I know this is late in coming, but I have arrived safely home.
Wednesday we went to yet another after school program and did whatever work they had for us, which for me was washing more dishes. That evening we led a church service at our host church from the last week. We got to experience their worship team, Pastor Jimmy delivered the message, and we had an incredible time of ministry afterwards.
Thursday, we went to the last after school program. After helping finish lunch, the pastor over the program took us to a portion of land in the mountains they are seeking to buy. They hope to build an orphanage, a pastor's training building, and missionary quarters on it. However, they first must raise over $1 million. Our team walked the ground and prayed. I was not able to join them because as we stepped out of the program to head to the mountain, I sprained my ankle. Now that I am home, I have seen a doctor. It is not too bad; a little rehab and I will be fine.
After the time of prayer, we returned to the project to prepare for the block party. We performed all our skits for about 150 people. Just as one of the pastors starts the salvation prayer for the 80 that responded, the neighborhood loses power. We all pull out our cell phones to light the room and the pastor continues. Out of caution, we left the area immediately.
Friday morning, 2 other students, 2 pastor, and I left for home.
This trip was absolutely incredible. In many ways, I feel more changed than any change I could have brought to the people. Though the trip is over, the journey is not. What I and all others involved experienced and learned will continue to grow in us for the rest of our lives.
In Him, Elisabeth
