Well Everyone, Kyle and I have been busy. Since our last entry we have moved to Redding, California!
Why?
It all started in Africa. Both of us, individually, felt God put Bethel in our hearts. However; we both dismissed it pretty quickly. School starts in September, and we thought, "there's no way we can be ready to move across the country again. No way." So we didn't think anything about it until June. Right before we left for Sweden, the thought creeped it's way back. and we knew... we were to go to Bethel. So we applied right away, and decided not to think about it again until our interview. Our interview came right when we got back from Sweden, we did it, and then again, decided not to think about it until we got accepted. haha. There was a lot of "not thinking about it." But alas, end of July, we heard... we were accepted. Uh oh, now it's time to start thinking about it. And it was a whirlwind ever since. Three weeks after we were accepted, we packed up our car (AGAIN) to do the drive across the United States (AGAIN). and NOW... I am writing this, sitting in our new apartment in Redding, CA. crazy.
Bethel:
It's the Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry. BSSM. To find out more about the church as well as the school, click the Bethel website. Kyle and I have been interested in attending the church for years now. We are so attracted to everything this place is about. They teach about God's Kingdom, and bringing it to earth. Soooo to finally be here is amazing... surreal even.
So far, we are concentrating on settling into our new home. We have been thrifting furniture like crazy. Our best find so far is a two person couch, complete with vintage flower fabric, and a pullout twin bed... 30 bucks. SCORE.
And looking for jobs! So far, things have been looking promising. But if you will partner with us for His provision in this area, that would be wonderful!
For years now, I have encountered His provision tremendously. I pride myself on my faith. My ability to step out and take a risk, trusting that He will be there for me. However, the move to Redding to attend Bethel has been the greatest risk so far. I am leaning on Him like never before to see miracles in our life financially. It's been scary, but so far... like always, He's with us, showering down his blessings. Kyle and I are so excited about this next phase in our life. We are excited to learn and experience love in this Bethel culture, but most of all, we are excited about having a "normal" life. Now, we can never be normal... haha. But we are excited about living in the same town for the whole year. For building friendships, and community. And to be able to focus on ourselves. We are approaching our 1 year anniversary very quickly. And the year has been nothing short of thrilling, scary, wonderful, hard, life-changing, rewarding, and LOVELY. And as we start our second year of life together, we couldn't be more HOPEFUL and excited.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Sunday, July 10, 2011
no you can't eat my banan
We are travelling fools. Seriously... I don't know why we aren't signed up for frequent flyer miles because we are raking them in!!
We flew standby from Sweden, which was a huge blessing (it meant we got to go,) but getting out of Stockholm was insanity. There's only ONE delta flight out of Stockholm a DAY. So not once, not twice, but three times we went to the airport at 9:00 am, checked in, loaded our bags, went through customs, got a departure stamp out of Sweden, and then waited patiently and prayed we would be able to get on the flight. We would disappointingly hear the news that the flight was full, rewalk through customs, get an entrance stamp into Sweden, and WAIT 24 hours til we could try again. Although it was a stressful process, it turned out to be a wonderful blessing as we got to tour the city of Stockholm. Which is BEAUTIFUL. The old city is absolutely gorgeous, with a very Italy-esque feel. We walked and found our way through the mazes of old buildings, some even dating back to the 1200's. We walked by the pier, gazed at the range of boats, some hundreds of years old and some looking like they're from the future. It was such a blast and I cannot wait to return!!! Kyle is absolutely in love, and day one in Sweden turned to me and said, "honey, can we move here?" haha. Anyways, God's awesome and on the third day we got on our flight! Which meant we arrived in Atlanta at 11:00 pm, only to be home for 12 hours before returning to the dreadful airport to fly to Oregon. So here we are... Bend, Oregon! at last...
Sverige...
Sverige is a magical place. a magical, magical place. haha. Kyle and I were in the tiny village of Gnarp... which at the airport on the way there, not one single Swedish person we talked to had even heard of it. But let it be known that Gnarp is WONDERFUL!
The place is gorgeous, quaint, homey. The people there are sooo nice and welcoming. Kyle and I immediately felt like family. Our favorite thing about the whole experience was the people and friendships we came away with!
What we did:
We were put in charge of the oldest group of campers whose ages ranged from 16 to 19. Our group was called the Green Banana. amazing I know. The title of the blog came from our cheer in which we changed the Lady GaGa song Poker Face to "Can't eat my, can't eat my, no you can't eat my... GREEN BANAN..." genius. haha. But the camp was so much fun. We were always running around doing some activity whether it was canoeing in the ocean, riding Icelandic horses, or dancing.
The camp is a Christian camp, however, over half of the 100 campers were non Christian. I was unsure of how this dynamic was going to work before the camp started... but let me tell you, it was incredible. It was a powerful camp that displayed amazing messages; however, they were not threatening or overwhelming to those not ready for it. But... it was so inviting and so many kids got saved and encountered Jesus' love! My favorite thing was to look around during worship at all the children encountering His love. I would walk around and talk to girls who I felt needed some prayer or love,. and one girl I went up to was just crying by herself. I went up and asked her what was going on and her response was, "I'm... just... so Happy!!" haha. It was moments like those that just filled me with such joy!!
One of the nights, we had a message on who to turn to when bad things happen in life. I spoke on my experience with my dad dying and how Jesus completely healed and restored me and my family. It was a very powerful message, and I was shocked to hear about how many people related to my experience. It was such a blessing to hear children come up and discuss their experiences and emotions with me. And even more rewarding to hear how they have turned to God and are allowing him to work through their pain.
That was what is so great about this week long camp in Gnarp, Sweden... it is short, but powerful. I heard and witnessed so many children's lives get a little better, a little more hopeful, a little more exciting. And Kyle and I are both honored to be able to be a part of it.
Something that God showed me was that the Compassion he gave me in the Congo... is real and still very much a part of me. Some of the kids I met in Sweden have such a huge part of my heart. I LOVE some of these kids like I LOVE my family in Kelembe. And to feel that for them surprised me in such a wonderful way. yayyyyyy haha.
So in conclusion... everyone should go to Sweden. It's an amazing country!!!!
On my facebook I will be posting pictures soon!
tak tak
We flew standby from Sweden, which was a huge blessing (it meant we got to go,) but getting out of Stockholm was insanity. There's only ONE delta flight out of Stockholm a DAY. So not once, not twice, but three times we went to the airport at 9:00 am, checked in, loaded our bags, went through customs, got a departure stamp out of Sweden, and then waited patiently and prayed we would be able to get on the flight. We would disappointingly hear the news that the flight was full, rewalk through customs, get an entrance stamp into Sweden, and WAIT 24 hours til we could try again. Although it was a stressful process, it turned out to be a wonderful blessing as we got to tour the city of Stockholm. Which is BEAUTIFUL. The old city is absolutely gorgeous, with a very Italy-esque feel. We walked and found our way through the mazes of old buildings, some even dating back to the 1200's. We walked by the pier, gazed at the range of boats, some hundreds of years old and some looking like they're from the future. It was such a blast and I cannot wait to return!!! Kyle is absolutely in love, and day one in Sweden turned to me and said, "honey, can we move here?" haha. Anyways, God's awesome and on the third day we got on our flight! Which meant we arrived in Atlanta at 11:00 pm, only to be home for 12 hours before returning to the dreadful airport to fly to Oregon. So here we are... Bend, Oregon! at last...
Sverige...
Sverige is a magical place. a magical, magical place. haha. Kyle and I were in the tiny village of Gnarp... which at the airport on the way there, not one single Swedish person we talked to had even heard of it. But let it be known that Gnarp is WONDERFUL!
The place is gorgeous, quaint, homey. The people there are sooo nice and welcoming. Kyle and I immediately felt like family. Our favorite thing about the whole experience was the people and friendships we came away with!
What we did:
We were put in charge of the oldest group of campers whose ages ranged from 16 to 19. Our group was called the Green Banana. amazing I know. The title of the blog came from our cheer in which we changed the Lady GaGa song Poker Face to "Can't eat my, can't eat my, no you can't eat my... GREEN BANAN..." genius. haha. But the camp was so much fun. We were always running around doing some activity whether it was canoeing in the ocean, riding Icelandic horses, or dancing.
The camp is a Christian camp, however, over half of the 100 campers were non Christian. I was unsure of how this dynamic was going to work before the camp started... but let me tell you, it was incredible. It was a powerful camp that displayed amazing messages; however, they were not threatening or overwhelming to those not ready for it. But... it was so inviting and so many kids got saved and encountered Jesus' love! My favorite thing was to look around during worship at all the children encountering His love. I would walk around and talk to girls who I felt needed some prayer or love,. and one girl I went up to was just crying by herself. I went up and asked her what was going on and her response was, "I'm... just... so Happy!!" haha. It was moments like those that just filled me with such joy!!
One of the nights, we had a message on who to turn to when bad things happen in life. I spoke on my experience with my dad dying and how Jesus completely healed and restored me and my family. It was a very powerful message, and I was shocked to hear about how many people related to my experience. It was such a blessing to hear children come up and discuss their experiences and emotions with me. And even more rewarding to hear how they have turned to God and are allowing him to work through their pain.
That was what is so great about this week long camp in Gnarp, Sweden... it is short, but powerful. I heard and witnessed so many children's lives get a little better, a little more hopeful, a little more exciting. And Kyle and I are both honored to be able to be a part of it.
Something that God showed me was that the Compassion he gave me in the Congo... is real and still very much a part of me. Some of the kids I met in Sweden have such a huge part of my heart. I LOVE some of these kids like I LOVE my family in Kelembe. And to feel that for them surprised me in such a wonderful way. yayyyyyy haha.
So in conclusion... everyone should go to Sweden. It's an amazing country!!!!
On my facebook I will be posting pictures soon!
tak tak
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
swahili to swedish
Kyle and I have been back in the States for almost a month now. Let me tell you...
mother's home cooking (yummmm)
season TWO of glee (we watched ONE over and over and over in africa...)
Hot showers
new QUEEN size bed complete with pretty turqoise BIRD quilt (pretty!)
air conditioning
friends!
and just that warm feeling you get knowing you're HOME
it has been wonderful to be back. However, it doesn't come without those random moments that sneak up out of nowhere in which I miss my Kalembe family. I think about them every so often, and desperately send love there way. I pray for their safety and provision. And just wonder how they're doing.
With that being said, our decision to come home early has been proving correct. (so you think you can dance starting up right when we get home?! ... coincidence? i think not.) But seriously, only 3 days after our arrival home did we receive an opportunity to go to Sweden to be leaders at a Christian Camp. WOWie! Kyle and I have been wanting to go to Sverige for a couple years now, as one of our best friends is from there! We even have an empty water jug entitled "To Sverige" that collects our change. We've been collecting money in it for 5 months and did the great unvailing of our loot the other day... 100 bucks! Not too shabby.
Anyways, it's just amazing how wonderful Jesus is. He gives us the desires of our heart. Kyle and I didn't think we'd be able to get to sweden for a few years, and out of nowhere, blessing.
We will be leaving for Sweden June 20th, and be returning July 3rd. It is a quick trip, but will be amazing of course. We will be leaders at ACTScamp. A christian camp that was started in 2008 by great family friends of ours, Pernilla and Rob Hardin. In the morning I will be helping lead campers in dance. It's an amazing experience for me as I've been choreographing again! Something I miss dearly. The afternoon consists of different group activities such as canoeing, ropes courses, beach trips, etc. The evening is filled with dramas and dances, quick lessons, and then small groups. The students can then go off and hang out or join in worship. The campers consist of 50/50 Christian/nonChristian, so it is an amazing outreach tool and place for young people to discover Truth in a fun and safe environment.
We are honored to be a part of this, and are so excited!
We leave in 5 days, and are spending our time finishing preparations. Can't wait to let everyone know how it went when we return!
mother's home cooking (yummmm)
season TWO of glee (we watched ONE over and over and over in africa...)
Hot showers
new QUEEN size bed complete with pretty turqoise BIRD quilt (pretty!)
air conditioning
friends!
and just that warm feeling you get knowing you're HOME
it has been wonderful to be back. However, it doesn't come without those random moments that sneak up out of nowhere in which I miss my Kalembe family. I think about them every so often, and desperately send love there way. I pray for their safety and provision. And just wonder how they're doing.
With that being said, our decision to come home early has been proving correct. (so you think you can dance starting up right when we get home?! ... coincidence? i think not.) But seriously, only 3 days after our arrival home did we receive an opportunity to go to Sweden to be leaders at a Christian Camp. WOWie! Kyle and I have been wanting to go to Sverige for a couple years now, as one of our best friends is from there! We even have an empty water jug entitled "To Sverige" that collects our change. We've been collecting money in it for 5 months and did the great unvailing of our loot the other day... 100 bucks! Not too shabby.
Anyways, it's just amazing how wonderful Jesus is. He gives us the desires of our heart. Kyle and I didn't think we'd be able to get to sweden for a few years, and out of nowhere, blessing.
We will be leaving for Sweden June 20th, and be returning July 3rd. It is a quick trip, but will be amazing of course. We will be leaders at ACTScamp. A christian camp that was started in 2008 by great family friends of ours, Pernilla and Rob Hardin. In the morning I will be helping lead campers in dance. It's an amazing experience for me as I've been choreographing again! Something I miss dearly. The afternoon consists of different group activities such as canoeing, ropes courses, beach trips, etc. The evening is filled with dramas and dances, quick lessons, and then small groups. The students can then go off and hang out or join in worship. The campers consist of 50/50 Christian/nonChristian, so it is an amazing outreach tool and place for young people to discover Truth in a fun and safe environment.
We are honored to be a part of this, and are so excited!
We leave in 5 days, and are spending our time finishing preparations. Can't wait to let everyone know how it went when we return!
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
an unexpected twist
hapennings:
A recent change of events. Kyle and I are having to leave the country today! AHHH. We entered back into the country on Saturday, and the men at the desk said that our Visas' expired on the 11th. We were very confused because to our knowledge they expired on the 28th. Basically they are saying our Visa started when it was issued, not when we entered the country. This is total rubbish. haha. Cassandra did her best argueing in french to the men but all they did was laugh at her. So, we had a meeting with the government and the man who issued our visa on Monday. He said that our original visa didn't even count, and we shouldn't have been able to get into the country in the first place. We got our Visa's in Rwanda, and since we're not Rwandan we shouldn't have gotten in. He said, "God was clearly with you in getting into the country." Casssandra's response, "Duh." This again does not make sense, as Cassandra always gets her Visa in other African countries such as Kenya or Uganda; but the government here just doesn't make sense. They do everything for money. The man would have let us stay an extra week for a fee of 300 dollars. Which, we do not have so all we could do is leave. So, very quickly Kyle and I had to say our goodybes. We didn't even get to say good bye to our Ndosho students.... sad. Sooooo sad. But, we said goodbye to Pastor Euclide, and Pastor Mboto and family. I love all of them so much. It was a happy yet sad farewell. Kyle and I know we will be back here someday.
Although, our leaving the DRC was sudden, it feels right. Kyle and I, as well as Cassandra felt a lot of peace about the whole situation. Even though we're sad to be leaving eachother, we know it's God's timing. We are going to be staying in Gisenyi, Rwanda for the next week until our flight on the 18th. Our friend Ava, the daughter of the owner of Hotel Karibu in Congo has a house there that she is letting us stay at. Amazing. This family was labeled the "Rockefellers of the Congo." So I can only imagine their Rwanda house is pretty nice. haha. We will have a nice, relaxing week to be able to detox and reflect on our 3 month stint in DRC. Sadly, Cassandra can't come to Rwanda with us since she is Canadian... she has to pay 60 bucks every time she enters and get a Visa. But Americans can come in any time without a Visa and for free.... all thanks to Obama... he's a god here in Africa. haha. He is on everything from pencils, to chewing gum, to mutatus, to tshirts... But we will meet up with her and her parents on the 17th, and head to Kigali together. Then, we'll be picking up Rolland Baker on the 18th, and Kyle and I will be flying out that night.
So that's our new schedule.... things have been crazy and sudden. But again... we're at peace, and feel good about everything.
We'll be home so soon!!! See everyone in a week!
A recent change of events. Kyle and I are having to leave the country today! AHHH. We entered back into the country on Saturday, and the men at the desk said that our Visas' expired on the 11th. We were very confused because to our knowledge they expired on the 28th. Basically they are saying our Visa started when it was issued, not when we entered the country. This is total rubbish. haha. Cassandra did her best argueing in french to the men but all they did was laugh at her. So, we had a meeting with the government and the man who issued our visa on Monday. He said that our original visa didn't even count, and we shouldn't have been able to get into the country in the first place. We got our Visa's in Rwanda, and since we're not Rwandan we shouldn't have gotten in. He said, "God was clearly with you in getting into the country." Casssandra's response, "Duh." This again does not make sense, as Cassandra always gets her Visa in other African countries such as Kenya or Uganda; but the government here just doesn't make sense. They do everything for money. The man would have let us stay an extra week for a fee of 300 dollars. Which, we do not have so all we could do is leave. So, very quickly Kyle and I had to say our goodybes. We didn't even get to say good bye to our Ndosho students.... sad. Sooooo sad. But, we said goodbye to Pastor Euclide, and Pastor Mboto and family. I love all of them so much. It was a happy yet sad farewell. Kyle and I know we will be back here someday.
Although, our leaving the DRC was sudden, it feels right. Kyle and I, as well as Cassandra felt a lot of peace about the whole situation. Even though we're sad to be leaving eachother, we know it's God's timing. We are going to be staying in Gisenyi, Rwanda for the next week until our flight on the 18th. Our friend Ava, the daughter of the owner of Hotel Karibu in Congo has a house there that she is letting us stay at. Amazing. This family was labeled the "Rockefellers of the Congo." So I can only imagine their Rwanda house is pretty nice. haha. We will have a nice, relaxing week to be able to detox and reflect on our 3 month stint in DRC. Sadly, Cassandra can't come to Rwanda with us since she is Canadian... she has to pay 60 bucks every time she enters and get a Visa. But Americans can come in any time without a Visa and for free.... all thanks to Obama... he's a god here in Africa. haha. He is on everything from pencils, to chewing gum, to mutatus, to tshirts... But we will meet up with her and her parents on the 17th, and head to Kigali together. Then, we'll be picking up Rolland Baker on the 18th, and Kyle and I will be flying out that night.
So that's our new schedule.... things have been crazy and sudden. But again... we're at peace, and feel good about everything.
We'll be home so soon!!! See everyone in a week!
Friday, May 6, 2011
Lekker
Hello everyone!
Again, I apologize for it being so long since I wrote. Life is just crazy out here in the DRC.
For the past 2 weeks we had a team from South Africa come stay with us. It was absolutely amazing, and they definitely brought some needed fun and excitement. Kyle and I have new words and phrases we are trying to incorporate into our everyday conversation... and we will be bringing it back to the States. Lekker.
Easter here was so much fun! The amazing S.A's brough over 300 chocolate eggs! Again... you can see why I loved them so much. Pastor here has never experienced an Easter egg hunt... so naturally... we had to have one for his entire family. It was so fun to see them running around. A very great moment.
He is Risen!
We have done a couple more Heal Africa trips complete with healings, singing, dancing, all good fun. As well as more lessons with our Ndosho school children! They were out on holiday for a few weeks, so it was wonderful being able to return and see our beautiful kiddies! Plus, we cemented the second floor! No more sketchy wood planks, but solid concrete! The school is really coming together. Before we leave we would like to decorate and continue to beautify the dreary walls. Thanks to the Bethel team that came, as well as Cassandra's parents bringing school supplies we are able to add to the scenery. I even drew out the alphabet on colored paper to hang up on the walls. Little by little we are getting things done.
Unfortunately, Kyle and I were not able to make it out to Kalembe when S.A was here; I was sick for a little bit. Good thing one of the S.A's is a doctor, (again, they were just incredible) and gave me some medicine. I am feeling much better now, and will be going out to Kalembe this Monday. I cannot wait to see my favorite people again! They are so incredible!
Not too much exciting news to report, but the time the team was here was one of fun and fellowship. I loved meeting all of them, and Kyle and I now have new life long friends! We are already planning our S.A trip! haha. Plus, almost every night I dominated in the game MAFIA. ahahaha. unstoppable.
We are currently in Rwanda, celebrating Cass's 24th birthday!!! (complete with real chocolate cake, and a movie theatre trip! HUUURAHHH! It was probably the most "normal" day we've had since coming to Africa.) It was great. Plus, Kyle and I were able to finally change our flight and secure a date home. Unfortunately, the only day we could leave that wouldn't cost us 2000 extra dollars was the 19th. So, we're cutting our trip a bit shorter than we had wanted... but we are most excited about returning home!
So yes... Kyle and I will be arriving back in the ATL on May 19th. We want to say thank you to all of our supporters, both prayerfully and financially. We definitely COULD NOT have gone on such an amazing trip without you guys. We appreciate and love all of you so much.
Thank you.
Again, I apologize for it being so long since I wrote. Life is just crazy out here in the DRC.
For the past 2 weeks we had a team from South Africa come stay with us. It was absolutely amazing, and they definitely brought some needed fun and excitement. Kyle and I have new words and phrases we are trying to incorporate into our everyday conversation... and we will be bringing it back to the States. Lekker.
Easter here was so much fun! The amazing S.A's brough over 300 chocolate eggs! Again... you can see why I loved them so much. Pastor here has never experienced an Easter egg hunt... so naturally... we had to have one for his entire family. It was so fun to see them running around. A very great moment.
He is Risen!
We have done a couple more Heal Africa trips complete with healings, singing, dancing, all good fun. As well as more lessons with our Ndosho school children! They were out on holiday for a few weeks, so it was wonderful being able to return and see our beautiful kiddies! Plus, we cemented the second floor! No more sketchy wood planks, but solid concrete! The school is really coming together. Before we leave we would like to decorate and continue to beautify the dreary walls. Thanks to the Bethel team that came, as well as Cassandra's parents bringing school supplies we are able to add to the scenery. I even drew out the alphabet on colored paper to hang up on the walls. Little by little we are getting things done.
Unfortunately, Kyle and I were not able to make it out to Kalembe when S.A was here; I was sick for a little bit. Good thing one of the S.A's is a doctor, (again, they were just incredible) and gave me some medicine. I am feeling much better now, and will be going out to Kalembe this Monday. I cannot wait to see my favorite people again! They are so incredible!
Not too much exciting news to report, but the time the team was here was one of fun and fellowship. I loved meeting all of them, and Kyle and I now have new life long friends! We are already planning our S.A trip! haha. Plus, almost every night I dominated in the game MAFIA. ahahaha. unstoppable.
We are currently in Rwanda, celebrating Cass's 24th birthday!!! (complete with real chocolate cake, and a movie theatre trip! HUUURAHHH! It was probably the most "normal" day we've had since coming to Africa.) It was great. Plus, Kyle and I were able to finally change our flight and secure a date home. Unfortunately, the only day we could leave that wouldn't cost us 2000 extra dollars was the 19th. So, we're cutting our trip a bit shorter than we had wanted... but we are most excited about returning home!
So yes... Kyle and I will be arriving back in the ATL on May 19th. We want to say thank you to all of our supporters, both prayerfully and financially. We definitely COULD NOT have gone on such an amazing trip without you guys. We appreciate and love all of you so much.
Thank you.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
weiner fingers
...the nickname we have dubbed for one very cute Kalembe boy who seems to always have his hands down his pants...
but we'll get to Kalembe later...
Sorry it's been so long since I've posted... seems like we have been EXTREMELY busy the past few weeks.
We put on a conference for the youth... ages 13 to 24ish. They are on break from school for 2 weeks so we had them for 3 days. It was super fun, they even spent the night the whole time so it was a for real retreat!
We did lessons all day and then had fun the rest of the night. But it was incredible! Kyle taught on grace and how we are all righteous; we are no longer sinners. and it was such a BREAKTHROUGH for them! they were blown away and so excited! They said, "This good news really is GOOOD NEWS!" haha. The mindsets here are that God wants to punish us, that we are sinners, and that we have to be literally perfect to get into heaven. Even pastors tell their congregation that they are unsure if they themselves will get into heaven. So for them to hear such mindbreaking information and really receive it is such a blessing. I taught on God's character and how he is a LOVING God. He does not want to punish you, He is your father and just wants to lavish and love on his children. This too is so huge for them to really understand. We also did lessons on hearing the voice of God, and bringing heaven to earth. We even sent them out on a treasure hunt which is completely new for them... and we had such amazing results! So overall... the retreat was a SUCCESS. We want to try to meet with this group weekly to really be able to disciple and pour into them. Hearing God's voice is something that is so new to them, that they really need to practice as often as they can.
Plus we played the game Ultimate Ninja with them... which is pretty much the best thing ever. And so hilarious to watch them play.
We also went to Kalembe (the bush)! It was our first time and so AMAZING. The ride getting there is another story... 6 hours of being jerked and bumped around. It was awful. haha. But completely worth it. Kalembe is stereotypical Africa. Mud huts, naked babies everywhere, trees and vegetation, rolling hills, it was beautiful! It was a completely new experience for us... going to the bathroom in the latrine the whole time, sleeping on the ground with rats, getting bit by an insane amount of bugs... if I told you how many bug bites I now have I would frighten you. But still the most incredible trip. I absolutely fell in love with all of the children and the people. They have absolutely so little, but are the sweetest most joyful people around. Seeing Mama Louiza jump for joy and shout SANDRA SANDRA SANDRA when our car pulled up was amazing. They literally LOVE that we come out there and love on them.
We got to see the new school that Cassandra and Daniel built out there. It's almost finished and will be open for students this September! Keeping the children in school gives them the option of another life other than joining the rebel soldiers. Which obviously... is huge. All you hear from the kids there is, "I want to go to school. I want to go to school." And we have now provided them with an opportunity to do so!
We held a 2 day conference at our school for anyone who wanted to attend. It was again... AMAZING. haha. (sorry for lack of adjectives). We taught again on grace, God's heart, and the Kingdom. What was amazing was hearing that they really understood and received it. A few people got saved, and a few other people got healed! Which we empowered them to do.... we had them praying over eachother's illnesses to let them know that it is within them not just us. The mamas and babas (women and men) are the most precious, sweet, honoring people ever!
Always in Africa, you will see mamas hunched over carrying HUGE loads on their back. One day when we were walking the 2 kilometer walk back home from our school, Kyle asked a mama if he could carry her bag. She was completely shocked but agreed. Kyle carried this woman's 70 pound bag all the way to the mama's house... so probably a kilometer total. He was completely exhausted. He was sweating profusely, had to stop multiple times, it was HARD. But what is amazing is EVERY SINGLE person we passed by stopped and stared at him. They were in disbelief that a muzungu, and a MAN, would carry a mama's load. This is unheard of. Our pastor said that the mama would never forget this for as long as she lived. She would tell this story forever. Other people told us that, "it was true love. Him carrying her bag." So WOW what an incredible way to show love. We didn't have to say a word.... they experienced love. What's crazy is that the mama was carrying the load of casava root for many many miles before we saw her, and she does this every single day. The mama was probably 50 years old, and this is her life. It is injustice.
Kalembe is a village in an area, where every single war or conflict that has ever occurred in Congo has originated from. This is insane. Currently, rebel soldiers often raid villages stealing belongings, raping women, taking children, and killing innocent people. While we were there we were completely safe; however, the last night was a little scary. That day the government troops who "protect" the village left for Kitchanga and replacements were supossed to come. However, no replacement soldiers arrived. This put the village in a frenzy; they were all frightened that because there was no protection, the rebels would come. The chief we were staying with was particulary afraid for our safety. So we got in our car and drove up to the UN base in the village that night and asked them what we should do. Should we stay in their camp for the night, or have one of their soldiers come to our house? But their leader assured us we were fine, and if anything should happen they would send people to come get us. So we went back home and went to sleep. We woke up the next day, everything was fine. No problems. However; the village only 7 kilometers away from us was raided that night. It is hard to thank God that we were protected that night, but know that other people were not so fortunate. It is even harder to be able to leave the village, knowing people you love cannot. That this is their reality every single night. That every single night they sleep in fear that the rebels could come at any moment. After meeting Moese (Weiner Fingers) haha, the most precious, sweetest, 9 year old boy ever, and then leaving him to this fear that he could be captured and taken as a soldier is not ok. This is injustice. It needs to end. I tell you this story not to frighten you, but to inform you of what is hapenning in the world. Pray for these people!! Pray for peace to invade the land, the village, the people. Pray for the soldiers to encounter the love of God. Pray for the war to end! Pray for restoration!!!
but we'll get to Kalembe later...
Sorry it's been so long since I've posted... seems like we have been EXTREMELY busy the past few weeks.
We put on a conference for the youth... ages 13 to 24ish. They are on break from school for 2 weeks so we had them for 3 days. It was super fun, they even spent the night the whole time so it was a for real retreat!
We did lessons all day and then had fun the rest of the night. But it was incredible! Kyle taught on grace and how we are all righteous; we are no longer sinners. and it was such a BREAKTHROUGH for them! they were blown away and so excited! They said, "This good news really is GOOOD NEWS!" haha. The mindsets here are that God wants to punish us, that we are sinners, and that we have to be literally perfect to get into heaven. Even pastors tell their congregation that they are unsure if they themselves will get into heaven. So for them to hear such mindbreaking information and really receive it is such a blessing. I taught on God's character and how he is a LOVING God. He does not want to punish you, He is your father and just wants to lavish and love on his children. This too is so huge for them to really understand. We also did lessons on hearing the voice of God, and bringing heaven to earth. We even sent them out on a treasure hunt which is completely new for them... and we had such amazing results! So overall... the retreat was a SUCCESS. We want to try to meet with this group weekly to really be able to disciple and pour into them. Hearing God's voice is something that is so new to them, that they really need to practice as often as they can.
Plus we played the game Ultimate Ninja with them... which is pretty much the best thing ever. And so hilarious to watch them play.
We also went to Kalembe (the bush)! It was our first time and so AMAZING. The ride getting there is another story... 6 hours of being jerked and bumped around. It was awful. haha. But completely worth it. Kalembe is stereotypical Africa. Mud huts, naked babies everywhere, trees and vegetation, rolling hills, it was beautiful! It was a completely new experience for us... going to the bathroom in the latrine the whole time, sleeping on the ground with rats, getting bit by an insane amount of bugs... if I told you how many bug bites I now have I would frighten you. But still the most incredible trip. I absolutely fell in love with all of the children and the people. They have absolutely so little, but are the sweetest most joyful people around. Seeing Mama Louiza jump for joy and shout SANDRA SANDRA SANDRA when our car pulled up was amazing. They literally LOVE that we come out there and love on them.
We got to see the new school that Cassandra and Daniel built out there. It's almost finished and will be open for students this September! Keeping the children in school gives them the option of another life other than joining the rebel soldiers. Which obviously... is huge. All you hear from the kids there is, "I want to go to school. I want to go to school." And we have now provided them with an opportunity to do so!
We held a 2 day conference at our school for anyone who wanted to attend. It was again... AMAZING. haha. (sorry for lack of adjectives). We taught again on grace, God's heart, and the Kingdom. What was amazing was hearing that they really understood and received it. A few people got saved, and a few other people got healed! Which we empowered them to do.... we had them praying over eachother's illnesses to let them know that it is within them not just us. The mamas and babas (women and men) are the most precious, sweet, honoring people ever!
Always in Africa, you will see mamas hunched over carrying HUGE loads on their back. One day when we were walking the 2 kilometer walk back home from our school, Kyle asked a mama if he could carry her bag. She was completely shocked but agreed. Kyle carried this woman's 70 pound bag all the way to the mama's house... so probably a kilometer total. He was completely exhausted. He was sweating profusely, had to stop multiple times, it was HARD. But what is amazing is EVERY SINGLE person we passed by stopped and stared at him. They were in disbelief that a muzungu, and a MAN, would carry a mama's load. This is unheard of. Our pastor said that the mama would never forget this for as long as she lived. She would tell this story forever. Other people told us that, "it was true love. Him carrying her bag." So WOW what an incredible way to show love. We didn't have to say a word.... they experienced love. What's crazy is that the mama was carrying the load of casava root for many many miles before we saw her, and she does this every single day. The mama was probably 50 years old, and this is her life. It is injustice.
Kalembe is a village in an area, where every single war or conflict that has ever occurred in Congo has originated from. This is insane. Currently, rebel soldiers often raid villages stealing belongings, raping women, taking children, and killing innocent people. While we were there we were completely safe; however, the last night was a little scary. That day the government troops who "protect" the village left for Kitchanga and replacements were supossed to come. However, no replacement soldiers arrived. This put the village in a frenzy; they were all frightened that because there was no protection, the rebels would come. The chief we were staying with was particulary afraid for our safety. So we got in our car and drove up to the UN base in the village that night and asked them what we should do. Should we stay in their camp for the night, or have one of their soldiers come to our house? But their leader assured us we were fine, and if anything should happen they would send people to come get us. So we went back home and went to sleep. We woke up the next day, everything was fine. No problems. However; the village only 7 kilometers away from us was raided that night. It is hard to thank God that we were protected that night, but know that other people were not so fortunate. It is even harder to be able to leave the village, knowing people you love cannot. That this is their reality every single night. That every single night they sleep in fear that the rebels could come at any moment. After meeting Moese (Weiner Fingers) haha, the most precious, sweetest, 9 year old boy ever, and then leaving him to this fear that he could be captured and taken as a soldier is not ok. This is injustice. It needs to end. I tell you this story not to frighten you, but to inform you of what is hapenning in the world. Pray for these people!! Pray for peace to invade the land, the village, the people. Pray for the soldiers to encounter the love of God. Pray for the war to end! Pray for restoration!!!
Friday, April 1, 2011
Abraham, Matilda, and Wade
3 stories:
Abraham.
Last night Kyle, Daniel, and I were getting motos to ride over to our new rafiki's house to hang out. It was almost dark so it was hard finding motos. We had two already, but could not find a third. Therefore, Kyle and I jumped on the back of the same one. I had a scarf covering my face to 1. cover up from the dirt that loves to cling to my face when we ride and 2. to mask the odor coming from our motodriver.... I was VERY close to his face. Anyways, we were off. Right away he started speaking to us in a wonderful mixture of Swahili, French, and English! yay he knew English quite well. He asked us our names, after saying that his was Abraham. Kyle answered with, "Pastor Kyle and Pastor Katarina." His response, " OHHH you are pastors!! I need to talk to you Pastors!" He excitedly explained to us, that his wife was Christian and also pregnant. His dad though was Islam, and therefore he was Islam. But his dad just died, so he did not need to be Islam anymore. He "wanted truth. to be a Christian." His words. We talked the whole ride. When we arrived at our destination, he continued to press that he needed to talk to us. Kyle asked if he wanted Jesus right then, and he shouted YES. So right there with our other moto driver watching, Kyle led him in a prayer. It was amazing watching him translate and respond, with the biggest smile on his face. At the end he hugged Kyle, and started SOBBING. SOBBING. He was crying sooo much. It was quite the moment. And one of my favorite moments of our whole trip so far. Abraham just said 'thank you thank you' over and over again. He was sooo happy. He and Kyle exchanged phone numbers and we are going to all hang out soon. We'll probably go to church with him and his wife this Sunday. Yay for the moto drivers of Congo... they're incredible.
Matilda.
Yesterday, Daniel, Kyle, and I went to Heal Africa again with our pastors. We wanted to continue praying for the people there. It is literally my favorite thing to do here in Congo. Without our Bethel team present, Kyle and I were able to go around and pray together. Fun! Things started out more slowly, until we reached a wonderful girl named Bertie. She had two casts on her legs and she was in considerable pain. She was squirmy and so uncomfortable when we met her. We prayed for her legs, and after several different times ALL of her pain went away. She was so joyful and happy, smiling from ear to ear. We loved on her a bit, and then told her to tell the two women next to her what just hapenned to her. Spreading testimonies is the best way to build your faith! What God did for someone else he can do for you. What God did for you once he can do for you again. Which brought us to Matilda. Matilda was a beautiful mama who was stuck in her bed. When we asked her what was wrong with her she said, "paralyzed." She could not feel her legs when we were touching them, and she could definitely not get up. She had considerable back pain as well. We prayed for her once, and she said she could feel something moving in her legs! Plus, she started wiggling her purple painted toes! We got very excited and started praying again. After that round, she bent her legs all the way to her chest and said she could not do that before! yayyyy. Kyle then told her that she was going to walk. She moved into a sitting position with her legs dangling off the bed, and we prayed again. Her back pain was gone and she got up! She walked up and down the hospital aisle. INCREDIBLE. She said her hips still hurt though, so we prayed again. haha. She then was doing laps up and down the aisle with Kyle. Coolest thing I've seen. For sure. What's funny is Pastor Mboto later told us that Matilda was talking to him while we had moved on to her daughter. She was saying, "they won't leave until we're healed will they? haha." Pastor said, "nope." She said that we were different from the other people who come to the hospital to pray. Amazing.
Wade.
Last week at Heal Africa, Kyle met a mzungu named Heidi. Heidi was here in Congo with an organization called Discover the Journey. They are based out in LA, but have been following 3 child soldiers since 2007. They just finished filming their documentary. Kyle exchanged contact info with her, and that was it. Then a few days later, while we were staying with our friends in Rwanda, in walks a man named Wade. Wade just flew in from New York, and was staying in the same place as us for a night. He is a lawyer to be, and happenns to be a part of Discover the Journey as well. He is meeting up with Heidi and the rest of the team tomorrow. Crazy. The next day we then leave for Goma, and before we get on our bus we stop at a coffee shop. In walks Heidi. Crazy. We run into her again, and talk with her. Exchange more info and say goodbye. We then our on moto's in Goma riding to our house, when Wade, and the team see us. Crazy. Anyways... Kyle and Daniel say that it's no coincidence we ran into them so many times. haha. We contact Wade in Goma, and met up with the team last night. They are incredible! They are Christians, but DTJ is not a Christian organization. They basically make films to raise awareness about injustices hapenning to children. They're documentary on 3 child soldiers is going to be released in summer or fall. Which by the way, the clips we got to see are INCREDIBLE. The stories of the team are amazing, and so inspiring. One of the boys they were following got recaptured, and the team spent years tracking him. They finally found him and paid for his release from the army this fall. Wow. Anyways, this group is absolutely incredible. Look up their website, http://www.discoverthejourney.org/.
It's amazing creating new friendships out here, as well as meeting young people who are out here doing amazing things with their lives. Dedicating so much of themselves to others.
Quick Praise Reports:
Cassandra received an incredible donation for a car! So we are currently car shopping. This will be a huge blessing, meaning we can get to and from the bush quicker, cheaper, and safer.
My allergies the past couple days have been much better! yayyyy so thank you to everyone who's been praying! GREATLY appreciated.
Abraham.
Last night Kyle, Daniel, and I were getting motos to ride over to our new rafiki's house to hang out. It was almost dark so it was hard finding motos. We had two already, but could not find a third. Therefore, Kyle and I jumped on the back of the same one. I had a scarf covering my face to 1. cover up from the dirt that loves to cling to my face when we ride and 2. to mask the odor coming from our motodriver.... I was VERY close to his face. Anyways, we were off. Right away he started speaking to us in a wonderful mixture of Swahili, French, and English! yay he knew English quite well. He asked us our names, after saying that his was Abraham. Kyle answered with, "Pastor Kyle and Pastor Katarina." His response, " OHHH you are pastors!! I need to talk to you Pastors!" He excitedly explained to us, that his wife was Christian and also pregnant. His dad though was Islam, and therefore he was Islam. But his dad just died, so he did not need to be Islam anymore. He "wanted truth. to be a Christian." His words. We talked the whole ride. When we arrived at our destination, he continued to press that he needed to talk to us. Kyle asked if he wanted Jesus right then, and he shouted YES. So right there with our other moto driver watching, Kyle led him in a prayer. It was amazing watching him translate and respond, with the biggest smile on his face. At the end he hugged Kyle, and started SOBBING. SOBBING. He was crying sooo much. It was quite the moment. And one of my favorite moments of our whole trip so far. Abraham just said 'thank you thank you' over and over again. He was sooo happy. He and Kyle exchanged phone numbers and we are going to all hang out soon. We'll probably go to church with him and his wife this Sunday. Yay for the moto drivers of Congo... they're incredible.
Matilda.
Yesterday, Daniel, Kyle, and I went to Heal Africa again with our pastors. We wanted to continue praying for the people there. It is literally my favorite thing to do here in Congo. Without our Bethel team present, Kyle and I were able to go around and pray together. Fun! Things started out more slowly, until we reached a wonderful girl named Bertie. She had two casts on her legs and she was in considerable pain. She was squirmy and so uncomfortable when we met her. We prayed for her legs, and after several different times ALL of her pain went away. She was so joyful and happy, smiling from ear to ear. We loved on her a bit, and then told her to tell the two women next to her what just hapenned to her. Spreading testimonies is the best way to build your faith! What God did for someone else he can do for you. What God did for you once he can do for you again. Which brought us to Matilda. Matilda was a beautiful mama who was stuck in her bed. When we asked her what was wrong with her she said, "paralyzed." She could not feel her legs when we were touching them, and she could definitely not get up. She had considerable back pain as well. We prayed for her once, and she said she could feel something moving in her legs! Plus, she started wiggling her purple painted toes! We got very excited and started praying again. After that round, she bent her legs all the way to her chest and said she could not do that before! yayyyy. Kyle then told her that she was going to walk. She moved into a sitting position with her legs dangling off the bed, and we prayed again. Her back pain was gone and she got up! She walked up and down the hospital aisle. INCREDIBLE. She said her hips still hurt though, so we prayed again. haha. She then was doing laps up and down the aisle with Kyle. Coolest thing I've seen. For sure. What's funny is Pastor Mboto later told us that Matilda was talking to him while we had moved on to her daughter. She was saying, "they won't leave until we're healed will they? haha." Pastor said, "nope." She said that we were different from the other people who come to the hospital to pray. Amazing.
Wade.
Last week at Heal Africa, Kyle met a mzungu named Heidi. Heidi was here in Congo with an organization called Discover the Journey. They are based out in LA, but have been following 3 child soldiers since 2007. They just finished filming their documentary. Kyle exchanged contact info with her, and that was it. Then a few days later, while we were staying with our friends in Rwanda, in walks a man named Wade. Wade just flew in from New York, and was staying in the same place as us for a night. He is a lawyer to be, and happenns to be a part of Discover the Journey as well. He is meeting up with Heidi and the rest of the team tomorrow. Crazy. The next day we then leave for Goma, and before we get on our bus we stop at a coffee shop. In walks Heidi. Crazy. We run into her again, and talk with her. Exchange more info and say goodbye. We then our on moto's in Goma riding to our house, when Wade, and the team see us. Crazy. Anyways... Kyle and Daniel say that it's no coincidence we ran into them so many times. haha. We contact Wade in Goma, and met up with the team last night. They are incredible! They are Christians, but DTJ is not a Christian organization. They basically make films to raise awareness about injustices hapenning to children. They're documentary on 3 child soldiers is going to be released in summer or fall. Which by the way, the clips we got to see are INCREDIBLE. The stories of the team are amazing, and so inspiring. One of the boys they were following got recaptured, and the team spent years tracking him. They finally found him and paid for his release from the army this fall. Wow. Anyways, this group is absolutely incredible. Look up their website, http://www.discoverthejourney.org/.
It's amazing creating new friendships out here, as well as meeting young people who are out here doing amazing things with their lives. Dedicating so much of themselves to others.
Quick Praise Reports:
Cassandra received an incredible donation for a car! So we are currently car shopping. This will be a huge blessing, meaning we can get to and from the bush quicker, cheaper, and safer.
My allergies the past couple days have been much better! yayyyy so thank you to everyone who's been praying! GREATLY appreciated.
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