Even though I was excited about coming home, it was hard leaving knowing the ministry was starting to grow... It took a few weeks to get back on my feet, job hunt and praying for the Lord's leading. As you may have figured out - the Lord is calling me to missions in Poland. I returned home on July 8th, by August 1st, I was going to Candidate school down in Chattanooga, TN. It was 3 days and covered a ton of material...and by the weekend, I knew it was truly God's calling and not just the desire of my heart to return to Poland. I was blessed with the opportunity to share not only with the Krzesinskis, but the interns also! My friend, Susan, agreed to take some photos of me and we were able to get a good one for the prayer card and brochure! It was not that easy, but she was patient with me and would count to 3 and I would smile. LOL Another friend, Margaret, helped put the brochure together and I am so excited about how well it turned out. I can't wait to hand them out! Lord willing the prayer letters will be going out within the next few weeks and I may be able to go to other churches and share how the Lord has worked in my life and the work that is already being done in Poland! As many of you already know - I have also had to work at cleaning up my house, decluttering, letting go of material things and put my house on the market. Thanks to my parents, brothers, and friends - I was able to have a few garage sales and did well...found out my Mom is a good salesperson! Even though it has been challenging to let go, it has also been very humbling... The Lord has blessed me with many things - crafts being the biggest "clutterbug" factor! At times, it is embarrassing to see all that I have, knowing that others around the world would love to have just half of it...whether it be people in Poland or Philippines or just people in the area... Well, moving on - the house is on the market and someone came to look at it the other day...so I went nuts getting rid of the cobwebs in the basement and keeping it clean (Karen & Alice did a great job of staging my house - but I keep bringing stuff out to make it home while no one is coming to view it). Lord also blessed me with a job and I am so thankful for a Christian boss. It is a temp. job till February, but Lord willing - it may be extended a little longer...
Now the tough stuff really starts - Bible Institute, trusting that the right person will come to buy my house, staying focused on the Word & on my knees in prayer, and keeping the emotions in check....
I am so thankful for a prayer team, friends that offer a shoulder to cry on and family that loves me - even though it makes no sense to them that I want to go to Poland for 2 years.
People often tell me - hey you are really doing it! (referring to Matt. 28:19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, ... The "go" is the easy part, but I am looking forward to "making disciples" part. )
Today's entry - I will close with just saying that the Lord is good and continues to stretch me through this process of gaining funds to be able to join the Krzesinskis' ministry. Even though I am scared and excited, I have never felt so alive and such JOY in my heart! I hope you will join me in this journey - through prayer and if possible financial support...God has many things in store for us!
"As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving." Colossians 2:6-7
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Friday - the day I fly home...
Well, it was an early start - finished packing and after 3 hours of sleep...Robert picked up Keith and I to go to the airport. Keith volunteered to get up early and help with luggage and stuff. Man, it is hard to leave...I feel like the ministry is just really starting and the seeds are getting watered and then I leave. I know the guys do a great job with the discussion group - not that they need me there, but to be a female present, especially with the number of women coming to the English Clubs... It is probably just me not wanting to miss out, but I do think my presence did put some girls at ease. For me, I know I needed a little more time to be able to pull Barbara aside and share my testimony - we had a lot in common and Lord willing, I might still be able to stay in touch via e-mail and possibly be called to return (even for a short stay next summer). Another lady that I was hoping to get to know better was Joanna (Bart's girlfriend)...she is seeking the truth and I wanted to have the right words to say. As many of you already know, the wisdom hits me about 1/2 hour late or more... Lord willing, there will be a way to stay in touch with her also.
Now to the fun of the travel "mission" - it all went well in Poland, got on time to airport, said good-bye without tears flowing on the outside...made the first flight and all went well. Second flight was out of Berlin to Newark - being the longest leg of the journey - it went well. Sat next to a nice young German guy, just liked getting out of the seat a lot... The tears started running and thankful that the tissues were handy - also thankful that was it time with the lights were off and most were watching something or other on the screens on the back of the seats. Anyway - before I get to Newark a quick side note - Warsaw was sunny, got to Berlin in rain - but before we let it was sunny...got to Newark it was raining. Then the "fun" - Polish sarcasm...began. The flight was going to take off at 2:30 PM, then delayed slightly due to rain, but then we were able to board...got to the runway and sat there for almost an hour (rules are that they can only sit for an hour and if beverages are gone) then they have to return to terminal. We were next in line (also a small plane) and we were told that we had to go back and flight was cancelled. UGH!!! When we got back, we saw planes taking off (granted they were bigger, but being tired - I was frustrated). Then we joined the nice long line of people needing to rebook flights. Customer service...not really present - unfortunately they only had 2 - 3 people working for about 200 people in the economy class line and 1 - 2 people for Elite group (if the line had 10 people at any time...that was the most we saw). Over 2.5 hours of waiting...then got booked on a flight that was to leave at 9:27 PM. There were a few of us that were booked to Buffalo instead, but their flight was scheduled at 10:15 PM. I got to meet people from the cancelled flight to Rochester - we even talked about renting a vehicle, splitting cost and driving to Rochester. The one teen is trying out for the US Hockey team and needed to get here. He called his Dad and they made arrangements to pick him up and drive him there. After about an hour, I suggested that I hold his place in line, while he go to talk to someone about getting his luggage and getting out on the road. So he must have got things resolved, because he did not come back. The retired couple and guy from England (here to be in a friend's wedding) were booked on flight to Buffalo and we (Dotti from NC and another girl) were going to have dinner together...but Dotti and I missed where the others went and we went to a bite on our own. I went to verify that our luggage would be going to Rochester and not be left in baggage claim...the attendent was not friendly or bothered that I would ask, but gruffly said it would go to Rochester and no need to go to baggage claim. So Dotti and I went to wait for our flight...I dozed a bit, after being up for over 2 hours and just dozing on the plane...not unusual for me. Then I heard someone say that our terminal was changed. It was never announced over the PA or anything...but it was 9:40 PM. So Dotti and I went to check the board...sure enough gate on the total other side of airport and flight would be at 10:22 PM. So off we went...again! Dotti is retired and coming to Rochester to visit her sister and family for a week- also to attend a graduation party. Thankfully we were able to go on plane around 10:40 PM and came in after midnight. So thankful that my parents were able to come pick me up! Just means so much that people love you and willing to bend over backwards...loose sleep to allow me to sleep in the comfort of my own home. Last side note - there were a group of about 24 that went to Dominican Republic for a week to share Christ and help in the mission field. It was interesting to overhear somethings while dozing. LOL
Thanks so much for your prayers and support! Also for giving up your time to read my rambling messages on this blog. I am very blessed and humbled. Love the Krzesinski family, the opportunity to serve the Lord and getting to know 3 great guys from TN...it is so neat to be in the Will of God and my hope is that all may be able to experience this for themselves in some way! God bless you all!
"But He giveth more race. Wherefore He saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble."
James 4:6
Now to the fun of the travel "mission" - it all went well in Poland, got on time to airport, said good-bye without tears flowing on the outside...made the first flight and all went well. Second flight was out of Berlin to Newark - being the longest leg of the journey - it went well. Sat next to a nice young German guy, just liked getting out of the seat a lot... The tears started running and thankful that the tissues were handy - also thankful that was it time with the lights were off and most were watching something or other on the screens on the back of the seats. Anyway - before I get to Newark a quick side note - Warsaw was sunny, got to Berlin in rain - but before we let it was sunny...got to Newark it was raining. Then the "fun" - Polish sarcasm...began. The flight was going to take off at 2:30 PM, then delayed slightly due to rain, but then we were able to board...got to the runway and sat there for almost an hour (rules are that they can only sit for an hour and if beverages are gone) then they have to return to terminal. We were next in line (also a small plane) and we were told that we had to go back and flight was cancelled. UGH!!! When we got back, we saw planes taking off (granted they were bigger, but being tired - I was frustrated). Then we joined the nice long line of people needing to rebook flights. Customer service...not really present - unfortunately they only had 2 - 3 people working for about 200 people in the economy class line and 1 - 2 people for Elite group (if the line had 10 people at any time...that was the most we saw). Over 2.5 hours of waiting...then got booked on a flight that was to leave at 9:27 PM. There were a few of us that were booked to Buffalo instead, but their flight was scheduled at 10:15 PM. I got to meet people from the cancelled flight to Rochester - we even talked about renting a vehicle, splitting cost and driving to Rochester. The one teen is trying out for the US Hockey team and needed to get here. He called his Dad and they made arrangements to pick him up and drive him there. After about an hour, I suggested that I hold his place in line, while he go to talk to someone about getting his luggage and getting out on the road. So he must have got things resolved, because he did not come back. The retired couple and guy from England (here to be in a friend's wedding) were booked on flight to Buffalo and we (Dotti from NC and another girl) were going to have dinner together...but Dotti and I missed where the others went and we went to a bite on our own. I went to verify that our luggage would be going to Rochester and not be left in baggage claim...the attendent was not friendly or bothered that I would ask, but gruffly said it would go to Rochester and no need to go to baggage claim. So Dotti and I went to wait for our flight...I dozed a bit, after being up for over 2 hours and just dozing on the plane...not unusual for me. Then I heard someone say that our terminal was changed. It was never announced over the PA or anything...but it was 9:40 PM. So Dotti and I went to check the board...sure enough gate on the total other side of airport and flight would be at 10:22 PM. So off we went...again! Dotti is retired and coming to Rochester to visit her sister and family for a week- also to attend a graduation party. Thankfully we were able to go on plane around 10:40 PM and came in after midnight. So thankful that my parents were able to come pick me up! Just means so much that people love you and willing to bend over backwards...loose sleep to allow me to sleep in the comfort of my own home. Last side note - there were a group of about 24 that went to Dominican Republic for a week to share Christ and help in the mission field. It was interesting to overhear somethings while dozing. LOL
Thanks so much for your prayers and support! Also for giving up your time to read my rambling messages on this blog. I am very blessed and humbled. Love the Krzesinski family, the opportunity to serve the Lord and getting to know 3 great guys from TN...it is so neat to be in the Will of God and my hope is that all may be able to experience this for themselves in some way! God bless you all!
"But He giveth more race. Wherefore He saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble."
James 4:6
Thursday and my Last English Discussion Group
I got to try the public transportation on my own today! Robert is meeting the guys at the Hostel to discuss Leadership Essentials and I went to meet Rachel at home for Discipleship Essentials. We shared about the internship, talked about some struggles and I saw there were times that I should have put my stuff aside and helped her out more. We did talk a little about the study, but it was a good time of fellowship. Then Robert, Eli and Josiah came and we got ready to go for lunch. They treated me to a great place called Stary Dom and the food was great! Then they took me to Old Town to finish up shopping - souveniors. Stopped for some ice cream and headed to the English Discussion groups. There were a little girl about 8 years old there, but she decided to stay by her Dad and her little brother. Her mother, Maria joined the discussion group and she was someone I handed the flyer to at the park. Then I found out 3 of the other girls came because Syliva (the quiet one) received a flyer from a dark, bushy haired girl (that's me)! So being the last one, it was encouraging that 4 of the 7 that attended were through a flyer from me. It made me happy. Since there were no other kids, I did spend some time with Eli and Josiah, going through the ABC's and numbers - then Rachel suggested I join the group and she would play memory game with the boys. The guys did a great job of running the English Club, we divided the group to encourage all to speak and practice their English. In our group, one of the girls said she did not know much of what the Baptists believe...I thought that Travis would really be able to share more, but time did not allow. The guys are starting to learn about body language also - 2 of the girls leaned forward, showing their interest in the subject of religion. Friday the guys are doing a discussion group more on the subject of faith and religion and praying that this will bring people out. Some of the girls were interested, but the time did not work for them...Lord willing they will come back and will be able to work out an opportunity to share Christ. We went to dinner at an Itailian place nearby and share the highlights and some challenges...I shared my testimony and my heart. It was late and early start tomorrow....
"Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear." Hebrews 12:28
"Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear." Hebrews 12:28
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Radical and Engish Discussion Group
We met at the Hostel to review chapter 2 of Radical. A look at the narrow road and why so few follow Jesus. Author talked about how we often present the hope we have in Jesus and the love He has for us, but not making people aware that there will be trials. So often when people come to these trials...that is where the Believers rise to the occasion and go back to their old ways. Then we went to Real to got our groceries and start cooking a Polish meal for the Krzesinskis. It allowed Robert to run a few errands and for the guys to show off their cooking ability. We had a great meal - breaded pork chops, potato pancakes, cucumber salad, and crepes with cream and fruit! The drain in the kitchen was clogged, so Robert worked on that while we finished preparing for English Club. Since it was yet another rainy day, we were not sure how many would come. We were thankful that Barbara and Agnieska did come out and we talked about the American culture and had them share about the Polish culture (in English). It gave the guys the opportunity to share about religion and how they come from the Bible belt and what it means to them. Agnieska seemed a little indifferent to religion but her body language showed she was a little uncomfortable. Barbara is Catholic and strong in her faith. She asked a bunch of questions to Robert in Polish. After class, they invited them to a religious discussion group on Friday at a coffee shop. Agnieska is working and possibly Barbara will come. I was battling a headache, so when we got back to the Hostel, I layed down for a bit, then met the guys for a light dinner downstairs. We had a nice chat and we all went to our rooms early to get a good nights sleep. I can't believe that it is almost time to go and it feels like the ministry is just starting...
"Enter by the narrow gate...because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life..."
Matthew 7:13-14
"Enter by the narrow gate...because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life..."
Matthew 7:13-14
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Update on Past 2 Days...
Hope everyone got to enjoy their 4th of July events! Since Rachel needed to take care of some visa issues and Robert & kids needed to join her, we got our start at the Hostel. The boys worked on their outline for the English Clubs this week and I worked on adding more preschool materials to mine. We shared ideas and I threw in my two cents, every once in a while for the adult clubs. The outline was in pretty good shape and they got their power point slides together also. They went to the corner store to get our usual lunch and I tried to clean up the table. After lunch, we finished some things and got a call from Robert that it was OK to start heading to their home. We packed up and went...only to arrive at their home early. Beau face timed his parents and friends...we all got to say "Hi" and then they jumped the fence and played basketball. I worked on a grocery list for the Polish meal that we will be preparing this week. Robert & family arrived, we helped unload the car and get everything inside. Keith and Beau started the fire in the dampness (oh yeah - it rained again today)...I helped Rachel in the kitchen with salad. Eli & Josiah helped wash potatoes, Rachel got corn on the cob, Robert made large beef/turkey burgers...so we all pitched in for making the American cook out! After enjoying a great meal...some had fun throwing the individual packs of tissues at one another. I got dishes...it was safer! Before the kids went to bed - few firecrackers were lit, we made huge ice cream splits, and shared with Robert & Rachel the outline. Rachel had issues with the visa - so she needed to leave the country (get passport stamped) and return - getting another 90 days to qualify for a visa. Flights were very expensive and would take at least a day or possibly 2 away from her family. The other option was to have 2 people join her in a road trip to Ukraine...so Beau and I volunteered for the road trip.
This mean that Rachel would pick us up at 5:30 AM! Needless to say, we were both a bit tired, but ready to go - Rachel ended up bringing Layla, which ended up being a HUGE blessing! Quick side note - women with young children are usually able to move up in a line, get seats on bus/metro, and so forth as well as older women (senior citizens). OK back to my story...At first stop, I managed to get my foot caught in door and landed on the ground...only a bruised knee. We got some coffee and large jelly filled donuts...after we ate, back to the road trip. Beau has tons of stories and questions...so he kept us going all the way to the boarder (along with playing with Layla, who was wide awake on the first leg of the journey). Polish passport & costums were not bad. Similar to going to Canada for us. Then in Urkraine...things got a little interesting. It was not clearly marked where to drive and what window to go to first...each of us needed to get out of the car to verify passports, then at customs - lady got phone call and chatted with the person while we waited for her to check out papers...she questioned why Robert was not there, since he was the car owner, Rachel explained that he was at home with their 2 boys and she was here with friends and her baby daughter. I think she just wanted to give her a hard time, but the guy in the booth got her to stamp and let us go. After a quick stop, Rachel turned the car around to head back to Poland. There was a long line (Hey family remember when we were going back to Germany from Poland)...at least this line was a single file, but the guy told us that it would be a good 2 day wait! We could drive a few hours to another spot, wait about 4 - 10 hours to get through the border...then he said she might be able to pay 200 Zloty to get through faster. Beau suggested that Rachel just say she did not know and see what happens. She stopped and talked to a policeman and when he was Layla in the car, he did not wait for her full explanation and waved her on. Then next stop, guy filled out paperwork and did the same as the cop....then this stop took longer. We were waved on to one booth (again we thought all of us would have to get out of the car) - I went with Rachel first...sent to 2 different booths and each were wrong...we got to the right one, the lady shut her window just as we stepped up and took a break for a few minutes. She was kind when she came back, stamped the paperwork and got bumped to a few more windows...but lady was kind and had a guy verify Beau and Laylas paperwork without having to get out of the car. Then a few more stops...back to Poland we would go! We were directed to one line, the lady asked if we had anything to declare and because we made no purchases, she waved us on. We got to a short line, the guy came out, verified the paperwork, checked car and told Rachel next time she needed to wait in other line (this had about 20 cars - it would have taken another 40 - 60 minutes). The customs inspector got our passports, verified that we had nothing to declare and was stunned that none of us bought vodka or cigarettes! We were waiting for him to come out again to hand Rachel all our papers...then after about 15 minutes, a lady knocked on Rachel's window to tell her that she needed to go in his office. She went in - he apparently asked her how much gas she had in the tank and how big her tank was....odd questions we thought, but we were just thrilled that he gave Rachel the papers and we could head back home. (It took about 4 hours to get to Ukraine and little more than 5 hours to get back). I lucked out - I was in back with Layla after we stopped for lunch. She took a good 3 - 3.5 hour nap! I dozed a bit too... then started taking some random pictures to keep myself awake and talked with Rachel, so Beau could rest a bit. We had leftovers when we got to the Krzesinskis and it was good. We were all tired - Travis & Keith had done more surveys and made some connections with college guys. After dinner, we had a quick chat and Robert took us back to the Hostel. Being out in the mission field, opens the door to new and different experiences each day...
"Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass." Psalm 37:5
This mean that Rachel would pick us up at 5:30 AM! Needless to say, we were both a bit tired, but ready to go - Rachel ended up bringing Layla, which ended up being a HUGE blessing! Quick side note - women with young children are usually able to move up in a line, get seats on bus/metro, and so forth as well as older women (senior citizens). OK back to my story...At first stop, I managed to get my foot caught in door and landed on the ground...only a bruised knee. We got some coffee and large jelly filled donuts...after we ate, back to the road trip. Beau has tons of stories and questions...so he kept us going all the way to the boarder (along with playing with Layla, who was wide awake on the first leg of the journey). Polish passport & costums were not bad. Similar to going to Canada for us. Then in Urkraine...things got a little interesting. It was not clearly marked where to drive and what window to go to first...each of us needed to get out of the car to verify passports, then at customs - lady got phone call and chatted with the person while we waited for her to check out papers...she questioned why Robert was not there, since he was the car owner, Rachel explained that he was at home with their 2 boys and she was here with friends and her baby daughter. I think she just wanted to give her a hard time, but the guy in the booth got her to stamp and let us go. After a quick stop, Rachel turned the car around to head back to Poland. There was a long line (Hey family remember when we were going back to Germany from Poland)...at least this line was a single file, but the guy told us that it would be a good 2 day wait! We could drive a few hours to another spot, wait about 4 - 10 hours to get through the border...then he said she might be able to pay 200 Zloty to get through faster. Beau suggested that Rachel just say she did not know and see what happens. She stopped and talked to a policeman and when he was Layla in the car, he did not wait for her full explanation and waved her on. Then next stop, guy filled out paperwork and did the same as the cop....then this stop took longer. We were waved on to one booth (again we thought all of us would have to get out of the car) - I went with Rachel first...sent to 2 different booths and each were wrong...we got to the right one, the lady shut her window just as we stepped up and took a break for a few minutes. She was kind when she came back, stamped the paperwork and got bumped to a few more windows...but lady was kind and had a guy verify Beau and Laylas paperwork without having to get out of the car. Then a few more stops...back to Poland we would go! We were directed to one line, the lady asked if we had anything to declare and because we made no purchases, she waved us on. We got to a short line, the guy came out, verified the paperwork, checked car and told Rachel next time she needed to wait in other line (this had about 20 cars - it would have taken another 40 - 60 minutes). The customs inspector got our passports, verified that we had nothing to declare and was stunned that none of us bought vodka or cigarettes! We were waiting for him to come out again to hand Rachel all our papers...then after about 15 minutes, a lady knocked on Rachel's window to tell her that she needed to go in his office. She went in - he apparently asked her how much gas she had in the tank and how big her tank was....odd questions we thought, but we were just thrilled that he gave Rachel the papers and we could head back home. (It took about 4 hours to get to Ukraine and little more than 5 hours to get back). I lucked out - I was in back with Layla after we stopped for lunch. She took a good 3 - 3.5 hour nap! I dozed a bit too... then started taking some random pictures to keep myself awake and talked with Rachel, so Beau could rest a bit. We had leftovers when we got to the Krzesinskis and it was good. We were all tired - Travis & Keith had done more surveys and made some connections with college guys. After dinner, we had a quick chat and Robert took us back to the Hostel. Being out in the mission field, opens the door to new and different experiences each day...
"Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass." Psalm 37:5
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Sunday - time with the Krzesinskis
We headed out to service at the Krzesinskis after a quick breakfast. Yes, another day of rain...so off to the metro and then on a bus to service we go. On the bus, I took some pictures to show you the route we usually go - I will only attach a few pictures. Some it is hard to see because of the rain ad others were a bit blurry. We shared our time with Bart & Joanna with Robert & Rachel. Then Travis led worship and Keith preached from Luke 10. It was a good message and he shared his testimony. It is so neat to see how the Lord has grown the boys in the short time that I have known them. Their mentor, Gus, had prepared them will through the study of Discipleship, but through some struggles they have had, the glory goes to God. Rachel made 2 kinds of pierogis for lunch - Robert told her that I have been wanting some. We had cabbage & spinach (kind of like an eggroll inside pasta) and Russian - cheese and potato. They were so good! We also had some salad. Later Rachel and I went to the bakery and got 3 different cakes...I would have sampled all the goodies there! We got a cheesecake with raisins, cheesecake with apples on the bottom and light cream and raspberry (it had raspberries in a red gelatin, then the light cream layer and cookie crust). All were yummy! She also took me to Real to get a few items to take home. When we got back to their home, we had cake and coffee...think all the guys are drinking coffee now! LOL The boys had soup and grilled cheese sandwiches...while the interns played some basketball. Then we talked about chapter 1 on Radical - it is a really neat way of looking at church. Most churches are striving to build attendance and this pastor is challenging people to look at Jesus's church of 12. Not looking to grow numbers, but looking to have all members involved in discipleship and growing in their faith. We had dinner, packed up and went home.
"And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see." Luke 10:23
"And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see." Luke 10:23
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Day Off
Today I slept in and since it was our day off - you guessed it - it rained all day! After breakfast, I started the job hunting process and preparing for English Klub lessons. I found some great websites with video clips from Sesame Street - even my favorite on "C is for Cookie and that is good enough for me." So if you meet any Polish kids singing that song...you can think of me! LOL The guys went to the corner store to get rolls around 2 PM, cheese, deli meat, cookies and chocolate ice cream (for me...but I shared). LOL Back to the room to work on some more stuff and had a chance to chat with my parents. Apparently I sound a bit different when I am in Poland, but when I laugh - then my Dad recognizes me. In his defense, I am congested. Around 4:30, couple of the guys and I went to the park and threw the football...who knows I might actually learn how to throw it properly yet! Then we got ready and waited for the bus to go visit Bart and Joanna. The guys forgot the cookies, so there was a flower stand and I got some flowers for him. He is doing well and this coming week, he goes back to see the doctor and hopes to get something like a walking boot or at least a cast where he can actually bend his knee all the way. We had a good conversation...we got to share our faith and Joanna asked some tough questions. It was interesting to hear some of their views on church too. Joanna made us a very nice dinner - chicken with mushroom sauce, yellow rice and cauliflower. The guys will probably go to visit them again next Saturday and I am kind of disappointed that I will not be able to go. So despite the rain, it turned out to be a pretty good day. :0)
"And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient"
II Timothy 2:24
"And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient"
II Timothy 2:24
Brainstorming and Girl Time
Last night the room next to me was empty and it was so nice and quiet! Got tons of time in the bathroom to primp and prepare for the day! Robert and Rachel were going to do the follow up visit about Josiah's arm, but when they called they asked a few questions and it was not necessary to come in. Josiah will have the half cast on for about 4 weeks, but that will allow his bones to gain strength and heal. Praise the Lord! Robert spent most of the morning getting the auto insurance taken care of...long story short - if he did not go today, he might have been paying 2 plans for a year. The guys and I got together to brainstorm for the e-mail message to send to those who gave their e-mail addresses from the survey and for the next English Club that will discuss American vs. Polish Culture. Since we have no idea where the conversation may lead, we want to be prepared. This weekend, I will be looking into getting some games and Sesame Street clips to work with kids like Asia. In the afternoon, we had lunch at the Krzesinskis and it was around 3:30 PM by the time Rachel and I got to go shopping - so much for the all day - Girl's Day! LOL We went to a mall nearby, since it was raining...again. It was tons of fun, we got some coffee and got to experience for ourselves the difference in American vs. Polish culture...Rachel wanted to take me to Sephoras for a makeover (Yes Erin - you will get your turn too)!!! Rachel talked to one girl, who quickly referred her to another...now mind you there were 3 other ladies that work at the store behind her AND an empty chair...but we need to have an appointment because they are very busy. We looked at each other - said thank you and walked across the way to the MAC store. This store had about 8 chairs set up like a beauty salon and there was a gentleman all ready to go. Ironically, he said the same thing...no one in the seats, but they are very busy on Friday and Saturdays. Customer Service...not a priority! We went to one store and tried on some clothes...I actually found something and Rachel helped me to accessorize. Also tried on some pants...they sizes are not universal and embarrassed to say it looked better on the rack. Then we went to another store, I really liked the first pair of pants Rachel grabbed, but thought it would look weird if we tried on the same kind of pants. This store actually had a petite section! This was awesome for Rachel! She grabbed some things to try on and I went to try one the pants she and I liked. They are super comfortable and fit nice too! Rachel tried on one outfit and not only did it look great on her...her smile just lit up the room! I am so happy that the Lord blessed and that I was able to get her this outfit. Rachel has been with the kids and feeding us and trying to help in the ministry in whatever way she can. It was so nice to be able to do a little thing to bring her JOY! We did some more shopping with some success and other items that looked better on the rack. One store there were a ton of people - it was kind of like a Marshalls or TJ Maxx - long line to fitting room and cashier. Other stores had one attendant...we found out quickly why - they were high end clothing and prices that I could not afford. We got back to the house after 8 PM, the guys were working on a 3-D puzzle and determined to get it finished before we left. Needless to say, it was another late night...but we got it done. It was a good day of fellowship and sharing! It is good to serve the Lord and just have some fun too!
"Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good." Titus 2:3
"Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good." Titus 2:3
Friday, July 1, 2011
Second Day of English Discussion Groups
Well, the tour group left before 8 AM, so no stern looks to start the morning. Yeah! The original plan was to meet at the Krzesinskis. Rachel and I would go over the first chapter of Discipleship Essentials and the guys would do Leadership Essentials. But Josiah's arm was still hurting and they needed to go see a doctor - this meant calling around to find where they could take him, due to insurance issue. So we took a stack of flyers to advertise the English Club (a short way of saying English Discussion Group) to Centrum. It is the center of the city and there is a lot of foot traffic. Besides there are several other people handing out flyers. There is a group advertising for English classes that cost 499 Zolty. So with ours being FREE and with speakers from the US...we are really offering them something better. Usually those classes are more like school where you gain head knowledge, but lack the practice. We were there a few hours and got a lot handed out - some people would take them and crumple them up without reading them or throwing them away, but we pray that some would take the time to read and come check it out. Then Robert came and picked us up from Centrum and took us to meet the rest of his family at a nice restaurant. The food was very good and filling - Yes, I remembered to get pictures this time! I had the broccoli soup and for dinner pork chop, potatoes and salad - kind of like a cole slaw but a dill flavor to it. Very good! After dinner, we went to a park nearby to hand out some other flyers...it was a very nice park and had a playground for kids. So it was my turn to step up - I talked to the Moms and asked if they would be interested in free English Clubs - most took the flyers and a few were very interested, So I am hopefully that they do come and even bring their kids. Keith went to talk with some teens and totally ignored him - he never felt so rejected before. There was a huge procession about Solidarity - people from all different areas of Poland came and it stretched for miles - holding up traffic and blowing horns (some looked like the ones from the World Cup). There were cannon noises also - a little different than in America. We probably should have handed them flyers and we would have been done for the day. Even though handing out flyers randomly is not as effective as making personal contact, we decided to go back to Centrum because we did not have a lot of time before needing to get over to Klub 29 to set up for Discussion Group. The Cranberries were doing a sound check for concert - so Travis went over to check it out. Then finished up handing out flyers...Keith again had another bad experience. An older man came and looked at his flyer - continuing to say USA and Keith said yes, I am from the USA, the guy smiled said some stuff in Poland then proceeded to rip up flyer in front of him and toss in garbage. Unfortunately that is the way some people feel about God here, that they don't need Him or want to get have a relationship with Him. Then we got our stuff and headed to Klub 29. I was hopeful that we would have some kids and I did have one and her Mom. Asia (pronounced as Asha) and her mother, Donna came early. I was going to set up in a tiny room, but the Lord blessed us with nice weather and were able to do it outside. The large room that we will have in the future, had a movie night planned and could not reschedule (but this is the only time there would be a conflict). Anyway, Asia is in kindergarden and did very well with the ABC's and 1-10, she lost interest in the book and just wanted to color. So I went over the different fruits that could be colored. While she was coloring, I asked Donna about what Asia learned in school - she told me that she has only had one month of study. Ugh! I was hoping for at least a year or so... After Asia was done coloring, she wanted to go home. I said that I had a video and she was interested in seeing Veggie Tales at first, but because she did not understand...she lost interest very quickly. I told Donna that I would try to find some games and songs to make it a little more fun for her. Robert also talked with Donna - she is interested in the discussion group for herself, so she may come by herself on Wednesday nights and Thursdays stay with Asia. Even though I was a little disappointed, it was all good. Then I joined the other discussion group - Barbara returned from yesterday (she was more confident and spoke more last night), Micheal (guys met handing out flyers last week), his friends Corrina (sp?) and Dominik (18), Renati (about my age). They enjoyed the discussion groups and are looking forward to coming again. Dominik is preparing for exam (similar to SAT - but they have a written part - English grammer and oral part -he is very concerned about), but shared with Robert that this is a blessing because he does not have the opportunity to speak and corrected when necessary - so this will had him to gain some confidence before the exam. Even though the group is growing slowly, it is encouraging to know that our work is appreciated and people are thankful that we are offering them a chance to practice their English and it is Free! We went back to the Krzesinskis for dinner - almost 9 PM...we had sandwiches and then Rachel & I went to find a caffe to discuss Discipleship Essential while the guys stayed at their home. We went to 3 different places and found one that allowed us to stay for 1/2 hour. We got through most of the lesson, but we had a chance to chat and that meant more to me...I just really needed to talk with a friend last night. I thank God for Rachel and so thankful that we did get to share from the heart!
Needless to say, it was a late night - we got back to the Hostel after midnight...so I crashed.
"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."
I Thessalonians 5:11
Needless to say, it was a late night - we got back to the Hostel after midnight...so I crashed.
"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."
I Thessalonians 5:11
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
First Day of English Discussion Groups
Today I was greeted by fewer ladies and none had their arms crossed - still the look of frustration...maybe tomorrow morning I will get a smile! LOL Afterall tomorrow is their last day here. That also means that tomorrow morning will be the last of the nice morning spread! Oh well - I am not here to eat a great breakfast. We went to the Krzesinskis to make a few changes to our presentations and to finish preparing. Who knew that it would be so draining to work for a 2 hour discussion group?!?! It is all good.
Josiah hurt his arm yesterday and there are some issues with insurance, so they have not been able to take him to the doctors yet. Hopefully the issue will be resolved soon and we may know how to help him. We had lunch from a Chinese place called Noodle n Puddles. It was very good - less greasy compared to the American version and some other ingredients tossed in - basil, sprouts, red onion pieces.... I know pictures! Ugh! If I was not so hungry, I might remember. Then we took a nap and prayed - grabbed a bite and off to the English Discussion Group. The guys got a nice power point presentation together on different people that would get them talking about role models. We are very thankful that 4 girls came and that it was a great opportunity to talk with them. One of the girls was our waitress at Pizza Hut and she brought a friend from Pizza Hut also - so it paid off eating American afterall! The other 2 were business women and quiet...but with Robert's help - we got them talking. There were no kids today, but it allowed me to join the group and be a part of things. Another blessing is that the place we are renting from, the guy likes us and is giving us a discount! Praise the Lord!!! One girl said that her mother was her role model when she was younger, but did not have one now. Another said it was a journalist that writes about her travels - mostly to Africa and helping those in need. The other 2 stated Pope John Paul II because he helped people and evangelized... It was good to find out what we are facing and how to prepare for the next event. Robert asked the girls in Polish how they liked the discussion group, if it was helpful, and if they would come back... All liked the discussion group and felt it was helpful, 2 out of 4 will be at other location tomorrow night and the other 2 hope to be able to come again....if their work schedules allow. We are finding out that jobs are hard to find and when you have one, you tend to be at the mercy of the employer for work hours. Hopefully I will be close in the spelling of the names: Agnieska, Beatra, Barbara (American spelling), and Anna. Please keep them in prayer and that they will invite others. We stopped in the grocery store and got cookies, candy, drinks and treats for the boys. Thankfully one of the guys has a sweet tooth much like mine! :0) We talked a bit and then returned to our rooms. It was a good day and thankful for the opportunities we have been given. Looking forward to a good nights sleep and a good day tomorrow!
"Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God"
II Corinthians 3:5
Josiah hurt his arm yesterday and there are some issues with insurance, so they have not been able to take him to the doctors yet. Hopefully the issue will be resolved soon and we may know how to help him. We had lunch from a Chinese place called Noodle n Puddles. It was very good - less greasy compared to the American version and some other ingredients tossed in - basil, sprouts, red onion pieces.... I know pictures! Ugh! If I was not so hungry, I might remember. Then we took a nap and prayed - grabbed a bite and off to the English Discussion Group. The guys got a nice power point presentation together on different people that would get them talking about role models. We are very thankful that 4 girls came and that it was a great opportunity to talk with them. One of the girls was our waitress at Pizza Hut and she brought a friend from Pizza Hut also - so it paid off eating American afterall! The other 2 were business women and quiet...but with Robert's help - we got them talking. There were no kids today, but it allowed me to join the group and be a part of things. Another blessing is that the place we are renting from, the guy likes us and is giving us a discount! Praise the Lord!!! One girl said that her mother was her role model when she was younger, but did not have one now. Another said it was a journalist that writes about her travels - mostly to Africa and helping those in need. The other 2 stated Pope John Paul II because he helped people and evangelized... It was good to find out what we are facing and how to prepare for the next event. Robert asked the girls in Polish how they liked the discussion group, if it was helpful, and if they would come back... All liked the discussion group and felt it was helpful, 2 out of 4 will be at other location tomorrow night and the other 2 hope to be able to come again....if their work schedules allow. We are finding out that jobs are hard to find and when you have one, you tend to be at the mercy of the employer for work hours. Hopefully I will be close in the spelling of the names: Agnieska, Beatra, Barbara (American spelling), and Anna. Please keep them in prayer and that they will invite others. We stopped in the grocery store and got cookies, candy, drinks and treats for the boys. Thankfully one of the guys has a sweet tooth much like mine! :0) We talked a bit and then returned to our rooms. It was a good day and thankful for the opportunities we have been given. Looking forward to a good nights sleep and a good day tomorrow!
"Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God"
II Corinthians 3:5
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Preparing for Discussion Groups
Today there was a steady flow of women to the bathroom next door to my room. So I jumped in when I had a chance...let's just say I was greeted by several women with their arms crossed and stern looks on their faces. Apparently they thought they were the only ones on this floor and they could just take over the bathroom. On to more pleasant things - we had a very nice breakfast spread - there were a few cold cuts, hard boiled eggs and there was some fruit...but only a remnants remained. It was all good, I was not that hungry anyway. Sinuses - gotta love 'em. It was nice to see a full table of food and variety! Then we were off to the Krzesinskis to start preparing for the discussion groups. Robert and Rachel allowed us to try to figure out what to do...then gave in and helped us find a direction, since it is from beginners up to advanced speakers of English. We started to think about going along with Narnia, but then found another topic that seemed like a good place to start and related to a survey question that some people struggled. The question relates to what determines good and evil. So we are planning to look at different people from movie stars to political leaders. We hope to open the discussion up to hear their opinions and hope to include some biblical principles. For the beginner crowd...I have a book on "Big and Little" that I hope to use to get them seeing and saying the words and there are some sentences. Also go through some basics like A,B,C and numbers. Hope to watch a Veggie Tales video or find other pictures or objects to help with the learning process. Also work on colors, and work up to Fruits of the Spirit (with different fruit shapes representing each), asking what they think each word means and giving definition. For the most part, it may be just repeating what I say...but we will see. Please pray that people will come and that we may continue to improve each week and help to build relationships. Rachel made another wonderful lunch - ground turkey patties, potatoes and cauliflower. We worked a little more on planning for the groups, then it was time to go. The Krzesinskis' were going to visit some friends and help encourage the family and we were going to visit Bart. Unfortunately for us, Bart had his parents there and it was not a good time to come. We are hoping to see him on Saturday, get to meet his roommate and see how well he is doing for ourselves. Robert shared with us that it is a big deal when someone invites you to their home. We are thrilled to have this opportunity! We went back to the Hostel after stopping at our favorite corner store...the store owner must wonder what is going on with 4 Americans coming in daily with backpacks! He is friendly and we usually are not there long. I have learned to carry the backpack in my hand, instead of my back when in the store. A few days ago, I almost knocked a bunch of cookies off the shelf...luckily the guys are taller than me and caught the few bags that fell before they hit the floor. Yeah - I see my family shaking their heads and my friends laughing! It is all good. The Hostel was preparing dinner for the group and it was supposed to be served at 6:30, so we were going to meet at 7:30 for dinner...go figure, the group came at 7:30! We ate at the guys suite and then did some more research. I am writing this blog, adding a few pictures of the group of kids & smore making, read and off to bed.
"But the fruits of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering (patience), gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness (kindness), temperance (self-control): against such there is no law." Galatians 5:22-23
"But the fruits of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering (patience), gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness (kindness), temperance (self-control): against such there is no law." Galatians 5:22-23
Monday, June 27, 2011
Research and Planning
Gary flew home early on Monday morning. We started our day doing surveys in Old Town. We were there a few hours and then went back to the Hostel to have lunch. There is a corner store that has the basics that we need for sandwiches. We took time to discuss what each of us learned and tried to find a way to make the surveys flow a little more. They are 2 pages and we hope to condense them to one. At lunch, we also found out there will be a group of 50 senior citizens staying at the Hostel - they were making them dinner and I think they are getting nicer breakfast spread too! The good thing will be that it is quiet at night, the challenge will be to use the bathroom in the morning. Ugh! I knew getting up early with the young ones next door, would give me the time... Oh well, these are some of the silly challenges that one faces by staying in a Hostel. After lunch, we went out to the University near one of the community centers to do surveys and hand out flyers. Some did not want to talk with others, but we had a few very good conversations. Then we were off to dinner at Robert & Rachel's. When we arrived, there were 4 boys there to play with Eli and Josiah. It was interesting to observe the different personalities of the boys. We had chicken kebabs and rolls for dinner and the boys just hung out. Rachel got marshmellows for roasting and chocolate covered cookies for smores. Their intentions were not to have the boys friends there for marshmellow roasting, but they were not ready to leave... It was a good time, the boys went home, kids were put to bed and then we shared with Robert & Rachel about the surveys and we talked about some changes to surveys. We also started to plan how the discussion groups would start, the topics and direction they are to lead. I was tired and don't think I was the only one. So we got back late and I just went to bed.
"That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God." Colossians 1:10
"That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God." Colossians 1:10
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Sunday Service....
We went over to Robert & Rachel's for service this morning. Travis led the worship and Robert preached from Luke 19. The kids went to the office with Rachel to learn about Moses. Then we had lunch and the guys wanted to do their own thing. Gary invited Robert and Rachel to dinner, so I stayed with Eli and Josiah. We had a good afternoon and evening. There was face painting, drawing Star Wars stick figures, playing outside, apples for snack...later we had sandwiches for dinner and chips. Then back outside to work off some energy, found out the boys don't really throw frisbees straight up in the air...they tend to land in the neighbor's yard...so she has 2 frisbees now. To unwind a bit, we watched a few cartoons...I need to learn more Polish to follow what they are saying...then had them wash their faces and put PJs on. I read them a few books and shortly after Robert and Rachel came in with Layla. Rachel took me home and we had a nice conversation in the car. Gary leaves tomorrow, so I hope he has a safe flight back to the Dominican Republic. I need to clean up and get some rest for the day ahead!
"Do all things without murmuring and disputing." Philippians 2:14
"Do all things without murmuring and disputing." Philippians 2:14
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Day Off
We slept in and got some reading done. Then in the afternoon, we were on our way to vist Bart, but he texted and asked us to come on Sunday afternoon...because he was alone in his apartment and would not be able to let us in. Quick update on Bart, a few days ago he got 2 rods put in his ankle and was in the hospital till Friday evening or Saturday morning. He is home and it may be up to 6 weeks for healing. His girlfriend, Joanna will be there Sunday afternoon and she will let us in. So we are looking forward to our visit with Bart. Back to the events of the day, we went to Old Town and New Town to an American bookstore. Since I will be working with the beginners and kids for the English discussion groups, I wanted a few books to use, to get a Polish cookbook (that I could read) for the dinner we need to prepare for a family the Krzesinskis know, book about Poland landmarks and some postcards. We know when it is our day off - there will be rain. So now we (OK some of us) know to pack a rain jacket - just in case. The main street through Old Town was closed and they had cars, on display and some other vendors...I could have had a makeover, but it probably would have cost me. LOL There was also a fashion show and we got to see some of the rehearsal. The girls look like they are mid-teens and very slender. We watched for a bit and then went to get something to eat. It was fortunate that we got to the corner store just before it closed....got stuff for sandwiches and some blackberry & blueberry ice cream as a dessert. Beau's parents called via face time and I got to meet them and chat with them a bit. It was a real blessing and they prayed with us. After lunch, we went to our rooms to read and then were off to the Krzesinski's for dinner. Polish hots and sandwiches...then Krzesinskis had some face time with Beau's parents also. Rachel made a snack that you toss waffle like noodles in hot oil and they puff up to soft waffles and you add some powdered sugar - they are like mini funnel cakes. We enjoyed them as we watched "Princess Bride." Then Robert took us to the hostel and called it a day! :0)
"For which ause we faint not: but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day." II Corinthians 4:16
"For which ause we faint not: but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day." II Corinthians 4:16
Family Fun Day
We started the day with videos regarding missions and various ways other religions view to their gods. Then we had lunch - big salads! I know I really enjoyed it...and we also got to try a lard & bacon spread... My cholesterol just shot up!!! After doing a quick run through on how to put the kalescopes together - we went over to Family Fun days at the community center. A group has come and made this a 3 day event with inflatables, games, crafts and face painting. Rachel & I were going to do the face painting, but they set up a much bigger area across the way. So we stuck to the kalescopes. Markers were forgotten, so I went to the store and got some. With Robert & Rachel's help, we were able to help kids make or color about 80 and give them away. It also allowed us to hand out flyers about the English classes and now we may be getting families to come. So we need to design a program for kids, beginner adults and advanced discussion groups. When it rains here - it tends come quick, soak, and move on...this happened at 6:30 PM and the event was to go to 7 PM, then the band would play.... Needless to say, we packed up real quick, I got soaked and hurried in to listen to the band. As the weather cleared, the room cleared also. The band did a great job, I think it is more a reflection of the people having a closed hearts. Then I went with Rachel & the kids to help with dinner...but plans changed and I was taken back to the community center to meet up with the guys. It was decided that we should go met the band for dinner...so off to Centrum we went. After being misguided on where they were, the first place was going to close in 30 minutes, so the order would come and we would need to leave....so we met at...Yes you guessed it "Pizza Hut." Robert got a bit flustered...when he placed the order for Gary & himself - instead of ordering supreme...he started to order a Hawian style pizza and asked Gary if he likes "annanas" on his pizza - I said "pineapple" and Gary said no. So then Robert proceeds to order 1/2 pizza with pepperoni and jalepenos and other 1/2 margharita (cheese)!!! Can you tell he had a long day! LOL After dinner we went back to the Hostel, the band was leaving at 3 AM, so they were not planning to sleep...but we planned to sleep in! That is why this update is coming now, instead of last night! :0) Have a great day!
"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men." Colossians 3:23
"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men." Colossians 3:23
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Polish Catholic Holiday
Today we got up early to go see a parade for the Catholic holiday. It is to honor the Father. We arrived a little early for the parade, so we looked to the National Museum and took some photos of military vehicles and planes, the bridge and some of downtown. Then we headed over to where one of many parades for the day would be. Well, it definitely was not like the American parades with bands, dancing, floats and so on..I will let the pictures do the talking. Then we headed out to Robert & Rachel's via bus. It was a different route that took us past parks, single homes (one had a window with statue of Mary encased - the blessing on the home), factories and some rough roads. Then back to the usual route, only the buses were running slower and less often due to the holiday. When we started down on of the main streets to get to the Krzesinski home...we saw a real parade of people. They had flags, singing, large rosary, and people carrying branches. I think Robert took us to the first parade to help us appreciate the one by his home!!
We watched a few videos regarding Missions - talking about being mission minded and how we need to remember we are going to work beside the people of the different countries and in third world countries - they see Americans as a higher class and may just allow us to come in a build a church that they never use.
By getting the people's input and having them help to build - you will have a longer lasting effect and they will use the building and not just allow it to take up space. There were more examples of missionaries coming in and doing good, but with the wrong motives or not building a relationship with the people...then not having a lasting effect. We ate Kelbasa from the grill and veggie salad! It was very good and we are blessed to have Rachel cook great meals for us! The guys went out to entertain the kids and chat with one another and I stayed in to help Rachel and relax. Later the guys went to visit a family and had an opportunity to share their faith with them...it went well because they were asked to come again to visit! :0) I got to hang out with Rachel, Robert and Gary - I had a chance to talk with them more about missions and get some insight about things that I have been praying about. It was great for me to get the insight I needed - that my focus was on some of the wrong things and now know what to pray about and their needs. I also got some clothes washed and time to talk with Rachel about some girlie stuff. Tomorrow - Lord Willing - there will be a Family Fun day at Dom Kultury - the community center. As long as it does not rain, we hope to do some face painting and making kalediscopes with the kids. Then the Christian concert will follow and we are praying that people will come. Thanks for the prayers and encouragement! :0)
"If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them!" John 13:17
We watched a few videos regarding Missions - talking about being mission minded and how we need to remember we are going to work beside the people of the different countries and in third world countries - they see Americans as a higher class and may just allow us to come in a build a church that they never use.
By getting the people's input and having them help to build - you will have a longer lasting effect and they will use the building and not just allow it to take up space. There were more examples of missionaries coming in and doing good, but with the wrong motives or not building a relationship with the people...then not having a lasting effect. We ate Kelbasa from the grill and veggie salad! It was very good and we are blessed to have Rachel cook great meals for us! The guys went out to entertain the kids and chat with one another and I stayed in to help Rachel and relax. Later the guys went to visit a family and had an opportunity to share their faith with them...it went well because they were asked to come again to visit! :0) I got to hang out with Rachel, Robert and Gary - I had a chance to talk with them more about missions and get some insight about things that I have been praying about. It was great for me to get the insight I needed - that my focus was on some of the wrong things and now know what to pray about and their needs. I also got some clothes washed and time to talk with Rachel about some girlie stuff. Tomorrow - Lord Willing - there will be a Family Fun day at Dom Kultury - the community center. As long as it does not rain, we hope to do some face painting and making kalediscopes with the kids. Then the Christian concert will follow and we are praying that people will come. Thanks for the prayers and encouragement! :0)
"If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them!" John 13:17
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Survey Day 2
We got a full breakfast this morning -which is toast, jam, coffee, tea, milk AND CEREAL! I actually got to have someone join me for breakfast - Travis. We talked a little about how the highlights of the internship so far. Some things like getting to know my way around the metro, where the stop is to go to the buses and to take 709 to get to the Krzesinskis. But we both stated that the done in Old Town Warsaw was the one thing that was very eye opening to us. The young people either do not believe there is a God or just believe in God because their parents had them go to church. With the books I have been reading - discipleship is a big part of this ministry. I have been through some discipleship studies before, but it is really hitting home and trying to figure out how to replicate this experience when I get home. Robert came to the Hostel, so we did not have to scoot out to the Metro early. We talked about the survey experience and how we can improve it for today. Even though the questions were hard for some people, we felt dumbing them down may loose some of the answers we were looking for. This time we would be asking if they would be open to a Polish discussion group and for their e-mails. Rachel and the kids brought us lunch and then we headed out to Old Town again. The guys have an opportunity to go to dinner at a Polish family's home tomorrow and it will be a good opportunity to talk English and learn Polish. We thought that 3 people verse 6 eople would go over better and who knows, we may have other opportunities to talk with them. We had some good interaction with some people, but some just did not want to answer our questions or really did not know. There were some e-mails given that will allow Robert to follow up and go forward. After surveys were done, we got some ice cream (lody) and walked around Old Town a little bit. Then we headed to Klub 29 for the band to rehearse. We had hoped that some people would come by for lessons, but it did not work out that way. Couple of the guys and I went outside to play catch with the football and then frisbee. Thanks to my brothers and cousins - I was able to hold my own...and would make them proud! Still not very good at tossing the frisbee, but something to work at. I will have a pretty buise tomorrow on my arm...but it only looks like some red spots. Then Joe was going to take us to a nice inexpensive Polish restaurant...we walked there and it was closed. So then we opted to go to Pastor Bill's favorite place to dine at when outside the US - Pizza Hut! They have a Mama Mia family special - large pizza, garlic bread slices and Pepsi. For the 6 of us, we had 3 specials...and it is a reasonable meal - all go home with full bellies! Usually we walk back from the Metro, but decided to take the bus - it was a short trip, but it was air conditioned! We are calling an early night because tomorrow is a holiday in honor of Pope John Paul - if I got it right - he is going to be honored as a Saint - with several parades all over Warsaw and all day long. So we are going to an early morning one, then taking it easy the rest of the day!
"For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again." Matthew 7:2
"For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again." Matthew 7:2
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Survey Day One
It was a nice sunny day! I woke at 5 AM, but turned over and slept till 6:30 AM. We met at 9 AM to make out way to Robert & Rachel's to prepare for the task ahead. Since we are trying to hand out flyers about the free English discussion groups, there is a need to find a creative way to attract people to the classes. A survey questionnaire is a good way to get to know what the people are thinking, it is a personal approach and a way to get us used to interacting with others. So we came up with about 9 questions and figured we would start from there. After having a great lunch of pasta and waxed beans...we helped clean up and headed to the bus station. Side note - I know I am the girl, but I hate being the first one to be served! Even though I know it is all about manners...we are like family and there is always plenty, so it is not like I need to be first to make sure I get something. I believe in the Bible it states, "the first shall be last and the last shall be first" - you know where I stand. OK back to the events of today...we rode the bus, Metro and tram to get to Old Town Warsaw. Took tons of pictures and will include some later. Keith and I were paired up and then went out to ask our questions. We found that some of the words we used were too difficult for them to understand or they just did not want to answer the questions. For example: what is the purpose of life? or How do you determine whether to do right or wrong?
After talking with some people, we gathered together to get feedback on the experience. We found that we may need to make the questions more basic, that people were genuinely interested in the free English discussion groups and that there are opportunities to have Polish discussion groups based on questions that were asked. We started asking if people would be interested to be contacted if we had Polish discussion groups based on topics that we asked about and we got a number of e-mails for Robert & Rachel to follow up on in the future! Even though our intentions were to gather information more specific to English discussion groups where people can improve their speaking, God opened the door to another opportunity!
Then we walked through some of Old Town Warsaw and found out it is about 20 - 30 minutes from the Hostel! So we will be going there again...soon. After returning to the Hostel, we had open face sandwiches, chips, pickles, fruit and sweets. The band joined us and Adam shared a few things from his Bible study. We helped Robert and Rachel get the left overs back to the car. Eli keeps asking when I will stay the night at their home, so Beau makes fun of me and asks "Miss Marie when are you going to stay at our house for the night?" Gotta love the boys! I am going to enjoy the rest of the evening reading and get a good nights sleep to prepare for walking tomorrow! :0)
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
After talking with some people, we gathered together to get feedback on the experience. We found that we may need to make the questions more basic, that people were genuinely interested in the free English discussion groups and that there are opportunities to have Polish discussion groups based on questions that were asked. We started asking if people would be interested to be contacted if we had Polish discussion groups based on topics that we asked about and we got a number of e-mails for Robert & Rachel to follow up on in the future! Even though our intentions were to gather information more specific to English discussion groups where people can improve their speaking, God opened the door to another opportunity!
Then we walked through some of Old Town Warsaw and found out it is about 20 - 30 minutes from the Hostel! So we will be going there again...soon. After returning to the Hostel, we had open face sandwiches, chips, pickles, fruit and sweets. The band joined us and Adam shared a few things from his Bible study. We helped Robert and Rachel get the left overs back to the car. Eli keeps asking when I will stay the night at their home, so Beau makes fun of me and asks "Miss Marie when are you going to stay at our house for the night?" Gotta love the boys! I am going to enjoy the rest of the evening reading and get a good nights sleep to prepare for walking tomorrow! :0)
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
Monday, June 20, 2011
Our Day Off
Our day off started with sleeping in a bit. It was a rainy day, so the sunshine was not popping in early and we could take it easy. I spent most of the morning reading, praying and catching up on e-mails & Facebook. Our original plan was to leave at noon, take Metro to bus 131 from Centrum to go to hospital to visit Bart. Robert called and said that they are bringing lunch. So the running joke is add 10 minutes to whatever time is given (at least) and it will be close. We had sandwiches, chips, pickles, fruit and sweets about 12:40 PM. After we cleaned up, we made our way in the rain to Metro, then bus 131 by Hard Rock café, and on to hospital. Unfortunately there were no flower stands near the hospital or something to bring as a treat for Bart. He greeted us outside…since he was taking the opportunity to enjoy the break of rain – a little sunshine and to have a smoke. Cigarettes are smoked often here and you get accustomed to the smell…we do ride public transportation. We found Bart in good spirits like usual. He has a hairline fracture about 4 inches below his knee and the bone is broken at the ankle. In the pictures, you see he has a cast on…he would much rather go home and allow the bone to heal on its own…but he explained the Polish healthcare. If he goes home before the surgery to put in rod in ankle and he gets hurt again, he will have to pay about 2500 zoltys from his own pocket. The doctors have told him that the surgery will be this week, just not a date or time…that is to be found out later. He was so happy that we came and we had a good time learning a little more Polish and meeting his girlfriend. Unfortunately , I can’t remember her name…but I am learning that many people will say they understand English but can’t speak it. This just means they are hesitant to speak to us directly. It was a good time of fellowship and she did open up and talk with us also. Doctors have told Bart that it will be up to 6 weeks to recover, but he is convinced that he will be walking in 4 weeks. His roommate and girlfriend have talked to the Hostel manager and worked things out where they will work Bart’s shifts, so he has a job when he is able to walk again. The blessing is that we will have the opportunity to talk with them and build relationships. Bart’s determination is really neat – he wants to come to the concert on Friday night…if his girlfriend let’s him. We found out that Bart and his girlfriend met on an internet dating site about 4 years ago and things are going well for them. Inside the hospital things are very plain – mostly white walls and no pictures or colorful lines to follow. There are usually 3 people to a room and TV’s are not free. So Bart is really bored, he does not like to read and there is not much else to do laying there. We enjoyed our time with Bart and then went back to the Hostel for about 1.5 hours. Then went out to eat…yes, another American restaurant – KFC. 2 Classic buckets, fries and 2 liters of Pepsi. Then we went grocery shopping…I am so thankful that Rachel took me to Real before, otherwise this would have been a much longer trip. LOL We looked at books, mini-fridge, breakfast foods, rolls (I finally got a VollKorn Brotchen), jam, cheese, butter, soda, iced tea with lemon, cookies, and fruit. Let me tell you – these boys can eat! The funny thing is – I am the one that gains the weight! Ugh! Although I am convinced that it is muscles because it is almost 2 strides to their one – and we do a lot of walking and keeping our balance on Metro or bus! Robert met us at the Real and gave us a lift back to the Hostel…since we had a few things. LOL We chatted a bit, before the guys wanted to meet with Gary. There is a group of college age kids here that were speaking English – they may have been from Sweden, but they also spoke a little German…so who knows. It is fun to be at the Hostel and hear all the different languages and try to figure out who is saying what. I just wish the guys would stop talking about Bumble bees!!! Have to let you in on that another time. It is late and we are going to be getting to work tomorrow!
"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice." Col. 4:4
"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice." Col. 4:4
Sunday, June 19, 2011
New Prospective...
Happy Father's Day! We went to a Catholic Mass today. It was at 11 AM and we stood in the back. I hope to download some pictures, so you can see how beautiful the church is. They had about 6 alter boys and 3 girls (teens) do readings and singing. It was pretty much a typical Mass, other than being in Polish and it was either assistant priest/deacons that collected the tithes. They would either do the sign on the cross on the baby's head or bless the kids giving. When they went to prayer before communion we left, to find there were about 2 dozen people outside. Not sure if it was that the church was full or they preferred to be Krzesinski home to help Rachel make dinner. Guys helped peel cucumbers, cut potatoes and Rachel/Robert baked the chicken. We also got to play with the kids and prevent the dog from going in the kitchen. LOL
It was a very good meal and a good discussion about faith and what Catholics believe. Then we had dessert! There was a strawberry cake (like blitz kuechen - not 1/2 sheet cake size), apple cake (almost like a yeast dough cake with apples in the middle - but not as good as Tante Resi's) and chocolate torte with layers of light chocolate cake, chocolate mousse and chocolate frosting & chips on top. Yummy!!!
I know - I need to start taking pictures of the food! Then Rachel and I went to get a few groceries before we headed back to Klub 29. We ate our sandwiches and snacks...then headed in. There were a few people that came for lessons, but then when the band was going to rehearse, we were asked to keep the noise down because there was a performance going on upstairs. Some people reacted, but situation was resolved. It just gives us insight on some of the challenges one faces, when people are opposed to what Christians would like to do. There are times when you feel tested and only hope that you make the right decisions to help resolve issue and not judge the other person. Not sure if I passed that test today. We had a good discussion on the way back to Hostel - on metro and more so on foot. I am not only growing spiritually closer to the Lord, but my walk is making me physically stronger in my legs. :0)
"Judge not, that you be not judged." Matthew 7:1
It was a very good meal and a good discussion about faith and what Catholics believe. Then we had dessert! There was a strawberry cake (like blitz kuechen - not 1/2 sheet cake size), apple cake (almost like a yeast dough cake with apples in the middle - but not as good as Tante Resi's) and chocolate torte with layers of light chocolate cake, chocolate mousse and chocolate frosting & chips on top. Yummy!!!
I know - I need to start taking pictures of the food! Then Rachel and I went to get a few groceries before we headed back to Klub 29. We ate our sandwiches and snacks...then headed in. There were a few people that came for lessons, but then when the band was going to rehearse, we were asked to keep the noise down because there was a performance going on upstairs. Some people reacted, but situation was resolved. It just gives us insight on some of the challenges one faces, when people are opposed to what Christians would like to do. There are times when you feel tested and only hope that you make the right decisions to help resolve issue and not judge the other person. Not sure if I passed that test today. We had a good discussion on the way back to Hostel - on metro and more so on foot. I am not only growing spiritually closer to the Lord, but my walk is making me physically stronger in my legs. :0)
"Judge not, that you be not judged." Matthew 7:1
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Day of Highs and Lows
I had a light breakfast to start the day. After some time reading and prayer, I joined the guys and we went to the park. Bart, guy who works at Hostel joined us, and we played football - 2 hand touch (cause I am a girl - LOL). I actually did pretty good at keeping up. Then they needed even teams for frisbee and I was the side line photographer. It may be later that the pictures are added...they take some time to download and attach. Unfortunately, Bart reached up for the frisbee in the second half, his foot slipped and he came down wrong on his right foot...broke his ankle. Later we found out it is broken in 2 places. A nurse and her boyfriend stopped to help, while we waited for the ambulance. We got to pray a little with Bar, but he said he would not pray. It just showed us the hardness of hearts here in Poland. Travis was willing to go with him to the hospital, but they do not allow additional passangers. So we have his number and staying in touch. We hope to go to the hospital on Monday to visit and bring a gift. Bart is not mad at us that he is hurt, he realizes it was a risk that one takes in playing sports. There were not a lot of people playing outdoors - Bart said many play video games or indoor sports. Beau and Keith had gone back to the Hostel - to make them aware of what happened (they laughed and did not really show concern) and then they brought Bart his things in time to take to the hospital. We all went back to the Hostel to get cleaned up and go for lunch. The guys gave in and let me go to a place to have some Pierogi! Erin - your were better! I would have taken a picture, but I was very hungry. LOL The funny thing is that they were playing German music that you hear at German Day fest. A few commented, but they know of my German pride...so they took it easy on me. :0) Then we went to Dom Kultury (community center) - where we will be having English discussion groups and band give lessons. Band set up in Klub 29 - I really thought it was going to be a jam session or rehearsal...it was more like a jam session, but should have been lesson time. Unfortunately no one came, so we prayed that people will come on Sunday night and Wednesday night...Friday will be the concert. Then we went to dinner - Pastor Bill will appreciate this - Pizza Hut! Go to Poland and eat American food... Then we went home and called it a night.
"We walk by faith, not by sight." 2 Corinthians 5:7
"We walk by faith, not by sight." 2 Corinthians 5:7
Correction and Random Observations
Correction on picture - my room is on the top level to the left with the window cracked open.
Observations...capris are worn by mostly older women or skin tight ones by teens. Ironically I have mostly cargo capris and a slightly longer version are worn by MEN!
Most people are used to being backed in like sardines on buses and on metro...learning to have less personal space.
Gypsies here are similar to homeless in NYC - they wash your windshield - if you are not willing to pay, then they mess it up for you.
Being a New Yorker comes in handy - I have no problem pushing my way through to get on or off Metro or bus...the southern gentlemen that I am with...well let's say, they don't mind waiting to get off at the next stop.
I have been spoiled by the big breakfasts that I had in Germany - the whole spread with a nice warm Brotchen. Free breakfast consists of milk (warm or room temperature), cereal, toast & jam, and tea or coffee. They do have hot coffee...just my timing is usually off and I get the cold cup. It is all good - I drink it for the caffiene not the taste. LOL
Don't be fooled - if the coffee shop has an English name and menu is all in English - they may not understand when you order a small black coffee. Thankfully there was someone who did speak English at the shop. LOL
OK that is you tid bits for now. Hope you all have a great day and a chuckle! :0)
Observations...capris are worn by mostly older women or skin tight ones by teens. Ironically I have mostly cargo capris and a slightly longer version are worn by MEN!
Most people are used to being backed in like sardines on buses and on metro...learning to have less personal space.
Gypsies here are similar to homeless in NYC - they wash your windshield - if you are not willing to pay, then they mess it up for you.
Being a New Yorker comes in handy - I have no problem pushing my way through to get on or off Metro or bus...the southern gentlemen that I am with...well let's say, they don't mind waiting to get off at the next stop.
I have been spoiled by the big breakfasts that I had in Germany - the whole spread with a nice warm Brotchen. Free breakfast consists of milk (warm or room temperature), cereal, toast & jam, and tea or coffee. They do have hot coffee...just my timing is usually off and I get the cold cup. It is all good - I drink it for the caffiene not the taste. LOL
Don't be fooled - if the coffee shop has an English name and menu is all in English - they may not understand when you order a small black coffee. Thankfully there was someone who did speak English at the shop. LOL
OK that is you tid bits for now. Hope you all have a great day and a chuckle! :0)
Lesson, Girl Time and Fun
Today started early again, but the teens left this morning around 8:30 AM. So I got some real quiet time...
Then I met Ed, he helps promote the band and has been working with Robert to set up concert and music lessons. He and the band are from Kentucky. We had a nice chat and then it was time for our lesson on missions. The topic was the local church, being called to missions and the church of Antioch. It was neat to hear about how they sent their best - Barnabas and Saul. That they were not sent out alone. This study was from Acts 11. Then the Krzesinski Family came and brought us lunch. We enjoyed lunch at the Hostel, met the band, and then were split up. Guys, band and Robert went to Centrum to hand out flyers and to a park to play fresbie. I got to go with Rachel and the kids - have a little girl time. We went to McDonalds for coffee and chat, while the boys played on the slide. Then got to go to Real - like a super Walmart, for groceries and then home to make dinner. I got to help prepare the meal and pick up some clean laundry. :0)
Then Robert took us to Klub 29, where the band will be playing. It is run by a guy who broke away from the Catholic church, so I was expecting some kind of Christian worship music...heavy metal screaming was what we saw. Since I could not understand a word...I decided he was upset that he did not get his chocolate pudding and screamed "Ugh!" several times! LOL
Then Robert shared the plan for the next week and where the band can practice and where lessons will be held. The guys have arranged with Bart (guy who works at Hostel) to have a friendly game of football and possibly basketball in the morning. So we headed back on the Metro and took a few pictures on the way home.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him , and he shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
Attached are the following pictures: outside of Hostel - I am in the yellow one top floor but below the loft and guys are in gray side, Beau with kids & dog, Keith, Beau & kids, Rachel & Layla, band & Travis having fun with the bus.
Then I met Ed, he helps promote the band and has been working with Robert to set up concert and music lessons. He and the band are from Kentucky. We had a nice chat and then it was time for our lesson on missions. The topic was the local church, being called to missions and the church of Antioch. It was neat to hear about how they sent their best - Barnabas and Saul. That they were not sent out alone. This study was from Acts 11. Then the Krzesinski Family came and brought us lunch. We enjoyed lunch at the Hostel, met the band, and then were split up. Guys, band and Robert went to Centrum to hand out flyers and to a park to play fresbie. I got to go with Rachel and the kids - have a little girl time. We went to McDonalds for coffee and chat, while the boys played on the slide. Then got to go to Real - like a super Walmart, for groceries and then home to make dinner. I got to help prepare the meal and pick up some clean laundry. :0)
Then Robert took us to Klub 29, where the band will be playing. It is run by a guy who broke away from the Catholic church, so I was expecting some kind of Christian worship music...heavy metal screaming was what we saw. Since I could not understand a word...I decided he was upset that he did not get his chocolate pudding and screamed "Ugh!" several times! LOL
Then Robert shared the plan for the next week and where the band can practice and where lessons will be held. The guys have arranged with Bart (guy who works at Hostel) to have a friendly game of football and possibly basketball in the morning. So we headed back on the Metro and took a few pictures on the way home.
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him , and he shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
Attached are the following pictures: outside of Hostel - I am in the yellow one top floor but below the loft and guys are in gray side, Beau with kids & dog, Keith, Beau & kids, Rachel & Layla, band & Travis having fun with the bus.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
"Ugly American" and band flyers
Today I started my day early on purpose...there is a bus load of teens staying at the hostel (my side of the hostel) where there are only 2 bathrooms for everyone. So at 5:30 AM, I took care of what I needed to without being disturbed. Then had time for prayer and devotions, a quick breakfast and met the guys to make our way to Robert & Rachel's home. About an hour later, going metro to bus and walking...we arrived with our backpacks. We watched the movie "Ugly American" starring Marlon Brando...so it gives away the age a little bit. LOL The theme was appropriate and helped us see that even if we are well intentioned, sometimes we come in like a bull wanting to do our agenda and it goes against what the people want or how it is received. This was good to know, like Robert shared with the church, we need to build relationships with the people and not just tell people they need God. Travis was able to talk with a young guy on the bus to Robert's home - share there is a free concert coming up and the following week the English discussion classes will start. The guy seemed guininely interested, but had to check his calendar to see if he could be there. Beau (even though he is more talkative than me) and I have similar issues - we find it difficult to walk up to people and just start a conversation. After we talked about the movie, we also saw a few clips from a pastor in Kenya - he was point blank in his remarks - he said that often Americans come in desiring to help, but try to problem solve without knowing the true issues. He said that instead of talking, they should be listening to 3-4 people and then taking what these people share and then talk. Often people will agree to please Americans because they think so little of themselves. Another interesting point that was brought up - often missionaries go to different 3rd world countries and return with large number of people saved...then another missionary goes to the same church (without knowing what happened the week before) and all the people raise their hands again...so that missionary also states that 1000s were saved. To me it just reinforces why the follow up and discipleship is so important. It also brought to mind for me, our trip to the Philippines...at the Women's Conference, I shared my ideas on creative ways to teach children and when I asked if anyone had questions or suggestions...women were hesitant to ask or say anything. Ugh! That only took over 5 years to figure out!!!
Rachel made us a great spaghetti lunch with cucumber salad! Yum!! Oh let's not forget the garlic bread. Our bellies were full! :0) Then we headed to Centrum to hand out more concert flyers. I went to the top of a set of stairs and just stuck out the flyers. More were handed out when I did not make eye contact...but the guys had good success by making eye contact. Must be the girls were getting lost in their eyes!! LOL
Oh, I have not been sharing about the weather here - it has been about 70 - 80 degrees and mostly sunny...sometimes a breeze.
Then we decided to test what we have learned and went to Kabaty shopping at Tesco (kind of like a super Walmart or Target). Then came back to Hostel for dinner - sandwiches and time to chat. Now I have to go use the bathroom before the teen return! Then call it a night! Hope to have pictures for you tomorrow.
"Look not every man on is own things, but every man also on the things of others." Phil. 2:4
Rachel made us a great spaghetti lunch with cucumber salad! Yum!! Oh let's not forget the garlic bread. Our bellies were full! :0) Then we headed to Centrum to hand out more concert flyers. I went to the top of a set of stairs and just stuck out the flyers. More were handed out when I did not make eye contact...but the guys had good success by making eye contact. Must be the girls were getting lost in their eyes!! LOL
Oh, I have not been sharing about the weather here - it has been about 70 - 80 degrees and mostly sunny...sometimes a breeze.
Then we decided to test what we have learned and went to Kabaty shopping at Tesco (kind of like a super Walmart or Target). Then came back to Hostel for dinner - sandwiches and time to chat. Now I have to go use the bathroom before the teen return! Then call it a night! Hope to have pictures for you tomorrow.
"Look not every man on is own things, but every man also on the things of others." Phil. 2:4
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Mission Lesson and handing out Band Flyers
Well I was woken to people in the bathroom next door to my room at 5:30 AM...the guys in the room next door must have been too. They began talking and talking - worse than women...and these guys were from America, so sadly I could understand what they were saying. So it was a rough start this morning and NO COFFEE. Thanks to the prayers, I made it through the missions lesson and discussions. Then we met Robert for lunch. The restaurant had food written out in English too - sorry Erin no Pierogies.
I had chicken that was thin with potato pancake topping with some white cabbage. It was very good and I was so hungry that I forgot to take a picture first. Keith had the lamb keibasa with potatoes and the rest of the guys had schnitzel that covered the plate with sides of potato salad and french fries. We went to park and received some information on Ursynow, some things to be aware of (safety issues) and schedule for the week (it will be flexible - specially with band coming from States tomorrow). They will be here for 10 days. Then we went to a college campus to start handing out flyers about the concerts! It is interesting to see some peoples reaction and they make comments (of course I only caught on the one time - they thought Travis may be a policeman - he does look a little like the Rock)! Then we headed to the Krzesinskis for dinner. Thankfully they saw how tired we all were and we will be watching the movie "Ugly American" tomorrow morning. I will try to have pictures to share tomorrow, but have to call it a night. :0)
I had chicken that was thin with potato pancake topping with some white cabbage. It was very good and I was so hungry that I forgot to take a picture first. Keith had the lamb keibasa with potatoes and the rest of the guys had schnitzel that covered the plate with sides of potato salad and french fries. We went to park and received some information on Ursynow, some things to be aware of (safety issues) and schedule for the week (it will be flexible - specially with band coming from States tomorrow). They will be here for 10 days. Then we went to a college campus to start handing out flyers about the concerts! It is interesting to see some peoples reaction and they make comments (of course I only caught on the one time - they thought Travis may be a policeman - he does look a little like the Rock)! Then we headed to the Krzesinskis for dinner. Thankfully they saw how tired we all were and we will be watching the movie "Ugly American" tomorrow morning. I will try to have pictures to share tomorrow, but have to call it a night. :0)
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
pictures from 6/14/11 scavenger hunt
I had hoped the descriptions stayed with the pictures when I pulled them in...here goes:
Yummy cookies that were my evening treat
my bed at the hostel
telephone pole in front of a flower shop
Roman Catholic Church
ticket counter at movie theater - Travis & Robert
outside movie theater with attached womens gym
finished eating sandwiches from Oscar's - Layla, Rachel, Keith, Beau, Travis
Russian building given to Poland that is movie theather
I am still learning about blogging and all the tabs are in Polish...so there is an added challenge! :0)
Yummy cookies that were my evening treat
my bed at the hostel
telephone pole in front of a flower shop
Roman Catholic Church
ticket counter at movie theater - Travis & Robert
outside movie theater with attached womens gym
finished eating sandwiches from Oscar's - Layla, Rachel, Keith, Beau, Travis
Russian building given to Poland that is movie theather
I am still learning about blogging and all the tabs are in Polish...so there is an added challenge! :0)
Scavenger Hunt day
Today was the day to learn the Metro and find our way around town.
Did you know that the sun comes up about 4:30 AM here? Good thing I was so tired, I could roll over and sleep! For breakfast, I had muesli and milk & toast with black current jam. The milk was hot, but the coffee was cold. :0( Oh well, it is all good. We left for the Metro (subway) after 11 AM. We got our public transportation cards and I finally have a narrow face...a bit long though. Apparently the passport picture does not scan like the original. The cards save time - just scan and go through the turn-style.
We had our first kanapka (sandwich) and really enjoyed it. Then the scavenger hunt began...we were split in 2 teams: Gary, Keith and Beau - who had a 4 minute head start; Travis, Robert & me on the other.
First stop went well - got off subway, found city hall and saw the movie theater across the street. The one stop the stumped us the most was to the cultural center - which is where we will be next week! LOL Personally I think it was more that "Marcpol" would have been a better landmark...because we never did find the sushi one from the map. Since the other team caught up to us, Robert broke down and gave us the right directions. LOL After exchanging some money, we saw the Roman Catholic church that had a large poster of the Pope. We made a few more stops - then stopped for coffee. Now I don't get this one...everything on the menu was written in English, but apparently you still need to order it in Polish!?!?!
At least one guy spoke English and understood what a small black coffee was.
Then we went to the Krzesinski's for dinner - open face sandwiches and Beau really likes the cheese with strawberry jam or it may be that he is not as adventureous with food as the rest of us. :0)
It took about 50 minutes to get back to the Hostel, via bus, subway and walking. It may just be that I am tired...but on the subway I noticed the car ahead of us seemed to be floating off the rails...rocking side to side...then I realized that I was holding pretty tight to the hand rail to keep my balance. So apparently the subway goes so fast that we literally fly! It is lesson day tomorrow....you know how well I do with an hour meeting...hope there will be tons of coffee! :0)
"In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." 1 Thessalonians 5:18
I am thankful that Robert did not allow us to stray too far and that Travis has a much better sense of direction than I do! :0)
Did you know that the sun comes up about 4:30 AM here? Good thing I was so tired, I could roll over and sleep! For breakfast, I had muesli and milk & toast with black current jam. The milk was hot, but the coffee was cold. :0( Oh well, it is all good. We left for the Metro (subway) after 11 AM. We got our public transportation cards and I finally have a narrow face...a bit long though. Apparently the passport picture does not scan like the original. The cards save time - just scan and go through the turn-style.
We had our first kanapka (sandwich) and really enjoyed it. Then the scavenger hunt began...we were split in 2 teams: Gary, Keith and Beau - who had a 4 minute head start; Travis, Robert & me on the other.
First stop went well - got off subway, found city hall and saw the movie theater across the street. The one stop the stumped us the most was to the cultural center - which is where we will be next week! LOL Personally I think it was more that "Marcpol" would have been a better landmark...because we never did find the sushi one from the map. Since the other team caught up to us, Robert broke down and gave us the right directions. LOL After exchanging some money, we saw the Roman Catholic church that had a large poster of the Pope. We made a few more stops - then stopped for coffee. Now I don't get this one...everything on the menu was written in English, but apparently you still need to order it in Polish!?!?!
At least one guy spoke English and understood what a small black coffee was.
Then we went to the Krzesinski's for dinner - open face sandwiches and Beau really likes the cheese with strawberry jam or it may be that he is not as adventureous with food as the rest of us. :0)
It took about 50 minutes to get back to the Hostel, via bus, subway and walking. It may just be that I am tired...but on the subway I noticed the car ahead of us seemed to be floating off the rails...rocking side to side...then I realized that I was holding pretty tight to the hand rail to keep my balance. So apparently the subway goes so fast that we literally fly! It is lesson day tomorrow....you know how well I do with an hour meeting...hope there will be tons of coffee! :0)
"In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." 1 Thessalonians 5:18
I am thankful that Robert did not allow us to stray too far and that Travis has a much better sense of direction than I do! :0)
Made it to Poland .... Finally
I made it to Poland!!!! …Not without an adventure along the way.
ODBC prayed with me and gave me a great send off. My parents brought me to the airport at 11:15AM, in plenty of time for the flight scheduled at 1:11 PM. Sue Graf came over and prayed with me and then the adventure truly began… The plane that we were going to be taking us to Newark was greeted by fire trucks…only told there was something up with the landing gear. My insider informed that it was a service light that came on. So they were going to use another plane…the attendant kept saying in 10 – 15 minutes we would start boarding…that turned into about 45 minutes. Needless to say we finally took off from the Rochester airport at 3:20 PM. I texted out prayer requests and appreciated all the prayers – I had a calm about it all. I was reading the book, Radical by David Platt, it was rather timely and I got some of my homework done. Thank goodness there was going to be a 3 hour layover in Newark. It turned out to be ½ hour and we were boarding the plane. Newark plane was also delayed about an hour due to weather conditions. That was reducing my time in Hamburg…or so I thought. On flight to Hamburg, I sat next to a nice German couple from Kiel and they made me laugh and also get out of my seat a few times…no swelling of the ankles! Then I follow the crowd because I thought I needed to pick up my suitcase and tired. Then realized the suitcases would go on and it would be a race to catch my flight. Needless to say…that flight went early and I missed it by 5 minutes (they would not hold the plane). So I got to go down to pick up my bags, rebook flight and wait. (Just wanted a little more time in Germany and FREE coffee!!) I was routed to Munich (hey, I was never at that airport). It was a bumpy flight from Hamburg to Munich. There were times where the plane felt like it dropped a few hundred feet a few times in a row.
Hey, Karl – like going over the railroad tracks maintaining the same speed…only this time I was more of a shock! Or I am getting old! LOL
Ended up paying to internet just to let Robert & Rachel know that I would not be on earlier flight and they might as well wait till 5 PM to pick me and the college guys (Beau, Keith and Travis) up.
So then I got to Warsaw around 4:15 PM (2:15 PM in Rochester) , but should have been there at 10:05 AM! After waiting a while at Terminal 2, I went over to Terminal 1… to be sure that I was not forgotten….and was tired of the taxi drivers asking if I needed a ride! Then saw Robert walk into Terminal 2, so I scooted back dragging the 2 suitcases in tow. Shortly after Rachel & the kids came and met their friend, Joe, who had a van to help us out and is involved in a ministry through another organization. We enjoyed dinner at the Hostel and got settled in. I am calling it a night…and looking forward to the fun of tomorrow!
I am so glad to be here! Tracy – your gifts were a great hit! John – Robert said the Polish people do not like the Polish jokes…they tolerate them because we think they have similar jokes about the Russians.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with Thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Phil. 4:6
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Thank you!!!
Hi, All -
Just would like to take a moment to "THANK" everyone for the prayers, encouragement and financial support. You have helped reconfirm that this is the Lord's will for me and that He does provide when we are faithful! As I sit hear listening to another CD teaching me Polish...I can only hope that I am retaining more than I am repeating! LOL I am overwhelmed by all the things I would like to bring with me and now to decide what is really neccessary. Yes, I am a last minute packer! I always think I have some much time, but then it is the day before I go and the list seems overwhelming, but the Lord always gives the strength and wisdom to get what is needed done. Thanks again for being willing to come on this journey with me, as I know it will be life changing for me...but I hope it may touch your life too!
Love ya and know the Lord loves you more!
"We love Him because He first loved us." I John 4:19
Just would like to take a moment to "THANK" everyone for the prayers, encouragement and financial support. You have helped reconfirm that this is the Lord's will for me and that He does provide when we are faithful! As I sit hear listening to another CD teaching me Polish...I can only hope that I am retaining more than I am repeating! LOL I am overwhelmed by all the things I would like to bring with me and now to decide what is really neccessary. Yes, I am a last minute packer! I always think I have some much time, but then it is the day before I go and the list seems overwhelming, but the Lord always gives the strength and wisdom to get what is needed done. Thanks again for being willing to come on this journey with me, as I know it will be life changing for me...but I hope it may touch your life too!
Love ya and know the Lord loves you more!
"We love Him because He first loved us." I John 4:19
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Year in Review
This has been a challenging year...there were times that I could not see the light at the end of the tunnel. Things seemed to build up and felt that I was just trying to push forward on my own. Then felt selfish to quit a ministry, but the Lord provided someone to take over and allowed me to have time be renewed. Began seeking the Lord's will by checking out CEF opportunities and crying out to the Lord (and not hearing anything in return). Thanks to friends who allowed me to bend their ear, giving me a shoulder to cry on and most of all for their PRAYERS! I began praying specifically for each thing daily...and began to feel like the Lord was carrying me through. Stubbornness, many hours and determination....I saw things starting to fall into place and doors began to open. There was a contentment and the Lord was fulfilling my heart's desire...not in the way that I thought it would happen, but in a better way. I know this sounds like a cliche, but when it happens to you - you will get it too! My spiritual gift is serving and something I have done for years without realizing that the Lord had given me this talent. As many of you know, in January, the Krzesinski family touched my heart (as they did many at ODBC), but to think that I would be going to Poland less than 5 months later...that is the Lord! The weekend in March in WV, showed me how He was working at Lewis Memorial Baptist Church and through Daystar Baptist Missions. The moment that I knew I needed to get serious and pray about going was when Rachel's mom asked me at McDonald's - "So do you think you will be going to Poland?" and the word "yes" came out. :0) It is so neat to look back on a year where you just hope to make it through the day - to be flying to Poland in just a few days to serve Him!!!
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Prayer Letter
I am excited about the opportunity to go to Poland. On June 12th, I will be flying to Warsaw to help the Krzesinski family with their ministry!
Our hope is to build relationships in order to share faith, teach Children Sunday school, have a Family Fun day, music lessons (possible concert) and help in any way needed.
The team is coming together - 3 college students will be arriving on Monday 6/13 and they will be staying for 2 months (unfortunately I will not be able to stay that long). There is a small group coming a few days after we arrive, so we are preparing to hit the ground running. A few other people are coming to help minister to us. In July, there will be a family and other students joining the team.
By taking this step in faith, I am asking for prayer. The specific prayer requests are to open hearts & minds of the Polish people to have personal relationship with the Lord, to encourage believers, travel mercies, wisdom & guidance in moving forward.
Thanks for being willing to join me in this ministry! Please check out Operation Poland website to meet the Krzesinskis and others that will be joining the team and their ministry.
Thanks for your friendship, prayers, and encouragement! It means more than I can express.
Your sister in Christ, Marie :0)
Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross, and Follow Me." Matthew 16:24
Our hope is to build relationships in order to share faith, teach Children Sunday school, have a Family Fun day, music lessons (possible concert) and help in any way needed.
The team is coming together - 3 college students will be arriving on Monday 6/13 and they will be staying for 2 months (unfortunately I will not be able to stay that long). There is a small group coming a few days after we arrive, so we are preparing to hit the ground running. A few other people are coming to help minister to us. In July, there will be a family and other students joining the team.
By taking this step in faith, I am asking for prayer. The specific prayer requests are to open hearts & minds of the Polish people to have personal relationship with the Lord, to encourage believers, travel mercies, wisdom & guidance in moving forward.
Thanks for being willing to join me in this ministry! Please check out Operation Poland website to meet the Krzesinskis and others that will be joining the team and their ministry.
Thanks for your friendship, prayers, and encouragement! It means more than I can express.
Your sister in Christ, Marie :0)
Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross, and Follow Me." Matthew 16:24
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
