One Foot In Front of the Other

We are in Siem Reap now, land of the famous Angkor Wat and other millennial temples. The team is now visiting some of these famous sights and I am here at the hotel fighting the proverbial battle with the Internet. Last night I tried to connect but the Internet at our hotel was not cooperating. I fell asleep with my computer still on and woke up at 4:00 a.m. to get stuff ready for our departure at 5:00. We arrived in SR at about 8:30 today.

I decided to stay back because I have been to Angkor Wat several times and also because I wanted to post some pictures on the blog. Kevin Kane, who came on the bus with us, is also here in the hotel. But my frustration with posting pictures continues, as the connection is too slow and I keep getting bumped offline. My apologies. In the end, when it is all said and done, I may be able to post a handful of pictures.

Highlights from yesterday:

All the girls at Grace Place, Battambang, got a hair  and nail treatment yesterday. They all looked so pretty with their beautiful black hair washed, and done up nicely as Holly and Juana worked hard to help all the girls through the process in about an hour and a half. The guys played soccer with the boys at the hottest times of the day, a project coordinated by Jason and Adam, and other team members helped recreational stuff. I was amazed at the speed with which a couple of the boys put together a puzzle with the map of the United States. Later we all helped the children tie-dye a white t-shirt that had been provided to them by the church. RAD came up with the idea and it was a blast. Even some of the staff members participated.

Mike coordinated the breakfast. We wanted to give the children a taste of a "typical" American breakfast -- milk and cereal. I think it is fair to say that the young children endured it and the older ones, after sitting politely and trying it, were finally discreetly given permission to quietly leave for the kitchen carrying their bowls with them. The wife of the director commented to me that she missed pancakes, which we made for them last year but decided against it this time around because it took to get everything ready on one stove only. Oh well, we may need to go back to pancakes and eggs next time around...

Josh's concert. What a blessing that was for our team to be able to put together this concert. It was totally cool to see how Jill's students responded to Josh. This is an English class that Jill has been teaching for about three years now and there must have been over 100 students there. They all heard the gospel clearly presented to them. It was great to have Faa give her testimony, in Thai, with the able translation to Kmai by a remarkable young lady by the name of Pheakday. You could say we heard the same sermon twice but have no idea what the speaker was saying. I guess Faa is going to have to work on improving that testimony now... ha, ha. As someone has aptly said, "We are all ignorant, only on  different subjects."

I know other team members will write about this, but what can I say about dancing with the children and staff last night -- total joy and exhilaration followed by one giant sound of sadness at the end when we said good-byes... nothing can possibly prepare us for what we lived with those kids last night. Unforgettable. And I have been doing this for a while. There is nothing more piercing to your heart than to hear one of these children with tears on their eyes saying, "I don't think you will ever come back again." Those who have experienced rejection the most are the ones who suspect the most that they will be abandoned again. And herein lies another reason we must continue coming back to see our children.

I will never forget lifting some of the small children who come hugging you to say good-bye, and almost by accident hearing their little hearts beating at an accelerated rate. It is the most vivid picture of the tenderness and precariousness of this moment.

We joined hands together, prayed, but in the end, we simply must put one leg in front of the other, and ignoring the tears and sobs, you take our seat on the bus, try to keep smiling, and send love back to them until they are no longer in sight. I am choking up just thinking about that moment right now.

But don't think that this is a gloom and doom moment, please. We also remember many of the smiles on the faces of children and staff, and a quiet assurance that they are in good hands. And those hand are big enough to hold the universe in place.

Thanks for your prayers,

Pastor Ivanildo C. Trindade

itrindade@woostergrace.org

Fighting Dogs and Other Surprise Happenings

Hello everyone,

Woke up after 2:00 a.m. after three hours of sleep to do some blogging -- my intention was to upload a bunch of pictures here as I know some of you are dying to see pictures of the children. Sorry, the pace has been so hectic and with us being short one person who shared the blogging chores we have had no time to spare... But as I stuck my card into the netbook, I was shocked to discover that all my pictures from this trip have apparently been deleted. I have no idea what happened and am still in shock. My theory is that someone let one of the children use my camera and perhaps the pictures were erased by mistake -- several of our people let the children use their cameras. I don't normally do that, but I have had a couple of other team members use my camera so I have not been in control of it at all times because of all my other responsibilities.

So, my apologies to all of you picture seekers. It will have to wait until I get someone else's card and we find the time to do it.

Most of our team is spending the night at Grace Place, Battambang, today. The children could hardly hide their pleasure at the thought that some of us would be sleeping there. In a few hours, we will be serving them American-style breakfast -- cereal with milk. Our director told me last night that they never had this before. We are excited!

I can't begin to explain the emotions of the last couple of days. We try to prepare our teams to what is going to happen when the children smolder us with their love and compassion but we can never do an adequate job of it. One of our team members summed it up: "I thought I was coming here to give, but have realized that God wanted me to receive." We understand the words of the Scriptures more fully now when it says "it is better to give them to receive." We have seen the eyes of these precious when they give so fully out of the apparently endless fountain of joy that God has abundantly supplied them with.

Some of the side stories from our trip include but are not limited to:

Harlene and Juana got to sit by a man who lived through the horrors of the Khmer Rouge and somehow managed to escape, received refugee status and ended up in the United States. Recently, he discovered he still have relatives in Cambodia, so he was coming back for the first time since the mid 70's to be reunited with them. This man does not speak Kmai though he is Cambodian by birth. He lives in Columbus, OH, which will give us the opportunity to follow up with him later.

Pastor Ivanildo sat by a man who was coming to Cambodia to take his wife back to the United States with him. This man lives in Rochester, MN, and he is Cambodia. He was here last year to start the process of getting married to this lady he never met before -- they are both in their 30's. When I mentioned to him the words "Jesus Christ," he had no idea what I was talking about. He said he never heard of him. I just pray that this couple, and especially the young Cambodian woman who is about to enter into the frigid, far-away land of Minnesotta, will find a special lover of Jesus for a friend, who will help ease the pain of transitioning to a radically different culture, and in the process bring them to the knowledge of this beautiful Messiah we love so much.

I must close now and perhaps go back to sleep -- if I can somehow forget about my pictures... The worst part is not having someone I can share this with right now. The team is, hopefully, sound asleep now. Some of us are going on a walk at 5:45. Or at least I know I will...

Later I will tell you about the powerful moments we spent with the children personal delivering them the gifts you all so carefully and thoughtfully assembled for them. Also, if I can remember, I will tell you about being lost in the middle of Battambang, sitting on a bus with a driver speaking on a cell phone with a couple of people to try to move the bus in the right direction. I wonder what the word is Kmai is for "recalculating"? If he had a GPS, we would have heard it a few times.

I also should tell you about our team perfoming a song when both Josh and I messed up the lyrics... Whatever you do, don't put me in charge of singing. And RAD wouldn't be much of a help here either, I am afraid. Also, we had the pastoral prayer at the service at the Ministry Center with Kevin and Jill Kane. After one rather long prayer (for U.S. standards) one of our team members whose name I will not divulge, turned to me and said, "And I thought RAD prayed long." Not anymore, I guess.

And did I tell you about a surprise outing I am planning for the trip today? Stay tuned...

And what about meeting three young monks at the temple yesterday. They were headed to Grammar school on a Sunday morning. I guess monks here work on Sundays too! And one more thing, don't run on the streets of Phnom Penh... the stray dogs own the streets, you may find one attached to your legs... by the teeth! Thankfully, that didn't happen to me, but only because I know the universe sign that bring fears to the eyes of dogs anywhere and everywhere -- lower yourself to the ground, pretend you are picking up a rock and most of the time the dogs retreat. If the dog is younger, it may not get it at first, but at the first sign of you pretending you might be throwing the pretend rock at it, he runs like a scared puppy . So I just incorporated that into my exercise routine and call it "dawgone it aerobics class." Anyone wants to sign up for the next session?

I better stop, this is getting sillier by the second...

Love to you all,

Pastor Ivanildo C. Trindade
itrindade@woostergrace.org

Lunch Greetings

HOLA from Juana!! Wow, these last 24 hours have been full of emotions that would take long time to describe them. The 30 hours of trip were worth since the moment I was able to hugh the kids and spend time with them in the orphanage. I will never forget their faces and how they were so sweet with me!
Hello This is Harlene.  It has been an amazing experience so far!  Words back home don't adequately describe the experience of meeting the kids and feeling their love.  They sang and danced for us yesterday and this morning.  They are so graceful!  Thanks for all your prayers and concerns.  We are all well.  It is just very warm! 
Hi, its Tricia :) Our time here has been absolutely amazing!  I can't even handle the love & excitment from kids.  For the first time in my life I think, I am proud of my pale, white skin.  The kids will not stop touching it and comparing it to their's--I love it! 


Brad Warner here, I wish there was a way to express the emotions that are occurring here but you just can't put them into words. It's an amazing experiance and if you can make the trip it is completely worth it.

Hello from Stretch!!! I am overwhemled by the kids love,for I have missed them ssince leaving last year. Pray for all of us.

Hi from Jason.  The kids are amazing,  the food is amazing, and the team is great.  I miss you Ash, wish you were here with me.

Hello from Mike Ohlsen!!!  It is hard to expess how God has touched my heart with these kids.  It is just wonderful.  Grace keep up the good work.

Hello everyone this is Josh Graber!  I love everything about Cambodia... the food, culture, people... especially the kids!!  God is working here and is showing us all more of Himself...  I miss you all and i'll see you soon!

Soksobai everyone! Matt here. Just got done enjoying a delicious meal at 'A Cold Night' restaurant. It is sooo good to be back with the kids. Not too fond of the heat, but I'm dealing with it. There is some awesome lemonade that I don't know how to spell the name of. The restaurant happens to be right beside Brangelina's center here in Cambodia. The kids are so wonderful. Meng Houth is a great photographer. I let him carry my camera for most of the morning. I'm going to not like leaving.

"Master Yoda Speaketh"

Hello everyone,

What an exhausting day this was as we traveled six hours on the road from Phnom Penh to Battambang. The tean is beyond fatigued now and a couple of us are overwhelmed with the shock of a new culture, language, the heat, the new foods and a pace that is radically different from even the most hectic pace back home.

It's late at night here and I have a lot to share; however, I will let Matt Yoder, "Mutt" or "Master Yoda" share his thoughts for today. I was supposed to put a picture and a bio with this blog entry,but due to last minute repacking (due to RAD's being unable to come), I have yet to locate the flash card where these files are. Matt is a returnee to South East Asia He was here with our team last summer and all the kids now recognize him, as it was proved today. We can't begin to tell yo how happy the children were to see us. There are many pictures and stories, but for now let;s hear what "Master Yoda" has to tell us from the height of his second journey to Cambodia:

• "Well folks, we made it to Cambodia. For some the trip seemed longer than others but we are all happy to be back on the ground. The first day in Cambodia went too fast. Poor Holly was a bit overwhelmed by the food and got sick, but was feeling better after we got underway to Battambang. It was great to see the kids again. They were all excited to see us. After visiting with the kids, we met Kevin and Jill Kane and Grace Place Cambodia leadership at a restaurant called The White Rose for supper. Thank you everyone for your prayers and responses on the blog. "

Matt Yoder

In Phnom Penh

Hello everyone,

We arrived safely in Phnom Penh and the team is all in their room in the guest house, some are already sound asleep as it is 2:17 a.m. here. Our flight was a bit delayed so we didn't arrive until about midnight local time here. Thank you for your prayers!

We leave for Battambang at 7:30 tomorrow morning. It is about five hours on the bus, so we would appreciate your prayers for us.

We are ready to work!

Pastor Ivanildo C. Trindade

itrindade@woostergrace.org

At The Airport in South Korea

Hello everyone,

I am sitting at gate 18 in the South Korean airport, awaiting our flight to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Our flight has been delayed by about an hour, so I have a chance to get online using their free wireless internet connection that is available throughout the airport. FREE. What a concept!

We had as perfect a flight here as you could ask. No turbulence, very courteous staff on the plane, good food, though not plenty... some of the team members were snacking along the way and we all enjoyed some kisses, that is chocolate, I had brought...

The biggest disappoint to us all has been the fact that RAD was NOT able to join us on this trip. RAD has been working tirelessly to make this trip happen for months now. And frankly I don't know anyone who was as excited as he was about coming. He started counting the days a long time ago! But it was not meant to be. He came down with the flu, was running a fever and had a nasty cough. He was afraid he would infect other team members, or, worse yet, the whole plane. At the end, in what had to be a most difficult decision for him, he chose to stay home. Please pray for RAD as he is recuperating both physically and emotionally. I can't even imagine how he must be feeling now.

As I told the team, we still have a mission to fulfill. We are all pulling together well. We arrived at the church at 2:30 a.m. and went right to work -- we had the task of reducing our luggage by one suitcase to avoid paying extra for bags. We managed to do it by putting stuff in team members' personal bags. Everyone cooperated. Our flight to Chicago was delayed but it has not affected our connections so far. We are filled with anticipation for what God is going to do in us and through us as we arrive in Phnom Penh later tonight.

It is about 7:00 p.m. now but it feels like 2 a.m. We don't know if we should be eating breakfast, lunch, or dinners. Our bodies are a little tired but we are ready for the days ahead. Please continue to pray for us!

In His love,

Pastor Ivanildo C. Trindade
itrindade@woostergrace.org
P.S. Please post your comments. They are part of what we do every night when we read the "mail" from home. Thank you! 

The Quiet Before the Storm

We've been working feverishly, a whole lot of people, trying to get ready for this trip. Some of our team members have experienced physical problems. Some have family members with severe health crisis or other types of crises. We know that we've been under attack and I have never felt this more keenly than on the days leading up to the day before we depart. Even as I write this, there is at least one person at the doctor's, trying to decide whether to go or not.

But soon, there will be quiet, the kind of eerie quiet that comes right before the storm... Yes, you heard me right. When you go on a short-term mission trip with RAD and me you are not going on a vacation! We put you to work and we try to use every awaken moment to learn something, touch someone, listen, pray, walk, work, encourage, cry, play, sing, write, and live life in full for two weeks in a foreign country where God is still speaking through the small things that people do and say every day. For two weeks, we get to walk where they walk and feel a little bit of their pain. We also get love from our precious children... a very high dosage of it.

If you don't believe how busy we will be, look at our daily schedule below. I know posting a schedule here is not the most exciting thing you will see here in the next couple of weeks, but I wanted you to see it so you can see where we will be and what we will be doing.

As you look at this schedule, please remember that we will be 12 hours ahead of Wooster. Also, please leave comments. We take time to read your "mail" every evening and it is a highlight of our day... hearing encouraging words from home!

Thank you for your prayers!

Pastor Ivanildo C. Trindade
itrindade@woostergrace.org

SE Asia Winter 2011 STM Trip Tentative Schedule


Key

PP – Phnom Penh WPP - Wieng Pa Pao

SR – Siem Reap GPT – Grace Place, Thailand

GPC – Grace Place, Cambodia

Thursday, Feb. 17th

2:30 am Meet @ Wooster Grace parking lot, travel all day!

Friday, Feb. 18th

10:40 pm Arrive in PP, spend the night at Guest House in PP, Prayer Partners

Saturday, Feb. 19th Blog Writer: Matt

6:00 Optional temple walk (meet hotel lobby)

7:30 Breakfast & Team Meeting

8:30 Leave for Battambang by bus, lunch along the way

1:30 Check into the TEO Hotel

2:15 Load up for GPC

2:30 Arrive Grace Place hang out with our kids

4:45 Load up for dinner

5:00 Dinner with Savorn & staff, hear their stories

6:30 Load for GPC

7:00 GPC Evening Program

Worship Set:

Testimony (1):

9:30 Load for TEO Hotel

10:00 Prayer Partners / Mail Call

Sunday, Feb. 20th Blog Writer: Jason

6:00 Optional temple walk (meet hotel lobby)

7:00 Breakfast

7:45 Leave for Grace Place Sunday Morning

8:00 Worship Service with Asia’s Hope children

Worship Set:

Testimony (2):

Speaker:

12:00 Lunch

1:30 Team Meeting on the TEO roof

2:50 Load up for Ministry Center with Kanes

3:00 Service at the Ministry Center

Worship Songs (2):

Testimony (1):

Speaker:

5:00 Jill Kane’s Bible Study

6:00 Dinner

7:00 Party at Grace Place to deliver sponsor gifts

10:00 Optional spend the night at the Grace Place or return to the hotel

Monday, Feb. 21st Blog Writer: Josh

6:00 Optional temple walk (meet hotel lobby)

6:45 Load bus for Grace Place

7:00 Cook / Serve Breakfast for children

Breakfast Coordinator:

9:30 Team Meeting

10:30 Team Ministry Set-up

11:00 Lunch

12:00 Team Ministry (works in 3 station rotation fashion)

Station 1 Tie Dye: Trish, Mike, Matt, Harlene

Station 2 Recreation: Adam, Stretch, Brad

Station 3 Makeover: Holly, Juana, Naza

Soccer: Jason, Josh

Pictures (where needed): RAD, IT

3:00 Optional: Jewelry Story/Set-up for concert: Josh

4:00 Load up bus for Ministry Center

4:30 Concert at the Ministry Center

Concert Set:

Testimonies (2): Josh,

Speaker:

6:30 Load for White Rose

7:30 Ice cream at the White Rose w/children

8:30 Head for dinner

9:00 Dinner & Prayer Partners / Mail Call

10:00 Pack for SR, hit the sack back at TEO

Tuesday, Feb. 22nd Blog Writer: Holly

5:00 am Leave for SR

8:30 Breakfast

9:00 Spend the day at SR

7:00 White Dove Ministries

9:00 Travel to hotel

9:30 Prayer Partners / Mail Call

Wednesday, Feb. 23rd Blog Writer: Adam

7:00 Load the bus for PP, breakfast along the way

1:00 Toul Sleng, Genocide Museum, Killing Fields

4:00 State Orphanage Service

Worship Set:

Testimony (1):

Speaker:

5:30 Free time

6:30 Load bus for dinner

7:00 Dinner

8:00 Team Praise @ the Guest House, Prayer Partners /Mail

9:00 Luggage prep, weigh in, get some rest

Thursday, Feb. 24th Blog Writer: Harlene

7:20 Leave for airport, breakfast on plane

8:30 Team Time @ airport

1:30 Check into Eco Resort, Chiang Mai

3:00 Travel to GROW Home

6:00 Dinner with kids at GROW

7:00 Worship with GROW staff and kids

Worship Set:

Testimony (1): Adam

8:45 Travel to Night Bazaar

9:00 Night Bazaar

11:00 Head to Eco and Prayer Partners / Mail Call

Friday, Feb. 25th Blog Writer: Mike

8:00 Breakfast & Team Meeting

9:00 Pack for WPP

9:45 Load for GROW Home

10:00 GROW Home Projects

Swing Set Assembly: Mike, Brad

Landscaping: Matt, Holly

English & School Prep: Harlene, Josh

Computer Networking: RAD, Trish

Painting: Stretch, Juana

House Cleaning (Windows etc.): Jason

Truck Detailing & Maintenance: Adam

Pictures: IT

12:00 Head for lunch

1:00 Team Ministry Set-up (all kids, staff & team together)

Recreation Leader: Adam

Tie Dye Leader: Trish

Makeover Leaders: Holly, Juana

4:30 Clean-up

5:00 Head for dinner

6:00 Travel to WPP

7:30 Arrive Grace Place Thailand, meet kids and settle in

8:00 Worship with children and staff

9:30 Prayer Partners / Mail Call

Saturday, Feb. 26h Blog Writer: Juana

8:00 Breakfast & Team Time

10:00 GPT Projects

Kitchen Remodeling: Mike

Team Ministry (works in 3 station rotation fashion)

Station 1 Tie Dye: Trish, Matt, Harlene

Station 2 Recreation: Adam, Stretch, Brad

Station 3 Makeover: Holly, Juana, Naza

Soccer: Jason, Josh

Pictures (where needed): RAD, IT

1:00 Lunch

2:00 Free Time

3:00 Meet GPT staff and widows, hear their stories

4:00 GPT Party, Sponsor Gifts

6:30 Clean-up

7:00 Dinner

8:00 Fireside Service

Worship Set:

Testimony (1):

Speaker:

9:45 Prayer Partners / Mail Call

Sunday, Feb. 27h Blog Writer: ?

9:00 Breakfast & Team Time

10:30 Worship Service with GPT

Worship Set:

Testimonies (2):

Speaker:

12:00 Pack, Hang out with children

1:00 Lunch

2:00 Travel to Chang Mai

3:30 Check into Eco

4:00 Load for College service

4:30 College Student Service, Josh Concert

Worship Set:

Testimony (1): Trish

Speaker: RAD

6:00 Dinner with College Students

6:45 Travel to Sunday Market

7:00 Sunday Market

11:00 Travel to Eco

11:30 Prayer Partners / Mail Call

Monday, Feb. 28h Blog Writer: Brad

8:00 Breakfast

9:00 Travel to Doi Sothep, spend the day sight seeing, lunch and Team Time Reflection

3:00 Travel to Hill Tribe Village

4:30 Arrive Hill Tribe Village

5:00 Prep for Hill Tribe Service

6:00 Hill Tribe Service

Worship Set:

Testimonies (2):

Speaker:

7:30 Head to the church

8:00 Settle in, big group game amongst team

9:00 Prayer Partners / Mail Call

Tuesday, Mar. 1st Blog Writer: Tricia

7:30 Breakfast

8:30 Travel to Chang Mai

10:00 Arrive at Eco, Free time

11:30 Lunch with GROW children

1:00 Elephant Show, hang with children

2:30 Shop

5:30 Dinner

7:00 Night Bazaar

11:00 Travel to Eco

11:30 Prayer Partners, packing, luggage weigh-in & Mail

Wednesday, Mar. 2nd

Begin the journey home

Thursday, Mar. 3rd

Arrive home

7:00 pm Go to four14 (RAD)

Praying for our team. on Twitpic

Praying for our team. on Twitpic

Pastor Steve Kern lead our congregation in prayer this morning asking the Lord to lead, guide, and empower our team to serve diligently in Cambodia & Thailand. Our pastoral staff, board, global task force members laid hands and stood with them in prayer. We praise God for the faithful giving of our church to develop fully devoted followers of Christ in all the nations of the world.

Team is commissioned today: Sun Feb 6

Today Wooster Grace commissions this team to be our servants to SE Asia.  Praise God for our vision to develop fully devoted followers of Christ in all the nations of the world. 

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