Today we took the day off from the Dental Clinic, work projects and the Dental/Nutrition Education to go enjoy the local waters. Steve, Chad and Michael (Chew) left early this morning to scuba dive at Laughing Bird Caye. After a 2 hour bus ride, 15 minute water taxi ride, and a 45 minute boat ride they arrived at the Caye. The guys dove to about 95 feet and saw a huge tarpin, Moray eel, crab, shrimp, 100 pound grouper, and dolphins. The rest of the team headed to the West Snake Caye, which was absolutely gorgeous, to snorkel, swim, and swing in hammocks. We also saw dolphins, along with a huge lobster and a leopard ray, and our guide found us a boa constrictor to hold and take pictures with.
Returning to Punta Gorda early afternoon, we were off to Da Wata Fountin for a time of ministry with the local kids. Some of the team shared how their relationship with Jesus has given them hope and a renewed life. Maylin treated us to a delicious home cooked meal of chicken, biscuits, potato salad, rice & beans, and carrot cake. We finished off the evening with devotionals at the hotel, a round of Apples to Apples, and an early bedtime to rest for another day of work and ministry. Pray for us to be effective these last couple days, and that we would continue to seek God for our strength, understanding and endurance.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Belize '09 Update: Thursday
It's been a great Thanksgiving day. We all agreed that it was one of the most meaningful Thanksgivings we've ever experienced. The dental team worked their longest most demanding day so far. The education team spoke at yet another school and were received so well by teachers and students alike. And the construction team has nearly completed all their projects for the week.
We still spend a lot of our time with the same group of local children--Clayton, Keith, Shadeen, Jamilla, Jameeka, Mikey, Anthony, Christian, Trevonn, Eliela, Daniel, Josephine, Ralph, John (and others that come around occasionally). Some of their stories are heartbreaking but yet they just love being near us, and soaking up our attention. There have been numerous to pray for them and talk with them about the gospel. Please pray that God will soften their hearts to really seek him and desire him as their Savior!
We actually enjoyed a turkey dinner tonight! I found a local restaurant that was serving ham, turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce, rice, and even pumpkin pie (all for $6.00 per person!). The restaurant was located right on the water and we enjoyed a cool breeze while we spent the evening devotion time sharing about all for which we have to give thanks--particularly as we spend this holiday in Belize. It was a memorable night and the team was very thankful for how we've bonded as a family (Rachel, Stephanie, and Kortney actually wrote a family tree of how we would all be related if we really were--it was quite humorous). God has been so good to us--we're blessed beyond measure.
Tim
We still spend a lot of our time with the same group of local children--Clayton, Keith, Shadeen, Jamilla, Jameeka, Mikey, Anthony, Christian, Trevonn, Eliela, Daniel, Josephine, Ralph, John (and others that come around occasionally). Some of their stories are heartbreaking but yet they just love being near us, and soaking up our attention. There have been numerous to pray for them and talk with them about the gospel. Please pray that God will soften their hearts to really seek him and desire him as their Savior!
We actually enjoyed a turkey dinner tonight! I found a local restaurant that was serving ham, turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce, rice, and even pumpkin pie (all for $6.00 per person!). The restaurant was located right on the water and we enjoyed a cool breeze while we spent the evening devotion time sharing about all for which we have to give thanks--particularly as we spend this holiday in Belize. It was a memorable night and the team was very thankful for how we've bonded as a family (Rachel, Stephanie, and Kortney actually wrote a family tree of how we would all be related if we really were--it was quite humorous). God has been so good to us--we're blessed beyond measure.
Tim
Belize '09 :Tuesday
Our days start out with wonderful breakfasts at 'The Snack Shack,' a little thatched roof 'hut' about a block away from the Caribbean. Today we were served Belizian scrambled eggs, sausage, and biscuits. Cathy, Ed, and I did devotions for the group-our topic was 'encouragement' and everyone wrote two letters of encouragement to other team members. After a short, but meaningful discussion we all split up into our groups for our daily service assignments. The education group went to another elementary school that was behind the Forest Home Dental Clinic and was once again was able to visit all the classrooms. The dental team was, as always, very busy and working hard. The work group (my group) fixed old desks that were literally falling apart at one of the schools. We started constructing a HUGE picnic table that the school children are helping us build. I can’t wait--it’s going to be great and the kids at the school will really get a lot of use out of it.
After school Children's Ministry has been going smoothly and kids are memorizing verses from Bible stories. We promised them a special prize for the efforts that we'll give out on Friday. So far they have had the verses Luke 10:27 and Genesis 1:1. Tonight we went back to Marenco’s for good ol' hamburgers and ice cream. For devotions we shared something that we've done on this outreach that we'd never experience before. I shared about using a skill saw for the first time. Then, before going to bed, a group of us played an intense game of 'Spoons.' Tomorrow the team is going to take the day off for some snorkeling with turtles and sharks while Chad, Dad, and I are going scuba diving! Thanks for all your support and encouragement. Happy Thanksgiving!
~ Michael Chew
After school Children's Ministry has been going smoothly and kids are memorizing verses from Bible stories. We promised them a special prize for the efforts that we'll give out on Friday. So far they have had the verses Luke 10:27 and Genesis 1:1. Tonight we went back to Marenco’s for good ol' hamburgers and ice cream. For devotions we shared something that we've done on this outreach that we'd never experience before. I shared about using a skill saw for the first time. Then, before going to bed, a group of us played an intense game of 'Spoons.' Tomorrow the team is going to take the day off for some snorkeling with turtles and sharks while Chad, Dad, and I are going scuba diving! Thanks for all your support and encouragement. Happy Thanksgiving!
~ Michael Chew
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Some Pictures...
Making signs for Da Wata Fountin.
All dressed up for Chruch!
Darlene playing the violin at the Sunday church service we attended....Sorry there arn't many, the internet is really slow & it takes forever to upload anything, but I tried. :)
Belize '09 Update: Sunday
The early crew had breakfast at 7:15 and the late crew at 7:45am at April's Snack Shack. The ham and bean burritos had a fresh thick tortilla - even Chad has his fill. The team walked over to the Methodist Church and joined them for worship. Tim had the opportunity to share a few words of thanks and Darlene played her violin. The dental team drove out to Forest Home and brought some of the Walk About Children with them. The education team went to the new location for Da Wata Fountin. They removed debris in the back yard to open a space for the kids to enjoy patio and painted signs to advertise the new Wata Fountain location. Everyone was so excited to be reunited with the same children we enjoyed from previous trips. With his shades on, Tim was like a movie star with kids throwing themselves at him to shouts of TIM-OH-THY echoing down the street The rest of us were greeted with slightly less enthusiasm. Even without his cape, Tim had a fabulous day saving small children from drowning in the ocean, pushing ladies out of the way of oncoming buses and arranging dinner for our group of 22. We were all awed as Tim downed a bottle of Marie Sharp's hot sauce with his fried chicken, beans & rice, plantains and coleslaw. We grabbed some ice cream, took a walk along the water front and had our evening vespers. - Kim Chew
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Belize '09 Update: Saturday
Belize '09
Today the rest of the group woke up at two to drive the San Francisco International Airport--the Nannini’s and Chad went on their own flights. We got at the airport safely and we were off! We arrived at Houston around noon and caught our connecting fight a half an hour later. We got to Belize International Airport around five and got through immigration and customs smoothly-yes with all that dental supplies. We boarded the small twelve passenger propeller airplane. After flying over the mountainous landscape, accompanied by the beautiful sunset to the west, we landed in the lit up town of Punta Gorda, Belize. Most of our bags made it-one is coming tomorrow morning-and were able to check in the Charleston Inn shortly after our arrival. The kids and Mailin and Gideon Richards met us there. After unpacking our bags we headed to dinner at Marenco’s. We had fried chicken, stewed chicken, beans and rice, plantains, coleslaw, and potato salad. After a satisfying dinner we took a tour of the town with our Belizean friends along the vast Caribbean with Puerto Barrios lighting the sky. We settled down and had our vespers without any music-just our BEAUTIFUL voices. Now, off to bed for tomorrow--church and our first day of the clinic and service projects. Keep praying and we’ll update y’all ASAP. Michael Chew
Today the rest of the group woke up at two to drive the San Francisco International Airport--the Nannini’s and Chad went on their own flights. We got at the airport safely and we were off! We arrived at Houston around noon and caught our connecting fight a half an hour later. We got to Belize International Airport around five and got through immigration and customs smoothly-yes with all that dental supplies. We boarded the small twelve passenger propeller airplane. After flying over the mountainous landscape, accompanied by the beautiful sunset to the west, we landed in the lit up town of Punta Gorda, Belize. Most of our bags made it-one is coming tomorrow morning-and were able to check in the Charleston Inn shortly after our arrival. The kids and Mailin and Gideon Richards met us there. After unpacking our bags we headed to dinner at Marenco’s. We had fried chicken, stewed chicken, beans and rice, plantains, coleslaw, and potato salad. After a satisfying dinner we took a tour of the town with our Belizean friends along the vast Caribbean with Puerto Barrios lighting the sky. We settled down and had our vespers without any music-just our BEAUTIFUL voices. Now, off to bed for tomorrow--church and our first day of the clinic and service projects. Keep praying and we’ll update y’all ASAP. Michael Chew
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Another great day in Belize!
Hello again! We're still having a great time! Thanks for all the comments, they were encouraging. Since we wrote last we have done lots of new things. Yesterday, we went on a chocolate tour to see how the chocolate is made here(all by hand!). We swam in the Caribbean with the children, and got attacked by shrimp and had to make a quick escape to the dock. Later that night we went to Da Wata Fountin and cataloged hundreds of books! We woke up bright and early this morning to get a good start on the day, ate some yummy breakfast. Bought some paint and wood to make signs for Da Wata Fountin and painted them. While we were waiting for them to dry, we headed to the Saturday street market for a bit. Later today we will be going to a Futbol game, searching for the best supermarkets, and greeting the rest of the team at the "airport". Thanks again for all the prayers. We would love to read comments from you!
Note to Howden Family: Please don't cut down a Christmas tree without me!! :)
The Methodist School where we'll be doing Dental Hygiene Education.
Mikey.
The Kids after we went swimming, trying to warm up on the dock.
All the boxes of books we cataloged.
Punta Gorda at night.
Painting our hands yellow, a BIG mistake.
Some of the fresh fruit at the market.
:)
Note to Howden Family: Please don't cut down a Christmas tree without me!! :)
The Methodist School where we'll be doing Dental Hygiene Education.
Mikey.
The Kids after we went swimming, trying to warm up on the dock. 
All the boxes of books we cataloged.
Punta Gorda at night.
Painting our hands yellow, a BIG mistake.
Some of the fresh fruit at the market.
:)Friday, November 20, 2009
Belize Outreach 2009
Here we are (Jill, Kortney and Rachel) if you didn't already know, we headed to Punta Gorda a few days ahead of the rest of the team. The flight was smooth, and we arrived late afternoon on Wednesday. Within an hour of landing in town we saw our favorite kids, and we went running to them, as they came running to us. We attended bible study at Da Wata Fountin, got some tasty Belizean food, and headed to bed early. Thursday was Garifuna Day, where they celebrate the arrival of the Garifuna people in Punta Gorda. We woke up at 5:30 AM to see the re-enactment of the landing of the Garifuna people; followed by much dancing, drumming, chanting, parades, and other festivities throughout the day. It is safe to say the town is hoppin. We spent the morning at a missionary's house helping them put together goodie bags to celebrate Jesus' Birthday. She needs to put together over a thousand bags for children in the Mayan villages, we were glad to serve her, and make a dent in the enormous amount of work she had to do. Later, we walked around the town, hung out with the kids, and did some exploring. Today, we are planning on making some signs for Da Wata Fountin, and doing whatever other work God leads us to do. The rest of the team arrives tomorrow, and we are so excited for them to join us. Belize is feeling more and more like home. We are having so much fun, and loving every minute of it. Thanks for all the prayers, we have been blessed so far. We miss you guys! Here are some pictures for you to enjoy! :)
Breakfast! :)
So excited to be on our way to Belize, in the SFO airport.
View of the Carribean from the plane.
View of Punta Gorda, from the small airplane.
Playing with the kids at the futbol field.
Garifuna Day!!
Tracing, cutting, hole punching, tying for the goodie bags.
Keity and Mikey.
Who doesn't love jumping pictures?
Breakfast! :)Friday, October 30, 2009
India: October 21
Destination: OM (Operation Mobilization)
Team: Aaron Bailey, Luke Greenaway, Tim Barley, Adam Burke
Duration: October 18-28, 2009
Assignment: Education, Encouragement, Evangelism, Adventure
Today’s Log: October 25
Submitted by: Luke Greenaway
We’ve decided to start off each morning with a team devotion. One person will lead this each day. Today, we were challenged to consider our own personal reasons for being here and make sure they were truly in line with the Lord’s plans and purposes for us.. Then we reported to the Operation Mobilization (OM) dining hall for a tasty Indian taco breakfast before heading off to visit the Good Shepard’s School in a village called Uddamarry, about a 45 minute drive from the OM Campus. The School greeted us with a whole presentation and had us sit down on stage in front of the whole student body (pre-kindergarten to high school). We were given flower leis and the children sang a series of songs, recited the Indian pledge, and quoted Bible verses. We were then each asked to say a few words in front of the 400 students and faculty members. We went from class to class, led by the principal of the school, and we were introduced to each of the teachers and the students in all the classes.
The manager of the school then taught us about the other ministries of the Good Shepherd schools. This is the official name of all the OM schools in the country. Since the Dalit uprising in the early 2000’s, OM has made it their commitment to provide education for as many Dalit communities as possible. Once the schools are established, OM makes it known to the local community that they also provide services including micro loans, health and dental care, local church participation, and helpful seminars on parenting, women issues, etc. We were all so impressed by all the services that OM provides for the Dalit communities.
We were then driven a slum area where we were greeted by more smiling Dalit children who move with their parents from job to job. We walked into the middle of their makeshift shanty town, filled with homes made of tarps and mud. The children and adults that came to greet us seemed no different from those who approached us in the downtown areas of Hyderabad. But their lives and homes were quite different from the city dwelling Indians. Remarkably, OM has set up a school in this slum and has even made the school out of tarps and mud to fit in with all the other dwellings.
We all are so drawn to these kids! They are so open to us and so happy just to receive our hugs, hold our hands, and take pictures with us—and they never asked for anything! I was so taken back by that—they didn’t ask for food, money, nothing. I left their homes so convicted by my lack of appreciation for what I have in the USA. These children are content with virtually nothing, yet I always find myself wanting more. I found myself wanting to give them anything--everything I had, yet they didn’t ask me for a thing. They seemed to be content just to be with us and touch us. The Dalit “Untouchables” (as they are sometimes called) had been touched by four guys from America, Ambassadors for Christ.
The rest of the afternoon, we were in meetings with lots of OM staffers and leaders. We learned about everything from how their finances are handled, to the child sponsorship program, to the advocacy work that’s being done, to the books and resource materials that are being sent out all over India by OM. The more we learn, the more impressed we are with how God is at work here and the level of integrity of the team he has assembled to serve him in India.
Team: Aaron Bailey, Luke Greenaway, Tim Barley, Adam Burke
Duration: October 18-28, 2009
Assignment: Education, Encouragement, Evangelism, Adventure
Today’s Log: October 25
Submitted by: Luke Greenaway
We’ve decided to start off each morning with a team devotion. One person will lead this each day. Today, we were challenged to consider our own personal reasons for being here and make sure they were truly in line with the Lord’s plans and purposes for us.. Then we reported to the Operation Mobilization (OM) dining hall for a tasty Indian taco breakfast before heading off to visit the Good Shepard’s School in a village called Uddamarry, about a 45 minute drive from the OM Campus. The School greeted us with a whole presentation and had us sit down on stage in front of the whole student body (pre-kindergarten to high school). We were given flower leis and the children sang a series of songs, recited the Indian pledge, and quoted Bible verses. We were then each asked to say a few words in front of the 400 students and faculty members. We went from class to class, led by the principal of the school, and we were introduced to each of the teachers and the students in all the classes.
The manager of the school then taught us about the other ministries of the Good Shepherd schools. This is the official name of all the OM schools in the country. Since the Dalit uprising in the early 2000’s, OM has made it their commitment to provide education for as many Dalit communities as possible. Once the schools are established, OM makes it known to the local community that they also provide services including micro loans, health and dental care, local church participation, and helpful seminars on parenting, women issues, etc. We were all so impressed by all the services that OM provides for the Dalit communities.
We were then driven a slum area where we were greeted by more smiling Dalit children who move with their parents from job to job. We walked into the middle of their makeshift shanty town, filled with homes made of tarps and mud. The children and adults that came to greet us seemed no different from those who approached us in the downtown areas of Hyderabad. But their lives and homes were quite different from the city dwelling Indians. Remarkably, OM has set up a school in this slum and has even made the school out of tarps and mud to fit in with all the other dwellings.
We all are so drawn to these kids! They are so open to us and so happy just to receive our hugs, hold our hands, and take pictures with us—and they never asked for anything! I was so taken back by that—they didn’t ask for food, money, nothing. I left their homes so convicted by my lack of appreciation for what I have in the USA. These children are content with virtually nothing, yet I always find myself wanting more. I found myself wanting to give them anything--everything I had, yet they didn’t ask me for a thing. They seemed to be content just to be with us and touch us. The Dalit “Untouchables” (as they are sometimes called) had been touched by four guys from America, Ambassadors for Christ.
The rest of the afternoon, we were in meetings with lots of OM staffers and leaders. We learned about everything from how their finances are handled, to the child sponsorship program, to the advocacy work that’s being done, to the books and resource materials that are being sent out all over India by OM. The more we learn, the more impressed we are with how God is at work here and the level of integrity of the team he has assembled to serve him in India.
India: October 26
Destination: OM (Operation Mobilization)
Team: Aaron Bailey, Luke Greenaway, Tim Barley, Adam Burke
Duration: October 18-28, 2009
Assignment: Education, Encouragement, Evangelism, Adventure
Today’s Log: October 26
Submitted by: Luke Greenaway
Today we took a train from Delhi to Agra, home of the renowned Taj Mahal. After deboarding the train, we were swarmed by taxi drivers and we ended up renting an auto rickshaw (three wheel taxis which is like a covered motorcycle with a bench seat attached to it). The drivers offered to take us to the Taj Mahal and any other sites we wanted to visit in Agra for 500 rupees (approximately 10 bucks) for the entire day. It sounded like a good deal to us and so we hired them. We arrived at the south gate of the Taj Mahal and as it came into view, we understood why people travel from all over the world to see it.. It truly was a magnificent site. The ruler who had the Taj Mahal built did so as a tribute to his deceased wife. She had died from medical complications after giving birth to the couple’s 14 child. Aaron kept commenting about how deeply he must have loved her to have built such a monument.
Our drivers took us to lunch and we enjoyed fine Indian cuisine (butter chicken, naan, basmati rice, roti, and other Indian delicacies). Afterward, we were taken to a bunch of shops around Agra where merchants pandered marble, carpets, jewelry, and textiles. We soon realized that our taxi drivers were probably getting kickbacks from all the places we were visiting!
Finally, we visited the Red Fort (or Agra Fort), another big tourist attraction in Agra, The walls were huge and the views spectacular, but the most fascinating attraction for us was the monkeys that roamed wild around the courtyards. We took a lot of pictures and made a lot of memories, and met some great people, but man, we were beat by the time we got on that train back to Delhi! We’d covered a lot of ground and it was nice to nap on the train. A driver from the hotel picked us up at the Delhi train station and took us back to the hotel. In no time, we were all in bed, anticipating the trip back to Hyderabad and ultimately, home.
Team: Aaron Bailey, Luke Greenaway, Tim Barley, Adam Burke
Duration: October 18-28, 2009
Assignment: Education, Encouragement, Evangelism, Adventure
Today’s Log: October 26
Submitted by: Luke Greenaway
Today we took a train from Delhi to Agra, home of the renowned Taj Mahal. After deboarding the train, we were swarmed by taxi drivers and we ended up renting an auto rickshaw (three wheel taxis which is like a covered motorcycle with a bench seat attached to it). The drivers offered to take us to the Taj Mahal and any other sites we wanted to visit in Agra for 500 rupees (approximately 10 bucks) for the entire day. It sounded like a good deal to us and so we hired them. We arrived at the south gate of the Taj Mahal and as it came into view, we understood why people travel from all over the world to see it.. It truly was a magnificent site. The ruler who had the Taj Mahal built did so as a tribute to his deceased wife. She had died from medical complications after giving birth to the couple’s 14 child. Aaron kept commenting about how deeply he must have loved her to have built such a monument.
Our drivers took us to lunch and we enjoyed fine Indian cuisine (butter chicken, naan, basmati rice, roti, and other Indian delicacies). Afterward, we were taken to a bunch of shops around Agra where merchants pandered marble, carpets, jewelry, and textiles. We soon realized that our taxi drivers were probably getting kickbacks from all the places we were visiting!
Finally, we visited the Red Fort (or Agra Fort), another big tourist attraction in Agra, The walls were huge and the views spectacular, but the most fascinating attraction for us was the monkeys that roamed wild around the courtyards. We took a lot of pictures and made a lot of memories, and met some great people, but man, we were beat by the time we got on that train back to Delhi! We’d covered a lot of ground and it was nice to nap on the train. A driver from the hotel picked us up at the Delhi train station and took us back to the hotel. In no time, we were all in bed, anticipating the trip back to Hyderabad and ultimately, home.
India: October 25
Destination: OM (Operation Mobilization)
Team: Aaron Bailey, Luke Greenaway, Tim Barley, Adam Burke
Duration: October 18-28, 2009
Assignment: Education, Encouragement, Evangelism, Adventure
Today’s Log: October 25
Submitted by: Luke Greenaway
This was a big day for our team! We woke up, had breakfast, then Tim, Adam, Aaron and I prepared for our parts of the worship service at the Gundla Pochampally church (Pastor Solomon).
Before we left we went to the OM service where we were able to hear the VBC missionary, Dr. Joseph D’Souza, preach part of his sermon. We had hoped to spend time with Joseph, but due to his hectic schedule and some family health issues, we were unable to do so. Although it seemed that spending time with Joseph was supposed to be a priority for us, we all began to realize that there were other important matters to occupy our time and not seeing Joseph was going to be okay with us.
We were greeted so warmly at the Gundla Pochampally church by a round of applause and an introduction. There was a lot of singing, and a time spent for each person in the church family to present an offering to the Lord. Then many church members shared testimonies and prayer requests. We couldn’t understand a word that was being spoken but the Spirit was definitely prompting us to pray as we felt led.
We presented a skit demonstrating the way as humans we often find ourselves rebelling from God’s plan and rejecting our need for the Jesus. Yet Christ always waits for us with open arms and patient love. Adam and Aaron did a wonderful job sharing and challenging the church to grow in their faith as they have grown in theirs. Tim gave a powerful message on what it means to give our full lives to Christ not just bits and pieces. We all sensed by the reaction of the people that they received the message with open hearts, judging by the line of people wanting to talk to us and have us pray for them.
The love and message of Christ has been shared profoundly during our week in Hyderabad, and this team from Valley Bible Church now has some wonderful new friends/brothers and sisters in Christ in India!
Team: Aaron Bailey, Luke Greenaway, Tim Barley, Adam Burke
Duration: October 18-28, 2009
Assignment: Education, Encouragement, Evangelism, Adventure
Today’s Log: October 25
Submitted by: Luke Greenaway
This was a big day for our team! We woke up, had breakfast, then Tim, Adam, Aaron and I prepared for our parts of the worship service at the Gundla Pochampally church (Pastor Solomon).
Before we left we went to the OM service where we were able to hear the VBC missionary, Dr. Joseph D’Souza, preach part of his sermon. We had hoped to spend time with Joseph, but due to his hectic schedule and some family health issues, we were unable to do so. Although it seemed that spending time with Joseph was supposed to be a priority for us, we all began to realize that there were other important matters to occupy our time and not seeing Joseph was going to be okay with us.
We were greeted so warmly at the Gundla Pochampally church by a round of applause and an introduction. There was a lot of singing, and a time spent for each person in the church family to present an offering to the Lord. Then many church members shared testimonies and prayer requests. We couldn’t understand a word that was being spoken but the Spirit was definitely prompting us to pray as we felt led.
We presented a skit demonstrating the way as humans we often find ourselves rebelling from God’s plan and rejecting our need for the Jesus. Yet Christ always waits for us with open arms and patient love. Adam and Aaron did a wonderful job sharing and challenging the church to grow in their faith as they have grown in theirs. Tim gave a powerful message on what it means to give our full lives to Christ not just bits and pieces. We all sensed by the reaction of the people that they received the message with open hearts, judging by the line of people wanting to talk to us and have us pray for them.
The love and message of Christ has been shared profoundly during our week in Hyderabad, and this team from Valley Bible Church now has some wonderful new friends/brothers and sisters in Christ in India!
India: October 23
Destination: OM (Operation Mobilization)
Team: Aaron Bailey, Luke Greenaway, Tim Barley, Adam Burke
Duration: October 18-28, 2009
Assignment: Education, Encouragement, Evangelism, Adventure
Today’s Log: October 23
Submitted by: Luke Greenaway
Not as many meeting were planned for us today which gave Tim and I time to prepare for the sermons we are to share at two different churches on Saturday and Sunday. Aaron and Adam would be sharing their testimonies as well over the next couple of days.
We went to a lunch with a few of OM founding leaders. They informed us about how OM was started and of all the ways it has grown over the past years through the provision of God and his people. They asked each member of our team to tell share from own lives because they really wanted to get to know us, too. We spent a lot of time sharing and listening and encouraging one another and this was one of the best meetings we’d had so far. For Aaron, especially, this seemed like a breakthrough day and he began to see his purpose in India and on our team from a new perspective. It seemed that his excitement about being here was completely changed and even more open to God’s plans and desires than before!
After our lunch we were taken by a local pastor named Bangaraju (Bong-a-ra-joo) to what the people around here call the Pipe Villige. It’s a Dalit community that has built homes in discarded, large, cement pipes provided by the local cement factory where many of the Dalit work. As I most of the slum areas we’ve visited, there was trash and debris everywhere surround the dwellings, but on the inside, their living areas were clean and well kept. We were greeted by some of the most loving and beautiful children we’ve met so far, and their parents welcomed us into their ‘Pipe’ homes with open arms. They even asked us to pray over a newborn infant born to one family just a few days ago.
We arrived home early enough in the afternoon to walk around the campus and we stumbled upon a group of OM staffers playing badminton. We all joined in for a few games and had so much fun with them and they with us. Our new badminton friends, Christopher Wilfred, Babychee and Babuchan encouraged us to come back every afternoon we had available to play with them. We all hope we’ll be able to!
God continues to care for us so faithfully! We’re all safe, well-fed, comfortable, and we’re meeting so many amazing people and seeing so much of what God is dong here. It really is an honor to be here.
Team: Aaron Bailey, Luke Greenaway, Tim Barley, Adam Burke
Duration: October 18-28, 2009
Assignment: Education, Encouragement, Evangelism, Adventure
Today’s Log: October 23
Submitted by: Luke Greenaway
Not as many meeting were planned for us today which gave Tim and I time to prepare for the sermons we are to share at two different churches on Saturday and Sunday. Aaron and Adam would be sharing their testimonies as well over the next couple of days.
We went to a lunch with a few of OM founding leaders. They informed us about how OM was started and of all the ways it has grown over the past years through the provision of God and his people. They asked each member of our team to tell share from own lives because they really wanted to get to know us, too. We spent a lot of time sharing and listening and encouraging one another and this was one of the best meetings we’d had so far. For Aaron, especially, this seemed like a breakthrough day and he began to see his purpose in India and on our team from a new perspective. It seemed that his excitement about being here was completely changed and even more open to God’s plans and desires than before!
After our lunch we were taken by a local pastor named Bangaraju (Bong-a-ra-joo) to what the people around here call the Pipe Villige. It’s a Dalit community that has built homes in discarded, large, cement pipes provided by the local cement factory where many of the Dalit work. As I most of the slum areas we’ve visited, there was trash and debris everywhere surround the dwellings, but on the inside, their living areas were clean and well kept. We were greeted by some of the most loving and beautiful children we’ve met so far, and their parents welcomed us into their ‘Pipe’ homes with open arms. They even asked us to pray over a newborn infant born to one family just a few days ago.
We arrived home early enough in the afternoon to walk around the campus and we stumbled upon a group of OM staffers playing badminton. We all joined in for a few games and had so much fun with them and they with us. Our new badminton friends, Christopher Wilfred, Babychee and Babuchan encouraged us to come back every afternoon we had available to play with them. We all hope we’ll be able to!
God continues to care for us so faithfully! We’re all safe, well-fed, comfortable, and we’re meeting so many amazing people and seeing so much of what God is dong here. It really is an honor to be here.
India: October 22
Destination: OM (Operation Mobilization)
Team: Aaron Bailey, Luke Greenaway, Tim Barley, Adam Burke
Duration: October 18-28, 2009
Assignment: Education, Encouragement, Evangelism, Adventure
Today’s Log: October 22
Submitted by: Luke Greenaway
So today after breakfast, Sanjeev, one of our OM drivers, took us to the Dalit school called in the village of Nandigaon. We were met by the school’s Principal, John, and he introduced us at a school assembly of a little over 100 Dalit children. They performed some songs for us and we actually taught them a song of our own (Brother Friend). They were a beautiful group of kids and so excited about life and their dreams of becoming doctors, teachers, police officers and pastors some day. The school was actually a rented home built of sticks and mud and the permanent school is under construction, a few kilometers away.. John and Sanjeev took us to visit the new school site, another project funded by OM and their contributors. The school’s goal is to eventually reach the 10,000 Dalit children living in the area.
Later that day, our favorite OM driver, Subrahamanyam, picked us up and took us to an old fort called Golkonda in the middle of Hyderabad. It was huge stone fort built during an ancient kingdom to provide protection and oversight. It had a beautiful view of all of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. We did a lot of exploration and took a lot of photos. Then Subrahamanyam took us to the old city of Hyderabad. It was an amazing area, filled with shops and people and lots of activity. Unfortunately, we found ourselves trapped in a mammoth traffic jam created by an Islamic ritual that was taking place in the middle of the old city. Traffic was backed up for miles around and we were stuck with no air conditioning and rolled down windows in one of the most polluted and congested parts of the city!
But there was an amazing end to our traffic nightmare—we found a McDonald’s for dinner. We were bummed that there was no dollar menu (or beef!) but the chicken sandwiches were the best EVER! We eventually made it back to the OM campus and went to bed exhausted, but with bellies filled with good ol’ American fast food.
Team: Aaron Bailey, Luke Greenaway, Tim Barley, Adam Burke
Duration: October 18-28, 2009
Assignment: Education, Encouragement, Evangelism, Adventure
Today’s Log: October 22
Submitted by: Luke Greenaway
So today after breakfast, Sanjeev, one of our OM drivers, took us to the Dalit school called in the village of Nandigaon. We were met by the school’s Principal, John, and he introduced us at a school assembly of a little over 100 Dalit children. They performed some songs for us and we actually taught them a song of our own (Brother Friend). They were a beautiful group of kids and so excited about life and their dreams of becoming doctors, teachers, police officers and pastors some day. The school was actually a rented home built of sticks and mud and the permanent school is under construction, a few kilometers away.. John and Sanjeev took us to visit the new school site, another project funded by OM and their contributors. The school’s goal is to eventually reach the 10,000 Dalit children living in the area.
Later that day, our favorite OM driver, Subrahamanyam, picked us up and took us to an old fort called Golkonda in the middle of Hyderabad. It was huge stone fort built during an ancient kingdom to provide protection and oversight. It had a beautiful view of all of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. We did a lot of exploration and took a lot of photos. Then Subrahamanyam took us to the old city of Hyderabad. It was an amazing area, filled with shops and people and lots of activity. Unfortunately, we found ourselves trapped in a mammoth traffic jam created by an Islamic ritual that was taking place in the middle of the old city. Traffic was backed up for miles around and we were stuck with no air conditioning and rolled down windows in one of the most polluted and congested parts of the city!
But there was an amazing end to our traffic nightmare—we found a McDonald’s for dinner. We were bummed that there was no dollar menu (or beef!) but the chicken sandwiches were the best EVER! We eventually made it back to the OM campus and went to bed exhausted, but with bellies filled with good ol’ American fast food.
India: October 24
Destination: OM (Operation Mobilization)
Team: Aaron Bailey, Luke Greenaway, Tim Barley, Adam Burke
Duration: October 18-28, 2009
Assignment: Education, Encouragement, Evangelism, Adventure
Today’s Log: October 24
Submitted by: Luke Greenaway
Today was a BIG day! Tim and I were asked to share in the sermon at a youth meeting at the Erukula Church, in a Dalit Village. An OM pastor (Bangarraju) met us at OM headquarters and we drove to the village along with Isaac, another OM staffer.
Tim and I prepared for the majority of the day, but we continued to have great fellowship with Adam and Aaron, and even took in another round of badminton with some OM staffers!
Bangarrau and Isaac drove us to the church, positioned in the middle of the village and about 20 teens and young adults showed up. The service started with a lot of traditional Indian worship music and even thought none of us could understand a word, we all joined in the with clapping and worshipping as everyone else sang their hearts out. Tim gave his testimony and then our team led a song for the youth (Every Move I Make). They all sang with us and laughed at our hand motions and it was really a great experience for all of us. Then I shared a message on 1 Peter 1 and talked about being strangers in this world, the struggles of teens in the USA, and the common trials we share with youth in India. I wanted to share with them that we should not be storing up worldly treasures but rather as followers of Christ we should be storing up our treasures in heaven as Christ called us to in the book of Mathew.
The message went well and the youth seemed responsive to the word and to us throughout the whole night--even though the song, testimony, and message were translated.
After the drive back to the OM base, we spent the rest of the evening resting and preparing for ministry the next day. Aaron, Adam, Tim and I will all be sharing tomorrow at another church in a different village. God is blessing us so and giving us amazing opportunities to see his hand at work and allow us to be used to share his power and love with so many!
Team: Aaron Bailey, Luke Greenaway, Tim Barley, Adam Burke
Duration: October 18-28, 2009
Assignment: Education, Encouragement, Evangelism, Adventure
Today’s Log: October 24
Submitted by: Luke Greenaway
Today was a BIG day! Tim and I were asked to share in the sermon at a youth meeting at the Erukula Church, in a Dalit Village. An OM pastor (Bangarraju) met us at OM headquarters and we drove to the village along with Isaac, another OM staffer.
Tim and I prepared for the majority of the day, but we continued to have great fellowship with Adam and Aaron, and even took in another round of badminton with some OM staffers!
Bangarrau and Isaac drove us to the church, positioned in the middle of the village and about 20 teens and young adults showed up. The service started with a lot of traditional Indian worship music and even thought none of us could understand a word, we all joined in the with clapping and worshipping as everyone else sang their hearts out. Tim gave his testimony and then our team led a song for the youth (Every Move I Make). They all sang with us and laughed at our hand motions and it was really a great experience for all of us. Then I shared a message on 1 Peter 1 and talked about being strangers in this world, the struggles of teens in the USA, and the common trials we share with youth in India. I wanted to share with them that we should not be storing up worldly treasures but rather as followers of Christ we should be storing up our treasures in heaven as Christ called us to in the book of Mathew.
The message went well and the youth seemed responsive to the word and to us throughout the whole night--even though the song, testimony, and message were translated.
After the drive back to the OM base, we spent the rest of the evening resting and preparing for ministry the next day. Aaron, Adam, Tim and I will all be sharing tomorrow at another church in a different village. God is blessing us so and giving us amazing opportunities to see his hand at work and allow us to be used to share his power and love with so many!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
India: October 18-20
Destination: OM (Operation Mobilization)
Team: Aaron Bailey, Luke Greenaway, Tim Barley, Adam Burke
Duration: October 18-28, 2009
Assignment: Education, Encouragement, Evangelism, Adventure
Today’s Log: October 20
Hello everyone! This is Luke I am writing you from the flat (i.e. guest room) that Tim and I are sharing at the OM (Operation Mobilization) headquarters in Hyderabad, India. Our flight from SFO was amazing with lots of food, sleep and fellowship. After 16 hours of sitting next to each other on a plane, Adam, Tim, Aaron and I become very comfortable with one another and bonded as a team, ready to touch a new part of the world with God’s love and the message of Christ.
Our first stop was in Dubai where we had a 9 hour layover. We all enjoyed walking the streets, walking through a local mall, and driving to the Burj Dubai, currently the tallest building in the world (it’s still under construction and will be completed in December 2009). Our next stop was Hyderabad, India. We walked off the plane and the first thing we heard from the people and saw written on the signs was the saying “Glorious India.” We’d find out very soon if that was true or not!
Our driver from OM headquarters picked us up and we drove to the OM campus. Let me tell you--that was the drive of a life time! What a local in India considered a normal drive through town was more like a suicide mission for me! I heard more bus and car horn honking than all the horns combined I’ve heard in my lifetime. The drivers are so aggressive and they swerve around other cars and motorcycles, coming literally inches from smashing into each other. Fortunately for us our driver, Subrahamanyam (try and say that three times fast!) has been a cab driver in India for over 15 years took very good care of us.
When we arrived at the OM campus, we were taken to our flats. The room Tim and I share is about 15 feet from Aaron and Adam’s. We were soon greeted by a lady named Manju who is the guest relations coordinator (she will be taking care of us the whole time here). She brought us to meet the associate director of OM India, Raja, and we talked with him about many of the current projects and ministries of OM over some Indian tea (which Tim says it’s the best he’s ever tasted!). Then Manju took us to lunch where we ate a meal consisting of rice, noodles, meat, yogurt, banana, and some soup which was poured over rice—a real taste of India!
Manju then took us on a tour of the whole campus we met sooooo many people--there is a college, supply center, and three warehouses filled with Christian books and supplies that are distributed all over the country. We learned about how the Gospel is spread through Bibles, CDs, books, movies, and OM is involved with all these areas of production and distribution. It was amazing to see how the Body of Christ is working as a team so effectively in India.
We then had dinner and decided to go out into the street to see what the night life consisted of. Not much other than more traffic, strewn garbage, stray dogs and lots more people. We spoke to a few locals outside of the OM campus and they were all people interested in what we were doing in a place like Hyderabad. Aaron and I have been taking a lot of pics so we will see if we can get them up on the blog for you. Everyone is well and happy and tired and speaking of tired I’m actually going to bed right now.
Good night until next time…
Team: Aaron Bailey, Luke Greenaway, Tim Barley, Adam Burke
Duration: October 18-28, 2009
Assignment: Education, Encouragement, Evangelism, Adventure
Today’s Log: October 20
Hello everyone! This is Luke I am writing you from the flat (i.e. guest room) that Tim and I are sharing at the OM (Operation Mobilization) headquarters in Hyderabad, India. Our flight from SFO was amazing with lots of food, sleep and fellowship. After 16 hours of sitting next to each other on a plane, Adam, Tim, Aaron and I become very comfortable with one another and bonded as a team, ready to touch a new part of the world with God’s love and the message of Christ.
Our first stop was in Dubai where we had a 9 hour layover. We all enjoyed walking the streets, walking through a local mall, and driving to the Burj Dubai, currently the tallest building in the world (it’s still under construction and will be completed in December 2009). Our next stop was Hyderabad, India. We walked off the plane and the first thing we heard from the people and saw written on the signs was the saying “Glorious India.” We’d find out very soon if that was true or not!
Our driver from OM headquarters picked us up and we drove to the OM campus. Let me tell you--that was the drive of a life time! What a local in India considered a normal drive through town was more like a suicide mission for me! I heard more bus and car horn honking than all the horns combined I’ve heard in my lifetime. The drivers are so aggressive and they swerve around other cars and motorcycles, coming literally inches from smashing into each other. Fortunately for us our driver, Subrahamanyam (try and say that three times fast!) has been a cab driver in India for over 15 years took very good care of us.
When we arrived at the OM campus, we were taken to our flats. The room Tim and I share is about 15 feet from Aaron and Adam’s. We were soon greeted by a lady named Manju who is the guest relations coordinator (she will be taking care of us the whole time here). She brought us to meet the associate director of OM India, Raja, and we talked with him about many of the current projects and ministries of OM over some Indian tea (which Tim says it’s the best he’s ever tasted!). Then Manju took us to lunch where we ate a meal consisting of rice, noodles, meat, yogurt, banana, and some soup which was poured over rice—a real taste of India!
Manju then took us on a tour of the whole campus we met sooooo many people--there is a college, supply center, and three warehouses filled with Christian books and supplies that are distributed all over the country. We learned about how the Gospel is spread through Bibles, CDs, books, movies, and OM is involved with all these areas of production and distribution. It was amazing to see how the Body of Christ is working as a team so effectively in India.
We then had dinner and decided to go out into the street to see what the night life consisted of. Not much other than more traffic, strewn garbage, stray dogs and lots more people. We spoke to a few locals outside of the OM campus and they were all people interested in what we were doing in a place like Hyderabad. Aaron and I have been taking a lot of pics so we will see if we can get them up on the blog for you. Everyone is well and happy and tired and speaking of tired I’m actually going to bed right now.
Good night until next time…
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Coming Home
The team just arrived on California soil and will be back at VBC this evening around 10pm. Come to the church to welcome the team home! Sarah and Allison just sent these pictures of the creatures they smuggled across our border. Kristi sent a pic as well.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Sedona to Kingman!
The group arrived in Kingman around 6:00 tonight. They spent the first part of the day in Sedona, where they did baptisms and had some recreation time together. Enjoy these pictures from today.
Friday, July 24, 2009
QUICK CATCH UP. . .
Hello my fellow blog followers. Sorry for not updating the blog since Tuesday because we have been extremely busy!!! So since our last post we have finished up our work projects on the mission and off the mission. Wednesday we put the finishing touches on the projects and went to our Navajo families houses for the last time and invited them to the pizza party last night (thurs.)
On thurday we finished our projects by noon and started preparing for the pizza party later that night. We were all anxious to preform our dramas and interact with the Navajo for our last night serving them. This night was a great success!!!! We had a huge turnout from the community that came to our party. The dramas were preformed perfectly and really showed the message of Jesus in an interesting way. Jerry (one of the mission staff) gave a gospel message while our very own Cody used his amazing drawing skills to give a visual on what Jerry was talking about. We ended our night by saying our goodbyes to our Navajo families and got all their contact info. This was an epic night that God provided for us to further his kingdom.
Earier today we left the mission and headed to our recreation options. As I type right now we our in a church in Sedona that overlooks the beautiful red rocks (but its night so I cannot see anything). Our agenda for tomorrow is we will head to Grasshopper Point where we will perform baptisms and have our morning devo time. We will then head back to Kingman and have our last night together as a team.
We will try to update or send pictures to Dan and he will update it because of a lack of Internet connections.
Pics to follow. . .
On the Road Again
Hello everyone. Here are a few pictures to tide you over. The team was not able to update the blog the last couple days but they sent me some pics today (Allison and Charlie). Everything went really well and tonight they will stay in Flagstaff after a day in the Grand Canyon and Sedona. Check back tomorrow for more.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
A Look at Today by Two of Our Own
YAH AH TAY!
So today was a great day! God blessed us with nice cool weather. Many of our offsite projects consist of building and painting things. The basketball staff and some of the Navajo had a very competitive but God-focused basketball game after lunch. Right now we’re having free time and some people are showering, playing basketball, and taking a nice nap. Anyway we’re getting ready for dinner and after dinner we’ll all be heading to our kids club sites. By the way - this is Patrick Colin Espiritu and sitting to my right is the amazing Rachel Howden. As I am typing right now she is making me a bracelet. This morning, I and five other people, gave a devotional on what focusing on God looks like and how we can have a heart that thrives for the Lord. Kirsten Kline supplied a testimony that a lot of other people found encouraging! The blog admin team is booting me off because I am typing too much! But I hope everyone is doing well in CALIFORNIA!!! Can’t wait to come home! Miss you and love you guys!
Greetings Valley Bible community! God is so good. Thus far the trip has been absolutely incredible. God’s love has been poured over all of us and the blessings are countless. With servants’ hearts, we are all giving up ourselves in many ways, hot and tired we press on. As we encounter personal struggles, we continue to learn and grow, seeking God despite any physical and emotional circumstances. (“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him” James 1:12.) For God works greatly through out pain and difficulties. I’m so amazed by the work God is doing in his children here in Arizona. Everywhere I look I see the Spirit moving and there is nothing more exciting and encouraging to me than that. Continually smiling down on his people, God has provided us with more and more testimonies that acknowledge His awesome power. He has healed many of us physically and emotionally, forever holding true to His promises. Thank you so much for all your prayers and please continue to pray for all of us here, our journey, and the Navajo.
Attention James Foster – Hey Pop! Thinking of you today – wanted to wish you a very, very happy birthday! We are Soooo glad that you were born. “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you” (Phil 1:3). Bless you, Dad.
FOR THE WIFE
Hi My Love,
I am having an incredible trip. It has been great getting to know the students, leaders and the Navajo families that we have been working with. Last night we went to the Clark family home and had a time of fellowship and bible study. I was able to share the story of how God’s leading brought me on the trip at the last minute.. it was great. God is definitely at work in my life through this opportunity.
I miss you so much. Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday night when we return.
Hi Jackson! Hi Helena! I miss you too! I hope you are all having a great week and have a great time at Grandpa Matt’s and Grandma Kris. Jackson, I have been taking good notes and pictures every day. You are going to love to hear about the trip when I get home.
Hugs, kisses and my Love to everyone!
Love,
Dave
Monday, July 20, 2009
Working Day One...
Hey Everyone!
Today is July 20th, and the first day of our work crews. I'm painting a house with a couple of people, it's pretty fun. The family we painted for was great; they told us this fantastic story of spitting guard llamas... random I know! But today was great, no major injuries sustained! I hope all you don't miss us too much!
Love you all!
Aspen
Candice Harvey:
Chello madre! just letting you know that i am still alive and well. Ive been putting sunscreen on everyday so I'm perfectly fine. its been a lot of fun, and i got to play with puppies today and met a lama who spits poisonous acid. its been great. Say hi to lulu for me and I'll see you on Sunday or whenever we get back.
love you,
Nicole
Tonight was the first time we met our at our kid club sites. We are all amped to see what God will do with these families. Tonight's' crafts surrounded David and the Lions den. On our way home from kids club we had an amazing light show by God in the form of lightning.
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