February 2008 Team Letters and Photos
The Team has Arrived
Sunday, February 17
Dear Friends,
Thank you for your prayers and support that brought Keith, Bill and me safely to India. We have been here for two days now. We have spent this time adjusting to the time and climate change and getting to know each other better.
Daniel Victor, Co-director of Agape Rehabilitation Centre, was waiting to greet us at the Chennai airport late Friday night. It is always a joy to see a familiar face when the team comes out from customs. It was Keith's first experience of traveling through Indian traffic and his frequent phrase was "Fascinating!" Keith and Bill seem to have looks of joy and fascination on their faces all the time. We are all so glad to be here. Thank you for making it possible.
Avitha Victor met us at our hotel on Saturday morning to take us out for some shopping and to exchange US dollars for Indian rupees. It is interesting to see the juxtaposition of the poverty on the streets with the opulence of goods available within a multi-storied shopping center. As Bill and Keith shopped for Indian shirts, the owner of the store called Bill, "King of kings," as they searched for a shirt that would fit him. We know that the gentleman was referring to the size of shirt Bill wears, but there is only one "King of Kings." It is Jesus Christ in whose name we are here to serve.
The three of us were able to spend time together in the late afternoon, working on the children's program we will present in six villages associated with India Abundant Ministries. It is wonderful to work as a team, building on each other's talents and gifts to plan a program that we pray will glorify God.
Emmanuel Methodist Church
This morning, Daniel's sister, Beulah, met us at the hotel and took us to her church, Emmanuel Methodist Church, for worship. It was a joyful, spirit-filled worship. A special treat was their youth group led the praise and acclaimation with wonderful singing of several prayer songs. These were youth filled with the Holy Spirit, lifting their hands and voices to God in song and praise. Bill kept commenting, "What a treat this is!" And it was.
After worship
This afternoon we prepare to take the night train to spend the next six days with Pastor Isaac and the people of IAM. Please continue to hold the team, Bill, Keith and me, in your prayers. We pray for safe travel and that we will be servants and witnesses for Christ.
For the team, Bill, Keith and Donna
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