Around Albania

Within hours of arriving in Albania Dustin had an interview on Radio 7, sharing the purpose of our visit.  During our two week tour, we had quite a variety show with a full band, the UniShow, dancers, a clown and dramas.  We did 8 events in villages and city centers and were the first ever to perform in a prison outside Lushnje.  It was quite a security process to enter the prison but worth it to share freedom in God with the men inside.  It was such a hot day that the finish on one of the guitars blistered during the show.

We also were the first to do a show in the mountain town of Polican.  About a thousand people came and many indicated a decision to follow Jesus!  It was great to partner with an active team of local workers in this area.  They held a follow up event the next evening and had a great turn out of people interested in growing in their faith.

This 2nd tour in Albania was a great one.  We saw churches grow as a direct result of our events and we pray this fruit will last.  We had more opportunities than tour days so we hope to return next year for expanded outreaches.

It was a journey to Iraq

On our way to Iraq we made it as far as Istanbul on schedule but our connecting flight to Iraq was canceled.  Being "stuck" in Istanbul for 2 days turned out to be not such a bad thing.  Our friends from TACO graciously hosted us for 2 nights and we were able to plan and pray over our multiple tours with them this year.

Eventually we made it to Iraq and had 3 great shows between rain, wind and even hail that kept us watching the sky and praying hard.  This festival, organized by our friends from Egypt, was the largest outreach event Iraq has seen and it was a privilege to be part of it.  The festival was 3 days and offered a variety of "stations" including the UniShow, trick shot billiards, a strength team, drama, kids tent, the Better Life music group, and a large rally to wrap up each day.  God was obviously at work during this festival, drawing people to Himself and opening eyes to see Him for the first time.  Many told us Dustin's message was just what the audience needed to hear.

During our visit, we were able to make contact with local leaders and we hope to return later this year for more opportunities to share God's love!  Thanks for praying with us for growth and protection of the many seeds planted during this festival as well as for our future outreach there.