From the Mission Fields...

Haiti, March 3-10, 2012 | Blog 5.

2012-03-07T17:22:00.000-05:00

Well, we are in Haiti. I'm not a very good blogger or story teller, forgive me. I keep my thoughts organized in my phone, twitter style. So I'll give you a peak into my mind in Haiti:

No matter our color, our language, our culture, our thoughts, our views, our age, our nationality: there is one God over all. There is one Jesus, one Spirit. Over all. I worship, you worship, different styles, same God. We are all adopted into a new Kingdom. Family of God. All sons and daughters. All unworthy but all saved by the blood of Messiah. #inbreakingkingdom #haiti

Worship can still move you even if you don't understand. It's not all about the words, but it is all about the God. #kingdomculture #haiti

Haiti, God is on mission here. People living life's mission for Him. God's redemption inside of people open them to change the world. God is writing the story of redemption all around the world. #inbreakingkingdom #Gospelisastory #haiti

A life lived on mission is a life lived in love #thechurch #haiti

Culture changes. Truth does not. #readyourbible #haiti

Haitians are classy #suitup #haiti

Selling everything wasn't enough. It says "then come, follow me. We are to follow Jesus is God's story. Walk with Him in life. Live out God's #storyofredemption. #luke18 #devos #haiti

"For the son of man came to seek and save what was lost." WE need to recognize without Jesus we are lost. #redemption #Jesushelpme #haiti

Be like a child. Joy is inside. Forgiveness is easy. Laughter and friends. #wingsofrefuge #community #haiti

There are people everywhere doing the work of God. #jointhefamily #haiti

Community forms around the doing. Whether setting up tables for dinner together, playing together, or cleaning dishes together. #challengedbychildren #antiindividualism #wingsofrefuge #haiti

The Church prays and agrees together. Is reaching forward together. No one does it on their own. All contribute and they move together #haiti

We always have reason to celebrate. Celebrate people. Celebrate freedom. Celebrate that we were once lost but are now found. Celebrate the gospel #walkingintoeternitybygivengrace #haiti

Christianity doesn't work just by watching or just by waiting. It is active. If you aren't moving forwards in the things of God you missed it somewhere. Our God and the life he has for us is one to always be seeking after, running for, sprinting towards. #runtherace #conviction #lifeisastory #haiti

Simply pray for a life completely led by the Spirit. #praybig #haiti

Baptism. The waters are a cemetery; a cemetery for Sin. You are a new creation. You are in Messiah. You stand and live and breathe in the love of a living God. You are given a new identity. #Liveuptoyournewidentity #jointhefamily #storyofredemption #haiti

What we believe about the future shapes how we live here and now. #resurrection #hope #haiti

We are not called to escape from life. Not to have an escapist mindset. We are to live with an engaged mindset. We should not want to escape but to engage. To join in the redemptive work of Jesus, as he puts back together a broken world. #stoprunningaway #standfirm #inbreakingkingdom #haiti

The Kingdom of God is coming, not all at once, but in pieces, not only in my live but in our collective lives, together, and to the world. #inbreakingkingdom #haiti

If you believe in the resurrection. Believe that we will all stand before the judgment seat of Messiah and answer for our deeds, whether good or bad. You will answer for all of it. Not fire and brimstone preaching, but that, in Judgment, God will set the world to right. We should hope in Judgment, Live in light of judgment. It purifies you. Be glad when you live in that hope because God will, piece by piece, place you back to how he intended #knowingthefutureeffectsournow #IwillanswertoGod #notagospelofsinmanagment #waragainstsininyourself #repentanceisalifestyle #devos #haiti

"When are you coming back?" #breakingmyheart #thingsworthfightingfor #haiti

Love requires doing. #conviction #haiti

- Nick Lopez

Haiti, March 3-10, 2012 | Blog 4.

2012-03-07T11:02:00.000-05:00

Today was our fourth day in Port au Prince, Haiti. I can hardly believe how fast time has flown by. The day started off much like those before; very peaceful and relaxing. Up to this point, we had been spoiled rotten by the Pastor and his wife, who are essentially serving as our host family. They have been feeding us very well and have gone out of their way to make us feel welcomed. Though we had been helping with cleaning up after meals, I felt guilty for allowing them to do so much for us, when our primary purpose in coming was to serve them. I kept reminding myself that we are not on vacation; however, Pastor Wilson and his wife are so compassionate and other-centered, it seems as though they cannot help but cater to everyone in their company. I appreciate their hard work so much; nevertheless, I couldn’t wait to reciprocate their hospitality. Well, today was the day!

Following breakfast, we cleaned the storage room in Pastor’s house that would store all of the supplies that would be distributed to those in need. The storage room had a significant amount of supplies when we arrived; however, the supplies were not organized, therefore they could not be properly distributed. The lack of organization was initially a little overwhelming and intimidating, but Pastor and Mami Pas (Pastor’s wife) did not hesitate when it came to serving others, so we were determined to do all that we could for them, even if it took us all day. So we started off stripping the shelves of the existing supplies, then we cleaned the shelves, organized the supplies that were already there and stocked the shelves with the supplies that we brought. I was taken back with all of the items that we managed to collect. It was so exciting just to see the myriad of hair products, feminine products, other personal hygiene items, medical supplies, school supplies, candy, linen, clothing and shoes that could potentially make someone’s life a little easier. After stocking the shelves with linen and assisting the rest of the team with cleaning, I had to step back and just observe the abundance of things that we take for granted on a daily basis. GOD deserves praise for everything that HE does for us, but in our world we generally only acknowledge the ‘big blessings’—a new car, a promotion, a raise—but what about the little things? Items such as deodorant, shampoo, and soap are blessings too. However, GOD is so generous with HIS blessings that we pick and choose what is worthy of public acknowledgment. GOD’s love for us is unwavering, but HIS grace is not to be taken for granted. If you are reading this and you have taken the aforementioned items for granted, I pray that you realize the true value of those blessings, as I did this afternoon, and convey your gratitude to GOD.

Needless to say, after we had completed all of the cleaning and stocking, we were exhausted. Notwithstanding our fatigue, we felt so great about giving back to those who deserve it. Mami Pas and Pastor were thrilled with our hard work. Though, it took four hours for the nine of us to make the storage room presentable and functional, we still had more serving to do. We were told that we would meet the children residing in one of the ‘tent cities’ and we were really excited, despite not having a clue about what to expect. When we arrived, I couldn’t believe my eyes. The devastation of the 2010 earthquake was very conspicuous in this part of town. Many of the residents were inhabiting tents donated by the U.S. government. Though I wanted to learn more about the situation that was before me, I began to doubt our purpose in being here; what could we possibly say or do in a few hours that could instill hope in people that had been through so much? Struggles of this magnitude were completely foreign to us and almost even incomprehensible. Once we started to mingle with the children, music started to play and the children went wild, dancing and grabbing hold of us. One of the songs that were played was titled “God is Enough” by Lecrae. That simple repetitious phrase was all that I needed to rid me of my doubt—“God is enough.” Though there is nothing about us alone that would make us capable of conveying hope to the people living in those tent cities, the GOD in us would appeal to their emotions. In 1 Peter 4:11, we are reminded that we should serve with the strength that GOD provides us, and I am confident that if it were not for GOD guiding us, we would not have been received the way we were today. I pray that they could see the GOD in us as clearly as I could see the GOD in them.

As we were handing out toys and toothbrushes, my heart was overjoyed. The children were so complacent with their circumstances that it humbled me tremendously. I then realized that I could serve GOD by serving those who carried GOD in their hearts. I became emotionally attached to so many of the children there, that I want only the best for them. I’m not going to ask GOD to shower them with riches, because I refuse to limit GOD’s blessings to the material world. Instead, I just pray that whatever GOD’s plan for their lives is, that it be fulfilled, and that they reap every single blessing GOD has stored up for them. I also pray that GOD shows favor to every individual living in that tent city that we visited today, and that they be encouraged by the promises that GOD makes in HIS Word. Though we could not communicate much verbally, language was not a barrier. I’m convinced the reason for that is that the Holy Spirit in us was communicating with the Holy Spirit in them, and I am just in awe with the splendor of GOD. This trip has truly been an illustration of GOD’s omnipresence, and I cannot wait to see what other revelations HE has in store for all of us.

Thank you all for your prayers and well wishes. Peace & Blessings!

- Erika Lloyd

Act 20:35 “In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

Haiti, March 3-10, 2012 | Blog 3: Sunrises, Roosters, & the Kingdom of God.

2012-03-05T23:50:00.001-05:00

This morning I woke up to the sound of roosters crowing audaciously. Erika thinks they sound like they’re yelling, “Oh my God,” but I really don’t see that. But hey, there’s always room for personal interpretation. And the moral of the story is that roosters crow a lot more than one time, unless if there are thousands of roosters within earshot of our house.

It was a beautiful sunrise, though. Well worth the rude awakening.

Things got started up this morning with a delicious breakfast of eggs and toast, along with Haitian coffee. Then we were off to Wings of Refuge (WOR), the children’s home run by the church we’re staying with.

I think this was one of those times when the words of Jesus came to life for me. Jesus taught us that we must become like children if we ever hope to enter the Kingdom of God. And I must say, the children at WOR were a striking image of the Kingdom of God on earth. After a brief introduction, they were rushing over and hugging us, sharing their snack with us and making us feel like we’d known them for much longer than 5 minutes.

When I say that the children at WOR represent the Kingdom of God, I don’t mean to say that they have attained some sort of state of perfection or anything like that. After all, the Kingdom of God is made up of imperfect people redeemed by the blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Rather, I mean that the children exemplified the community of love that should accompany any body of believers. The kids really loved each other, and I believe they loved us too; with such a pure love that ulterior motives were completely out of the question. Not even a consideration, really.

I just love how refreshing kids are. They give you their love and attention, and all they ask for is the same in return. True love never feels like a transaction; it’s a joy through and through.

I think that’s what the Church should be like. A gathering of people devoted to Love Himself, finding their greatest joy in glorifying Him by loving Him with all they are, and as an outpouring of that love, putting their neighbor before themselves. People should feel refreshed when they interact with believers in Christ. I think it’s time we started acting more like kids. I know I need to.

One final thought: Jesus told us that when we meet the needs of the “least of these,” we are doing it to Him. To borrow the words of a friend, “Today I see the Divine in everyone I meet.”

- Chris Rowekamp

Haiti, March 3-10, 2012 | Blog 2: Haitian Church!

2012-03-04T13:58:00.001-05:00

Today is the team’s first full day in Haiti. So we haven’t even been here 24 hours, but man oh man, how WONDERFUL it has been! We are currently relaxing at the house after a morning at the church, Eglise Communion De La Manne Evangelique D’Haiti. A Haitian church service is something everyone should experience. First off, it started at 6am and ended at 11am. Although it was longer than we were used to, and we were all a bit hungrier (and sweatier) than we may be in a CLC service, we all loved it. Today was the 26th anniversary of the church, so it was a really special day for the pastors, leaders, and congregation. A man from Florida who had helped Pastor Wilson start the church 26 years ago was in attendance. He preached the Word of God so powerfully to his beloved Haitian brothers and sisters. Note: he preached in English (hallelujah!) and there was a man translating to Creole. As I listened to him preach I was so reminded of Paul’s relationship with the New Testament churches. Here was a man (Pastor Sunny) who had invested so much of his life into encouraging, raising up, and empowering the church in Haiti. He spoke with tears today as he remembered the past 26 years of growth between him and the church, and the church’s relationship with the Lord. How it has grown! God is so faithful. Pastor Sunny may not be able to be with these people whom he loves so much all the time, but just like Paul he is being faithful to God’s calling on his life: to love and equip. It was amazing just to witness the strength found in this man’s relationship with Pastor WIlson and his church. A relationship truly anointed by God. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the week has to offer!

- Meredith Tighe

Haiti, March 3-10, 2012 | Blog 1: And, we are here!

2012-03-03T21:40:00.000-05:00

Well, it’s official! After a crazy road trip, an early morning, adventures with the TSA, and a smooth plane ride, WE ARE FINALLY HERE IN PORT AU PRINCE, HAITI!!! God is currently blowing my mind with the beauty of His creation. This trip has only just begun and yet God has already revealed so much to me about His glory and creation.

Experiencing other cultures has always been a joy to me. Stepping into a completely new environment, one that is totally different from my own in aesthetics, climate, and customs, is awe-inspiring. When we attend church tomorrow morning (at 6 AM!!!), I’m sure the style of worship will be different, I’m sure the entire service as a whole won’t be exactly what any of us are used to…but to know that the very same Holy Spirit who fills us while we worship in America will be very real and present in tomorrow’s service truly brings a sense of peace to my heart and, at the same time, BLOWS MY MIND. Being here, I realize that the subject of omniscience is something I have always taken for granted. Of course God had always been everywhere I went! I had never been anywhere that didn’t feel out of the ordinary or uncomfortable. To be in a place that is completely foreign to me and to still feel the very same presence I have always felt back in the states shows me that I really CAN go ANYWHERE and my God will always be right behind me. Once again, I do realize that this is a fact that is well-known to many Christians, but wait until you actually EXPERIENCE it in real life. It is a feeling unlike any other. Never again will I ever hesitate to go anywhere or do anything that my Father tells me to do.

In the past, most of what has kept me from acting on a word from the Lord, or even an unction in my own Spirit to go forth and do something for my God has been fear. The only ultimate reason for any fear I could ever have is my thought that God wouldn’t truly be there behind me like He said He would. There has always been at least a little, and at times a HUGE, lack of trust in God for my life. Feeling His presence here shows me that I could go ANYWHERE and do ANYTHING and He will always be with me. There is nowhere I can go and nothing I can do where His Spirit won’t be ever-present. That simple fact makes living a life of openness to serve God so much easier. Philippians 4:4 states to Rejoice in the Lord ALWAYS, no matter the circumstances! To live by that mantra; to resign to the fact that God could call me anywhere to do anything and that in all I’d be doing, He would be in complete control of it all. It’s the most freeing and wonderful way to live. In Jon Foreman’s song entitled “You’re Love is a Song” there is a lyric that says “Why should I worry? Why do I freak out? God knows what I need”. And it’s true! He does! I get to live my life free from worry because my life is dedicated to serving the Most High Creator of the Universe. My Father. God, Himself. The fear has been expunged. Death has lost its sting. My life is a life of FREEDOM and JOY in the Father.

As we begin our adventures in Haiti tomorrow, I pray that the glory of God will shine wherever my team may go. I cannot thank God enough for the opportunity He has given me to traverse this foreign land with some amazing people. I love them all. Proverbs 18:24 says that some friendships do not last, but some friends are more loyal than brothers. That is exactly how I see this team. The worries are the world are far from me so long as I have the blessings of the Lord on my side, and He has given me more than enough in the form of great friends.

“…in the day of Christ I may have cause to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain.” ~Philippians 2:16

~ Caleb Elgut

Washington D.C., February 17-19, 2012 | Blog 5.

2012-02-19T22:12:00.002-05:00

On Friday night we went to Z-Burger for dinner and got to talk with Blythe and Steve Scott. It was really fun to get to hear their story and hang out with them. They talked about their own personal life and how they felt called to move from Fredericksburg to Washington D.C. Steve is a now fifth grade teacher in a title-one elementary school and Blythe works as the outreach director at The District Church. Steve took time to share from his unique position as a fifth grade teacher. He shared about the difficult situation that most of his kids face, as most of them come from single-parented homes. He mentioned how in the end all his kids are looking for is attention, whether it be positive or negative. They are willing to do anything for attention. One of the things he said that shocked me the most was that most kids don’t even dream of going to college. They don’t expect to do anything different or live anywhere different because that is all they know. They don’t have dreams and if they do, they don’t think they are capable of making them happen. Steve and Blythe are trying to change that, through the clubs they hold or by simply praying for them, their love for them can’t help but rub off on you and make you love kids you have never even met.

Blythe and Steve have stepped out of their comfort zones and moved to D.C. but even though we, as middle schoolers cannot join them and move to the inner city, they challenged and encouraged us to step out of our comfort zones in our schools, homes, churches, and communities.

- Lizzie Aman

Washington D.C., February 17-19, 2012 | Blog 4.

2012-02-19T17:42:00.001-05:00

Like a couple people said already, yesterday we worked with Samaritan's Feet and washed feet and gave new pairs of shoes. At first I did not want to wash other people's feet but when the first kid walked in I started asking him questions about what he's like or what he was doing. He was amazed by what we where doing.

Just like the people we served, I got something out of what we did for the children.

- Lenny Morgan

Washington D.C., February 17-19, 2012 | Blog 3.

2012-02-19T09:19:00.002-05:00

Yesterday we washed the feet of the needy. Sometimes I felt weird touching random people's feet, but at the same time I felt as if-in some instances- people were grateful. If I learned something from washing people's feet is is that nothing is too low that I can't do. And I hope that I keep realizing that back home.

- Jordan Lee

Washington D.C., February 17-19, 2012 | Blog 3.

2012-02-18T23:31:00.001-05:00

This morning we got to work with an organization called Samaritan's Feet. We were a part of washing kids' feet and giving them a pair of new socks and shoes. At first when I started washing people's feet it was a little strange but, I got used to it... kinda.I really enjoyed it though. It was very different and now I can say I washed someone's feet. Afterwards I was just thinking back and seeing what I could have done better and hopefully I will have another chance to do it. It always amazes me when I can do something that Jesus did it just blows me away. But when I really think about my life I just want to make what I do better.

I love serving and I want to serve all the time because I love to know that I am making someone's day or just even giving to them my time and talking and praying for them - really letting them know that someone cares. I think that's what everyone wants in life, to know that people care about them. It just hurts me that people are having to deal with poverty or whatever their situation is. I am so glad that I was able to help out washing people's feet and giving them shoes and helping with Samaritan's Feet today.

- Kate Chandler

Washington D.C., February 17-19, 2012 | Blog 2.

2012-02-18T17:09:00.003-05:00

I have never been on a mission trip before, but since this is my first time I'm really enjoying myself with all of these new things that I'm doing and the new experiences that I'm having with all of my friends and the new people that I have met. Since I've been up here in Washington DC, I've been asking myself am I going to change? or am I going to get something out of this? And I've concluded that I think I will, and I hope my fellow mission mates will too. I really love being up here and I know that I will sign up to do the same thing next year and will be looking forward to the new things that will be coming to my life and and experiencing the new things that God has planed for me and for all of us.

- Efsevia Morgan

Washington D.C., February 17-19, 2012 | Blog 1.

2012-02-16T20:04:00.001-05:00

The Middle School Mission Team is heading to Washington D.C. over Presidents’ Day Weekend (February 17th-19th) for a weekend of serving our Nation’s Capitol. They will be partnering with The City Church, The District City Church, and Samaritan’s Feet in reaching the City.

For some of the Team, this will be their first experience with the inner City. For some, it is their first taste of our Nation's Capitol. Please be praying for the team and lifting them up.

The 2012 Washington D.C. Mission Team:
Amos Dufore
Ashley Loveless (Leader)
Caleb Aman
Efsevia Morgan
Elizabeth Aman
Ericken Moore (Leader)
Jessica Goforth (Leader
Jordan Lee
Joshua Aman (Leader)
Katelyn Chandler
Leondra Graves
Lenny Morgan
Rachel Lugo
Sam Tyler
Serenity Williams
Summer Zacharias (Leader)

Pray:
- The City Church, The District Church, and Samaritan's Feet.
- Safe travels and safe time for the team serving the City.
- The ministries the Team will serve will be encouraged.
- Unity for the Team.

They will be posting updates so be sure to follow along!

Meet the 2012 College Haiti Mission Team!

2012-01-31T14:30:00.000-05:00

Church, thank you so much for stepping up on Sunday. On Sunday the 2012 College Haiti Mission Team sold pizza lunches to raise money for their upcoming trip. They raised over $800 for the trip all because you are a generous Church.

Thank you for giving so freely. We know that many of you donated well beyond your pizza's worth.

Here is the 2012 College Haiti Mission Team. In case you do not know them by name, they are (in order) Chris, Nick, Holly, Ashley, Meredith, Lorelei, Erika, Sarina, and Caleb

Please be praying for them as they prepare to go out. They are going as an extension of You, Church. Let them know how thankful you are for them. Bless them and be lifting them up!

There will be another opportunity to give to this team and to Wings of Refuge by eating pizza on Sunday, February 26th and the "Espwa pou Haiti (Hope for Haiti)" shirts will be sold now through the 26th! Grab one today and wear it on Haiti T-Shirt day on the 26th!

Get all the details here: http://www.williamsburgclc.com/events/haiti-t-shirt-day/view/2012-01-29

Thank you, Church.

Carrie-Anne Haufler, Uganda, 2012 | Blog #1.

2012-01-25T10:53:00.000-05:00

It's ridiculous to think that we've only been in Uganda for 9 days. It feels like we've been here for at least a month. I have upwards of fifty different things/stories I could blog about! Ah...no pressure.

I absolutely love it here. I expected to really enjoy it, but I'm blown away. The people are so beautiful and welcoming. Pastor Johnson from Victory Outreach Ministries is an incredible man... I could sit and listen to him talk all day. He knows Jesus intimately and is overflowing with wisdom. He has seen more hardship and struggle than most of us will never even scratch the surface of in our lifetime, but I have never heard anyone speak so frequently of God's goodness and faithfulness.

I may be repeating a lot of what everyone else has already said, but here's a brief rundown of most of what we've done/experienced so far:

- My first plane ride was very, very long but I LOVED it. Had a window seat for both flights. Nothing like flying over the Alps on a clear day...and seeing sunrises and sunsets...
- The place we stay is amazing. We actually have real showers that are sometimes warm! Unexpected, for sure. Everyone there is beyond sweet and welcoming. Loving all the food so far: Scuumaweeky? (green leafy veggie), lots and lots of pineapple and watermelon, jackfruit (weirdest fruit ever: texture of a pepper but tastes like a mixture of cantelope, papaya, pineapple, banana and mango. Try to imagine that...haha), chicken (straight out of the yard) and many forms of potatoes. Not to mention the most delicious beans and rice I've ever had.
- Fit 13 people in a 4 passenger car and drove over potholed dirt roads. No explanation needed.
- Joined the praise and worship team. No one can see these people worship and pray and think they aren't sincere. Very rarely do they just stand there and listen to one person pray...everyone joins in. They are fully engaged and passionate...oh, and they seriously know how to dance.
- Watched a chicken get...killed? decapitated? slaughtered? It was a way slower process than anticipated and the chicken's body continued to move for at least five minutes after it's decapitation. Might work up the guts to do it myself before these 4 months are over.
- Prayed for salvation with a man named Peter who wandered into the church one day while we were practicing some songs. He was just admitted into the hospital for being HIV and TB positive, but had left and walked all the way to the church because he felt God telling him he needed to go there. We're going to visit him in the hospital soon.
- Went to a men's prison after Sunday service. When we walked in, they were already dancing around and singing, 50+ in one small room. We shared a short message with them and heard their tesimonies and stories. Many of them were there unjustly, and had heartbreaking stories. Their eyes yearned for hope. I get the feeling that these were exactly the people Jesus would have chosen to be around.
- We got to interview a man named Nelson who had escaped from the LRA (look it up if you don't know what it is) after being a child soldier for almost 3 years. I hope to share more of his story later.
- Visited a hospital that same day to talk and pray with people. I cannot describe the overwhelming needs there. I may write more about it later. When you ask God to break you, just be prepared for Him to do it.
- Did dishes the Ugandan way.
- Attempted to help with the laundry. I probably made it take longer.
- Went for a 5 hour walk in Lira...which was supposed to be more like a two hour walk. Nothing like getting lost in Africa in the blazing sun when few people around you speak english. Thank you Jesus for sunscreen, water, George and Fred who helped us home, and for Darby and Sarah who kept Aly and I staying positive. It will definitely be a great memory...
- Ate bananas for the first time in years.
- Helped write a budget register thing for the microfinance department...not sure it that's my life calling. Ha.
- Taught 20+ kids we met on our long walk a few songs (they loved O-lay-lay...have no clue how to spell that)...they hijacked my camera and took some of the best pictures I've gotten to far. Haha! Ridiculous fun.
- Had some fun/interesting hammock moments, one being teaching a little girl 50+ words in english because she mimicked everything I said. I wish I knew all the words to Waka Waka because all the kids here seem to know it.
- I could say so much about all of the wonderful times our team has spent together fellowshiping, worshiping, talking about serious subjects,and goofing off. Every single one of them is genuinely amazing. I couldn't ask to be part of a better group of people as we work out what it means to follow Jesus and live in community in Uganda. Inside jokes already abound...
- You can buy some of the coolest stuff for super cheap here. But other things that seem so simple in the states are really expensive.
- While spending some time with Jesus on the roof (the roof is flat and perfect for alone time or stargazing). A group of kids spotted me from the ground hundreds of feet away and started waving frantically. (white people are like celebrities to all the kids here) I stood up and waved back and they all started screaming and ran to get closer. We then proceeded to have a roof-to-ground dance party...they copied every single move I made. After about 15 minutes I ran out of interesting things to do and started acting crazy. As if dancing on the roof wasn't crazy enough. They yelled up to me "Muzungu! (white person/visitor) We want to be your friend! What is your name?' (they have the best accents ever) So stinkin' cute.

Needless to say, I'm losing myself in Uganda in the best possible way. I haven't even touched on half of it and this is already way too long. I feel like this place is giving more to me than I could ever give to it. I can't wait to share more with all of you and delve into more of what Jesus has in store for us.

Support Timothy Meadors in Norway!

2012-01-17T22:40:00.000-05:00

Timothy became a part of Christian Life Center while going to college at William & Mary. After graduating in 2011, he left to serve the Church in Hungary and has since moved to Oslo, Norway and is serving with the Jesus Revolution (read more about it at http://jesusrevolution.com/).

We want to support Timothy, pray for Timothy, and come behind him as a Church. Follow him on his blog at http://thehungarystep.tumblr.com/.

Send him an email at timeadors@gmail.com.

Pray for him.

A few things you can be praying for:

- Visa. Pray that he would be approved for another Visa.

- Tour. Timothy and his team is about to go on tour taking everything they have learned in Oslo to the nations - teaching and equipping local youth groups with evangelism tools and generating excitement for God! While Timothy will be touring in Norway, other teams will be in Poland and Italy.

- Street meetings while on Tour. Many opportunities to share the gospel with people. That they would see healings, salvations, fruit, people equipped, empowered, and released.

- Safe travel.

- Personal direction. Praying about whether to serve Jesus Revolution another year or not.

Carrie-Anne Haufler | Uganda, 2012.

2012-01-14T14:23:00.002-05:00

Please be praying for Carrie-Anne Haufler and her team while they are serving in Uganda through May, 2012. Here are a few points to be praying for:

- Pray for the church our team will be serving with- Victory Outreach Ministries- that we would be able to support and encourage them as we are involved in their various ministries.

- Pray for the spiritual and physical health of the city of Lira, Uganda, as it is made up of many refugees fleeing from civil wars in surrounding nations.

- Pray for our team- that we would continually be encouraged and unified as we are away from the comfort and convenience of home.

- Pray that we would be effective in sharing the gospel through word and action in everything we do.

- Pray that Jesus would be glorified to a greater measure both in us and in the people of Lira, Uganda.

Doing something now means praying now. Become engaged in what Jesus is doing in the World! He is building His Church and we get to be a part of it.

You can also follow Carrie and her team on their blog: uganda.adventures.org

Haiti, December 2011-January 2012 | Blog 5.

2012-01-06T23:48:00.000-05:00

Here we are at the end of two weeks already! When I first arrived, I felt like I might suffocate at the thought of being away from my family for two weeks; now I feel the same way about leaving the children with no definite plans for returning.

All the children are so wonderful; so different; so special. I will miss them terribly. It has been a great opportunity getting to know them, the pastors and the team here. It is inspiring to be in the midst of what they are doing. They see a need and are doing what they can to meet that need.

I was able to read a great book on faith while I was here. One of the chapters was on faith that moves. That, to me, describes the team here. They are moving in faith on the path that the Lord has called them to.

I pray that the same could be said of my life. That I would find myself doing everything possible to reach out to those in need; being more and more like Jesus every day.

I thank you for all your thoughts and prayers for us and our families while we were on this awesome adventure!

See you Sunday!
Courtney Scott

Haiti, December 2011-January 2012 | Blog 4.

2012-01-02T21:15:00.002-05:00

I got to walk the furthest I have walked in Haiti the other day. It was so exhilarating. Since coming to Haiti, I have wanted to simply walk around, meet people, and watch life happen up-close. Unfortunately, that has not been an option as it is not very safe and we maintain a pretty busy schedule.

The other day, though, Mommy Pas (the Pastor’s wife - picture of her and I, above) was going to pray for the nephew of a woman in her Church who is very sick. I asked (almost, begged) to come along and then, off we were venturing the streets of Petion-Ville.

Though the walk was exciting, what took place after our walk was far more wonderful. Along the way we met up with four other women who would pray with us. Mommy Pas is a leader who knows how to raise up others and not do things alone. She is incredible.

We got to the home and the nephew was not there - he had gone to the doctor’s. While the ladies chatted, I tried to make friends with the few kids in the home. Not understanding much Creole can make having a conversation in Creole rather difficult, but kids don’t seem to see the language barrier. Then, all of a sudden as if on cue, they all got down on their knees and began to pray. Here they were, 5 women, crying out for a boy that they have never met. It was beautiful. It was not out of obligation or to check it off a list. It was sincere and powerful. We prayed for about an hour - non-stop crying out, for the boy and worshipping the Lord with song.

If I did not believe that God answered prayer before Saturday, I would have watching these woman pray. How they prayed made it obvious that they believed that God could and would move on their behalf. I hope that people would say the same of me - by watching me pray, by watching me worship, by watching me give, God must be real. I think this might be what it means to live a life that gives God glory. It could actually be just as much about our response as it is about His.

Loving this Country more everyday and Jesus just keeps becoming more and more incredible to me.

Love you, Church!
Holly Aman

Haiti, December-January 2011 | Blog 3.

2011-12-28T21:53:00.000-05:00

If this trip only teaches me one thing, it will be most definitely be appreciation for what I have. There are just so many things we take for granted every day that so many of the earth’s population do not have.

I have never, not one day, gone hungry that was not by choice.

Yesterday was an awesome day; we were able to minister to local children that live in the local tent cities. We had a goodie bag and a hot meal for each of them. I was really doing great, having fun, loving on so many little children! Then the food was served. My heart split wide open at the sight of 400 children all sitting, eating what may have been their only meal that day. All the while knowing all of the excess that my family and I have back in the states. The luxury of eating whenever, whatever we want.

This trip has already been eye-opening, one that I feel everyone should experience. There are people out there without food, without electricity, without fresh water, let alone a Starbucks on every corner.

We can do something! The problems here in Haiti and around the world may be bigger than us, but for sure, they are NOT bigger than the God we serve. He is the answer! Through Him, all things are possible! We just need to open our eyes and get out there!

Love you all!
Courtney Scott

Haiti, December-January 2011 | Blog 2.

2011-12-24T20:59:00.000-05:00

After today, two images may have been etched in my mind that will remain for the rest of my life. The first, watching many of the children and parents unsure of what to do with the wrapping paper that covered their gifts. They timidly pulled it off, almost as if the wrapping was the gift.

Stevenson told us that these were probably the first Christmas presents the kids ever received. Ever.

The second, watching the three littlest girls mother their new precious baby dolls. From feeding them, carrying them, talking to them, and brushing their hair, if a baby doll did ever feel loved, it would be these three. Shortly before we left for the evening, I spotted the three little beautiful things sitting in a circle with their babies on their laps, talking as if they were three new moms in a posh coffee shop. It was precious to say the least.

I simply want to thank the Church again for being the Church here in Haiti. It was so neat to be able to tell these kids, the staff of Wings of Refuge Children’s Home, and any parents that came for the Christmas Party that there is a Church in Williamsburg, Virginia that loves them and is praying for them. The gifts prove those words. Each gift got about 8 hours of use today - from the minute they were opened to the minute they went to bed.

You are a beautiful Church - not because of what you do but because of Who you do it for. Jesus is so worthy of our best. I count it an absolute blessing to be a part of you, Christian Life Center.

Merry Christmas!
Love from Haiti,
Holly Aman

Haiti, December-January 2011 | Blog 1.

2011-12-23T19:59:00.004-05:00

Holly Aman and Courtney Scott will be in Haiti from December 23rd-January 7th. During that time they will be serving Pastor Wilson, Wings of Refuge Children's Home, and his Church. Be praying for them and thank you for being the hands and feet of Jesus by sending over thirty gifts with them to the kids of Wings of Refuge Children's Home! You are a blessing, Church!
_______

Wow! I honestly am having trouble wrapping my mind around the fact that we are in Haiti already! It seems like just yesterday, we were merely contemplating this trip. I feel like I am in a whole new world, one I didn’t even realize existed.

The trip into Petion-Ville was a surreal one. As we were four-wheeling (not really, but it sure felt like it) out of Port-au-Prince, I just stared out the window, amazed at all the beautiful Haitian people. They are all so beautiful...young, old, boys, and girls. I saw so many children laughing, playing, singing, and dancing.

It’s an amazing thing; most living in poverty and the aftermath of extreme devastation and yet these beautiful, amazing people are so happy. I could definitely learn a thing or two from them. This is going to be so AWESOME! I can feel it; God is getting ready to rock my world and I’m so ready!

- Courtney Scott

Haiti 2011 | Blog 7.

2011-07-11T23:13:00.000-04:00

Mother Teresa once said:

“Each one of them is Jesus in disguise.”

Each child. Each orphan. Each human being. In Haiti. In Williamsburg. Each one - everyone.

How I treat one is how I treat Jesus. What a sobering thought.

Jesus initiated this concept when He said:

“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” [Matthew 25:40].

I just wanted to take a this last post to introduce you to the last four children at Wings of Refuge.

Wilson is one of the quieter ones but his facial expressions speak loud and clear. It was easy to see his disapproval of something or someone by some of his priceless expressions.

Adelin can always be found in the middle of all the commotion and fun. He loves to play seems to never run out of energy.

Adeline can often be found jumping rope or combing the Wings of Refuge doll’s hair for the thousandth time. She, like her brother Adelin, seems to always be full of energy and ready for anything that comes her way.

Renelson (like all of them) loves to be held. The hard thing is he is not three or even five so he is much heavier than the little guys. He is on the quieter side and simply loves to have you near him. So many times I would find him right by my side helping hold the tape as I put up a new alphabet or a number chart. He was always quick to help.

I hardly thought it was possible to miss a place and a people as much as I have the past few days. I miss the kids’ smiles and their hugs, I miss their unique mannerisms and personalities. But, one thing is for sure - I will be back very soon and hopefully with a team from CLC!

Haiti 2011 | Blog 6.

2011-07-09T00:04:00.000-04:00

15 Things that I learned about Haiti while in Haiti:

1. Power outages are a normal thing. Whether in church, the supermarket, or at home, you never know when you will lose electricity.
2. Sweating is a staple to living in Haiti. Just get used to being hot.
3. Hand-washing clothes is very therapeutic.
4. You cannot leave your purse in the car, ever.
5. When playing a game of street soccer, your team has to do push-ups when they are scored upon.
6. Receiving an apple from a boy is a serious thing.
7. Eating mango with only your teeth and no knife is the way to do it - messy but so worth it.
8. You can expect to be woken up to either the sound of roosters, dogs barking, or the church singing.
9. The people are simply beautiful.
10. All-night prayer is REALLY all-night prayer.
11. People are quick to help you (even if sometimes they expect something in return).
12. Jesus is so present.
13. Haitian food is delicious.
14. Driving laws are open for negotiation - speed limit, side of the road you want to drive on, passing someone, everything...
15. The children are so appreciative of anything. They are perfectly content coloring the same drawings you drew for them the three days before. They simply want you, your attention, and your affection.

After a 10 hour flight yesterday (it was supposed to be 3.5 hours) and waiting at the airport for 10 hours today for my flight back to Richmond, I am thankful to have made it home though I do feel like a part of me remains in Haiti. I guess, I will have to go back soon...who is with me???

I will be posting the last four children soon.

Thank you for all the prayer!
Much love!

Haiti 2011 | Blog 5.

2011-07-07T00:30:00.000-04:00

Saying good-bye to the kids was much harder than I anticipated. I suppose this was mostly because I had not thought about saying “good-bye” to them. It was hard partially because I was unable to let them know that I would not be there tomorrow (or for a while, actually).

Since it is my last night in Haiti, I want to introduce you to the other five of the children at Wings of Refuge Children’s Home. I will save the last few for tomorrow.

Sarah is a beautiful and bright seven year old. You can read her full story at the Wings of Refuge Website (http://wingsofrefugehaiti.com/). She is so smart and is picking up English very quickly. She already can speak French and Creole. She is a real leader and cares for the other children. She has such a sweet presence about her.

Jovannes has got leader written all over him. Whether he is helping clean up a mess, pointing the younger boys in the right direction, or simply listening to directions, he leads. He learns quickly and does not speak very much. He is kind and gentle with the others.

Widmy is Jovanesse’s younger brother and in many ways, it shows. He is kind and thoughtful like his older brother but he also can often be found in a corner playing with blocks by himself or throwing a ball around.

Migelite cannot help but giggle when the camera approaches anywhere in his vicinity. Once I hold up my camera to take a picture of him, he bursts into a gorgeous smile and giggles.

Clifford is the sweetest little-guy. He will share with anyone (to a fault at times) and in a home with twelve kids, sharing is a rare thing. He is content being by himself and is the quieter one of the bunch.

They are each so special, unique, and beautiful. I have loved every minute that I have had to get to know them and will miss each one dearly, but at least I know they are in good hands!

Haiti 2011 | Blog 4 & Prayer Points.

2011-07-04T23:23:00.000-04:00

Today, we went on a windy and dangerous five hour drive to Lartigue - an area in the mountains of Haiti where Pastor Wilson has a church and school. The school provides all the kids with uniforms and a meal each day. Today was the kids’ last day of school so they were excitedly anticipating their report cards. We spent the first half of the day playing with them, holding them, and following them around.

The kids were beautiful and so joyful. They loved having their picture taken and having your arms around them. They have so little besides what the school has given them. They cook meals in straw huts, wash clothes in the river, and live without electricity.

Everyday while here in Haiti I am reminded to a new level of the fulfillment and joy that comes with giving. Many times this week, Mother Theresa’s words have come to me:

“It is in giving that you truly receive.”

That is true not only for the children but for my life and not only for my life while I am here in Haiti but for your life in Williamsburg. When we give and pour out, we receive far more.

It makes me think of the rich young ruler who came before Jesus searching for the key to eternal life. Jesus told him to sell everything he had and give the money to the poor. Jesus was not trying to scare the man off, make him miserable, or discourage the man’s faith. He was simply giving the man an opportunity - an opportunity to give and to be free from the bondage that stuff can have on us. He was offering the man the ticket to freedom and from what we see, the man was not interested (Matthew 19:16-22).

The people here give so generously and freely. There is no holding back even though in my eyes, they may have so little. We serve a great God who does not see things the way we see them. Hallelujah!

A few more points that you can be praying for:
Eglise Communion De La Manne Evangelique D’Haiti|
Pastors Roger and Gladys Wilson: wisdom, strength, and grace as they lead their church.
Unity for the church and the churches of Haiti.
Finances to support adding a facility so that they can provide a children's’ program during the services. Due to the earthquake, everything was ruined so that there is no separate space for the children.
Grace to grow and reach the unreached.

Thank you! Much love to you, Church!

Haiti 2011 | Prayer Points 1.

2011-07-03T23:57:00.000-04:00

A few points that you can be praying for:
Wings of Refuge Children Home|
- Building Project: Currently, they are renting a home that is too small and does not give the kids any yard to play in. The land is bought and the foundation has been set. The project now just needs the finances to finish it.
- Pray for financial provision! Pray for the right people to partner with what God is doing here and for strategy and wisdom to know how to better raise the funds.
- Pray for the children: a few more will be coming this and next week to live at the home!
- Pray for the children to be healthy: many of them come with sicknesses that need medical attention (which adds to the cost).
- Pray for the Staff (Stevenson, Nana, Kenson, Aluna, and Ketchia). They work long and tirelessly to give these kids a different life.
Pray for the kids to know Jesus!

Tomorrow, I will post some prayer points for the church, Eglise Communion De La Manne Evangelique D’Haiti.

Love you all and thank you for praying!

Haiti 2011 | Blog 3.

2011-07-03T14:19:00.000-04:00

In the church we have been visiting (Pastor Wilson’s church) here in Haiti, Psalm 94:17 is painted above the alter. It says,

“Unless the Lord had been my help, my soul would soon have settled in silence.”

I love that. Unless the Lord had come through, there really would not be anything to say. There is a dependence upon the Lord in this verse that I think is so beautiful. There is an acknowledgment of who He is that makes everything else so simple.

A corporate service or prayer service here in Haiti is a different thing. The Sunday service begins at 6am and ends at about 11am. Then, there is the youth service that went from 3pm till about 6pm. And then there is the night service from 6pm to about 9pm.

The church has corporate prayer each morning of the week at 4:30am in a different home and people attend! They also have a monthly prayer service on Friday that goes from 6pm to 12am and then on Saturday from 6am-12pm (where people fill the church with sleeping bags from 12am-6am to rest in between).

The church is filled with people who really seem to believe in what they are doing whether it is engaging the Lord in prayer, worship, talking with others, or listening to the message. They really believe that Jesus is everything and that without Him, they are nothing and this is obvious by the way they pour their lives out before Him. They know how to cry to the Lord and they know how to dance before the Lord. They really don’t care what the person to their right or left thinks of them - that is what a right perspective of God will do for you.

Here is an introduction to one more of the beautiful children from Wings of Refuge:

Erinel is five years old and is the happiest little guy I have ever met. He rarely is not smiling, laughing, wanting to be held, and sweating. We spend most of the day laughing at his little mannerisms - from his facial expressions to his inability to talk quietly, to his fascinating skill in repeating English words and phrases (you have to hear him say “I love you”).

I will be updating the blog shortly with prayer points. Thanks for staying tuned and for all the prayer! I feel it and appreciate you all greatly.

Haiti 2011 | Blog 2.

2011-06-29T20:47:00.000-04:00

We spent last night at Wings of Refuge. The kids were so excited to have us stay with them. I ended up staying with the girls in their room and think that I have never slept worse. I know that is terribly negative but it was so hot that it was hard to breathe, hard to get comfortable, and hard to sleep.

I was drenched with sweat by the time I woke up a half-hour after I fell asleep. It probably did not help that I had two little bodies squeezed in right next to mine - those two little bodies of course, fast asleep. I did not want to move in case I would wake them up. In fact, I hardly wanted to breath in case they would awake. But, at moments, I just had to sit up. It was that hot.

All I could think was, this is how they sleep every night?!? They slept so sound, so peacefully, without a peep or sigh.

I love that we serve a God who loves and cares for children, no matter their age, no matter their background, no matter if they were accepted or rejected by their parents.

King David wrote,
“A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling” [Psalm 68:5].

That has taken on a whole new meaning for me this week. God is a Father to the fatherless.

James then wrote later,
“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world” [James 1:27].

I can’t help but think that Jesus desires to use His church to care for orphans and widows. Though He could easily do it on His own, He wants to use us. I have been so blessed being used in caring for children who have no parents to call their own.

Since most of my time is being spent at Wings of Refuge, I would love to introduce you to each of the children that currently live there. I will start with the two youngest of the bunch. They are both three years old and extremely different from each other.

Angelina is the first pictured here and these two pictures give you a taste of the many faces that come with Angelina. She is my little love and we have become close friends the past two days. She is spunky, fun, brilliant, and the most stubborn little thing.

Betchina is still getting used to the transition to Wings of Refuge but tries to keep up with the rest of them. She is just precious. She loves to be held (I guess all of them do actually) and loves to be sung to.

Pray you are doing well, CLC Family! Love you, miss you all, and thank you for all the prayer!

- Holly Aman

Haiti 2011 | Blog 1.

2011-06-27T22:41:00.000-04:00

Personally, I think that a blog should take each post and focus on one thought, one lesson learned, or one challenge passed. However, I have absolutely no idea what one to focus from the past few days. I had intended to blog everyday to alleviate the pressure of summarizing or writing far too long posts but the internet has not been working since I got here.

Boy, God is good. There is not one moment that I am not positive that He led me here not only for the lives I am coming in contact with but for my own refining, growth, and character. My goal coming to Haiti was to be a blessing to those who already laboring here but I honestly feel that they have blessed me far beyond any blessing I have been.

I love the way people live here. It is definitely not easier but there is something so beautiful about it. Whether it is to washing clothes by hand, never knowing if electricity is going to work, breaking ice by hand, and so many other things that are simply afterthoughts in the United States, there is something so simple about it.

We have been spending most of our time with the children from Wings of Refuge Children’s Home but had an opportunity on Saturday to help run a kids’ program for the children from one of the tent communities. There are still many people living in tents since the earthquake. Can you even imagine? This tent city that we visited with was right next to the Prime Minister’s house, so it is said to be the nicest.

The children are beautiful. Stunning, really. They are so happy, so caring, so considerate, and so helpful. Many of them have close to nothing to call their own but they truly love life. While helping with the program at the Tent City, I noticed there was so much trash all around (which is not a rare scene at all, due to the lack of trashcans). I asked around for a bag (“sha-she” in Creole) and began to pick up trash. At first people just watched but after only a few minutes many children and teenagers had joined in the effort. It got to a point where they were fighting about who could hold the bag for the others to throw the trash into.

The children really don’t want anything except your attention. They want to be held, loved, and played with above all else. Though the clothing and items are appreciated, all they want is you. I don’t think this is any different than any other child in the world, however somewhere along the line it is easier and less disappointing to go for the possessions.

More than anything, I am reminded that Jesus Christ is the hope for the world. No matter the circumstance. No matter the situation. No matter the person or issue. No matter the country. He is the answer and it is how we respond to Him that changes everything. I have been pondering over this story in Luke for a few days now...

“...Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues, and a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all. When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God.” [Luke 13:10-13].

I love that in her own strength she could not straighten up at all, but then, Jesus comes on the scene and everything changes. It is easy to become overwhelmed in a country that is so bound by poverty, corrupt government, and spiritual oppression, however, Jesus is the answer. Not just for Haiti, but for the United States. I love that. That does not mean that it will look the same but It really is that simple.

I could go on for about two weeks about what God has been doing, showing me, and challenging me in just these past few days but I want to go help get dinner on the table. Thank you so much for all the prayers and support. Love you all and miss you, dearly! Can’t wait to hear all that God is doing in YOU over these past two weeks.

- Holly Aman

NYC 2011 | Blog 10.

2011-04-08T18:22:00.000-04:00

Trips can induce some of the funniest feelings. For instance, each day of this trip felt like a week. On Saturday, when we were celebrating Bri's birthday by going to a Mexican place, I said something like, "We've sat at different tables ever since we've gotten here - let's all sit at a big table tonight." Then I realized we had "gotten here" the night before. I guess what I'm trying to convey is that each day was packed so much that Williamsburg felt like a different lifetime. This was all true until Wednesday, when we were getting closer to our departure. Then the feelings flipped: it felt like we'd only been in New York City for a day or two, and that Thursday morning was coming at us at 1,000 miles a minute. So to look over the entire week and tell you about it is a very odd reality to me right now.

Wednesday night we found ourselves driving through NYC looking to and fro in search of people making their beds on the streets. We were able to meet about forty homeless people that night, providing prayer, blankets, water, PB&Js, some clothing, and toiletry packs to anyone who wanted them. At one stop Carrie, Ericken, and I spotted some guys setting up cardboard box living quarters in the cold rain. This would be their place for the night. That reality in itself was humbling. After a few minutes, Carrie and I got to meet and talk with a guy named Moses. When we asked if there was anything he would like for us to pray for him he said very honestly, "food." As soon as he said this I thought of the line from "The Lord's Prayer" saying, "give us today our daily bread." When people prayed that in Jesus's time they probably meant it literally. When Moses essentially asked us to pray this, he meant it literally. I was so humbled by this man's request. I had never prayed for myself or any other person that food would be available for the eating. Talking to and praying for Moses (among others) really shoved in my face the reminder that these were people out here, people whose dreams have been shattered, whose passions have probably been stifled nearly to death. This too was humbling.

People. I feel that the value in and of people is what God was really speaking to me all week long. Whether it was regarding busy New Yorkers, the homeless, the kids we met at the Jamaica House, or my team members, I was constantly impressed with the greatness that is in people. On the note of my team members, I really have left this trip feeling like it was the best week of my life. And it has been. I have absolutely loved being around Mr. Aman, Holly, Josh, Ericken, Will, Mishi, Briana, and Carrie for an approximate collective time period of 100 hours. Sure, some edges were rubbed, we were all offended at some point, and all appropriately corrected too, but I feel that community is where the growth is. A lot of us probably grew so much more regarding how we treat people in this one week than we did listening to fifty messages from services. Not because the messages weren't effective, but because becoming a part of something with other people is a conduit of God's transformation. I am so thankful for God's way of doing things. They're so much better than our ways.

As I've been writing this I keep thinking of something C.S. Lewis said in his book The Four Loves.

"The truly wide taste in humanity will similarly find something to appreciate in the cross-section of humanity whom one has to meet every day. In my experience it is affection that creates this taste, teaching us first to notice, then to endure, then to smile at, then to enjoy, and finally to appreciate, the people who ‘happen to be there’. Made for us? Thank God, no. They are themselves, odder than you could have believed and worth far more than we guessed."

Everyone's valuable. Everyone's made with gifting, talent, humor, and quirks. I guess it's our job to look at people with appreciation- not condemnation, judgment, nit-picking, and our own boastfulness. I am really challenged in this. I've loved New York. I didn't buy the T-Shirt, but I literally got to love on some New Yorkers. Now I'm back home. Now is the true though part. Now is where the rubber meets the road. Anyone can go far away, get uncomfortable, write blogs about it, and feel good about what went down. But it's so much tougher to follow Jesus and love people with our everyday lives sometimes, isn't it? I'd say so.

Please be praying for our team as we are back in our own City and are possibly facing the temptation of normalness. We so thank you for reading our accounts and praying for us all along the way! We have been blessed beyond our imaginations. Come along side us as we seek to love Williamsburg.

- Ashley Loveless

NYC 2011 | Blog 9.

2011-04-07T21:38:00.000-04:00

I had planned on blogging earlier this week, but as many of you know, I picked up some kind of stomach bug in New York City. For a day and a half (Tuesday through Thursday morning), I was cooped up in my room, looking forward to being well again. Every time the gang came back from either a church service, ministry site, or prayer walk, Will and Ericken reported to my room making me laugh, telling me funny stories of things my Dad did or Holly wouldn't do. Each time they filled me with joy and laughter. Even though it probably meant the littlest to them, it meant a lot to me. I am so blessed to have them as friends.

-Joshua Aman

NYC 2011 | Blog 8.

2011-04-07T03:25:00.000-04:00

I have always held this well-formed idea in my mind that a soup kitchen serves...well, soup. This morning I learned otherwise as our team served hearty meals to roughly 100 men and women at Bethel Gospel Assembly in Harlem. Aside from the ridiculous amount of fun our team had serving together, as we have the entire trip, Jesus really continued to magnify some of the many things He's been showing me while being His hands and feet in the city this week.

Something I came into this trip expecting to happen, but nowhere near to the level that it has happened, is the forming and growing of relationships within our team. It has truly been crazy how much I have come to know these people of character. While before I may never have said anything beyond small talk to a couple of the guys, now we share hours of laughing for no legit reason until our stomachs hurt, inside jokes, some new vocabulary (reference the "legit" I just used), and most of all memories made while serving the One who brought us all together to begin with. God has the greatest ideas sometimes.

Another thing that God has kept at the forefront of my mind this week is learning what it means to value people. Not valuing them because they like what I like, believe like I do, or appeal to me for some reason; but because Jesus loves them with an unimaginable depth and fervor. And how can I claim to be in an intimate relationship with Jesus if I don't love what He loves the most- His people? I find it ironic that we (maybe it's just me, but I get the feeling I'm not alone) so often revolve our mindset around the people who make us look good, while Jesus (you know, that guy in the Bible we want to be like) was more concerned with those who offer Him nothing whatsoever and could "dirty" His reputation.

To expand on a quote from Horton Hears a Who - People are people, no matter how small, poor, rich, smart, disgusting, or downright mean they are. God doesn't love us because we are lovable, for we are anything but; yet He loves us because He is Love itself, love incarnate, love moving and living and breathing. I cannot look at a person the same way again. There is a Jesus-crafted life inside of that individual, even if it is entirely dead and waiting to be awakened to a reality of inexplicable purpose and fulfillment, it is there none the less. There's no skirting around it- loving God and loving people are directly proportional.

God is working on me so much on this trip, and I know He is in the rest of the team as well. I could go on for hours just delving into it all. Gosh Jesus is faithful. He really is good, all the time.

-Carrie Haufler

NYC 2011 | Blog 7.

2011-04-06T18:02:00.000-04:00

After a prayer walk across the Brooklyn Bridge that turned very cold and wet, we went to Saint Paul’s Cathedral. In case you do not know, Saint Paul’s served thousands of people during the events that came with September 11th. They served firefighters, bloody and exhausted; they served victims, traumatized and hurt; and they served anyone else in need of food, a cot to rest on, a massage, or any medical attention. Saint Paul’s was seen as a refuge and a safe place; they offered hope to people in a great time of need. As we walked around the cathedral and looked at the different memorials and reminders of what took place on September 11th and the few months that followed, I came across this quote (a firefighter said this to a reporter about Saint Paul’s):

“When I come in that door, I’m covered with blood, sometimes, and they hug me. They love me, they take care of me, they treat me as a real human being. And then they feed me, and they massage me, and they give me adjustments. These are my people. This is my place. This is where I come to be with God.”

Isn’t that what the church is supposed to be? A safe place. A refuge for the hurting. A place where people are treated as humans no matter what they walk in carrying. A place where people are loved, accepted, and taken care of. I love that people taking care of this man led him to God. What began with people ended with God. How beautiful that we, the church, can be that for people - a way to the almighty and loving God. What an opportunity. What a responsibility.

-Holly Aman

NYC 2011 | Blog 6.

2011-04-05T16:46:00.000-04:00

Well, we went to the Jamaica Shelter (a family shelter in Jamaica, Queens) to teach and play with less fortunate children. We were in the CLC van coming up with a game plan of what to do and say, really having no idea what we were going to run into. We got there safely and the atmosphere was actually really relaxed and fun, a vibe we were not expecting. We did all sorts of games and activities which were really entertaining to watch our team complete. We really reached out to the children and got to know them on a personal level. Also, Ashley shared our love for Jesus with a fun Bible story of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey, and at the end our team prayed for the kids' lives and futures. In all, we had a great time and got these kids to know God's love.

-Ericken Moore

NYC 2011 | Blog 5.

2011-04-04T22:52:00.000-04:00

Team at the CP Center. Jason, our tour-guide, in the front in the Mets hat.

Today we started doing ministry work. We heard this awesome word this morning by Pastor Peter about how we have to touch the unclean to bless them, and also about what Jesus does in cities. The first thing Pastor Peter said is that Jesus went into the city, secondly he shows compassion, and thirdly he brings a level of confrontation. As we follow Jesus's example in these things we are invading the darkness just like he did. Soon after our session with him we met our guide Mr. John who assisted us in our trip to the New York Cerebral Palsy Center. There we met Jason, our funny guide who is also a patient at NYCPC. During our time there we got to sing, meet, and talk with the patients. After the tour we met the Vice President of the organization, who gave us a history about the center and told us about the new building and location they are moving into this September. The whole experience was a blast and I just felt like God was really grabbing my heart regarding keeping our hearts open and staying away from complaining. There are people who are not like us but still worship him. To him we are all made to minster to different people. God loves us, we love him, and we are called to love people.

-Mishi Bryant

NYC 2011 | Blog 4.

2011-04-03T22:32:00.000-04:00

Team waiting for the Subway.

Ashley on the Subway.

A day of two's ... Two church services, two meals out, two subway excursions, two lost kids (ah, gottcha ... We only lost one!). Our day commenced with a few on the team deciding to sleep in and forego the pancakes. But with fiber and power bars available - no one went hungry for long. We started with an 11 am service at the Hillsong NYC Church after a subway ride and some walking (in NY, 11 is the early service!) Worship was as one would expect worship to be led by Hillsong United ... WOW to say the least. The church was friendly with a capital "F" ... Very open to visitors, engaging, and even handed out PopTarts and water after worship. Of course no Panera .... but POPTARTS! A great word was shared out of Judges 16 and we witnessed at least a dozen people making a commitment to Jesus! Our next decision was about transportation and lunch ... And we opted to walk the 40 blocks uptown getting a NY Deli Sandwich on the way and then attending the Times Square Church's 3:00 service. TSC is an established church founded by Bruce Wilkerson in the mid 80's. They own a beautiful theatre right on Times Square and there is no doubt about their influence. The service was packed! Worship and word are more traditional, however, no less spirit filled. The word was preached about prayer and how prayer shows us God's heart, not the reverse as one often expects. It was a great opportunity to see the breadth of variety in worship, word, and fellowship and while both were Jesus centered, on point and relevant - there is clearly no competition between the two (those comfortable in one or the other will absolutely prefer that one). While Caviar was not served at TSC, let's just leave that as a comparison ... poptarts or caviar? Finally, we rode the subway back to our temporary home ... while the subway experience is still fresh, it is clear that the game playing on board is not getting old (except for the other passengers around us who undoubtedly wish we would have boarded another car). But at least a few around also undoubtedly smile at something we do as the gentle love and team spirit is no doubt evident. The team is coming together and I personally can not wait to be stretched and to see the team stretched during the next three days of up close & hands on ministry. We miss you all and wish you could be here with us.

-Bob Aman

NYC 2011 | Blog 3.

2011-04-02T23:02:00.000-04:00

Birthday Girl! Bri's sweet 16 in New York City!

Our team in Times Square.

Wow, what a day! Today was our day off and a day full of site-seeing, shopping, hanging out with friends, doing nothing but enjoying each others' company. Truly amazing, today was filled with excitement and fellowship. I've never been to New York in depth like I've done today. We saw incredible sights, rode the subway all around town and of course went to Time Square! Truly breath taking events! Plus having a birthday in New York, and having over thirty people who you don't know sing "Happy Birthday" to you is something that I know I'll never forget. Ha, life changing experience. Overall, today was a perfect way to spend our day off and I can't wait to see what else New York had to offer us!

P.S. Today was also my first lesson in bargaining! Got a price down by ten bucks! Wow, it was such a rush. It was legit the most amazing experience :)

-Briana Royster

NYC 2011 | Blog 2.

2011-04-02T01:09:00.000-04:00

Tonight we got our first real New York experience: the subway. Now, we not only got our first ride in the subway (and for Will, he also got a first-time ride on an escalator), but we got to get involved in the lives of a few New Yorkers. I really believe that connecting to people is where Jesus is at. That is how Jesus's ministry operated. So tonight as we sang songs that were out of tune, and asked people to tell us about a "good restaurant" amidst the thousands of thousands in the city, I was really overcome with new compassion for who people are. I guess you could call it a new depth of perspective. I began to view what we were doing out of the eyes of people who think entirely differently than we do. People exist, people have pasts, people are loved by a God whose love they could never figure out, and that God has more thoughts towards them than they could ever imagine. I am just so amazed by God's love for the world, and his love for sleepy New Yorkers on the subways.

I just pray we would continue to allow our thinking to be worked and challenged as we seek to be Jesus in this city, and that we would carry that deepening perspective with us back to Williamsburg.

-Ashley Loveless

NYC 2011 | Blog 1.

2011-04-01T17:51:00.000-04:00

Well we have survived our super long car ride: Ericken, Josh, and I have literally gone insane. As we drove across the bridge we could see the Statue of Liberty and we were all filled with excitement, but also when we crossed the bridge all I could say is GOD is gonna do a lot of work though us, I just know. And with the help of N.Y.S.U.M. our team is gonna turn some lives around.

-Will Mihansky

Off to New York City!

2011-04-01T12:04:00.000-04:00

After much fundraising, praying, expecting, and planning, the Generation Church High School Mission Team has finally left for the Big Apple. The high school mission team is made up of: Ashley Loveless, Briana Royster, Carrie Haufler, Holly Aman, Mishi Bryant, Bob Aman, Ericken Moore, Joshua Aman, and Will Mihansky. Throughout the week they will be giving themselves to serving the homeless, street evangelism, leading worship on subways, loving people, encouraging ministries, and so many other things.

Over the next week this blog will be filled with updates, pictures, and thoughts from the students. Please stay tuned into what God is doing!