director and a first-year student gave us a tour. The building is over a hundred years old, and they were rightfully very proud of their facilities. They were also very specific in showing us how previous construction crews from Asbury and elsewhere had helped improve their building; their gratitude was evident, and they were quick to acknowledge God's hand in their lovely church home.
We're getting ready to eat dinner here, have some devotional time and then--hopefully--to an early bed. Our group is all getting along well: we really do all have different, but complementary gifts, and it has made a long day enjoyable and interesting. Please remember us all in your prayers tomorrow as we collect our supplies and travel outside the city to serve.
Leslie Roark
Friday, October 17, 2008
Monterrey, Mexico Construction Update Friday, Oct. 17, 2008
On Wednesday the guys spent a long, hot day working on the roof while the rest of us prepared for MBS which was held at a very poor, nearby village. The children responded positively to the songs, puppet show, Bible story and craft. They were such a joy with their big brown eyes and eager grins. Cindy took a photo of one little guy and then showed him the digital image on the back of the camera. The boy was unresponsive so Cindy took a picture of the boy with his mother and showed him the new image. His little face erupted with a smile when he realized he was the boy in the picture. We assumed he has never really seen himself before.
On Thursday we welcomed cooler temperatures and a little rain. The guys finished the big roof project which seemed much less strenuous in 60 degree weather than it did in 90 degree weather. We returned to the poor village for the second day of MBS. The children streamed down the dirt road behind the van and we discovered a large group of little ones waiting for us at the gate when we arrived. After the lesson, we distributed 70 sandwiches, drinks, crafts and gift bags.
Our girls are having a wonderful time. Yesterday, Humberto and Myrtha's seven year-old granddaughter, Joseline, spent the day with us. They played hard all day, worked a little, and even discovered a litter of newborn kittens. This week Sophia is one of the puppeteers and sometimes shoots video. Olivia is one of the song leaders and helps me hoist buckets of sand with the homemade pulley. They're both excellent helpers when it comes to prepping and crafts. They are holding up well despite the long hours, and the experience is priceless! The team is being so sweet with them. It's such a blessing.
Friday Humberto has promised tamales for lunch and John (Morrow) has promised to make flan for dessert--so we are calling him "Flan Juan" now. We'll try to finish by 7:00 pm tonight as we are scheduled to have dinner at Humberto's church with the Seminary students (and maybe the Bishop too, I'm not sure). We will see you soon! Stephanie
On Thursday we welcomed cooler temperatures and a little rain. The guys finished the big roof project which seemed much less strenuous in 60 degree weather than it did in 90 degree weather. We returned to the poor village for the second day of MBS. The children streamed down the dirt road behind the van and we discovered a large group of little ones waiting for us at the gate when we arrived. After the lesson, we distributed 70 sandwiches, drinks, crafts and gift bags.
Our girls are having a wonderful time. Yesterday, Humberto and Myrtha's seven year-old granddaughter, Joseline, spent the day with us. They played hard all day, worked a little, and even discovered a litter of newborn kittens. This week Sophia is one of the puppeteers and sometimes shoots video. Olivia is one of the song leaders and helps me hoist buckets of sand with the homemade pulley. They're both excellent helpers when it comes to prepping and crafts. They are holding up well despite the long hours, and the experience is priceless! The team is being so sweet with them. It's such a blessing.
Friday Humberto has promised tamales for lunch and John (Morrow) has promised to make flan for dessert--so we are calling him "Flan Juan" now. We'll try to finish by 7:00 pm tonight as we are scheduled to have dinner at Humberto's church with the Seminary students (and maybe the Bishop too, I'm not sure). We will see you soon! Stephanie
Monday, October 13, 2008
Monterrey, Mexico Update October 13, 2008
We are feeling fine! We are tired and a little sunburned, but it’s the good kind of tired! The kind you get when you’ve worked hard all day, in the fresh air with good friends. It’s the kind of tired that makes your appetite voracious, and makes everything seem funny.
We started by filling buckets of sand and hoisting them up to the roof of a third story building via the “human conveyor belt.” We estimate we moved between 2000 and 3000 pounds of sand (all before lunch). Then some people filled buckets with gravel (probably another 2000 pounds worth) and lifted those onto the second story with a homemade pulley system. At the same time, others were clipping wire and twisting it into pig-ties, while others were tying rebar. Then the guys got to carry four 130 pound bags of cement around the building and up a flight of stairs. Since we had a lot of material to move and only four fellows to do it—we had to put “all hands on deck.” Men, women and children contributed their labor, the Lord provided strength and stamina--and the day’s work was super productive.
We had a great turn-out for MBS, and the crafts were a big hit. The children were precious, and such a joy. Again, everyone contributed and the Lord provided to make the first day of MBS a successful one. We worked out some kinks later in the evening and we expect tomorrow’s MBS to go even better.
We are being well cared-for by our hosts, we are eating like kings, and the team is functioning like the body of Christ. It’s a real team effort with everyone working hard, doing their part and having lots of fun.
This is a great team, and a great place to be! Stephanie
We started by filling buckets of sand and hoisting them up to the roof of a third story building via the “human conveyor belt.” We estimate we moved between 2000 and 3000 pounds of sand (all before lunch). Then some people filled buckets with gravel (probably another 2000 pounds worth) and lifted those onto the second story with a homemade pulley system. At the same time, others were clipping wire and twisting it into pig-ties, while others were tying rebar. Then the guys got to carry four 130 pound bags of cement around the building and up a flight of stairs. Since we had a lot of material to move and only four fellows to do it—we had to put “all hands on deck.” Men, women and children contributed their labor, the Lord provided strength and stamina--and the day’s work was super productive.
We had a great turn-out for MBS, and the crafts were a big hit. The children were precious, and such a joy. Again, everyone contributed and the Lord provided to make the first day of MBS a successful one. We worked out some kinks later in the evening and we expect tomorrow’s MBS to go even better.
We are being well cared-for by our hosts, we are eating like kings, and the team is functioning like the body of Christ. It’s a real team effort with everyone working hard, doing their part and having lots of fun.
This is a great team, and a great place to be! Stephanie
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Monterrey, Mexico Update October 12, 2008
Hola!
The first thing we saw as we neared Monterrey was the top of a mountain peaking through the heavy cloud cover. As we dropped below the clouds on our approach we observed a huge, industrious city surrounded by mountains on every side, with housing additions creeping up the steep slopes--the only space left for growth. The travel was easy and even customs was a breeze.
We’ve eaten like kings since we arrived: For lunch we had fresh guacamole, Mexican queso, homemade tortillas, grilled steak and spicy salsa! Later we enjoyed HUGE scoops of mango, strawberry, and chocolate ice cream. We did some sightseeing, first from a high spot in the center of the city, where they fly a huge flag, and later from the SAMS Club, where the team bought supplies of food and water. We unpacked and hit the sack around 10:00 PM.
Sunday morning we savored another wonderful meal, had a devotional then headed off to a worship service at Vina del Rey (Vine of the King) Christian Community. The congregation sang songs for over an hour, then prayed, then sang some more, then prayed some more, then sang some more, then people from the congregation shared testimonies (including a few from our team), then they sang and prayed some more! We recognized many of the songs (such as How Great Thou Art, and several Chris Tomlin songs) and even though we didn’t know the Spanish words--we knew the tunes.
The Mexican people are so demonstrative and hospitable; they greeted us warmly with hugs and kisses, and small gifts. They’re also animated and passionate when they worship. The WHOLE congregation sings at the same volume and intensity as Chris Cleveland does when he leads worship at the Venue. The people clapped, and danced, and wept. It was wonderful to participate with them! At one point, Pastor Guzman went straight from praying into a song, and he was dancing around and clapping! (I want to ask Pastor Tom why he never does that.)
We stayed for a pot luck lunch at the church afterward, and then we visited this wonderful park where a huge artistic event was in progress. Hundreds of artists were recreating classic works of art with sidewalk chalk. It was amazing to see. After that we toured the Juan Wesley Seminary which is housed in a beautiful 100 year-old building. It was clean and modestly furnished, with a well stocked library, classrooms, chapel, offices and dorm rooms. We look forward to joining the seminary students for a meal on Friday night.
We spent the evening preparing for tomorrow’s MBS. This included practicing the puppet show, and the songs, and gluing stuff together. It’s after 10:00 PM now and everyone has retired to their rooms. The windows are open, and the fans are blowing. Outside, some insects are chirping. Before bed my daughters prayed, “Thank you Lord for this WONDERFUL day!”
Yes, thank you Lord for this wonderful day! Stephanie Hurd
The first thing we saw as we neared Monterrey was the top of a mountain peaking through the heavy cloud cover. As we dropped below the clouds on our approach we observed a huge, industrious city surrounded by mountains on every side, with housing additions creeping up the steep slopes--the only space left for growth. The travel was easy and even customs was a breeze.
We’ve eaten like kings since we arrived: For lunch we had fresh guacamole, Mexican queso, homemade tortillas, grilled steak and spicy salsa! Later we enjoyed HUGE scoops of mango, strawberry, and chocolate ice cream. We did some sightseeing, first from a high spot in the center of the city, where they fly a huge flag, and later from the SAMS Club, where the team bought supplies of food and water. We unpacked and hit the sack around 10:00 PM.
Sunday morning we savored another wonderful meal, had a devotional then headed off to a worship service at Vina del Rey (Vine of the King) Christian Community. The congregation sang songs for over an hour, then prayed, then sang some more, then prayed some more, then sang some more, then people from the congregation shared testimonies (including a few from our team), then they sang and prayed some more! We recognized many of the songs (such as How Great Thou Art, and several Chris Tomlin songs) and even though we didn’t know the Spanish words--we knew the tunes.
The Mexican people are so demonstrative and hospitable; they greeted us warmly with hugs and kisses, and small gifts. They’re also animated and passionate when they worship. The WHOLE congregation sings at the same volume and intensity as Chris Cleveland does when he leads worship at the Venue. The people clapped, and danced, and wept. It was wonderful to participate with them! At one point, Pastor Guzman went straight from praying into a song, and he was dancing around and clapping! (I want to ask Pastor Tom why he never does that.)
We stayed for a pot luck lunch at the church afterward, and then we visited this wonderful park where a huge artistic event was in progress. Hundreds of artists were recreating classic works of art with sidewalk chalk. It was amazing to see. After that we toured the Juan Wesley Seminary which is housed in a beautiful 100 year-old building. It was clean and modestly furnished, with a well stocked library, classrooms, chapel, offices and dorm rooms. We look forward to joining the seminary students for a meal on Friday night.
We spent the evening preparing for tomorrow’s MBS. This included practicing the puppet show, and the songs, and gluing stuff together. It’s after 10:00 PM now and everyone has retired to their rooms. The windows are open, and the fans are blowing. Outside, some insects are chirping. Before bed my daughters prayed, “Thank you Lord for this WONDERFUL day!”
Yes, thank you Lord for this wonderful day! Stephanie Hurd
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Central Asia Update Oct. 9, 2008
Salam(Hello),
Today has been such a nice day. We started our morning at the Vo-tech with some history of CARD and a tour. We heard such great stories of children who had no future before CARD and now they have a trade and are able to have confidence in their future. The children are such a delight to see. They are excited to have the opportunity to learn. Some of the team helped create Wheel of Fortune for the English students to practice spelling. It was properly called Wheel of G-town. Our special treat was the cooking class. We made homemade fudge brownies and started the Hobo Stew. It was great to laugh and continue to build relationships. There is a special young girl whom the team has seen the last couple of years. Seeing her is a sweet reunion. Our guys finished the baby’s gate and went to hang it at the baby’s home this afternoon. This will be great help when trying to separate the children from the toy room.
This afternoon was probably the highlight of the day. We returned to the psychiatric hospital to pass out the photo albums to the women and watch an art class. The ladies were so grateful for the photo albums. It was thrilling to see their faces light such a dark place with some joy. One woman said that “we make her heart beat faster with joy”. She had tears filling her eyes and it was a bitter-sweet moment. The art is quite amazing. They are ALL far better artist then we could think of being. We were honored enough to be able to purchase some and help them feel special for their ability.
The men had a chance to pick up a basketball game with some of the young men at the Vo-tech. It quickly turned into young-vs-old (American-vs-Central Asia). It was funny, one young man kept telling Matt to “take it easy”. It has been a blessing and has brought joy to our hearts to be able to share in their lives.
Today has been such a nice day. We started our morning at the Vo-tech with some history of CARD and a tour. We heard such great stories of children who had no future before CARD and now they have a trade and are able to have confidence in their future. The children are such a delight to see. They are excited to have the opportunity to learn. Some of the team helped create Wheel of Fortune for the English students to practice spelling. It was properly called Wheel of G-town. Our special treat was the cooking class. We made homemade fudge brownies and started the Hobo Stew. It was great to laugh and continue to build relationships. There is a special young girl whom the team has seen the last couple of years. Seeing her is a sweet reunion. Our guys finished the baby’s gate and went to hang it at the baby’s home this afternoon. This will be great help when trying to separate the children from the toy room.
This afternoon was probably the highlight of the day. We returned to the psychiatric hospital to pass out the photo albums to the women and watch an art class. The ladies were so grateful for the photo albums. It was thrilling to see their faces light such a dark place with some joy. One woman said that “we make her heart beat faster with joy”. She had tears filling her eyes and it was a bitter-sweet moment. The art is quite amazing. They are ALL far better artist then we could think of being. We were honored enough to be able to purchase some and help them feel special for their ability.
The men had a chance to pick up a basketball game with some of the young men at the Vo-tech. It quickly turned into young-vs-old (American-vs-Central Asia). It was funny, one young man kept telling Matt to “take it easy”. It has been a blessing and has brought joy to our hearts to be able to share in their lives.
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Central Asia Oct. 7, 2008
Hi everyone, we had a looonnng but uneventful trip from Tulsa to Chicago to Frankfort to B-town to G-town. We left Saturday morning and arrived in B-town Sunday night, getting into the hotel around midnight. Sleep? No. We had a good night's sleep and then did some walking Monday morning into the old part of the city, where the rug sellers are. We walked along the seawall, and had a wonderful lunch on the 16th floor of our hotel, overlooking the city and the sea. They served fresh tomatos and cucumbers, plus coriander (cilantro) and dill and onions...call all of that salad. Then we had a dish served in a flat dish over a coal, of chicken, eggplant, potatoes and onion that was delicious. After that, into cars for the hair-raising trip to G-town. Oh my. Not for the faint of heart. Nor was the potty on the stop we made...frightening. Who knew a two lane road could really have 3 lanes? Evidently our driver knew. We made the trip in about 6 hours. We followed for about 2 hours of the trip, then headed further west into the high desert area. G-town is in the more northwest area of the country. We saw people along the road selling fresh pomegranets, apples and fish. We arrived in G-town around 7:30 and had tea and supper, and a lovely visit with our hosts Neil and Lucy. We got to bed around 11ish. Today (Tuesday) we were late risers, but ready to go by 9:30. We visited the baby orphanage, and held babies, played with toddlers, and did some cleaning of toys in one room. Right now they have 11 babies and several toddlers. Not all are orphans...just can't live at home right now. Precious children all. Then we visited long-time friend Sevinche at her home and had cake and tea. She is a delight, and enjoyed hearing about the people she has met over the years. Tonight we are having supper, prepared by Sevinche...and it looks wonderful. The men worked on the toddler gate for the orphanage today, then took a little tour of the town. They also sat in on an English class. I'm still feeling a bit jet-lagged...or a lot...so some of these sentences may not make sense. I can see pomegranets having heavy on the tree outside the window right now. The temperature is perfect, and the humidity is low. The sun is beginning to get low, but the temp is still warm. It was chilly in the room last night but we had thick comforters and slept very well. All is well, and we will bring home stories! We send lots of love--Cindy Read
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Estonia Camp Gideon Team, July 5, 2008
Hey everyone! This is Sterling giving the daily update. We started out today with an end-of-camp worship service and award ceremony. The "American" team was actually given a huge bar of chocolate in thanks for coming to Camp Gideon. After a quick lunch, we had to say our goodbyes to the campers. It was extremely hard. All of us got very emotional. After saying goodbye, we cried our way to a nearby castle in Narva, which we toured. Right before we left, the girls decided to dress up in 18th century Russian clothes so Ryan and I decided to join them. Then after the castle we returned to camp, played a little soccer and took a dip in the Baltic Sea, which was about 15 degrees Celsius. It was another great ending to a great day!
--Sterling and the team.
--Sterling and the team.
Estonia Camp Gideon Team, July 4, 2008
Hey everyone! This is Jennifer. So I was supposed to write this on Friday night but we have been pretty busy lately. I'm sorry. Well Friday was the last full day of camp and it was definitely a great way to end our week even though they changed the schedule on us for the day! After breakfast we started the day off with some worship which was so good! After the worship service, the campers had small groups so our team went back to the cabin and listened to some techno and rock. Sterling was climbing all over the furniture because he got so into it. It was hilarious! After that was sports time where we played jump rope, water balloon volleyball, and this game where you get into a circle with your opposing team and try to get them out by having them knock over a bucket. They all were so much fun but now we are feeling a little sore! Then we went to lunch and after that was crafts which was kinda sad because, other than Amy, only a few people came. But it was okay because the campers were all in their sports groups getting their skits and videos prepared for the night. Later after dinner, we went to the brown building for church. It ended up that we watched all the team videos and skits. For us, they were funny but the campers found them hilarious! I guess it just wasn't translated the best. Haha! After that it was time to get snacks. Then we went back to church for worship and a short sermon. The worship was AWESOME! Almost all the campers were in the front or in the aisles dancing! It was amazing! After it was over, it was time for bed. And that was pretty much the end of great day!
--Jennifer and the team.
--Jennifer and the team.
Estonia Camp Gideon Team, July 3, 2008
Well I'm (Kevin) doing the update again tonight because the girls are at a midnight chapel service and the boys are showering. (The boys thought they might have gotten too sweaty during the sports activities today.)
I am really proud of our youth! The boys presented a great devotion this morning. Then they all helped the worship band lead the worship service. Tiffany played drums, Sterling played bongos and Erin, Hanna and Jennifer sang. They really did a great job. They have also been doing a great job with the crafts and sports. They are participating in all of the small group activities and making some great friends. The camp leaders and the campers really seem to appreciate us.
Artur, the camp director, is really sick and needs your prayers. He started feeling bad yesterday morning and was pretty sick by early afternoon. His wife, Valetina, said that his doctor called it something like Rosa and that it is caused by stress. This is the 4th time he has had it. I think that is probably Shingles. Please pray for a seedy recovery for him. Also their son Erikki has been in the hospital because cut part of a finger off and cut his hand on a power saw a couple of weeks ago. I think that it got badly infected. Anyway I imagine that Valentina's stress level is pretty high right now and could use some prayer too.
Thanks again for your prayers and support!
--Kevin and the team.
I am really proud of our youth! The boys presented a great devotion this morning. Then they all helped the worship band lead the worship service. Tiffany played drums, Sterling played bongos and Erin, Hanna and Jennifer sang. They really did a great job. They have also been doing a great job with the crafts and sports. They are participating in all of the small group activities and making some great friends. The camp leaders and the campers really seem to appreciate us.
Artur, the camp director, is really sick and needs your prayers. He started feeling bad yesterday morning and was pretty sick by early afternoon. His wife, Valetina, said that his doctor called it something like Rosa and that it is caused by stress. This is the 4th time he has had it. I think that is probably Shingles. Please pray for a seedy recovery for him. Also their son Erikki has been in the hospital because cut part of a finger off and cut his hand on a power saw a couple of weeks ago. I think that it got badly infected. Anyway I imagine that Valentina's stress level is pretty high right now and could use some prayer too.
Thanks again for your prayers and support!
--Kevin and the team.
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Estonia Camp Gideon Team, Tuesday, July 2, 2008
Well today we started our day out with trying to get the campers to go up to the front of the chapel and get into the worship this morning and we crashed and burned according to Sterling and Ryan. We went fishing today for Red Fish (Salmon) and caught our lunch. Erin's and my fish basically bled to death, Jennifer and Tiffany's was gigantic and had its face torn, and Sterling and Ryan's first fish was like 1 inch long. We saw Russia from across the river, the largest lake in Europe and a Russian Orthodox convent with nuns. We were disappointed when we returned to the camp because we heard the afternoon games were so much fun and pretty funny!
The evening service was really great with lots of great music (in Russian of course) and a really great speaker. He is a lay preacher in the Tallinn Methodist Church and talked about God's grace.
We love you all!
Hanna - for the team.
The evening service was really great with lots of great music (in Russian of course) and a really great speaker. He is a lay preacher in the Tallinn Methodist Church and talked about God's grace.
We love you all!
Hanna - for the team.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Estonia Camp Gideon Team, Monday, July 1, 2008
We had another great day today. Everyone is really connecting with a lot of the campers and leaders. In fact I am the one writing tonight because our youth are all hanging out with the Estonian kids. I have been able to spend quite a bit of time with Artur and Robert. I believe that I have been successful in convincing Artur that it would be much better to have a small tractor than an ATV to mow with.
We were able to get the old mower going but, it's with the rough cut attachment. The finish mower attachment is much bigger and faster but it is in too bad shape and needs too many parts that we don't have to get it going.
Tomorrow morning Ryan and Sterling will be presenting a devotional. On Thursday we will helping to lead the worship music and the Russian speakers will be doing the music all in English.
The arts & crafts are a big hit.
God bless you all.
--Kevin - for the team.
We were able to get the old mower going but, it's with the rough cut attachment. The finish mower attachment is much bigger and faster but it is in too bad shape and needs too many parts that we don't have to get it going.
Tomorrow morning Ryan and Sterling will be presenting a devotional. On Thursday we will helping to lead the worship music and the Russian speakers will be doing the music all in English.
The arts & crafts are a big hit.
God bless you all.
--Kevin - for the team.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Estonia Camp Gideon Team, Monday, June 30, 2008
Hello everybody! This is Ryan Proctor writing on Monday. For all of us this was the longest day of our lives. We got up at 5:00 a.m. and played Capture The Flag for 3 1/2 hours! Oh, and we went to bed at 1:00 a.m. the night before. Then we had competitions with our teams (the campers and us mixed) to make the best team name, best team flag, and best team skit. We then engaged in the strangest scavenger hunt / exercise activity ever in which none of us English speakers knew what was happening. Overall though, it has been a great experience and we are all making great new friends.
Thanks for your prayers and support.
Ryan and the team.
Thanks for your prayers and support.
Ryan and the team.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Estonia Camp Gideon Team, Sunday, June 29, 2008
We had a really great day today! We started out with a really great breakfast at the hotel in Tallinn then drove to Parnu where we attended church at the Agape UMC. The drive was about 1 1/2 hours and we got to see some really beautiful scenery.
The worship service this morning was really nice. Miare lead the service and Ullas Tankler preached the sermon. Our youth presented a children's message. I gave a greeting from our team and Asbury. They all want you all to know that they sincerely appreciate our relationship with them.
After church we had lunch with Tonu, Kulli and Miare. Guess what! We had pizza again today. It was great though and we had a really great visit.
We filled up our van on diesel as we were leaving Parnu. $9.86 / gal.!!!!! And we think that we have it bad in the US.
The drive from Parnu to Camp Gideon was a little over 3 hours and was a beautiful drive. The farm land and forest is really pretty this time of year. We must have seen a hundred "Moose Crossing" signs but never saw a moose. The morning was totally clear but we drove in rain for the last half of the trip. It's clear here at camp though. The temperature is a bit cool but is really refreshing. Sunset was at exactly 11:30 this evening.
We are all settled in at camp. We've met everyone and gotten all of our assignments. We participated in the opening worship this evening. Tomorrow will be the start of the real work.
We will send another update tomorrow and I will try to have one of our youth send the message.
Thanks for your prayers and God bless.
Kevin and the team
The worship service this morning was really nice. Miare lead the service and Ullas Tankler preached the sermon. Our youth presented a children's message. I gave a greeting from our team and Asbury. They all want you all to know that they sincerely appreciate our relationship with them.
After church we had lunch with Tonu, Kulli and Miare. Guess what! We had pizza again today. It was great though and we had a really great visit.
We filled up our van on diesel as we were leaving Parnu. $9.86 / gal.!!!!! And we think that we have it bad in the US.
The drive from Parnu to Camp Gideon was a little over 3 hours and was a beautiful drive. The farm land and forest is really pretty this time of year. We must have seen a hundred "Moose Crossing" signs but never saw a moose. The morning was totally clear but we drove in rain for the last half of the trip. It's clear here at camp though. The temperature is a bit cool but is really refreshing. Sunset was at exactly 11:30 this evening.
We are all settled in at camp. We've met everyone and gotten all of our assignments. We participated in the opening worship this evening. Tomorrow will be the start of the real work.
We will send another update tomorrow and I will try to have one of our youth send the message.
Thanks for your prayers and God bless.
Kevin and the team
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Estonia, Camp Gideon Team, Sat., June 28, 2008
Hello friends and family!
Greetings from Tallinn, Estonia!
Today was a pretty eventful day. We woke up at 8:30 a.m., and it didn't go so well with our internal clocks! We're still on Tulsa time but we're adjusting just fine, no worries here. Then we walked from our hotel to the Baltic Mission Center which houses the Baltic Methodist Seminary and and the Tallinn Methodist Church. After that we rode the trolly to the old part of Tallinn. It was stunning, unlike pretty much nothing we've ever seen in person before (except for those of us who have been to Tallinn before). We took so many pictures; Old Town is like one huge photo op! We had lunch at a place called Pizza Americana. The name is kind of misleading though because the pizza was definitely not "Americana". We then met up with a friend, Mall Tamm, who is the Director of Lighthouse Children's Center, where Asbury's other Estonia VIM team worked a week or so ago. She showed us around Lighthouse, ate ice cream with us, then led us back to the old part of Tallinn. This time, we purchased souvenirs and took even more pictures. It started raining a little this afternoon so we got a little damp. Dinner was at a Russian restaurant, then we headed back to our hotel to prepare for our day tomorrow. We're going to the church in Parnu and giving the kids who attend the church a Sunday school lesson. Then we'll head to Camp Gideon! We're so excited.
Thanks for your support and continued prayers.
Sincerely,
Erin Tresch and the rest of the crew.
Greetings from Tallinn, Estonia!
Today was a pretty eventful day. We woke up at 8:30 a.m., and it didn't go so well with our internal clocks! We're still on Tulsa time but we're adjusting just fine, no worries here. Then we walked from our hotel to the Baltic Mission Center which houses the Baltic Methodist Seminary and and the Tallinn Methodist Church. After that we rode the trolly to the old part of Tallinn. It was stunning, unlike pretty much nothing we've ever seen in person before (except for those of us who have been to Tallinn before). We took so many pictures; Old Town is like one huge photo op! We had lunch at a place called Pizza Americana. The name is kind of misleading though because the pizza was definitely not "Americana". We then met up with a friend, Mall Tamm, who is the Director of Lighthouse Children's Center, where Asbury's other Estonia VIM team worked a week or so ago. She showed us around Lighthouse, ate ice cream with us, then led us back to the old part of Tallinn. This time, we purchased souvenirs and took even more pictures. It started raining a little this afternoon so we got a little damp. Dinner was at a Russian restaurant, then we headed back to our hotel to prepare for our day tomorrow. We're going to the church in Parnu and giving the kids who attend the church a Sunday school lesson. Then we'll head to Camp Gideon! We're so excited.
Thanks for your support and continued prayers.
Sincerely,
Erin Tresch and the rest of the crew.
Estonia, Camp Gideon Team, Friday, June 27, 2008
We made it! It is 12:30 a.m. and we're all settled in our rooms, our tummies all full with McDonald's (the only thing that we could find open that would be quick). The hotel and van arrangements went perfectly. Both are very comfortable. The van is brand new and has plenty of room for all of our luggage in the cargo area.
We were able to take the bullet train into Stockholm for a few hours and toured Old Town and the royal palace. Other than the initial delays, our travel went pretty smoothly. The only problem wasn't really a problem. But in Stockholm SAS/Estonian Air couldn't verify that our luggage had been checked through to Tallinn. That was because Delta's forms were misaligned in Tulsa so TLL didn't print on our claim check stubs. We spent more than an hour trying to figure that out. We finally were able to get some assurance that it had been coded correctly. A little stressful but, it all did make it to Tallinn just fine.
We are planning to have breakfast at around 9:00 in the morning. Then we are going to tour Olde Towne and hope to visit Lighthouse. We will drop by the BMC to see if anyone is there as well as Generation 2 at Aptik.
We'll plan to send another update tomorrow. Thanks for your prayers.
Kevin and the gang.
We were able to take the bullet train into Stockholm for a few hours and toured Old Town and the royal palace. Other than the initial delays, our travel went pretty smoothly. The only problem wasn't really a problem. But in Stockholm SAS/Estonian Air couldn't verify that our luggage had been checked through to Tallinn. That was because Delta's forms were misaligned in Tulsa so TLL didn't print on our claim check stubs. We spent more than an hour trying to figure that out. We finally were able to get some assurance that it had been coded correctly. A little stressful but, it all did make it to Tallinn just fine.
We are planning to have breakfast at around 9:00 in the morning. Then we are going to tour Olde Towne and hope to visit Lighthouse. We will drop by the BMC to see if anyone is there as well as Generation 2 at Aptik.
We'll plan to send another update tomorrow. Thanks for your prayers.
Kevin and the gang.
Tanzania Medical Team, Friday, June 27, 2008
We just got back from our last clinic in Fulwe. Hard to believe we will be on American soil again in just a couple of days. It has been a great trip. We are leaving the seminary tomorrow (Saturday) 10 AM (That's 2AM for you guys). Don't know what my access to e-mail will be. Thank you for your love, support, and prayers.
Marilyn
Marilyn
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