First Thought

Steve B:

The great paradox of overwhelming numbers of people yet very empty spaces. Exhausted resources with dry pastureland and declining forests but incredibly motivated people trying to get ahead. The age old conflict between the migrating pastoral peoples and the farmers who are fixed in location. Christ’s spirit is very obvious in so many of the brothers and sisters in Christ that we have met. I sense an overall spirit of humility that we can learn a lot from.

One cute story……I was sitting among a group of the resident children who board on site and talking with several of the older boys….I felt three of the little ones stroking the top of my arm and the back of my leg. When I looked at them they smiled shyly and said through one of the older boys that they just wanted to see if the white would come off.

Pat Lewis:

Great to be here after all the planning and waiting. So many new sights and smells to take in. Our systems are on overload for a few days. I feel so fortunate to be a part of God’s plan here. We have a lot to be thankful for that we take for granted. It is amazing the hard work of the people and their good attitude. They make it easy for us to try and do as much as we can to help them, and show God’s love to them. They are such loving people.

Jon Picard

Very Humbling. When I first visited the Philippines, I had the same impression. We as Americans have so much. We are blessed beyond what any of us deserves, but with the blessing comes the responsibility to give back. Trips like this serve to remind me of that which I should already know, but too easily forget. The people are so very friendly and such hard workers.. Particularly the women. They carry all the heavy loads…I’m serious..

Mike Babst

I am surprise of how much being here reminds me of the mission trips to Chile. Pastor Mike told us to expect sensory overload and that is a true description of what we are experiencing. The temp. Is very hot and we are learning to pace ourselves. It is so good to be here with Phyllis and Devin , Bridget, Jack and Ben. The Nigerian children are full of life, like kids anywhere, but have so little. I feel so blessed to be here!

Pat Raymond

I am so taken with the spirit of humility and servant hood of the people. I have a long way to go to measure up to these people. The children are beautiful and everyone is so friendly. The differences are mind boggling. There is so much to process.

Steve Raymond

My first impression is just the reality that I am in Africa, an opportunity that the Lord has given us. After a long flight, we have arrived in the crowded city where we are staying, then into a van and out to the Hope Academy in a rural area. The school is just re-starting after the holidays and its fun to see the excitement of the children. It’s great to see Phyllis and the Myers family again, and we have two more people from Pennsylvania. I am moving slowly with a bout of gout, but am confident the Lord will use me in spite of it. Am very much looking forward to whatever the rest of our time brings.