Thursday, July 30, 2009

Our Introduction to OM TeenStreet

After our traditional all-nighter of packing, we hit the airport again to head back to Europe. We flew from Minneapolis through Reykjavik, Iceland to Frankfurt, Germany, drove 2 hours to Offenburg where we are now, preparing for 8 days of an Operation Mobilization Youth Conference called TeenStreet. The students get here on Saturday so we have a day to prepare and get over jet lag before the real craze begins and the population increases by 3,500.

After we were dropped off with our luggage in the big empty convention center, it took us a while to find someone who was expecting us. Once we found the right people we were quickly welcomed and directed. We are all settled at our accommodations in cubical #21, set up back stage of the main hall. Should be an interesting and great week ahead!

We even had time today for a coffee break with some of the leaders who are camping on the grounds. We had cake and Dustin and I ate it in honor of my mother's birthday, today! Happy Birthday, Mom!

Saturday, July 25, 2009

Rapidly Rushing

We joined the YMCA, First Assembly and other churches in Rapid City SD for a community party at Star Village. The UniShow along with inflatables, face painting and free dinner drew many from the neighborhood. It was fun to partner again with our friend Shawn Hayford who works with the YMCA and runs the unicycle club.

We felt much spiritual opposition as Dustin shared the Gospel in this community known for strong gang presence. He had an unusually up front and personal audience with children spontaneously sharing the "stage" throughout the performance. In the toasty heat of this summer evening, many families heard the truth that we are all sinners in need of forgiveness that God freely offers to those who believe in Him.

Before heading home we decided to be tourists for a day and swing by Mt. Rushmore. We were struck all over again by the powerful history represented in this great and impressive monument. Pretty amazing stuff!