Grace Place Visit

We praise God for our ability to rescue 40 children in Cambodia. As Matt Carter tried to prepare me, you just don't know what gratitude feels like.

I was truly overwhelmed by their overt thankfulness. Even the GoTeam was overcome with emotion as we visited, then anguished as we left.

It was not our focus to remain with the Grace Place Battambang kids; but Kevin & Jill Kane as well as Kent & Becky Good arranged for us to visit. What a great morning of worship and fellowship!

Our missionary partners: do it right!

The reason I came was to encourage Kevin and Jill. Wooster Grace partners with people who not only verbalily ascent to our vision, but who also embody our vision.  Kevin and Jill are developing all people into fully devoted followers of Christ.

One such example is the relationships they build and the relationships they continue. While on a late night walk in Phnom Penh, Kevin discovered a tuk-tuk driver whom they had used when they were in language training years ago.  He left his usual spot in recent years because too many other drivers were crowding in his usual spot.

Here is a short video of Kevin with the man. I forgot his name. I'll ask Kevin to comment and give us his first name.

View the video on my Facebook page here. If you can't view it, then friend me so you can access video.

Grace Place Battambang Sun Aug 22

We arrived at the complex after the service had started. The children immediately stood up and swarmed our van. We could not get out.  We were greeted with the words of affection, "We love you daddy/mommy."

Each one wanted touched; hold hand, hug a shoulder, hug around the neck, eye contact with big smiles all around.  Each dark eyed child exuded amor (love).  Each face shone with love in smiles so large it would block out the sun.  Each person exemplified gratitude.

I was overwhelmed with emotion. I praise God for the rescue work we do in partnership with Asia's Hope.  We get to rescue children to save a country.

Sure, there are lots of obstacles to clear and challenges that on over the horizon. But we get to help them.

One of the older children recognized me from the photos we sent with Pastor Ivanildo at an earlier visit.  Immediately I was engulfed again by BB4 kids.  Then Yun Vannak found me. He welcomed me graciously and showed me the house.  I marvel at how well the older children help. I wonder how they take care of things. But I also know that the culture is a shared-life context. You help because you are part of the family.  That's what you do.

Overall, I am impressed with Yun Vannak and his wife. I thanked them for their sacrificial love and care for our kids.  I wept as I pondered the amazing potential of our children to change Cambodia. I look forward with prayer and godly expectation to the day as a strong Cambodian church emerges from the house of rescue to rescue other lost and orphaned ones all around Cambodia, Southeast Asia, and to the ends of the earth.

Orientation to the Culture Fri-Sat Aug 20-21

The Cambodian Team in Battambang conducted a short primer on Cambodia culture, then set out for us to experience as many aspects of the culture as we could. One to keep us awake and to get us adjusted to the time here in Cambodia; but also to get us informed about the people of the culture we get to serve at camp.

We ate a Cambodian breakfast, had a cold Nescafe cappuccino from a can, rode on the bamboo train, visited a buddhist temple where other killing field things occurred, ate lunch and dinner at restaurants in Battambang for foreigners, as well as met people in all those locations. We practiced our Khmer greetings. Many Cambodians greeted us with a sing-song "hellllllll-ooooo."  It was cute.

The experience of driving around in a van and seeing the multitudes of mosquito-like motos buzzing here and there on their way somewhere is something to see.  An even more up-close experience is riding on a moto around the streets of Battambang.

Still, the people are friendly. They smile big.  Yet it is like any cross-cultural experience--some get it and some don't.  I prayed that we would make movement towards getting it.  We wait to see how well we listen, observe, and learn.

Toul Sleng Thu Aug 19

Every person coming to Cambodia to serve the people here must tour this torture and extermination camp. The most chilling image for me is the small pile of actual skulls of deceased Cambodians on display. You can see on top of each one a hole the size of a 8 penny nail.  Pounding a nail in someone's head was a means of torture and eventual death.  Gruesome to say the least.

However, this place is memorialized.  I am told that Cambodians see this as something not to repeat. It is part of their past; but they hope it is not for their future.  The "Killing Fields" event in Cambodia is an atrocity where a people group killed their own people group.  To understand the vileness of this event, you must imagine Hitler killing only Germans rather than Jews.  Both are horrific.  But here in Cambodia the killing murdered thousands of their own people.  I meditated on this and will ask the Cambodia Ministry Partners how they lived through this as children.  I trust to gain a better understanding of Cambodian life and culture.

Yes, Toul Sleng is part of the recent past; but the historical past awaits me. Together with the team we will visit the Angor Wat temples in Northern Cambodia after the camp is over.

Sharing thoughts from tomorrow

It is Thu Aug 25 at 10am in Battambang, CAMBODIA.  I have not been able to get a decent internet connection. The TE.O Hotel has poor connectivity. Our team has also been busy with many projects and learning of Cambodian names.  Regardless, I will share several posts from my written journal from the time that I have been here; snippets really.

I will also try to upload a couple videos if I have time. Uploading videos is time-consuming.

Updates on Facebook

Because the internet is slow (256k modem slow)--yes, really--please follow me on my facebook page. I will not be able to update the blog with pics or video until I get access to better internet later.  Still, your prayers are making a difference.

Pray for Cambodian Ministry Partners who are traveling the next 6-8 hours to come to our First Aid and English Camp. Ask God for safe travels, no inadvertant delays, and a sense of purpose in coming to the camp.

Posted Sun Aug 22 at 6:30am

Stop over in Seoul

Just so you know I am in Seoul on my way to Cambodia

In Chicago to go on 14 hour flight to Seoul

I praise God for teammates. Our team is great. I get to go over with a team from Ashland GBC.

The team is so helpful.  Judy and Cindy are funny. Sunny and Joanna are good travelers.  Dave & Mary are easy-going partners.  I am so glad I get to experience this with them. 

This will be the longest trip via air in my life.  In a naive way, I look forward to it.  Others who have traveled this trek shared only negative thoughts--horrible flight; couldn't sleep; got dehydrated; or had a large individual on top of me.  Regardless, I go in the name of the Lord. 

Thanks for praying for me and the team.  It's been great so far.

I can't wait to see Kevin & Jill and Kent & Becky. 

Go into all the world

Wooster Grace values outreach. I get to go to Cambodia this time.  I praise God for a church that seeks to reach the world for Christ.

I also praise God for churches and individuals who partner together to serve our international staff.  I praise God for Pataskala GBC and the team from there who created, distributed, and compiled the English lessons for us. I thank God for Ashland GBC for mobilizing a team to teach first aid. I glorify God for Falene and Grace who get to go with us to teach English. I honor the Lord for Simon and Brandon who will join us from Orange County Grace (CA).  Together Everyone Achieves More--TEAM!

As I quickly jot a few things down, please pray for stamina in travels, safety where we go, strength to serve in the Lord, and unity despite the spiritual challenges (Eph 6:10-12).  Please also look out for my family as i am away.  In the words of Rodgers and Hammerstein, "so long, far well, auf wiedersehen, goodbye."  :)

Richardson Family leaves for SE Asia with Asia's Hope

Asia's Hope Missions Trip (July 21-Aug 6, 2010)
 
Wooster Grace seeks to reach out to the world with the love of Christ. Outreach is a primary ministry initiative.

You can read about the experiences of the Richardson family by following their blog.  Please leave a comment to encourage them as you read about what God is teaching them. 

They depart on Tue July 21 for about a 40-hour travel odyssey to arrive in Cambodia.  Ask God to give them stamina, great health, safety in traveling and return home challenged to greater service for the Lord.

Hello,
This is Stephanie Hawkins writing to you from Thailand. I came from Portugal and met up with the team in Cambodia during the first week of the trip.
Altogether I think that this has been a great trip! We have experienced many things that we had never imagined possible, the work God is doing in so many lives and have learned a lot about a rich and beautiful culture, and also about its dark side and how the devil works to lead the lords sheep astray.

Right now we are in Waing pa pao, we spent the day yesterday working on the fence surrounding the orphanage to protect the children, and painting their kitchen, which is an outdoor building with three walls and a roof. We used oven pans to roll our paint rollers on and bamboo stick to make the handles longer. We also organized some games for the kids with the help of our friend Fa the “mother” of the children at the Grow Home. And last night we gave them their sponsors boxes along with four14 t-shirts and bracelets.

Its amazing to see the joy of the Lords love shining on these childrens' faces, knowing that just 6 months ago their had no one to turn to and had never hear the words Jesus or I love you, let alone both in the same sentence.
Thanks for praying for us and these wonderful children of God.
Steph*

Go and do

The team has returned and is adjusting back to life in the United States, but there are still a couple posts for this blog that the team members wrote while on the trip. Here's Greg Wilson's perspective of the trip-

It’s Sunday morning here in Thailand as I write this and Saturday night for all of you back home. This is not the strangest thing I have become accustomed to out here, but it is strange. Nonetheless, you aren’t here to listen to me go on about matters temporal, so let’s begin.

We’re nearing the end of our adventures here in Southeast Asia and it becomes difficult to decide what to say, where do you begin? What do you put in? What do you leave out? Experience crowds upon other experiences and all deserve their own time. Yesterday I ate silkworms, last week I was surrounded by orphans in Battambang and wouldn’t have been able to type if I’d wanted to, by the time I reach home I’ll have been on seven different flights, I’ve eaten fried frog that tasted a lot like a Slim Jim, I’ve danced, worn shorts and flip-flops (anyone who really knows me will find that mental image funny), and basically been thrown headlong into a culture vastly different from my own.

And I’ve come to realize something out here, the furthest and longest I’ve ever been away from home, with an ocean between me and my native soil. I have realized what I thought I always knew, that the world is so much bigger than the little corner of it we call home and that God’s heart breaks for all of it. That sometimes we make decisions to go and see and do that seems, perhaps, headlong and reckless, at least for me who more often reads about something happening rather than being a part of it happening. That we go and do and act because that is what God wants us to do and if we have to cross an ocean to do His Will, then so be it. Only a few people who know me will get the full effect of this statement, but I say it anyway, I would not trade this experience for any number of books.
Greg Wilson


Gregory A. Wilson- Hailing from the dangerous, rough-and-tumble town of Millersburg and frequently found dealing out rough justice in the form of well-placed sarcasm and perfectly prepared bon mots, he exhibits as much flair for literary endeavors as he does for foolhardy plunges into exotic climes, bringing a much-needed sense of reckless courage to this motley band of travelers.

Hello Wooster!

                                                                                
Hello everyone:

Please pray for our team as they head home starting today. I got everyone checked on the plane and in relatively good health. Our big chief, RAD, is going to guide everyone home and we believe all will be well. This has been an outstanding trip. The team worked together well and we were blessed by the people we met. Thank you, Wooster Grace, for making it possible for us to come to the other side of the world to love and serve on behalf of our beautiful Messiah. Glory be to God!

Pastor Ivanildo C. Trindade
itrindade@woostergrace.org

Heading Home

Hello everyone,

It's about 1 a.m. here early Tuesday morning. The team just returned from the market and are getting some packing done. Some are already sleeping. Tomorrow afternoon the team flies back to the U.S. It will be a long and arduous process, so I am sure they will appreciate your prayers.

Today was the only day that was almost entirely dedicated to some sight seeing and shopping around the Chiang Mai area. It was a hot day but we all managed to survive. Sandy was much better today but Sarah was not able to join us on our tour today. She stayed back and rested at the hotel. She was with us the entire evening, though.

We visited a temple atop of a mountain in a area called Doi Suthep. People say that you haven't really come to Thailand until you visit this place. Along the way we saw the markings of spiritualism and a religion based on preforming merit in order to achieve a better live. My heart yearns for these people to be set free.

I have to turn in now. Thank you for your prayers!

Pastor Ivanildo C. Trindade
itrindade@woostergrace.org

Back in Chiang Mai

Hello everyone,

It's almost 1:30 a.m. here in Chiang Mai. We returned from Wiang Pa Pao today, a drive through some of the hottest weather we've experienced while here. Tonight we did some shopping at the Sunday market, after a program that lasted more than 2 hours, at the main campus of Asia's Hope -- in honor of Pastor Dave Atkins and his wife, Joyce.

Please pray for Cindy, who is still sick and pray for all the details of the trip back. We are definitely on the home stretch now. I know some people can't wait for that Big Mac...

We will write more when we are able to. In a few hours we will do our wrap up meeting at the top of a mountain area called Doi Suthep. It will be great!

Thanks for your prayers!

Pastor Ivanildo C. Trindade
itrindade@woostergrace.org

More Pictures

Pictures from July 3

Matt Yoder's Thoughts on Asia

                                                                             
Monday morning after having spent the night at Grace Place, we prepared an American breakfast for the kids. We made them pancakes and scrambled eggs. They loved it! What amazing children they are as a few of them had to be practically drug out of the kitchen for us to serve them because they had such a willingness to help. But this once it was our chance to serve them.

After breakfast we headed back to the hotel for a quick breather. Then we went out with the Kanes to a market which is their walmart and grocery store. You can buy everything from pigs feet and snake meat to clothes and make-up.

Monday night was our outreach which went very well. Despite having a sound system that desperately needed some TLC, it went fairly smoothly. The dances were awesome and I was told our skit was good. We were at first worried because one of the other dance teams performed a very similar skit. But, it’s all about planting seeds. I have heard that about 100 people raised their hands that prayed for Christ to come into their lives out of about 310 that were there.

-Matt Yoder

Matt Yoder's Bio - I'm 27 living in Massillon. I love God above all things. Second though, I love flying. I also like riding my motorcycle, a 1983 Honda Nighthawk. I am currently employed at Preferred Airparts in Kidron. Another hobby I have is fish keeping. I have a 75 gallon freshwater tank.

Todd Cooper's Thoughts on Asia

                                                                             
Hello from Grace Place, Thailand! We left Chiang Mi today to come out to the orphanage. It was a great trip as we drove into the mountains. The land is much more vegetated than Cambodia was. It is beautiful here! We are sleeping up here tonight, the girls in the house and the guys get to sleep in a newly built “Bamboo Hilton”, as named by several members of the team. We set up mosquito nets over beds once we got here, and shortly after, the local people fixed those nets. Ha ha. Today was a work day and it felt good to get dirty and painted up. Some of the group worked on the fencing area, which included clearing trees the old school way: axes, saws, and machetes. The other members of the group spent the afternoon painting. An entire coat of primer was put down, which was a lot.

I am very encouraged by our group. I am impressed that it’s been over a week now that we’ve been gone, there has been a lot of travelling and late nights, along with sicknesses and exhaustion, and today we did some manual labor, all the while keeping a good attitude! The group is a great group. Your prayers have really helped with all of us keeping our patience with our purpose and with our teammates, we thank you so much for that.

They fattened RAD up and fed him to us tonight. I know that sounds bad, but it’s not! The people here have a pig that they named RAD, and they prepared it for us for dinner. It was very good. The people in Thailand have a real talent for cooking. The spices are delicious! We haven’t had much of the spicy food though. They’ve fed us American hot style of food. Everyone is still enjoying it. I haven’t heard any complaints about the food.

Again, we thank you for all your prayers! We miss you all. God bless.
Todd
PS. A special hello to Steph! I miss you very much!

Todd's Bio: I was born and raised here in Wooster. I'm 26 years old and graduated from Waynedale High School. In high school I played baseball and still enjoy a hobby of church softball, including playing for four14 this year. After high school I attended and graduated from Ohio Northern University. I have a bachelor’s degree from there for Technological Studies and am using that degree in my job at TechniGraphics. I also have a diploma of Christian Studies from Ashland Seminary. I really enjoy theology and enjoy sharing my thoughts and investing in people. I don't go to Wooster Grace Brethren, but instead I go to a small church in Fredericksburg. I volunteer there with the youth and help coach the softball team. I heard about the trip at four14. I am a regular at four14 and am involved as a life group leader and sometimes help out as a photographer. Photography is another hobby of mine and I hope to bring back some great photo's from the trip!

Sarah Judy's Thoughts on Asia

Today is July 2nd Friday. I’m Sarah and here is some info on what we did today. Last night was the first night we stayed in the Grace Place orphanage in Thailand. The guys slept in the “Bamboo Hilton” and us ladies slept in the orphanage. We were served some amazing breakfast by the widows living here. Our main plans for the day were to go to the Mae Rim Youth Prison for a youth outreach. I think a lot of us weren’t quite sure what to expect since most of our other visits were with people who believed in God. It was a tough experience on my part because most of the youth there did not care that we were there. They goofed off, talked, and screamed the whole time, which was difficult for me to understand. I actually felt foreign in this place because I had no idea what they were saying or what they thought about what I said. We performed the Lifehouse skit for them and they mostly cheered when we brought out the sins in the skit including drugs, alcohol, money, and weapons. The main thing was that the seed of God was planted and if even one young adult was saved then it was worth it.

After the youth detention center and eating we went to the Huaypong Lahu tribal village. Wow talk about being out in the middle of nowhere. We were deep in the mountains and the village was mainly made of bamboo houses. They do not have many luxuries like we do in America. There was one man there who grew up Buddhist and decided to turn to God because he had no money to feed the pigs and provide for his family. He shared with us some of the songs he plays and shared his story with us. It was neat to see how the tribal people live. It made me appreciate all I have and how easy life really is for us in America. I certainly miss a good toilet and shower . Last note of business – today is my cousin Heather’s 30th birthday and I wanted to wish her a very very happy birthday since I cannot be there to call her like I usually do! God bless all!

Sarah Judy's Bio - I recently moved to Wooster, OH for a job opportunity at Wooster Orthopedic and Sports Medicine as a Physical Therapist. I grew up in Oregon, OH just outside of Toledo, OH. I graduated in May 2009 from the University of Toledo with my degree in Physical Therapy. I started coming to Grace Brethren Church about November 2009 when I first attended the young adult group Four14. Since this time, Grace has become my home and I cannot imagine my life without being a part of this church. There are so many opportunities and events that I have been blessed to attend, which were new and a growing experience for me. Going on a mission trip is something I have never done, nor thought of doing until the past year. I’m excited and very nervous at the same time for the Asia mission trip that I will be attending in June. It will be a challenging experience that will test me mentally, spiritually, and physically. I will only get through this with the help of the Lord. I ask for all of you to please pray for a safe journey for myself and the team both across seas and within Southeast Asia. I ask that you pray for good health and confidence as this does make me nervous, but I know the Lord will protect us all. And lastly, pray that I will hear and follow His guidance so that I may serve the individuals and children in the areas we visit.

Thank you all. I love you and God bless!

Keith Hannah's and Stretcher's Thoughts on Asia

                                                                                     Jim ("Stretch") Rhea

Keith ("Howie") Hannahs

Greetings from Stretch and Howie! This morning we are sitting at the pavilion at the Imm Eco Inn in Chiang Mi waiting for the pickup truck that is going to take us to the Grace orphanage in Waing Pa Pao, which is 1.5 hours away. We very much miss the orphans and the ministry at the Grace Place in Battambang Cambodia. The orphans were very loving and expressing their affection towards us and it is hard to leave that. It seems that each of the members of our group bonded with at least one specific orphan at the orphanage. We are encouraged about how the last outreach event went that was directed towards college aged students. There were not many there, but out of the few that were there, several expressed deep gratitude toward what we had done. On the plane rides from Cambodia to Thailand, we celebrated Howie’s birthday! There was a cake waiting for him at dinner here at the hotel and he was sung happy birthday to a couple times. Last night we visited the GROW home with Faa. The children were full of energy. We worshipped with them. First Faa sang some songs that she does routinely with the kids, then Matt took over and we taught the kids some new songs. We’ve never eaten so much until we came to Thailand! We ate before the plane, on the plane, on the next plane, at the hotel, and then at the G.R.O.W. home with Faa! It was a lot, but it was amazing! Well, it looks like our truck has arrived to take us to the orphanage! Thank everyone for all their prayers and continued support for us on our trip.

Stretch and Howie

Bios:

Keith Hannahs- I currently live and work in Mansfield. I am engaged to Amber Williams. I grew up in Holmes County and graduated from West Holmes. I have been on several trips with four14. I have been attending four14 going on eight years.

Jim Rhea. aka "Stretch"- Ohio native, living in rural Bellville area. Vocation: Lexington Schools, transportation dept. Avocation: ministry located where the "fish" are! i.e. youth and young adult. Interests include hiking, motorcycling, and God's magnificent creation. Also travel with purpose.

Andy McGinnis' Thoughts on Asia

                                                                               
Hi, my name is Andy McGinnis. The best way to describe myself is to tell you one of my favorite jokes of all time. Q: What is green and fuzzy and if it fell out of a tree, it would hurt you? A: A pool table! Yes, a corny joke from a corny guy. That is just the way God made me. I love life and want to enjoy everything that God has given me. And if I can share that joy with someone else and make them smile then all the better. I was born, adopted, and raised here in Wooster, Ohio. Even though I have spend most of my life here in Wayne County, I have had the privilege to travel all over the world visiting 5 of the 7 continents so far and working side by side God’s people as we share the good news of the Gospel.

Besides traveling, I enjoy camping and hiking, drawing, music that I dance badly to, and Reese’s Pieces. I am a Cleveland Indians fanatic, a fan of James Bond, and the caretaker of a goat named Chewbacca. I love working with youth and young adults, and I feel that is where my calling into full-time ministry lies. I truly appreciate all of the prayers and support people are already giving us as we prepare for our trip this summer. Thank you so much and God bless.

I dunno about you, but the shower can be a place of worship. Back home I love to sing in the shower. Lord, I lift Your name on High, Little Cabin in the Woods, Amazing Grace, and even Ace of Base have come from my bathroom from time to time. (Yes I saw the sign!) Today in Tutu’s Parents house here in northern Thailand I had another moment of worship. They had gracious let me use their only shower to rinse off and I had just finished up when the radio that was on in the kitchen caught my ear. A familiar tune wafted through the door. While the lyrics were in Thai, the melody was instantly recognizable. “Jesus Paid it All, all to Him I owe…” I sang along as I gathered my things and opened the door. Outside the ladies were preparing the meal for tonight. They too were singing along to the radio in their native Thai. I immediately joined in the chorus of Praise to the King. Oh what a picture of the church. Different Languages but Unified under the same faith. Praise God from letting come half way around the world just to take a shower.

Andy's Bio:

Hi, my name is Andy McGinnis. The best way to describe myself is to tell you one of my favorite jokes of all time. Q: What is green and fuzzy and if it fell out of a tree, it would hurt you? A: A pool table! Yes, a corny joke from a corny guy. That is just the way God made me. I love life and want to enjoy everything that g9od has given me. And if I can share that joy with someone else and make them smile then all the better. I was born, adopted, and raised here in Wooster, Ohio. Even though I have spend most of my life here in Wayne County, I have had the privilege to travel all over the world visiting 5 of the 7 continents so far and working side by side God’s people as we share the good news of the Gospel. Besides traveling, I enjoy camping and hiking, drawing, music that I dance badly to, and Reese’s Pieces. I am a Cleveland Indians fanatic, a fan of James Bond, and the caretaker of a goat named Chewbacca. I love working with youth and young adults, and I feel that is where my calling into full-time ministry lies. I truly appreciate all of the prayers and support people are already giving us as we prepare for our trip this summer. Thank you so much and God bless.

We are alive and well... most of us!

Hey everyone:

Finally able to connect to the Internet again. We've been busy in Wiang Pa Pao. Today we should finish painting the kitchen and we are continuing to work on the fence around the property. We are tired but overall in good spirits. Sandy is under the weather so please pray for her.

Yesterday we went back to Chiang Mai for the outreach at the Youth jail. There must have been 400+ young men and about 25 girls there between the ages of 15-20. It was hot, noisy and completely outside our comfort zone, but we delivered the message of the gospel in several different ways. The drama was a big hit with them and they applauded when Jesus overcame all the people who were trying hard to lead a young woman astray. The director of the place turned to the pastor who was helping us and gave thumbs up. He said this is exactly what the young people needed. What a blessing to be a part of that yesterday. Though it was nothing anything we had experienced before or will henceforth, we believe that they paid attention to the message and for some they heard it for the first time. Praise God.

We will have some more posts here a little later.

Thank you for your prayers. Please keep them coming. We are in the home stretch now but this is the time when the enemy will try to attack us for sure and we are already experienced it. Thank you.

Pastor Ivanildo C. Trindade
itrindade@woostergrace.org

In Wiang Pa Pao

Hello everyone:

Just a quick note to let everyone know that we are in Wiang Pa Pao, northern Thailand, where Grace Place is. Today was a full day of hard manual labor as well as interaction with the children. Oh how lovely they are and how blessed we are to be loved by them! We had a wonderful worship time with the children tonight and we ourseves taught them a couple of songs. They recited about a dozen Bible verses together, all in unison. What an outstanding work these leaders are doing with the children. We are blessed to have this caliber of leadership here.

And before I forget, everyone seems to be doing well. No one complained of bein sick today and everyone worked very hard today. We praise God for that. Please keep praying for us!\More later.

It's past 11:30 p.m. here and we have an early start tomorrow morning.

Pastor Ivanildo C. Trindade
itrindade@woostergrace.org

Matt Carter shares his Asia thoughts . . .

Matt Carter- I have been on staff at Wooster Grace for the last 3.5 years as Director of Contemporary Worship and as four14’s worship leader. I’ve been married to Sarah for 3 years. We love being a part of this church – worshipping, fellowshipping, and serving in this amazing community. We’ve been a part of an amazing small group for the last 3 years as well. We love all of the amazing opportunities this church holds for those who want to experience and worship God in powerful ways. I’m so excited to see His work in SE Asia first hand. I can’t wait to see the love of Christ expressed through the least of these – orphans, poor, and hungry alike. It’s so exciting to be a part of this church!


"Life and Death and bittersweet departure

It’s a bittersweet morning as we sit in the Phnom Penh airport. We have said goodbye to friends we will miss very much, but we are embarking on the next leg of our adventure in Thailand where we will meet new friends.

I wanted to reflect on the emotional contrasts that our team has experienced in the last 2 days… a stark contrast between life and death… good and evil. The grace place kids are full of life! The people who are doing God’s work here are spreading the GOODness of God all over this country. It is such an emotional high to just be around them. The smiles… the laughter… the hugs… even healthy tears.

Then, we experienced the horrors of the Tuol Sleng prison museum and the Killing Fields genocide memorial. The EVIL of the Khmer Rouge brought nothing but death… and it came to many. It’s hard to believe what the sin nature is capable of apart from God. Listening to stories of a real survivor of the prison touched our hearts deeply. Our team was silent as we walked through the killing fields and learned of more evil and death.

The same country, but yet 2 completely different stories. Both are testament to the absolute necessity for the presence of God’s love. The missionaries, Asia’s hope staff, and kids are shining beacons of life and goodness in a country that is still recovering from a past of evil and death. Praise the Lord that God has positioned these people here. His

light is shining through the darkness of the past! It is humbling to see and I’m so glad I stood witness to it! Thank you for your prayers! God is at work in Cambodia! Now on to Thailand!

-Matt Carter "

It's a new season of blogging!

We have finally rolled into some consistent wifi, for tonight at least, and one of the things I've wanted to do since leaving Ohio is give you a chance to hear the hearts and impressions of some of the team members. All that to say, I'm going to try and feature a few of the blog entries that have been written, not all necessarily apply to the day they are being posted, but are touching and insightful, none the less.

Each entry is introduced with a picture and a short bio of the person doing the blogging, so here's hoping you enjoy the chance to see Asia from many different eyes.

Thankful to be representing Jesus and our church in the lives of His precious ones,
RAD

Steven Starkey- I have been attending Grace Brethren Church for about five years now. Just last year I was baptized and became a member of the church. I am involved in the young adult group four 14, as well as an active member of the worship band. I greatly enjoy being a part of this church and all the opportunities through it to grow spiritually and opportunities to connect with people and help others around the world and in the community. I recently graduated from the Ohio State University ATI campus with an Associate’s degree in Environmental Resource Management. My ideal career is to work in a water treatment facility as a lab technician. In my free time I enjoy restoring vehicles, singing, playing guitar, camping, sports, paintballing, and being around the ones I love. I’m thankful to be a part of this team and excited to see what God has planned for us and those we meet in Asia. - Steven

Lindsay Doerr¬- I am 18 years old and have just recently graduated Wooster High School. This is my first time traveling over seas and out of the country. Throughout my life, I have been on many missions’ trips to different parts of the United States. I have traveled to New York, Texas, New Orleans, San Francisco, and Philadelphia. I have worked with homeless people and inner city children but never with orphans. I live with my mom Deb, my dad, Bob, and my older brother, Austin. I enjoy singing, playing tennis, and spending time with my friends. I plan on attending Indiana Wesleyan University next fall to major in elementary education. I feel blessed to have been given the opportunity to travel to Asia to help the least of these. Some of my fears concerning this trip are the long plane ride and travel time, the heat and fatigue, and the health of our team. I hope that through this trip and even after I will learn to trust God, and grow in my relationship with him. - Lindsay


"Today is Sundsy, June 27th, and all of the orphan homes gathered together for church under the pavilion built by team Hope. Different groups of children from the orphanage preformed their songs and dances for everyone, John McCollun gave the message, and our very own four14 band preformed. After church we made a quick stop at the hotel and then enjoyed lunch sitting on the ground with the children. After lunch we had the whole day to spend with the children. We learned to count to 100 in Khmer twice, we played some old fashion futbol, we taught them songs and dances with Matt and Steve on the guitar, and we loved and hugged on them until the sun went down. After another dinner at the Cold Night restaurant, with the family style meal, and the delicious chicken skewers, we headed back to spend the night at Grace Place. When we arrived at Grace Place, each of our three pastors had a part in leading us in communion with the children. We had a love feast, washed every child’s feet in the orphanage, and took the bread and the cup. Finally, the fun began when we brought out all of the boxes of blessing that had been carefully handled all the way from America to each child. We each read their names and took a picture of their happy moment. After everyone had received their gift, we counted to three and it was Christmas morning. The children were overjoyed to receive their box and gifts from their beloved family in America. Until it was time to turn in for bed, the children were playing and examining every gift they had received in their box. After the chaos had subsided, it was time to turn in for bed. Some of us even chose to stay at the orphanage sleeping right with the children. We didn’t get much sleep, but it was an experience of a lifetime. Now we are preparing an American breakfast from the children and are preparing ourselves to say goodbye to these children we have come to love so dearly. Well it’s breakfast time, thank you for your prayers, and we can’t wait to see you back in Wooster.

Steve Starkey and Lindsay Doerr"

In Bangkok

We are sitting at the gate at Bangkok International Airport, waiting on our flight to Chiang Mai. The flight from Phhom Penh here was only 45 minutes long and they served us a full meal. It was so fast, I couldn't even finish it.

Heidi is under the weather. She feels like she has the flu. Please pray for her. Everyone else is in good shape, though I have to admit that the team is really tired and for good reason because we have been running a tough schedue. Please pray that everyone will be able to recuperate their energy in the next 24 hours.

We got some wonderful reports from the outreach in Battambang. More later. They are calling our flight right now.

Pastor Ivanildo C. Trindade
itrindade@woostergrace.org

Good-bye Cambodia

Hey everyone,

I am turning in. Got get up at 6 a.m. tomorrow. Melissa arrived safely and joined us in all the proceedings today. We had a great opportunity to share Christ with some university students last night. It was outstanding. I know of at least one person who came to Christ at the outreach. More later. I am falling asleep. We fly to Chiang Mai tomorrow morning.

Everybody is well. Very tired but well. Thanks for your prayers!

Pastor Ivanildo C. Trindade
itrindade@woostergrace.org

A Dream is Born

Hey everyone:

I am at the PP airport now. Melissa's flight was delayed leaving LA so she did not make her connection. However, I have confirmed that she is on a flight with a different airline that arrives at 11:35 a.m. local time, so all is well. Praise God that she was able to get on a different flight being at an international airport overseas...

                                                                          
I just spoke with RAD and the team is about half an hour away from PP. They did manage to rise early and according to RAD all is well. They will have a treat this morning, as they will have lunch at a shopping center that has Kentucky Fried Chicken as well as "Lucky Burger," the McDonald's of Kampuchea.

                                                                          
I don't know when I will have a chance to say this again but I have been very impressed with how well this Four 14 team has worked together. Everyone, without exception, has been so cooperative, so willing to help, so intent on being a blessing to each other and especially to the people we meet and have the chance to serve in the Name of Jesus.

                                                                            
I must also say that Kevin and Jill Kane have been a HUGE blessing to our team. I don't know what we would have done without their logistical and cultural expertise, as well as their "get it done" attitude. During dinner on Sunday, the leader of the Grace Brethren team here in Cambodia ask to speak to thank our team for coming to Cambodia and loving the Cambodian people. Kent Good then made a point of thanking us for sending the Kanes to Cambodia. He said that they are outstanding missionaries for their ability to relate and love the people and their expertise of the culture.

In fact, when Jill was delayed coming to dinner yesterday, I overheard Kent's wife, Becky, say, "Oh, don't worry, she is probably leading someone to the Lord." In fact, I was so happy last night at the outreach to see all the students from Jill's English class show up. Jill was standing outside, as some of her students were too shy to come in without seeing her, and she was counting how many were coming. She stopped counting at 28 because they kept coming. Jill has more than 70 students, which she teaches for free, and she filled an entire side of the auditorium and some on the other side with them. What a beautiful example of passion for those who are outside of Christ that is. I was blessed to witness it!

Pastor Dave and I were standing on the back as we took in with delight what was going on during the outreach. We both remember the early days when he used to do outreaches in restaurants, similar to the ones we did yesterday. Back then, we were the show. Last night we realized that our kids from the homes ARE the show. They presented music and skits, their own band led worship and we played a supporting role. Seeing this filled our hearts with joy. It is as if the dream of seeing outstanding Cambodian people leading their own country to Christ is within grasp. I have no doubt whatsoever that many of the very children who were presenting last night and their friends who were sitting all across the auditorium, will one day become missionaries, evangelists, business leaders and outstanding leaders in their country. And it all started because God first planted a seed in Pastor Dave's heart, then a few other people dared to join in to make this dream come to.

And it is a good dream, one that we wish not to wake up from. All glory to Jesus!

Pastor Ivanildo C. Trindade
itrindade@woostergrace.org

A Night to Remember

It's 4:30 a.m. here in Cambodia. I am writing this from my hotel room in Phnom Penh. I took a taxi after the outreach in Battambang tonight because I need to pick up Melissa Lemon, the last member of our team, at the airport in a few hours. The outreach in BB was a tremendous success. The team did a terrific job with the music and the skit and Pastor RAD delivered a good message about Esther and how we need to be decisive in our lives. He gave the gospel clearly. It was a wonderful evening. I left right as the food and fellowship part was starting but I heard that it was great. At the end our team took all of our children and staff to get ice cream in BB. There everyone said their good-byes and I am sure it was hard. How can we ever forget these children?

So I got in the taxi and we drove through rain. I was completely at peace, though, and I know the reason was that people were praying. I arrived about four and a half hours later, had a little trouble finding our hotel through the dark streets of Phnom Penh, ran to the lobby and asked the question: "Why are you not watching the World Cup?" Turns out Brazil was playing Chile and since I still have my watch set to Ohio time, I thought the game was starting at that time. Well, the answer made my heart sink, "The cable is broken?" I asked if there was another hotel where I could watch it. He said that it was the same all over the city. I didn't believe it. I took a motorbike taxi and rode to a place where there was a big screen. Sure enough, they were showing the game and I got to watch Brazil beat Chile 3 X 0 with literally everyone in the outside area of a huge restaurant rooting for Brazil. When I told them I was from Brazil, everyone wanted to come and talked to me. It was unbelievable.

Please pray for the team, they will get on the road in about an hour and a half to return to PP.

Thanks for your prayers! 

V.I.P's

I wanted to post some pictures from our first day in Battambang. Three or our children had Birthdays on June, so we celebrated with them. Also, they served dinner for us that night, fried noodle, or fried "ivanoodle" as someone said. I have heard more than one team member say that they will have to exercise after they get back to Wooster. Not because we are eating any unhealthy foods, but because we are well fed and frequently. I am ashamed to say but we feel like the most V.I.P. of all V.I.P.s anywhere because of the amount of love that is constantly poured on us. After dinner, we had fun dancing with the children. The sound system was there and the kmai music was blaring. Andy got the prize for staying at the "dance floor" the longest and Jill by far had the best moves. We laughed and perspired together a lot but it was all for a good cause. The children were so happy and it made us happy too.  It's now mid-Monday here, everyone who stayed at "Grace Place" last night fared well and this morning we had a fabulous time cooking breakfast to over 70 people -- eggs, pancakes and bread with butter and jam. We all sat on the floor and had some wonderful fellowship. Pictures will follow. Everyone is feeling better today, but please keep praying for our health and effectiveness. Our team is working well together. By the time you will up we will probably be done with the outreach for students here in Battambang. Please pray for effective follow up. They are expecting at least 300 people. More later. Much love from all of us and please keep the comments coming... they are a great refreshment to all of us.

Pastor Ivanildo C. Trindade
itrindade@woostergrace.org