Lindsey Hogg - The World Race October 2008

Reflections and Answers Upon Arrival in the US

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

First of all, I need to apologize for the less then mediocre blogging over the past months. My last month of the race and nearly first month of being home were hectic to say the least. I'm currently in Santa Barbara visiting with friends and supporters and talking about the race. I've talked more about it in the last few days than the rest of the month combined, and it has been great. Reflecting and sharing the things that were hard, the things that were great, and really all the reasons why it was incredible and worth it to go, but also why it is great to be home too.

I've spent the last few days answering some of those questions and a few others, so I figured for those of you who I don't get to grab coffee with I'd cover those:) so here it goes:

What was your favorite month? (apparently I'm pretty transparent since many loyal blog readers knew the answer to this one... didn't know this about my writing style until recently)

My favorite month in terms of life and pure incredibleness was Croatia. It was a month of not only creature comforts, but really cool ministry. We spent the month serving at a cafe and meeting people in Split. We made friends with our contacts and really got to see how some long-termers live out their lives as missionaries in Europe. Our apartment and after church cliff jumping fellowship, didn't hurt Croatia's chances of becoming a favorite month either:)

My favorite month of ministry was The Ukraine. I spent all day everyday with a seriously irreplaceable and wonderful group of orphans. I was so blessed to become part of their lives and I doubt they know how much of an impact they had on me. They are the ones I still think about and the ones I wish I could go back and visit (and hope to one day). I actually loved these kids, they were children in the most wonderful, and sometimes frustrating, ways. The boys got into trouble, but secretly loved movie nights and hugs as I left. The girls were twelve and therefore way too cool to play games with the boys, but the swings always got them laughing. It was freezing cold that month on the outside, but no other ministry warmed my heart like those kids (cheesy I know... but true).

What was the craziest thing I did?

Rafting. The. Nile. Yes, I thought I might actually go unconscious as I fought to get to the surface on one of the rapids.... but isn't that what makes it the craziest? It was so cool and I'd probably do it again. It was so fun (except that one rapid) and hello... I white water rafted the Nile River! There is a GREAT video of rafting at the bottom of this post, sorry I didn't post it earlier!!

What was the weirdest thing I ate?

Here is America my picky eating habits are no biggie, and really nothing compared to many... so many don't know my big secret, I'm a picky eater. Weirdest thing I ate.... maybe the fish that was caught, walked to shore, cooked over a fire, and served within 5 minutes (I don't eat fish, so this was a big step for me). I also tried Stinky Tofu in China (gross and to call it dessert is just rude). Other than that I was blessed with teammates who would switch plates with me or a situation where I could refuse the fish stew or turtle slop;-).

What did you take away from the World Race?

Walking away from the race I'm confident that my identity is not about what I do; now what I do is more wrapped in who I am. My identity is all about who Christ is and who He made me to be. I am a beloved daughter of the King, and walking in that leads me to acting like that. I am not a spoiled princess, but a woman who is responsible to act on what she knows. I can't turn a blind eye to injustice and pain. I am not here to get anything and everything I want; I don't deserve it. I am here to serve God in whatever capacity He sees fit, in any situation He puts me in.

What is the best part about being home?

The 3 F's. Family. Friends. Food. I am so glad to be home, and to have been able to be a part of my older sister's wedding. It was 10 days after returning to the states and it was incredible. Everything went perfectly, it was beautiful, she was beautiful, and I'm so happy for them. Its just wonderful to be part of everyday life with my family. Its been seven years since I've lived in San Diego, so its been a long time coming. It is great to be with friends I haven't been with for a year. I can also easily reach most my friends from the race via cell phone, so that's nice too. Having every option imaginable in the culinary world is great. Its great to share delicious food with the family and friends that I'm with:) Okay, I also just have to add driving in my car, having alone time and sleeping in a BED! I'm done, Cali is great, no surprise there.

three sisters:)

Did you meet anyone special on the Race?

Yes! Absolutely, I met 48 incredible people who traveled the world to bring God's kingdom to earth. I met children in every country who love because their innocence allowed them to let me in. I met pastors who serve God and work endless hours to meet the needs of their communities. I met missionaries who live on the opposite side of the world from their families and loved ones to labor for the Living God. I met strangers who knew nothing of who I was, or what I was doing, who blessed me in random ways. Yes, I met many special people:).

Are you glad you did it?

I would NEVER take back this experience. I am forever blessed and changed because of it. I am a better friend, daughter and sister after it. It was hard,do I want to pack my bag and do it again? Not right now. Did I want to come home? Yes. But it was undoubtedly the best decision I've ever made. He fashioned my entire life leading up to the race, and now I'm on the other end anxiously looking forward to how He is going to use that experience for the rest of my life. Whatever that prepared me for, I'm excited to get started on.

What's next? (this is my least favorite of all the questions... at least I have a witty answer for the "did you meet anyone" question)

I don't know exactly. Especially in this economic climate, I'm not sure most Americans have an answer to this question. I am currently living at home with my mom, brother and sister in Carlsbad, Calif. I don't plan on moving back to Santa Barbara, but this visit has made it much harder to say I won't. I'm looking for a job that I can believe in. I am open to using my background in communications and public relations, but part of me wants to go into the social work arena. I don't really care what I do, as much as who I do it for. I know I can glorify God in whatever situation, but it will be a lot easier if I know even when I'm doing paperwork I'm supporting a business or organization I know is furthering the cause of Christ. (I was writing my resume and really wanted to put that my objective statement was to "Bring Kingdom," but I made that idea more of a statement that translates a little better... )

So there you go, a few of the answers to the most common questions. Now if I do get to coffee with you, tell me you've read this and you'll get all new answers...new questions would help with that of course ;-). Love you all!!

Ometepe

Tue, 1 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

One of the volcanoes on the island of Ometepe.

The boys working hard at the construction site.

We got to hang out with the kids from CICRIN orphanage.

For Angi's birthday we got to go to zip-lining in a rainforest.

The sunsets over Lake Nicaragua were beautiful.

short update...

Wed, 5 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I am currently on an island in the middle of Lake Nicaragua called Ometepe. We are serving for our final month at Cicrin Orphanage. We are doing a few various projects including gardening, laying bricks, cooking, and of course spending time with the kids who live at the orphanage.

At the end of the month we will spend a few days in San Jose, Costa Rica doing a final debrief with the entire squad. It will be sad for the time with my friends to be over, but also exciting to head home. I will arrive in the US on September 1st.

I have reached the AIM goal for fundraising, but I am still hoping to raise about $500 to pay for medical insurance, vaccinations and flights. I am so appreciative to everyone who has helped to make the Race a reality. It has been (and continues to be) an experience of a lifetime.

Love and miss you all!!!!!!

World Race Resume

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This year has been a great learning experience in many ways. As I prepare to head home in 6 weeks, I've been thinking about what sort of career I will pursue. So, I've updated my resume. If you know of any jobs that would suit me, let me know! Here is my resume entry from the World Race:

Lindsey A. Hogg

3^rd fan-tent, Shekenia Institute

Palenque, Mexico

phone: none

World Race Participant 2008-2009

Library technician, organizational skills (Philippines)
Conversationalist, and English tutor (China)
Greeting Card creator, this can transfer to wedding invitations, other party invitations, Christmas Cards, etc. (Hong Kong)
Preacher, teacher, actress, vocalist, singer, performer (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, India, Romania)
Children's program co-director (Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya, India, Mexico, Romania, Ukraine)
Mother, friend, big sister (Ukraine, Kenya)
Karaoke singer and Ping-pong and badminton player (China)
Pre-school teacher (India)
Barista, baker (Croatia)
bucket-bather (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Romania, Mexico)
Painter (Uganda, Croatia)
Dancer (Croatia, Tanzania)
Inventor of the fan-tent (Mexico)
Well water retriever (Kenya, Tanzania, Romania)
Multi-lingual *somewhat limited knowledge* (Tagalog, Mandarin, Swahili, Lugandan, Hindi, Russian, Romanian, Croatian, Spanish)
Washer machine (world)
Bus, plane, train, car, van rider and sleeper (world)
Conservationist *mainly soap, toothpaste, Gatorade mix, candy* (world)
Blog writer (world)
Squatty Potty user (world)
Rice, beans, and cabbage chef (worrrrrrrrrrrrld)
Passionate Worshiper (world)
Person of prayer (world)

River Village!

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Our friends in village Arroyo Palenque

My last week in Mexico was spent in the village Arroyo Palenque. The word "Arroyo" means "brook" in English; it was music to my ears. After weeks of intense heat and humity, the whole team was excited to spend the week in the river. The kids swam with us all afternoon, or until their tiny bodies turned purple from getting to cold-crazy! We had a children's program in the afternoon where we sang songs, did skits, and played games. We also had prayer meetings with pastor Marcos (pictured above in blue-striped polo).

If the chickens, roosters, ducks, dogs, large trucks, and blaring Mexican music didn't wake you at 5:00 AM, the kids were sure to stop by and stick their heads in your tent. Good morning!

Me and Tomina in the Hammock!:):)

Me and Maria cool of at the river. The kids loved this game. One person was chosen as the leader.

He/she would lead the other children in a series of actions.

The person who was "it" would have to guess who was the leader.

Can you guess the leader?!

Playing tag in the field with the kids was fun. The kids loved helping us play cards. Mark and Saulo.

But, watch out for cow pies!

A big thank you goes out to our amazing host mom and her children. They shared their home with us and let us laugh with them in their kitchen. Mama also made us lots of good Mexican food. Thank you!!

Mexico Update

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Sorry about the lack of updates, I'm going to try to be better about them the last 7 weeks of the race! (Thats right, just 7 more weeks until this incredible incredible chapter closes and the next begins.)

We are staying in Palenque,Mexico at a Bible institute with our contact Eliezar. He is a great man who used to live in the States, but moved back to Mexico to open the Bible school. It is really hot, and we have invented the fan-tent to help with heat and bugs!

We are also with Banah, another team for this month, which has been a ton of fun. Between Clay and Banah we have 9 old teammates together, which is great. I'm loving to see Mark again everyday and it is great to see all of Alethia together again.

So what have we done since I last wrote that we were heading to Mexico and knew very little about what we were doing....

Took a 17 hour van ride from Antigua, Guatemala to Palenque, Mexico- carsickness, windy roads, no AC...fun day.
Helped to lead a church service, including a drama, a testimony fromyours truly, and songs Visited a prison to do a service- PSTD (preaching. songs. teaching. drime/drama.)
Went to a rehab center for alcoholics, did the same thing.
Spent a day video chatting with my wonderful friends on Megans wedding day. (Congratulations again Megan and Matt, so sorry I couldn't be there to celebrate alongside you!)
Visited a village with our housing contact, Eliezar, and did a short children's song program.
Went to Misol-Ha waterfall, where an Arnold Swartzaneggar film was shot

went cave swimming
swam under a 90 foot fall
had a great time in the Mexican jungle

Celebrated Tomina and Mel's birthdays!

Made a pinata (we're in Mexico!!)
Went to Agua Azul- AMAZING waterfalls with beautiful blue pools everywhere
jumped off a 12 foot fall!
Long ride there.... more carsickness...
Ate a delicious mango cut into a flower
went out to dinner
went to the park to see the live music and dancing
met some of the Mayan women we'll be ministering to who weave crafts and sell them
Came back to the Bible Institute campus
Beat the pinata to smithereens:)

Helped the man who runs the Bible Institute we are staying at with some yard work
Wrote this blog ;-)

Viva la Mexico!

Mon, 6 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I'm currently in Antigua, GUatemala, an incredibly beautful city just outside of Guatemala City. We've been here as a squad for 5 days and tomorrow my team and team Banah are heading to Mexico! We are heading to a city called Palenque, where ancient Mayan ruins are visited and the Ancient Mayan culture still lives on in the people. We dont know much about what we will be facing, but we have a contact to stay with, so I'm sure everything else will fall into place. Here is a blog written by a fellow racer Ashley Johnson, from the July squad. Her team was in Palneque in July of last year: http://ashleyjohnson.theworldrace.org/?filename=palenqur-at-a-glance

This week I particpated in a race day event against the new June 2009 squad here in Antigua. Because of the turmoil in Honduras they stayed an extra week in Guatemala and it was great to get to know them. It was also great to cream them in the race and show them how its really done!

We also spent a day climbing an active volcano! A group of us got horses for the inital part of the ride, and the views were amazing. We got to take a long ride up and got to see so much of the beautiful country, as well an anothe volcano erupting in the distance. We climbed the second half, and started by funning down a huge hill of volcanic sand. Then came the rocks which we climbed up hoping they didnt all cause an avalanche crushing the person behind us's ankles. It was challeneing, but really fun. At the top was molten LAVA! we cooked grilled cheese and marshmallows. We felt the heat for sure! After melting my shoes a bit, i slid back down. It was fun and exhilerating at the same time. It was a long day, but a ton of dual squad fun (77 racers went!). Sorry I cant put photos in, I'll try to do that from mexico if the Internet is better. Love and miss you all!

Longing for Home

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I have 67 days left until I land in California. I have 4 days until I stand on US soil once again for 15 hours in Boston. I have romanticized America like you wouldn't believe. I have convinced myself that I am looking forward to sitting in LA traffic, because I will be in my car singing to my music with the windows down. I can't wait for a cell phone to start ringing whenever someone wants to talk to me, or to dial it and find my friends and family in the same time-zone. Don't get me started on food; bring on the $12 salad with veggies and chicken.

I've spent some time in the last day or so dwelling on what I love about the US, what I can't wait to see and eat and do. I'm longing for home. I miss my family. I miss the comforts of home. I miss consistency. So I've spent a few hours "checked out" of Croatia, and "checked in" to home life. Its a good thing this week we are doing physical labor, renovating the cafe, because I'm not making my ministry here suffer, but those hours are gone, and I'm still here and I nothing has changed. I am going to land in Boston and see a friend, I'm going to eat Doritos and salad. I will be an American in America for a few hours.

Then I'll get on a plane and head for Guatemala and my final 2 months of ministry on the World Race.

The problem is: America is not what I SHOULD be longing for. My home is not there. My home is not a comforter made of feathers, but a Comforter given by the Father. My mother's house has NOTHING on my Father's house.

We've all heard the phrase, "People who are too Heavenly minded are no earthly good." Well, I disagree. I don't want to spend my last 4 days here or my last 2 months on the race being earthly good, if I'm not Heavenly minded. I want to dwell on the Paradise awaiting me in eternity. I want to live life here, whether in Croatia, Guatemala or America, with the hope of Heaven in the forefront of my mind. I want to be seeking Him. I want His love to flow down from Heaven and onto the people I am surrounded by. I want to live life seeking His Kingdom, honestly praying for His Kingdom to come and His will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.

So there it is. I am sure I will spend time thinking about California, and the comforts that are there, but I don't want to be so earthly minded I'm no Heavenly good. His Kingdom is what I want to long for. Home is with Him, I'll long for that.

Tomina and me on the Riva about an hour ago walking Mala (the dog we are dog-sitting while our contacts are on a retreat:)

My Prayer- June 13, 2009

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

God, thank you for today, thank you for the beautiful weather showcasing the beauty of the city we are living in. Lord, I pray Your light not only shines on the streets and beaches, but in the hearts of the people of Split. God there is so much darkness, so much idolatry, so much pain, so much division. You are the perfect healer, I pray Your Presence falls in this place.

Heavenly Father, I want to lift up my team and the Calvary Chapel team. Give us the words to say to reach the people of Split, to lift each other up, to encourage other Christians, and above all else glorify you. Show us today how today we can give you glory. Bind us together as ministers of Your Kingdom, and unite us as teams to strengthen each other as we minister.

Lord, thank you for the extended World Race family. I lift up my friends who are serving all over Europe, keep them safe and may they seek your face today. Lord I ask you bless the leadership team with wisdom and favor as they set up and prepare for the next leg of the race. Be with the people who serve you and do all the logistics so we can be serving you in this mission field. Give them peace and rest; the peace and rest that comes from you.

Thank you, God, for my family. Thank you for the way I see Your love through them. You are working, and I love that I see that every time I talk with them. You are a God who pursues. Thank you especially for my brother, Willy, and sister, Julie, as I celebrate their birthdays from the other side of the world.

Lord, I want to lift up all my friends and family members who are transitioning into the summer season. May they spend these next months seeking you, resting in you and glorifying you. Thank you so much for the support all my friends and family are to me. You know exactly what I need, and you've blessed me with the exact emails and conversations when I need them. I love that you've given me terrific friends who follow you and through your love, love me.

Lord, I proclaim healing and health over Chris and baby Joshua. Thank you so much for the ministry Chris and Sam have and how you are keeping her healthy and being glorified through miracle baby number 2. Lord, I thank you that Amanda's spine is healed. I have faith you have healed her. It may not show up today or tomorrow, but you love her and Your will for her is not pain or limitations, but that she would stand before you and you would receive glory.

Lord, I continue to pray my support account fills to overflowing. God that you would supply the last funds I need to finish the race and pay for medical insurance and other costs. I am amazed by the way you have provided already, and I know in faith you will complete the process.

Your wisdom is incredible, it is so great we will never understand it. Thank you that you have gifted people to seek your wisdom and share it with others. As I learn more about you from different teammates, teachers, pastors, speakers, authors, I am humbled by the way you reveal your glory to people. I pray you would continue to work in me as I seek to learn more about you and Your will for my life and for Your Church.

Thank you for the churches all over the world. I pray there would be revival in each one. That every week would be one that Christians would come closer to you and unbelievers are drawn to You. I lift up Carlsbad Community, Santa Barbara Community and Calvary Chapel Split, that You are glorified by the worship tomorrow, and everyday.

Lord, I'm less than 80 days from returning back to the US. God, Let me spend these next days serving you where you have me. I want to continue to pour myself out into the communities you have placed me in. Heavenly Father, show me how to live today for today. Show me each morning what your will is for me on that day. God, I love that I give you my future and no longer need to worry about it. I am free to live for right now and rest in the fact that You have a perfect plan for me. Father, remind me of this when I forget.

I love you Lord. I give my life to you and pray I walk in Your ways and not my own. I pray I would be able to forgive those who hurt me as you have forgiven me, and that I would pour your blessings out onto every person I come into contact with. You are the God of goodness, and I worship you.

In Your Precious Name I pray,

Amen.

** You can find pictures from my time in Croatia so far here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2030911&id=65800181&l=99f0d50223

My month in Romania can be found here: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=32500890&op=3&o=global&view=global&subj=65800181&id=56902144#/album.php?aid=2030914&id=65800181 **

Meet the CCTeam

Wed, 3 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This month we are incredibly blessed to get to work with the ministry team of Calvary Chapel Split. We are in a breathtakingly beautiful place and even more amazing is the heart this group of people has for the people of this city. So here they are:

Tim and Grace (their kids, not pictured, are Mila age 1 and Thomas age 3)

The Warholics have been here for 4 years and have a great ministry. Tim is the pastor and business man who runs the ministry. They have taken over a cafe previously run by another missionary couple to reach out to the city. There are Saturday night events, summer English Camp, other events and great cookies and coffee too! The greatest part about both of them is the clear love they have for each other, their kids, their team, our team and the people of Split. Its seems like a long list of people to love, and it is-- if it was short there wouldn't be something worth mentioning. We have had a lot of fun with them and are getting to learn a lot about life as missionaries and Christ followers from them.

Chris and Nada (with Simeon age 1)

These two have only been here a few months, but already have a great ministry presence in Split. Nada is Croatian and grew up in Germany. The ministry they have because of her heritage is great. The people of Croatia are traditional in many ways, specifically religiously. It is a great witness to see a Croatian following God and serving Him here. They help Tim and Grace in various ministries and play a key role as members of the ministry team.

Kristin, Rachel and David (pictured: Danny, a missionary who served last year and is here for a visit, Rachel, Kristen, David and Tim)

These three are all here short term for now, but are interested in serving long term. Kristin has a passion for the youth of the area and uses English lessons and the English Camp as a ministry tool. She has been here since September and her heart is truly for the people of Croatia. Rachel also arrived in September and has made the cafe her main ministry as she finishes Bible college. She has become a fast friend and I have been blessed to get to know her and learn the ins and outs of Split from her. David is in many ways the manager of the cafe. He taught all of us how to make the coffee and baked goods, made our schedule, handles the finances of the church and the cafe. He's only been here about seven weeks, and already he has a ton of stuff he's doing.

Please keep this group in your prayers this month as we minister alongside them (and after that too). Their work here is really amazing, we are so blessed to be here working with a bunch of Americans in Europe serving God.

Matchmaking

Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I'm 105 days from being back on US soil, GOD WILLING. Right now I'm financially not going to make it each of those days. I am $1406 away from finishing the race. I'm asking that if you can possibly give anything that you go ahead and give! I live on $10 a day, 5 for lodging, 2 for food and 3 for transportation. Just $10 keeps me on the race another day. (Airfare means the total is larger than just the $10 I live on).

Here is the challenge I am laying before you: find a match!!!

If you can give $10 to keep me on the race, and find another person, a coworker, a friend, neighbor, acquaintance, stranger on the street to match that $10, I can stay another 2 days! I need your help. I am just one person living on the other side of the world, but if I get all of you to do a tiny bit of support raising then hopefully I can meet my goal. God has provided in incredible ways throughout this year and I know He can provide the rest of the funds needed. This way all of you get to be part of it! I'd love to hear great stories of how you found someone to keep me on the race for another day. Anyone who finds a match will also get an awesome World Race prize I find along the way, so let me know if you find a match! I want to bless you as you bless me.

Some tips on how to find a match:

forward this email
instead of just saying hello to the person sitting next to you in church during the most awkward 5 minutes of the week, present my case to them:)
ask friends and co-workers
present this to your Bible study or small group
tell your kids you will match their gift
ask your parents if they will match your gift
try anything, be bold:)

Prayer support is also exceptionally important, please continue to lift me, my team and our ministry up in your prayers. I have some wonderful monthly supporters and I cannot thank you all enough, your continued support is such a blessing to me.

Romanian Kiddos

Wed, 13 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This blog was originally posted by my teammate Melissa Gibson (I've edited some). These kids are incredible, enjoy!

My team is living in a small village called Arcalia, Romania. The village is made up of Romanians and Gypsies. We have no running water, no heat, but we are so grateful for God's provisions. A very loving family generously let us take over their house while they're staying with their in-laws just so we'd have a place to live while serving in this village. Gabby and her husband Naylo and 3 children radiate God's generous love.

The streets and Gabby's yard are always full of the neighborhood kids. These kids have so much love to give, but don't often receive a lot - from their families. Few have both parents raising them, but most have single parents at best. Mostly their caretakers are alcoholic Fathers, Mothers who have left, grandmothers, or single parents who don't invest in them. So its no wonder to see the kids hang out at our house because they receive love and attention from Gabby that they don't often get elsewhere. She's become the mom they don't have and their spiritual mom that they desperately need.

These kids have nothing. They are so poor and yet are so full of life and love.

God has loved me so much through these kids this last week so I wanted to introduce you to them.

Alex (1), Silvo, Rouel, Alex, Gabriella, Gabby. Everyone's name is either Alex and Gabriel.

I felt like I was in a scene from the Little Rascals - just hanging out with the kids all day.

Isabella and her sister Luchiana.

They parents don't care about them so their grandmother is raising them.

Roxanna, Gabriella, Gabby and Silvo. They LOVE taking pictures.

Darius and Alex

Luchiana and Roxanna
Roxanna is one of the boys and always plays soccer with them. She's had to put on a thick skin to get through her 10 years because her mom left her and her dad is a drunk.

Silvo and Lawrencia

The kids and the castle

Gabriella

Isabella

Gabby with the kids in her yard after we did a kids program.

Romania 411

Sun, 10 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So here is a little bit about our time in Romania so far:

We are living in a small village called Arcalia (about 500 people total)
We have our own little house, 2 rooms
Our host, Gabby, lives in the house with her husband and four kids, but they moved in next door with her in-laws while we are here.
I sleep on a pull out couch with Tomina, its a bit bigger than a twin.
We cook for ourselves, mostly sandwiches for lunch and beans, lentils or pasta for dinner
I'm almost done reading the entire Old Testament from beginning to end (I started this venture quite a long time ago).
There is a park with a castle in it less than a block away, we discovered a wireless signal in said castle.
We have to sneak into the park to use said wireless connection.
We have a TV and DVD player-we've already had a Bourne marathon and we watch a movie most nights together as a team.
There is also a satellite dish, the only channel in English is E! Entertainment.... wish it was CNN.
Ministry is different everyday- kids most days come over all day and ask us to come out and play.
Gabby is one of very few believers in the village.
Most people in the village either attend a church each week because that is what they do, what they feel pressured to do, or never attend because they have been so hurt by the church they have rejected the entire faith.
Gabby's husband is not saved, but he is interested in us and our stories, please pray for him.
Their huge rabbit has bunnies that are super cute:)
We spent the first week in Romania in Tinga Mures working with YWAM there.
There is a ton more, but I gotta post this and want to keep it short.

I Fell in Love

Sun, 3 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Me and Sasha

I had every intention of uploading a bunch of pics from last month, but the internet is no longer cooperating. So here is a link to the facebook album: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30927543&l=561152f84d&id=65800181

Last month was my favorite ministry month by far. I fell in love. There were 23 orphans in the orphanage just off the camp property, and I spent everyday with them. I was so sad to leave, and still am sad that I actually left. These kids (mostly boys) were great. I played soccer, did English flashcards, played on the playground, tight-roped, played "wolly-boll," had movie night, and just hung out. They expected me, They called out for me, They learned new English phrases to make me feel special, and I did the same. I rejoiced when I saw them coming toward the playground at the camp we lived at. I I had inside jokes with them and they have an inside part of my heart. I can barely write this without crying, thinking about not seeing them for a week; thinking about me becoming a memory, another person who came and went.

But God is good. He loves them and He loves me. I believe He was well pleased with my ministry last month. He showed me more about His character and more about my own character last month than in any other month of ministry. I have a heart for orphans, it isn't a cop-out from adult ministries, it isn't just what women should want to minister in, it isn't what I hope to write blogs about; it is His heart for the orphans in me. I fell in love last month, and will continue this ministry by praying for those kids as often as possible.

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

This month we are in Romania and are headed to a new contact tomorrow. I don't know much about ministry or anything else, but I will try to post an update soon. I am $1647 from meeting the final AIM goal. Miss you and love you all!

First Six Months Video

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Without His love, this trip would be nothing. I am so glad I have His love and have gotten to take it to seven countries so far. God is good.

The Prophetic?

Sun, 5 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This blog is a response to the question posed from my youth pastor friend Sam. I planned to respond via email, but decided a blog is even better:) So the question: What is your take on "the prophetic?"

The Race has introduced many new things into my life, some as simple as smart airport packing, other things are more deep. My faith and my relationship with God has expanded more on the Race than ever before. Other than my actual conversion in high school, my relationship with God has never been so changed, challenged and intentional. My time in the Word is time spent with Him. Worship is a love offering, a love song I sing to my Friend and my Father. Prayer is a conversation. A two-way conversation. He speaks. God, the One from the Old Testament, the One from the Cross, the One who dwells inside of my heart speaks.

What does He say? Well, it depends on what we are talking about, but part of what He says is prophecy. Yup, prophecy. Now, I'm not talking about Words of the Lord that I need to deliver to Isreal like Isaiah or Jeremiah, or about morphing into a trance like Professor Trelawney in Harry Potter. I don't lose myself and suddenly start speaking with "the voice of the Lord." This prophecy is from 1 Corinthians 14, the words of wisdom or knowledge from God. Paul writes:

¹Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy. ²For anyone who speaks in a tongue^[a] does not speak to men but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries with his spirit.^[b] ³But everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort. ⁴He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church.

1 Cor 14:1-4

So this prophecy strengthens, encourages and comforts people. It does so for people I am praying for as well as God speaks these things into my life as well. As I spend time in prayer I can ask God to give me a word, an image, a passage of Scripture, or even a song to encourage, strengthen or comfort another believer. Typically for me I just get a single word or passage. Then as I pray about that word, may it be love, or perseverance, or whatever, I begin to understand more completely what about that word the person needs to hear. Now part of this process is trial and error. I don't always hear what God is saying, but think what I am saying is what God is saying. Before I deliver any prophetic words I check to make sure they are strengthening, encouraging or comforting, Biblical, they make sense and that God will be glorified in my sharing them. If those things are there I can be assured that even if the words I have are not from God they are edifying to the other person. I make mistakes. I thought I was supposed to give someone a Psalm... which Psalm God... 196, okay, what does that say??... no one knows that because there are only 150 Psalms... but through more prayer and clarification and spending time in the Word I found what God was trying to say, where he wanted me to look in order to encourage my friend.

This past month my teammate Summer had words of wisdom from God for each member of my team, and that is a new challenge for me. I want to seek prophecy on behalf of others intentionally. I am going to be spending time with God this month asking for words from Him that can strengthen, encourage, and comfort people in my life. This includes my team, leaders, and you, my friends and family back home.

Into Ukraine

Sun, 5 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Later this week my team, with team Remnant and seven members of the F-Squad (July 2008 launch group), will head to Luhansk, Ukraine for the next 3 weeks of ministry. We will be in a village about one hour from the city. We will stay at a summer camp and go out into the neighboring village for ministry. The camp is what we World Racers consider "rustic," aka no running water, heat, electricity, or internet. We haven't gotten there and there is always a chance things have been miscommunicated, but we are prepared for a colder Africa.

Our ministry is expected to be varied, which is something to look forward to. Since there will be 20 racers we will probably break off into talents and giftings to serve in different areas. I am looking forward to working in an orphanage for older girls in the village and a few other opportunities.

I am hoping to update you all before heading into Romania later this month (around the 27^th), but I'm not sure what the likelihood of that is. So, be blessed and Happy Easter! Love and miss you all!

P.S. HAPPY BIRTHDAY MANDY! HOPE YOU HAVE AN EXCELLENT DAY. LOVE AND MISS YOU SOSOSOSO MUCH! 5 MORE MONTHS!

In Need!

Sat, 28 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I am 4 days from the end of March and $317 from the April 1 support goal. Please prayerfully consider supporting me in any way possible. I know God has called me to continue the race, and He will provide. Here's the thing: He will use YOU to do so. Please keep me and my support in your prayers; we are heading to Eastern Europe tonight and will be there for 3 months. We start in the Ukraine and aren't sure which other countries we will serve in. I miss you and love you all and without all of you I couldn't be doing all of this.

PS India was amazing, our ministry was sweet, and God was glorified!

My Prayer- March 21, 2009

Sun, 22 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I spend a lot of my time in prayer on the World Race, and I thought I would share with you all my prayer for today. This is just typed as I pray, so don't read for poetry or anything like that ;-). If you feel compelled, please join me in praying.

Lord God, thank you for today. Thank you Lord, for the beautiful day and the place I get to wake up in. Lord, you are the perfect Creator and you love me more than I can even comprehend, I am humbled to serve you.

God please be with my team today; Lord lead us where you want us to be.

God I pray for Mel, God, give her direction and peace about decisions she makes. Lord, I pray against any confusion and worry. Lord, thank you for the way she ministers to our team.

Lord, be with Joel as he pursues you further. Jesus, give him strength to run continually closer to you, even when there are obstacles in the way.

Lord, be with Summer. Continue speaking to her. God thank you for the way she serves our team, how she listens to You and gives us Your words.

Lord, thank you for Sarah. Thank you for her laugh and her presence on this team. God I pray you will continue to pour into her so she can continue pouring into the people of India.

God, I lift of Aaron, God heal his body completely, that there would be no more soar throat, no more frustration at limitations. God I thank you for the example he is to me, Lord that He seeks you so fervently.

Lord thank you for Tomina. Thank you for her friendship. God you have given me so much joy through her. Lord I thank you for the way I see you through her and the way she challenges me daily to seek you more. Thank you for the way she loves the kids at the school and our team. Thank you for the way she serves our contacts and the way Your love shines through her.

Lord give us strength and patience as we go into our last week of ministry in India. God, give us the words to say as we minister and show us your will.

Lord I lift up my family and friends at home. God I just pray that you would be present in their lives and they would see you more this week. God I pray you reveal yourself to those who don't know you. God reopen the eyes of people who have closed theirs to you. And God, encourage the people who are serving you in America. God remind them how much you love them and how you rejoice in their service to you there. God thank you for them. Thank you that there are people in America who love you and serve you everyday.

God, Be with my family; Lord give them peace about me being so far away. Lord help me to show them your love.

Lord, I lift of SBCC, God that you would continue to minister through that church. And for CCC that your will would be done and your word would be preached.

God I lift up Amy and Chris, God, that your healing hand would rest on them. That you would be glorified through their lives.

God, be with the G Squad as we all serve our last week in India. God prepare our hearts for another goodbye and another hello. God as we enter Eastern Europe, draw us close to you. I pray for traveling mercies as we all get to Delhi. Lord keep us safe from harm and protect us on the crazy Indian roads. Lord thank you for bringing us here. Thank you for showing us the beauty of India.

Lord I lift up the Hindes and the Blacks, Jimmy, Allison, Jake, Casey and all the other AIM staff that serve us stateside. Thank you for their ministry.

God I pray you would continue to provide the funds needed for every member of the squad to finish the race. Lord, I pray you would finish filling up my support account.

Lord I lift up President Obama, the California government, and the economy. Lord, give them your wisdom. Lord, penetrate the hearts of the people who make the decisions in the US. Lord, give them your wisdom so they can govern well. God I pray you would fix the economy; God let the people on the edge keep their homes, let hours be added back, and jobs offered instead of taken.

You are the Lord of Heaven's Armies, send your angels. God we need them now more than ever. I pray Your will is done in each person's life, that we see your perfect plan and walk in it. Lord, thank you for Your peace. Thank you that as I sit in India You are here. That I know this is where You want me, and You delight in me. That You know the desires of my heart and desire to give those to me (the same goes for everyone!). God, You are Goodness. Thank you for sending your Son to die for my sins. Thank you for seeking me out and forgiving my sins everyday. Thank you for showing me so much of your creation. I love you and praise you. I pray I would continually be giving you glory.

In Jesus' Name

Amen

Happy Birthday WES! (Cute Ministry Video included)

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A happy birthday message from India:*

Miss you and love you Wes (my big brother)!

*Please excuse the last noise at the end, the mic on the camera is very sensitive.

Months 1-4 videos!

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

My teammate from Libre, Abby, made these videos of our first 4 months! Enjoy!

I'm Falling in Love with India

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I'm using fast internet to post this blog
The children we work with at the school are adorable
We ride rickshaws everywhere we go
I bought a new awesome outfit with sequins for about $10
The people are beautiful
There is a McDonalds about 15 minutes from where we are staying
I'm not sleeping in a bunk-bed
I have a bathroom with a TOILET in my room
I can take a HOT HIGH PRESSURE shower whenever I want
People bring us into their homes with sincere hospitality
I don't feel like an inconvenience
My team has a Pizza Hut and game night on Fridays
We live just minutes outside of a city
I got my nose pierced!! (something I've wanted to do since high school that I never thought I ever would-- don't worry, it was totally clean and safe and cute! I'll post a picture soon once I get the pretty stud in and the starter hoop out:))
The children in my ABC's and writing class at school learned my name on the first day
The clothing the women wear is stunning
God is here and working!

Our typical day consists of waking up for breakfast and prayer then taking rickshaws to an elementary school. We lead songs, tell a Bible story with an accompanied craft or game, help with counting and ABC's, practice writing and do exercise. Then we head back for lunch, have an afternoon break and tea time. Our evenings are spent visiting locals who are either believers or have some contact with Rajan (our ministry partner). We come back for dinner and bedtime. We have only been here a week, but already this month is in the running for favorite month so far. I'm really falling in love with India.

On the support front I am still $427 from the April 1 goal and $2725 from the final AIM goal. Please consider giving again or for the first time if you are able. I understand that times are hard at home, but God blesses those who blesses others. He will be using your money to bless people around the world through me, please help me to stay on the race.

Love and miss you all!!

Out of Africa

Mon, 9 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

We are on our way out of Africa. The last month in Tanzania was incredible. We had incredible contacts and we learned a lot from our ministry. Africa is where so much of my heart is, I love the people and the culture. I am going to miss it, but I am also really excited to get to India.

My team will be working in Dehradun, in the northern part of the country. We will be doing relational ministry with Christians in the area and working in a primary school as well. We have a crazy travel day, which lasts about 24 hours, with a lot of waiting and not a lot of sleeping (5 hour of travel and waiting to the airport to Nairobi, 4.5 hour flight to Qatar, 2 hour layover in Doha, 3.5 hour flight to Delhi, 3 hours to get to the train station, 6 hour train ride to the Himalayas). We will be in the foothills of the Himalayas and really that is all we know. Please be in prayer for travel safety and safety throughout the month. We will be staying in a hostel (they think) and ministering where God leads us. We are only in India for 22 days, then we head to Europe, which is sure to be a huge, and welcome, change. I love and miss you all- five months are done six to go.

** This blog was supposed to be posted a few days ago... I'm currently in Dehradun and there was not one delay or problem in all of our travels! Praise the Lord! Lokk for another blog soon with more details about India! Love and miss you all!

Players of the Week

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This week we went to a small town called Mkata. The town is 90% Muslim and visiting witch doctors is common practice. We drove 6 hours to serve with Bethany Church, holding seminars and open-air crusades. We were blessed to get to stay on the floor of a YWAM preschool classroom, away from the dirt and siafu (biting ants that will eat a live chicken....).

Technically we didn't play anything but a few card games this week... but there were some MVP's. I want to highlight 2 key players: Tomina and Solo.

Tomina Slevin

Age: 26

Hometown: Roseau, MN

Sport: Listening to God's Voice

Position: Children's Ministry

Seminar started on Thursday morning and Tomina and I were slated to be the speakers. Tomina was going first and upon entering the church and seeing the large numbers of children in the congregation completely let go of the sermon she prepared and began a children's ministry. She sat on the stage and brought the children forward to tell them about the Good Shepard who loves them and leads them. They learned a song and it was adorable to see them all singing (adults joined in for the song) "I just want to be a sheep".

Later that evening as we listened to the Lord two of us heard that Tomina was supposed to continue ministering to the children each morning. She would be the only one to have to preach three times and she took that challenge on with joy. Each morning she brought out an incredible sermon for the children,outdoing the one from the previous day. On Friday she had them act out the drama of the flood including children playing the rainbow that is the promise of God. Almost every child had a part and the adults also got to be reminded of the story and God faithfulness at the same time. The last morning she brought everything needed to plant a bean plant and had the kids each add something to the pot to explain how God provides.

There were about as many kids as adults in each of the seminars and she did not neglect them. It was amazing. She saw a need and met it, with God leading the whole way. She heard Him prompting her to serve them and she did. There isn't Sunday school in most African churches and to see these kids learning about God was incredible. She was an MVP. She served half the congregation while the other 4 of us served the other half.

Eliakimu Solomon "Solo" Mollel

Age: 30

Hometown: Bomagombe, TZ

Sport: Serving God

Position: Comic, translator, and YWAM leader

This guy served everyone all week. I guess I will start with what I will remember most about him- he loves the Lord, follows His prompting and is absolutely hilarious. He spent the week making five wazungu (white) girls laugh hilariously. There are two men who are in charge of the outreaches, Leonard and Solo, and this week Leo had class so Solo took us to Mkata. In four days I have laughed more than the last four weeks.

He is quick to listen and follow God as well. If God told him to continue worshiping even if it meant the service would go over time, he led the congregation to do so. As much as we joke around with him we also have been blessed to have some amazing conversations about Tanzania, the culture and God.

He also constantly served us. He woke up early to get our breakfast from town. He carried the guitar to service. He reminded us to drink water. He got our sweet preschool room set up for us too, we are never in want when we are with him. He is also our translator every time we speak in church, with a church member, with an Islamic girl, with the old man who dances during worship (any time we speak with anyone really). It is humbling and such a blessing to get to serve along with him this month.

Six of us went and served this week, and it was incredible. I have never felt so close to the voice and heart of God as I did this week. All of us had a week unlike any other in the last 4 months. I don't want to discount what the rest of us did, but I just wanted to highlight these two. Love and miss you all!

Happy Birthday Mom!!

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Happy Birthday MOM!! I hope you have a wonderful day. I wish so much I could be celebrating with you, but know you are in my heart all day and all week:) I miss you so much and love you even more!! I am praying for you and hope you are truly blessed today esp.Thursday when it really is your b-day). Sorry I am in the bush for the real day, but this way your birthday lasts even longer!

I think everyone should know just how wonderful my mom is. She is a true servant and the most loving mom ever. I can trust her with everything and know she loves me more than any other person on the planet. She has raised me and my siblings and done an amazing job with all of us. It is almost unfair that the five of us were blessed with such a great mom when not everyone is. We hit the jackpot. So thank you Mom, for being amazing and always thinking of us. I love you and miss you.

"When God thought of Mother He must have laughed with satisfaction and framed it quickly-- so rich, so deep, so divine, so full of soul, power and beauty was the conception."

Henry Ward Beecher- 1813-1887

Tanzania Ministry

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This month team Clay (above) has partnered with YWAM Kilimanjaro to do outreaches to different villages. Each week we spend 4 days in the bush in a village spending the days doing seminars (Bible studies with the church congregation) and the evenings doing film ministry or open-air crusades for the broader village community.

Our first week in King'Ori was amazing. I was so blessed by the community there. The pastor and his family were amazing. We had over 300 people come the last night of the film ministry and a number of brothers and sisters joined the family of God. It was incredible to see the hearts of the people we met in door-to-door ministry and the numbers increasing each night at the film ministry. I was especially blessed by one of the pastor's daughters Lina, she adopted me as "her mzungu (white-person)" and we were attached at the hip. Below is a picture of her and I on the last day. It broke my heart when she was so sad to see me go, one of the hardest parts of the race so far.

Last week we were outside a village called Mwanga living with a Maasai family in their boma (small family village). We had smaller numbers which allowed for a more intimate ministry. We got quite close to one of the wives in the family (there were FOUR of them) and the 28 children/teens around were always a source of entertainment and ministry opportunities. It was a struggle to adjust to the idea of a Christian polygamist family, but Thomas, the husband, was saved after he was married to all four of his wives and they have all turned their lives to serving God in their current situation. We lived in the desert, but there was a lake close by we got to visit. It was a hot and dusty week, but quite amazing. Our last afternoon they dressed us up in traditional clothing and we has a blast with the whole family. Here are some pictures of the week:

We leave on Wednesday to go to Mkata village to minister for the week. The boys are headed to "Manister" in Kenya and so it is just the five women from team Clay. We will be doing similar ministry with seminars and open-air crusades. We are traveling around six hours to get to the village and will once again be in our tents (finally they are getting some use).

Please be in prayer for continued perseverance as we minister for a third week and a fourth after that. Africa is great, I am in love with Tanzania, but the food is wearing on us and I am still missing home. Also, I am $71 short of the March 1 goal; therefore, support raising is still a priority. I love and miss you all!!

Safari PhotoBlog

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

February Celebrations

Wed, 4 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So this month is a big one, here are some of the things I am celebrating this month:

My mom's birthday on the 19^th
My dad's birthday on the 14^th
Valentines Day? (not sure how/if we will really be celebrating in TZ)
Returning to Tanzania for a third time
Actually being able to speak the local language some (Swahili)
Being on a new team
The longest time with a contact (4.5 weeks)
Longest time between moving since mid-June
The Steelers winning the Superbowl (this one is for Elisa and Jon!!:)
Knowing God knows the desires of my heart and He desires to give those to me.

Please join me in celebrating all of these things. Love and miss you all!

This month we, Team Clay, are working with YWAM Kilimanjaro. We are spending 4 days a week in "the bush" visiting villages to do outreach events and film showings. 4 days a week we will be in our tents working from dawn to 11, please keep us in your prayers. Please pray for energy, patience, health and general good attitudes. Our fifth day of ministry is on the base- yesterday we mowed the lawn of the primary school with machetes. We do get a rest day and a Sabbath, so praise the Lord for that. I'm $??? from the March 1 deadline, so please be in prayer about that as well.

NewTeam!

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

And the New Team is....

It is official, Team Libre, along with the other 7 teams that were part of G squad have been reshuffled. This debrief we received new team assignments. We were told in the beginning of January that changes would be made, but nothing specific. Of course this is hard and I am still adjusting to the idea that not all of my old teammates will be with me everyday, but I can see how God is using this. I can already see how He will teach me through my new teammates. So here we are, Team Clay (I'll post a blog with the significance at a later time, I just want to introduce you all to the team)

Aaron Darlington

Joel Chitwood

Sarah Diederich

Tomina Slevin (also formerly of team Libre)

Melissa Gibson (team leader)

Summer Smith (formerly from team Libre)

I encourage you to take a peek at their blogs to see more about them. They have all spent the last 4 months learning a ton from God and I'm really excited for that knowledge to get spread around. Also, they will be in the same ministry locations as me, so their blogs will include all the stories I can't fit!

I am still raising support, but I am good until March 1. Thank you all for your donations and keep them coming!

Love you and miss you all!

He Moves in Mysterious Ways

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Rewind one year ago. I was recently accepted to the World Race and furiously selling its merits to all the people I loved. Convincing them that not only was it a good idea for me to go, but that they should support me so I could. I would talk about:

The amazing opportunity to visit 11 countries in 11 months.
The way I would get to see many different missions, cultures, and ministries in hopes that I will have better discernment about my calling.

How I would work with children to show them God's love.
How we could do construction, painting, feeding programs and other hands on/ end result ministries.

How I would become a family with my team.
The people who we would meet and bless.
How we would partner with locals to help plant churches and further current ministries

AND SO MUCH MORE

So I shared all about the World Race, selling everyone including myself on all these amazing things I would get to do (and have experienced in incredible ways in just 4 short months). There was one thing I left out though. There was one word I was careful to leave out as much as possible; not because I don't believe in it, but because it scares me. Evangelism.

Here in Africa, that is what we do. We go to a neighborhood and knock on doors to evangelize to the community. We go to tell them about God's love and pray for them. We preach in churches, some groups spent much of last month doing open-air evangelism events on street corners and markets in Kenya and we are expected to bring the Gospel wherever we go. Shoot.

Of course I want to spread the Gospel. I want as many people as possible to learn about the saving grace of Jesus Christ. I want every person I meet to join the family of Christ, to know their loving Father in Heaven. But I don't want to force it on someone. I don't want someone to say a prayer to the air to please the wazungu (white people) in their home. I don't want people to make real commitments when I am unsure if there is any follow-up. I don't want to make new brothers and sisters just to leave them in the pit they prayed to get out of.

I'm still struggling with this idea. I have faith that God will provide for every person we meet. I also have been incredibly impressed with our contacts and the follow-up plans they have. I will continue to pray for the new Christians who have just allowed Him into their hearts and for more to join that number. I just have to remind myself of this every morning we have "door-to-door" as our ministry.

This morning I was sitting in church when someone came up to our group and said they needed people to teach Sunday School. I promptly got up because I always take an opportunity to be with the kids. I walked into a room of at least 100 kids and 2 adults all looking expectantly at me, with the greeting, "I will be your translator." 25 minutes later after sharing the children's version of my "River of Life" message I was praying with 23 young Ugandans who wanted the River of Life Christ promises. We sang the song and rejoiced together as 23 more children have a River of Life flowing out of them. They will be discipled in a church that I believe in. God provided the perfect opportunity to remind me that He creates the place for those to enter into His presence. I did not expect to "pray the prayer" with those kids this morning, but I'm so glad I did. If there was no evangelism there would be no Christians. It is called the Great Commission for a reason.

This is Angel one of the new Christians, she was the first to stand; her sisters are behind us and were rejoicing with their sister:)