It's sad for us that this was our last day in Estonia. We had a leisurely breakfast at the hotel this morning and then took about a 30 minute walk to the Baltic Mission Center. We met with Taavi Hollman for about an hour and had a very helpful discussion about the Methodist Church in Estonia and about the partnership between the Morristown and Aseri Churches. We also got a tour of the seminary, spoke with Meeli the seminary director, and saw the sanctuary used by both the Estonian and Russian speaking congregations.
We said our goodbyes to our team member Susan (the American from Atlanta who is in Estonia for a year), and we already missed her throughout the day and evening. Taavi drove the rest of us to the outdoor historical museum, which has old buildings, houses, barns, and windmills that have been moved from all over Estonia. Many of these are original buildings from the 1800 and 1900s. Workers are in period costumes, and we ate lunch at the "tavern."
The rest of the afternoon and evening was spent in Old Town Tallinn shopping and eating. Unfortunately, it was windy and rainy most of the day, so we arrived back at the hotel tonight quite wet but all in good spirits.
Tomorrow morning we take a ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki, Finland to catch our flight from there (the flight schedules worked out better that way). It's a 2-hour ride by boat on a large ferry, as big as many cruise liners. Then home via Chicago and Knoxville.
We look forward to seeing everybody soon on the home-side of the pond!
Much love,
Team Estonia
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Greetings from Tallinn
Hello from rainy Tallinn. We started out from Voru this morning after another visit with the Kants who stopped by our hotel. The drive north to Tallinn took about three and a half hours, with rain off and on along the way. We met Viktor's son Andre, who helped us to our hotel and then gave him the van we have been using all week. Kristina, from Aseri, has been with us all week, and we said our goodbyes to her this afternoon. She was a tremendous help.
We had a late lunch and spent the late afternoon and evening wandering around the streets of Old Tallinn. It is a beautiful, colorful, and old city. Town Hall was built in 1404. We got a bird's eye view of the city by climbing one of the church's bell tours, went in the Russian Orthodox church, stopped in some shops, and ate dinner at a medieval restaurant.
We ended the evening at the hotel with a time of prayer for Estonia and for those we've met this week.
Tomorrow we head to the Baltic Mission Center at 10:30 to meet with Taavi Hollman, the District Superintendent of Estonia. We will also tour the church and seminary located within the Center.
It's late and we're off to bed....
We had a late lunch and spent the late afternoon and evening wandering around the streets of Old Tallinn. It is a beautiful, colorful, and old city. Town Hall was built in 1404. We got a bird's eye view of the city by climbing one of the church's bell tours, went in the Russian Orthodox church, stopped in some shops, and ate dinner at a medieval restaurant.
We ended the evening at the hotel with a time of prayer for Estonia and for those we've met this week.
Tomorrow we head to the Baltic Mission Center at 10:30 to meet with Taavi Hollman, the District Superintendent of Estonia. We will also tour the church and seminary located within the Center.
It's late and we're off to bed....
Monday, September 12, 2011
Another Great Day
Each day here seems to be led by God. Today's theme was prayer. We left Camp Gideon in the bright sunshine. We prayed before we left that we might be open to what God brings our way. We drove south past lake Pepsi (not the spelling but sounds like it) on our way to Voru to see Kaupo and Thea Kant. We stopped in Tartu for lunch. Tartu was a large university city, Estonian for sure and very hip and trendy. Cafes all around. We visited the UMC there. It was beautifully constructed only 9 years ago. Pastor Priit happened to be at the church and he gave us a tour. We prayed for him and the ministry there in Tartu.
Next we drove south and met Kaupo and Thea Kant. Scott and Kate were in small group with them in Asbury Seminary. It was soooo good to see them. We ate with them for lunch (awesome as usual) then gave a tour of their church under construction. They are people of faith and deeply value prayer. We prayed for Voru church on the building site. We saw all the work of FBSUMC on their mission trip a month ago and how much progress has been made. After Kaupo picked up Tea, pastor of Viitka church south of Voru. This church in Viitka has great God stories that time does not permit me to write. Bottom line, God provided this small rural town with a church, a building, and a ministry to youth. The pastor has so much faith and pastors while still looking for a full time job. We prayed for Viitka church.
We then drove to Russian Border, saw it and prayed. We drove to Latvian border (15min away) and took pictures. We drove to another church south west of voru and heard great stories of how God is working in rural areas. We saw another UMC there and prayed for it. We then went to highest mountain (hill) in Estonia and Baltic Region and prayed for the whole country of Estonia. We closed our evening with Dinner at the Kants. Once again, great stories of how God is working and providing. Thea's father is very ill and we had to leave. Please pray for Rein right now in Tallinn.
We left our extra supplies from Aseri with Kaupo and Thea and their ministry to children and outreach. We closed as a team debriefing the day and in prayer. God has shown me a couple things. First, what we are seeing here is apostolic Christianity. one believer bringing in someone to faith, discipling them, training them and moving out. Kaupo led both people who are serving as pastors in Viitka and other church in southwest to the Lord and later discipled them for ministry. This kind of ministry is slow and does not have large numbers at first, but shows fruit over the years.
Second, I see the value of staying in one area for time. Pastors here don't move, much, they are called to regions. Pastor Viktor in Aseri for 9 years, Pastor Priit in Tartu for 16 yrs (he is only 42), Kaupo in Voru since 1996 (15 yrs). Imagine all leaders of Estonian Methodist church were the size of crusaders sunday school class (40 ish). Imagine them covering a whole country. Their job to advance the church is to grow it by conversions, not to move up the ladder. Many of the pastors are bivocational and have it extremely hard. I realize I have to do a better job in prayer.
Third, seeing five different church locations today including camp Gideon, helps me place Aseri building and ministry needs in larger context. There will be more discussions when coming home on how to best partner with Aseri Church.
Tomorrow off to Tallinn for two days. God Bless you.
Scott for Team
Next we drove south and met Kaupo and Thea Kant. Scott and Kate were in small group with them in Asbury Seminary. It was soooo good to see them. We ate with them for lunch (awesome as usual) then gave a tour of their church under construction. They are people of faith and deeply value prayer. We prayed for Voru church on the building site. We saw all the work of FBSUMC on their mission trip a month ago and how much progress has been made. After Kaupo picked up Tea, pastor of Viitka church south of Voru. This church in Viitka has great God stories that time does not permit me to write. Bottom line, God provided this small rural town with a church, a building, and a ministry to youth. The pastor has so much faith and pastors while still looking for a full time job. We prayed for Viitka church.
We then drove to Russian Border, saw it and prayed. We drove to Latvian border (15min away) and took pictures. We drove to another church south west of voru and heard great stories of how God is working in rural areas. We saw another UMC there and prayed for it. We then went to highest mountain (hill) in Estonia and Baltic Region and prayed for the whole country of Estonia. We closed our evening with Dinner at the Kants. Once again, great stories of how God is working and providing. Thea's father is very ill and we had to leave. Please pray for Rein right now in Tallinn.
We left our extra supplies from Aseri with Kaupo and Thea and their ministry to children and outreach. We closed as a team debriefing the day and in prayer. God has shown me a couple things. First, what we are seeing here is apostolic Christianity. one believer bringing in someone to faith, discipling them, training them and moving out. Kaupo led both people who are serving as pastors in Viitka and other church in southwest to the Lord and later discipled them for ministry. This kind of ministry is slow and does not have large numbers at first, but shows fruit over the years.
Second, I see the value of staying in one area for time. Pastors here don't move, much, they are called to regions. Pastor Viktor in Aseri for 9 years, Pastor Priit in Tartu for 16 yrs (he is only 42), Kaupo in Voru since 1996 (15 yrs). Imagine all leaders of Estonian Methodist church were the size of crusaders sunday school class (40 ish). Imagine them covering a whole country. Their job to advance the church is to grow it by conversions, not to move up the ladder. Many of the pastors are bivocational and have it extremely hard. I realize I have to do a better job in prayer.
Third, seeing five different church locations today including camp Gideon, helps me place Aseri building and ministry needs in larger context. There will be more discussions when coming home on how to best partner with Aseri Church.
Tomorrow off to Tallinn for two days. God Bless you.
Scott for Team
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Happy Thanksgiving!
It was a great day at Aseri. We started the morning with a relaxed timetable at Camp Gideon, where several of us sat out by the Baltic Sea. It was a good time of personal worship. We left to head to Aseri Church for the worship service starting at noon. This was a special day for the church because it was to celebrate the fall harvest. This is an annual event for churches and families in Estonia to give thanks for the food that God provides. There's no designated day for this celebration, so it's a blessing for us to be here when Aseri Church celebrated. They made a beautiful display of vegetables, fruits, and flowers grown by church members and offered as a thanks offering.
Church is normally two hours in Aseri, and today was no exception; however, we kept going for many hours with a fellowship time. It was a joyous time of worship together. There were many elements to our time there, including singing led by both the church and us and a solo by Scott. Pastor Viktor led a prayer time, including prayer for America because of 9/11. Kate, Rachel, and Jim shared their testimonies, and Jim gave a message from Colossians 2. Scott and Pastor Viktor together led in giving the Lord's supper. It was a great worship service. Even though separated by language and country, we have everything in common in Christ.
Then, following the 2-hour service, we started in on the time for fellowship. The women of the church prepared a feast for us, including lots of fresh vegetables and fruits. There was plenty of delicious food, and no one left hungry. A church from a neighboring town joined us for the meal and began the singing. We sang for the next few hours! It was fantastic and included an accordion, tambourine, guitars, and keyboard at various times. The children got up an recited thanksgiving poems, and several adults read poems and writings. We were sorry we couldn't join in singing the Russian songs with everyone else. Things finally began to wrap up around 6:30 pm, and it was about 7:30 when we left. How often can you say you were at a Sunday church event for 7 hours and loved every minute of it?
Even though we had feasted in the afternoon, we decided we should have a light supper. We went to a hotel and restaurant on the Baltic Sea not far from Camp Gideon. Wow -- it was a nice place with great food and a great location.
We're tired and ready for bed. Tomorrow we're off to the south of the country to the city of Voru.
Church is normally two hours in Aseri, and today was no exception; however, we kept going for many hours with a fellowship time. It was a joyous time of worship together. There were many elements to our time there, including singing led by both the church and us and a solo by Scott. Pastor Viktor led a prayer time, including prayer for America because of 9/11. Kate, Rachel, and Jim shared their testimonies, and Jim gave a message from Colossians 2. Scott and Pastor Viktor together led in giving the Lord's supper. It was a great worship service. Even though separated by language and country, we have everything in common in Christ.
Then, following the 2-hour service, we started in on the time for fellowship. The women of the church prepared a feast for us, including lots of fresh vegetables and fruits. There was plenty of delicious food, and no one left hungry. A church from a neighboring town joined us for the meal and began the singing. We sang for the next few hours! It was fantastic and included an accordion, tambourine, guitars, and keyboard at various times. The children got up an recited thanksgiving poems, and several adults read poems and writings. We were sorry we couldn't join in singing the Russian songs with everyone else. Things finally began to wrap up around 6:30 pm, and it was about 7:30 when we left. How often can you say you were at a Sunday church event for 7 hours and loved every minute of it?
Even though we had feasted in the afternoon, we decided we should have a light supper. We went to a hotel and restaurant on the Baltic Sea not far from Camp Gideon. Wow -- it was a nice place with great food and a great location.
We're tired and ready for bed. Tomorrow we're off to the south of the country to the city of Voru.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Day Three from Aseri
Welcome back. It is at the end of a good day. We had a day camp with the children of the church and community. 10 kids came to join us for a day of fun. Rachel did a great job leading the whole day. Kate led the games with kids and we learned one another's names. Leigh did an awesome job with crafts. The bubble tools Leigh developed were a big hit. Jim and Scott did whatever else was needed and helped with everything else. It was great the Lord blessed us with sunshine and good weather.
Rachel shared throughout the day about how God created the world, sin separated us from God, and Jesus came to restore us to that relationship. Susan shared well how we need to respond to God's gift. We made salvation bracelets to make sure we understand the message and share it.
Kristina and Victoria did a great job leading the kids in song and doing what is necessary. They are great examples of Estonian youth committed to Christ.
We closed the day by going to Ira and Dimitri's house where they have a garden and they cooked out for us and shared their fresh vegetables. Their hospitality has been truly exceptional.
We will share pictures when we get back. It is really hard to do that here. Tomorrow we worship together. Jim will preach and we will share communion celebration. Tomorrow is also their harvest festival. This is the time of year for us like thanksgiving. After church we will have a large eating time and fellowship together. While the Aseri Community has hardships, this church is doing well with their commitment to Christ and reaching out.
We closed the night by going outside and looking at the stars over the Baltic sea. It is a full moon and you can see the stars well from here, even with the full moon. If you read this blog, pray for us as we follow Christ this week.
Rachel shared throughout the day about how God created the world, sin separated us from God, and Jesus came to restore us to that relationship. Susan shared well how we need to respond to God's gift. We made salvation bracelets to make sure we understand the message and share it.
Kristina and Victoria did a great job leading the kids in song and doing what is necessary. They are great examples of Estonian youth committed to Christ.
We closed the day by going to Ira and Dimitri's house where they have a garden and they cooked out for us and shared their fresh vegetables. Their hospitality has been truly exceptional.
We will share pictures when we get back. It is really hard to do that here. Tomorrow we worship together. Jim will preach and we will share communion celebration. Tomorrow is also their harvest festival. This is the time of year for us like thanksgiving. After church we will have a large eating time and fellowship together. While the Aseri Community has hardships, this church is doing well with their commitment to Christ and reaching out.
We closed the night by going outside and looking at the stars over the Baltic sea. It is a full moon and you can see the stars well from here, even with the full moon. If you read this blog, pray for us as we follow Christ this week.
Friday, September 9, 2011
A Full Day in Aseri
Good evening from Estonia! We arrived yesterday with no problems -- sorry we weren't able to get on the internet last night to let you know we made it. We were greeted at the airport by Kristina (from Aseri), Andre (Viktor's son), and Julia (Maksim's wife). We headed out from Tallinn and drove to Aseri, stopping for a late lunch along the way. We got a small tour of the town, had dinner at the church (cooked by Tatiana), and stayed for a nice evening of fellowship. We stayed at a new guesthouse/hotel just out from town along the main road.
Also, last night we gained another team member, an American from Georgia who is living in Estonia for a year. Her name is Susan, and we're glad to have her with us.
This morning began a day full of surprises and adventures! We didn't know what we had in store.
We began by going to Aseri School, the public school in town that is grades 1-12 with 156 total students. As a group, we spoke to three different classes for 45 minutes each about life in America and Tennessee. All the students are studying English and were excited to have Americans to speak with. The school told us we were the first Americans to ever teach classes. It was a treat for us and for them to be there. We were truly their guests and were welcomed graciously with love, lunch in the cafeteria, coffee/tea, and a tour. The school was started in 1905 and maintains a museum about the school and Aseri. It was nice for us to see the heritage of the area and hear stories from two teachers, one of whom had attended Aseri School as a child. An interesting piece of the history is that the original school building is now the Aseri Methodist Church! We were at the school from 9:00am to 1:30pm and had a great exchange with students and teachers.
We then headed to Camp Gideon, about a 30 minute drive from Aseri, where we will be spending the next three nights. This is an amazing place with an amazing story. It is a camp built on the shore of the Baltic Sea, originally built by the Russians in the 1920s or 30s after Russian occupation of Estonia. After the Germans occupied around WWII, it became a retreat for German officers. Then once the Soviets occupied at the end of the war, it became a Red Pioneer camp, a communist indoctrination camp for children. Wow, what a history already! The Methodist Church was able to purchase this abandoned property in the 1990s, and it is now a Christian camp for children and youth from all over the world. Just this summer, we know there were Estonians, Russians, Americans, Brazilians, Israelis, and Australians here. What a transformation from the past history of the camp. God can do amazing things.
Late afternoon, we were due back at the Aseri Church for snacks and to prepare for an evening worship service since we are in town. However, today was a special 'sports day' for the town of Aseri, an annual event where the whole town comes out for a walk/run. They told us to bring shoes and clothes with us for it. Not really knowing what to expect, we asked a few questions beforehand and found out that the run was more than we thought. And in fact, it seemed to keep getting longer the more questions we asked. It turns out it was a 6k race (3.6 miles)! We had already volunteered and gotten our race numbers. Hmmm.... Scott, Rachel, and Jim ran the 6k, and Kate, Leigh, Susan, and our Estonian friends walked a 4k walk. Did I mention it rained on us after we started? Apparently, only serious runners run the 6k, because we Americans were left in the dust (or rather, the clay mud). At home, we would be middle-of-the-pack runners, but here we weren't. Oh well; we were pleased with our times. The walkers had an amazing narrated tour of Aseri as they walked and really enjoyed it.
We came back to the church after the big athletic event for an evening service. It was a joy to see Pastor Viktor again. He had been in Finland for work this week and was just able to join us for the first time this evening. We sang together with the church, and several of us spoke -- Susan and Leigh gave their testimonies, and Scott preached. We fellowshipped and ate dinner at the church afterwards. It was a good evening.
We are now back at Camp Gideon and settled in for the night. It is cool and raining, so the covers will feel good tonight. Tomorrow we are doing a kids day at the church for the children of Aseri. Please pray for our day.
Good night from Estonia.
Jim and Rachel, for the team
Also, last night we gained another team member, an American from Georgia who is living in Estonia for a year. Her name is Susan, and we're glad to have her with us.
This morning began a day full of surprises and adventures! We didn't know what we had in store.
We began by going to Aseri School, the public school in town that is grades 1-12 with 156 total students. As a group, we spoke to three different classes for 45 minutes each about life in America and Tennessee. All the students are studying English and were excited to have Americans to speak with. The school told us we were the first Americans to ever teach classes. It was a treat for us and for them to be there. We were truly their guests and were welcomed graciously with love, lunch in the cafeteria, coffee/tea, and a tour. The school was started in 1905 and maintains a museum about the school and Aseri. It was nice for us to see the heritage of the area and hear stories from two teachers, one of whom had attended Aseri School as a child. An interesting piece of the history is that the original school building is now the Aseri Methodist Church! We were at the school from 9:00am to 1:30pm and had a great exchange with students and teachers.
We then headed to Camp Gideon, about a 30 minute drive from Aseri, where we will be spending the next three nights. This is an amazing place with an amazing story. It is a camp built on the shore of the Baltic Sea, originally built by the Russians in the 1920s or 30s after Russian occupation of Estonia. After the Germans occupied around WWII, it became a retreat for German officers. Then once the Soviets occupied at the end of the war, it became a Red Pioneer camp, a communist indoctrination camp for children. Wow, what a history already! The Methodist Church was able to purchase this abandoned property in the 1990s, and it is now a Christian camp for children and youth from all over the world. Just this summer, we know there were Estonians, Russians, Americans, Brazilians, Israelis, and Australians here. What a transformation from the past history of the camp. God can do amazing things.
Late afternoon, we were due back at the Aseri Church for snacks and to prepare for an evening worship service since we are in town. However, today was a special 'sports day' for the town of Aseri, an annual event where the whole town comes out for a walk/run. They told us to bring shoes and clothes with us for it. Not really knowing what to expect, we asked a few questions beforehand and found out that the run was more than we thought. And in fact, it seemed to keep getting longer the more questions we asked. It turns out it was a 6k race (3.6 miles)! We had already volunteered and gotten our race numbers. Hmmm.... Scott, Rachel, and Jim ran the 6k, and Kate, Leigh, Susan, and our Estonian friends walked a 4k walk. Did I mention it rained on us after we started? Apparently, only serious runners run the 6k, because we Americans were left in the dust (or rather, the clay mud). At home, we would be middle-of-the-pack runners, but here we weren't. Oh well; we were pleased with our times. The walkers had an amazing narrated tour of Aseri as they walked and really enjoyed it.
We came back to the church after the big athletic event for an evening service. It was a joy to see Pastor Viktor again. He had been in Finland for work this week and was just able to join us for the first time this evening. We sang together with the church, and several of us spoke -- Susan and Leigh gave their testimonies, and Scott preached. We fellowshipped and ate dinner at the church afterwards. It was a good evening.
We are now back at Camp Gideon and settled in for the night. It is cool and raining, so the covers will feel good tonight. Tomorrow we are doing a kids day at the church for the children of Aseri. Please pray for our day.
Good night from Estonia.
Jim and Rachel, for the team
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Finland
We have arrived safely in Helsinki, Finland. :) We have a 3 hour layover and then will head to Tallinn (arriving about 12:15pm -- that's 5:15am EST).
We're a little sleep deprived.
Not sure about internet in Estonia once we arrive, but we'll post pictures when possible.
Peace.
We're a little sleep deprived.
Not sure about internet in Estonia once we arrive, but we'll post pictures when possible.
Peace.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Tallinn Ho!
What a joy to head to Estonia! The team of 5 - Scott, Kate, Leigh, Jim, and Rachel are on their way!
We are sitting in the Knoxville airport currently ready for our journey. Kate almost had the peanut butter she was bringing as a gift (American PB was requested by some) conficated through the security - but they let her go back and recheck it. She is back with us now and all is well.
We are eating Cinnabon. :)
Peace to all. We'll continue to post as possible - here are a few prayer requests for now:
(1) safe travel
(2) the Estonians' hearts are prepared and there are no 'walls' to break down between the two cultures
(3) our preparation - spiritually, mentally, and physically
(4) great relationships established
(5) God's work to be done
Blessings,
Team Estonia
We are sitting in the Knoxville airport currently ready for our journey. Kate almost had the peanut butter she was bringing as a gift (American PB was requested by some) conficated through the security - but they let her go back and recheck it. She is back with us now and all is well.
We are eating Cinnabon. :)
Peace to all. We'll continue to post as possible - here are a few prayer requests for now:
(1) safe travel
(2) the Estonians' hearts are prepared and there are no 'walls' to break down between the two cultures
(3) our preparation - spiritually, mentally, and physically
(4) great relationships established
(5) God's work to be done
Blessings,
Team Estonia
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Pictures of Learning Center and Ceremony
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| The Learning Center - ready for the Opening |
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| Jim and the NEW doors - installed the evening before the opening |
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| The front entrance hall |
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| People at the ceremony - in one of the large classrooms |
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| The other classroom |
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| The mock hotel room that the residents will learn how to host people |
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| A hall that we saw from brick to this... it's nice! |
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| The dorm hallway (notice there are doors!!) |
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| Inside one of the dorm rooms |
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| Workers who have been working hard cleaned up and came to the ceremony |
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| Jim eating the AMAZING strawberries - why can't we grow them like this in the US?? |
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| Jim, Stancho, and Stani - posing for the picture |
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| The house parents for the Learning Center. From L to R - Hristo, Marianna, Katie, and Daniel. |
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| Katie and Rachel modeling in front of the stair rail (bars) they painted |
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| Rachel in the country side of Borovtsi (where the learning center is located) |
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| Jim in front of the lake near the learning center |
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Opening Day
Greetings from Sofia. Whew, it's been a long day - we got up early to head to the Center in Borovtsi to finish up before the opening ceremonies. It was complete chaos, with a large number of regular workers there on a Saturday. There were people going everywhere, doing MAJOR work up until the last minute, including sheetrock, door installation, tile, and painting. We worked way too long and then had to clean up all the mess as people were arriving. It's not even close to being finished, but it looked GREAT compared to when we arrived two weeks ago. Everything was neat and tidy and where it was supposed to be.
The ceremonies were great, starting with the handing over the keys from the architect to Judy, then a ribbon cutting, then a program inside upstairs in one of the classroom, then a tour, then a reception. We didn't count how many were there, but probably 75 or so, including one of the directors of Bulgarian Child, a member of the EU Parliament, the US ambassador, the local mayors, many of the workers, and many others who love the Ridgways and the project. These included the director of Berk 4, the lady who runs our hotel in Berkovitsa, and even the manager of the Baumax building supply store in Sofia. The presentations were long (over 2 hours), and many, many people spoke. It was a joyous day. The Lord's Name was lifted up. The four ladies from Atlanta put on a great reception afterwards with good food, including the wonderful strawberries that just started coming in this week.
We're very tired and have to leave for the airport in the morning at 5:30, so we'll sign off. Sorry we won't get pictures up tonight. Check back in a day or two.
Thanks for your prayers and thoughts.
Jim
The ceremonies were great, starting with the handing over the keys from the architect to Judy, then a ribbon cutting, then a program inside upstairs in one of the classroom, then a tour, then a reception. We didn't count how many were there, but probably 75 or so, including one of the directors of Bulgarian Child, a member of the EU Parliament, the US ambassador, the local mayors, many of the workers, and many others who love the Ridgways and the project. These included the director of Berk 4, the lady who runs our hotel in Berkovitsa, and even the manager of the Baumax building supply store in Sofia. The presentations were long (over 2 hours), and many, many people spoke. It was a joyous day. The Lord's Name was lifted up. The four ladies from Atlanta put on a great reception afterwards with good food, including the wonderful strawberries that just started coming in this week.
We're very tired and have to leave for the airport in the morning at 5:30, so we'll sign off. Sorry we won't get pictures up tonight. Check back in a day or two.
Thanks for your prayers and thoughts.
Jim
Friday, June 3, 2011
change of plans...
well... it's now 10:50pm and we are back at the hotel in Berkovitsa. We drove to Borovtsi and all power was out from the storm (with no idea when the power will be back). It was sort of cool... no lights except for flashlights... workers gathered together around the front door (that is now in!) and our group gathered together in the hall behind them... singing... praying...
although our plans have changed... we still give God the glory for all things. Judy seems to not be stressed out by the set back (we could have worked all night to get this place together) - but continue to keep her and Paul in your prayers for tomorrow - it's a big day for them.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow... we give Him the glory for the Center and for the work we do for it.
although some may not find too much praise in us getting up at the crack of dawn, we will continue to work and finish what we can. We will get to the center around 6am... the opening is at 11am (4am EST).
talk with you then... going to get a quick night's sleep.
Love to all,
rach
although our plans have changed... we still give God the glory for all things. Judy seems to not be stressed out by the set back (we could have worked all night to get this place together) - but continue to keep her and Paul in your prayers for tomorrow - it's a big day for them.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow... we give Him the glory for the Center and for the work we do for it.
although some may not find too much praise in us getting up at the crack of dawn, we will continue to work and finish what we can. We will get to the center around 6am... the opening is at 11am (4am EST).
talk with you then... going to get a quick night's sleep.
Love to all,
rach
a long night ahead...
We just have a quick moment to write...
We started this morning by leaving the hotel at 8am. We have painted, sanded, dusted, and done this and that all day. We got back to the hotel around 8pm and ate dinner that the hotel ladies cooked: lamb, red peppers, rice and liver, bread, and creme caramel. It was delious! At dinner the Holland European Union Parliamentarian ate with us. He is a Christian and supports Judy and Paul's ministries... it was quite the contrast though: he was wearing a suit and I was covered in paint (literally). Hmmmm.
We are now heading back to Borovtsi at 9pm. We will be there for a while I assume. There is a lot to do. It is no where near ready for the opening tomorrow, but we are all still going strong (well, a little tired).
It is storming outside... lightening and thundering. Nice to hear outside... but not good news for all the mud at the Center. We will talk with you later.
Blessings to all,
Rach (and Jim)
We started this morning by leaving the hotel at 8am. We have painted, sanded, dusted, and done this and that all day. We got back to the hotel around 8pm and ate dinner that the hotel ladies cooked: lamb, red peppers, rice and liver, bread, and creme caramel. It was delious! At dinner the Holland European Union Parliamentarian ate with us. He is a Christian and supports Judy and Paul's ministries... it was quite the contrast though: he was wearing a suit and I was covered in paint (literally). Hmmmm.
We are now heading back to Borovtsi at 9pm. We will be there for a while I assume. There is a lot to do. It is no where near ready for the opening tomorrow, but we are all still going strong (well, a little tired).
It is storming outside... lightening and thundering. Nice to hear outside... but not good news for all the mud at the Center. We will talk with you later.
Blessings to all,
Rach (and Jim)
Thursday, June 2, 2011
A Late Night
This will be a short post because it's well after midnight, and we're due at breakfast at 7:15 in the morning. We had a long evening of work, heading back to Berkovitsa for dinner, and then back to the Borovtsi center working until midnight. It was a crazy day of everyone pushing hard, but that meant people kept getting in each other's way. There's fast and furious painting, floor tiling, bathroom tiling, stair railing, drop ceiling installation, cleaning, and moving furniture. And I'm sure I've left something out! But still no classroom windows or front door - we're really hoping they arrive tomorrow. It's really shaping up.
We've heard some of the plans of the dedication ceremony on Saturday. Some of the honored guests that will be there are the Mayor of Borovtsi, the Mayor of Berkovitsa, the U.S. Ambassador to Bulgaria, and an EU Parliamentarian from the Netherlands. There will be several other visitors and guests as well. There will be flowers and food in addition to tours of the center. It's a milestone day.
Rachel and I did take the morning off and headed up to the old fortress at Balogradchik. There are amazing rock formations there, which the Romans took advantage of to build a fortress around in the first century. Various groups have used it over the centuries as well. It's a neat place.
Off to bed for the final push tomorrow....
Jim
We've heard some of the plans of the dedication ceremony on Saturday. Some of the honored guests that will be there are the Mayor of Borovtsi, the Mayor of Berkovitsa, the U.S. Ambassador to Bulgaria, and an EU Parliamentarian from the Netherlands. There will be several other visitors and guests as well. There will be flowers and food in addition to tours of the center. It's a milestone day.
Rachel and I did take the morning off and headed up to the old fortress at Balogradchik. There are amazing rock formations there, which the Romans took advantage of to build a fortress around in the first century. Various groups have used it over the centuries as well. It's a neat place.
Off to bed for the final push tomorrow....
Jim
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
The work continues...
Howdy after another long work day. It's been a good day - the weather has been very good and we have gotten a lot of things done. Things at the Learning Center are coming slowly but surely.
I know Judy is ready to see some progress... and she has seen great progress since last week and especially this week. We can understand her frustration with the work ethic here - they don't do things logically (and I say that not only from an American standpoint, but other European countries are not like this). The Bulgarians just don't do things the way you would expect - for example, if the workers need more nails, they won't tell anybody until there are 3 nails left and then, since the nearest store is at least 20 minutes away, they just sit around and smoke and think they don't have to do any more work until the nails get there an hour later. This happens with all supplies - even at the end of the work day so that the next morning they just sit and wait until someone tells them to do something else in the meantime and someone takes initiative to get the supplies. It's non-stop and never ceases to amaze the American mind.
And poor Judy, she got chewed out yesterday by one guy who was doing the tile. Judy and this guy had agreed on a price for him to lay tile, but he wanted more money and was rentless on it. Judy faces this day after day, week after week. She stood her ground, however, and the tile guys showed back up today. Please keep her and Paul in your prayers for holding on to where they stand.
On the positive side, the work is getting done - by Bulgarians, Americans, and Australians. Although the Center is looking good, we will admit that we missed having our cleaning crew there - Cindy, Midge, and Debbie - to clean today... we missed Brad helping lift the heavy furniture... we missed Skip, Jane, and Greg painting... we missed the Dutchmen laying the floor.
We have another wonderful crew here from America though - 4 ladies from Atlanta (and one of them is Jamaican). They just jumped right in and have picked up on the work.
The team from last week will be interested that a contractor got in most of the drop ceiling today in the dormitory hallway. They were fast and efficient, and it looks great. We'll get you a picture in a day or two.
We hope for another successful day tomorrow - we possibly foresee staying at the center really really really late to finish the big things. We'll see.
Blessings,
Rachel and Jim
I know Judy is ready to see some progress... and she has seen great progress since last week and especially this week. We can understand her frustration with the work ethic here - they don't do things logically (and I say that not only from an American standpoint, but other European countries are not like this). The Bulgarians just don't do things the way you would expect - for example, if the workers need more nails, they won't tell anybody until there are 3 nails left and then, since the nearest store is at least 20 minutes away, they just sit around and smoke and think they don't have to do any more work until the nails get there an hour later. This happens with all supplies - even at the end of the work day so that the next morning they just sit and wait until someone tells them to do something else in the meantime and someone takes initiative to get the supplies. It's non-stop and never ceases to amaze the American mind.
And poor Judy, she got chewed out yesterday by one guy who was doing the tile. Judy and this guy had agreed on a price for him to lay tile, but he wanted more money and was rentless on it. Judy faces this day after day, week after week. She stood her ground, however, and the tile guys showed back up today. Please keep her and Paul in your prayers for holding on to where they stand.
On the positive side, the work is getting done - by Bulgarians, Americans, and Australians. Although the Center is looking good, we will admit that we missed having our cleaning crew there - Cindy, Midge, and Debbie - to clean today... we missed Brad helping lift the heavy furniture... we missed Skip, Jane, and Greg painting... we missed the Dutchmen laying the floor.
We have another wonderful crew here from America though - 4 ladies from Atlanta (and one of them is Jamaican). They just jumped right in and have picked up on the work.
The team from last week will be interested that a contractor got in most of the drop ceiling today in the dormitory hallway. They were fast and efficient, and it looks great. We'll get you a picture in a day or two.
We hope for another successful day tomorrow - we possibly foresee staying at the center really really really late to finish the big things. We'll see.
Blessings,
Rachel and Jim
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Back in Berkovitsa
Dober Den!
Jim and I have successfully traveled on our own for the past several days. We visited Plovdiv, the second largest city in Bulgaria, on Sunday afternoon and Monday morning. What a beautiful and wonderful city! It is nothing like other parts of Bulgaria that we have visited. There are many ancient Roman ruins woven throughout the modern city - including a large amphitheater that is still in use today (they were setting up for a concert while we were sight-seeing). Plovdiv is a more sophicated place than the others we have been to, including the capital city Sofia. We managed to have a few good laughs while there - first we don't speak Bulgarian and their alphabet is Cyrllic. Jim can "read" words now, or as he says, "I feel like I'm in 1st grade again having to sound out all the words."
As we said, Plovdiv is a very nice city. On Monday we drove from there (central region of Bulgaria) back up to the northwest region we generally work in (where Berkovitsa and Borovtsi are located). We could see the difference of the regions of Bulgaria once we arrived back to this area. The northwest is where we have done majority of our work over the years (and all our work for the past week) is the poorest region in Bulgaria. There are many people that do not have work in the villages and towns we have worked in - something like 60-70% unemployment for some cities. It was a visible difference! Not that any region of Bulgaria is shy its potholes, but you can't help but hit potholes everywhere (you have to drive both sides of the road not to blow a tire).
It was good to see the difference in regions though - it gives perspective, whereas before we just go and do the work and accept it as it is. The people in Plovdiv also made remarks about the northwest region when they heard that's where we were going. "We make fun of those people."
We ended up back at the Learning Center in Borovtsi this afternoon and immediately began more work. You would not believe what has been accomplished since last Friday when we saw it last! Okay - don't get your hopes up, but for what we know about the work ethic of this place and what needs to be done... wow! For all the team that is back home now: the hallway in the first floor around the 'dorm' rooms has been painted!! Which means sheet rock was hung, wallboard mud was put on, sanding was done, and the first coat of paint!! The ceiling has not been started, but it looks good. Now, if we could only get the doors on. Also, the railing for the staircase is semi-in - all the bars are up! The classroom hall has tile, and its ceiling has been painted also. The green room has a second coat of paint. The foyer has sheet rock (still no doors though). There's been a lot done! But there's still a LOT to do... but, hey, that's what we're here for... right?
The ribbon cutting for the Learning Center is Saturday - so please continue to pray for safety of all those (including us) putting things together quickly.
We send love to all!
Blessings,
Rach
Jim and I have successfully traveled on our own for the past several days. We visited Plovdiv, the second largest city in Bulgaria, on Sunday afternoon and Monday morning. What a beautiful and wonderful city! It is nothing like other parts of Bulgaria that we have visited. There are many ancient Roman ruins woven throughout the modern city - including a large amphitheater that is still in use today (they were setting up for a concert while we were sight-seeing). Plovdiv is a more sophicated place than the others we have been to, including the capital city Sofia. We managed to have a few good laughs while there - first we don't speak Bulgarian and their alphabet is Cyrllic. Jim can "read" words now, or as he says, "I feel like I'm in 1st grade again having to sound out all the words."
I was the navigator though - and all I know is that I read words letter by letter: "The next street will look something like - 'Capital U with a tail' 'a' 'p' is the first word, and then 'the funny-looking lowercase b' 'o' 'p' 'backwards N' 'c' is the second word."
Pretty soon though I could pronounce that one - Tsar (or Czar) Boris. But finding the street signs! Oh! They are not good street marking people. And if they have a sign that points you in one direction, they don't really mean that it is on that particular road. But regardless of the language barrier, we found our way around - and needless to say, we appreciate all the interpreters that have helped us over the years with our groups! LOL!
As we said, Plovdiv is a very nice city. On Monday we drove from there (central region of Bulgaria) back up to the northwest region we generally work in (where Berkovitsa and Borovtsi are located). We could see the difference of the regions of Bulgaria once we arrived back to this area. The northwest is where we have done majority of our work over the years (and all our work for the past week) is the poorest region in Bulgaria. There are many people that do not have work in the villages and towns we have worked in - something like 60-70% unemployment for some cities. It was a visible difference! Not that any region of Bulgaria is shy its potholes, but you can't help but hit potholes everywhere (you have to drive both sides of the road not to blow a tire).
It was good to see the difference in regions though - it gives perspective, whereas before we just go and do the work and accept it as it is. The people in Plovdiv also made remarks about the northwest region when they heard that's where we were going. "We make fun of those people."Regardless of the stereotypes that bestow this region, we love the people and find great pleasure in being here. We stayed up in the mountains in a village named Vratsa last night and woke up this morning and went exploring. What beautiful mountain scenery!!! WOW!
We ended up back at the Learning Center in Borovtsi this afternoon and immediately began more work. You would not believe what has been accomplished since last Friday when we saw it last! Okay - don't get your hopes up, but for what we know about the work ethic of this place and what needs to be done... wow! For all the team that is back home now: the hallway in the first floor around the 'dorm' rooms has been painted!! Which means sheet rock was hung, wallboard mud was put on, sanding was done, and the first coat of paint!! The ceiling has not been started, but it looks good. Now, if we could only get the doors on. Also, the railing for the staircase is semi-in - all the bars are up! The classroom hall has tile, and its ceiling has been painted also. The green room has a second coat of paint. The foyer has sheet rock (still no doors though). There's been a lot done! But there's still a LOT to do... but, hey, that's what we're here for... right?
The ribbon cutting for the Learning Center is Saturday - so please continue to pray for safety of all those (including us) putting things together quickly.
We send love to all!
Blessings,
Rach
Monday, May 30, 2011
Pictures!
Greetings!
Jim and I (Rachel) are still in Bulgaria. We drove to a town named Plovdiv yesterday and today we will sight see. It has a lot of Roman ruins and some other interesting history. Below you will find pictures from the past several days. It has been so fun and we already miss the team. They made it home safely last night and I know that they are happy to be home. Ask one of them if you see them about their thoughts on the trip. It was such a good time. Here are some pictures from the Pizza Party with Berk 4 and pictures from the 1st Annual US/Borovtsi Festival! (Notice "annual" is thrown in there - so this means if you are reading this, you need to help in the 2nd annual festival - LOL!)
Keep watching the blog later this week for more updates on the Learning Center and the dedication ceremony on Saturday.
Ciao -
Rachel
PIZZA PARTY PICTURES
Jim and I (Rachel) are still in Bulgaria. We drove to a town named Plovdiv yesterday and today we will sight see. It has a lot of Roman ruins and some other interesting history. Below you will find pictures from the past several days. It has been so fun and we already miss the team. They made it home safely last night and I know that they are happy to be home. Ask one of them if you see them about their thoughts on the trip. It was such a good time. Here are some pictures from the Pizza Party with Berk 4 and pictures from the 1st Annual US/Borovtsi Festival! (Notice "annual" is thrown in there - so this means if you are reading this, you need to help in the 2nd annual festival - LOL!)
Keep watching the blog later this week for more updates on the Learning Center and the dedication ceremony on Saturday.
Ciao -
Rachel
PIZZA PARTY PICTURES
US/Borovtsi Festival
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| Presenting the mayor of Borovtsi with a gift bag |
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MAY 2009: BULGARIA
