Today, the team led our first day of a western-theme Vacation Bible School for over 100 students of the Alfa Omega school, which is an outreach of our sister church.
The children were excited and energetic. They moved through stations, much like the kiddos do at LBC's VBS, for crafts with Christy Young, music with Regina George, drama with Kim Howard, Morgan and Micah Young, and Jackson Dyer, Bible stories with me (Dena Dyer0, recreation with Tanner Taff, Mitchell George, and Jeff Young. Jackie Taff and Kristin Rogers led the preschoolers through separate activities. All the kids swim in the campus' two pools after VBS, and many of our group joined them to build relationships.
The language barrier was a bit of an issue, but the school had teachers assisting each leader from Texas, so they helped translate when needed. The older kids speak very good English. All in all, we had few problems and felt like it was a really successful day. The theme for day one was God's "Ultimate Plan."
It's been an adjustment for some of us to have lunch at 2:00 (or later) and dinner at 8:30. The pace is more laid back, and that's nice. We enjoyed some of the local culture this afternoon during free time--snorkeling in the Mediterranean. (I know, I know--we're really suffering...)
Tomorrow, we look forward to a baptism ceremony on the beach, another day of VBS, and more relationship building.
Yee-haw!
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Monday, June 23, 2014
Day One in Denia
Often during our trip to this beautiful Mediterranean town, we laughed so hard our sides hurt, and that made the journey bearable. I've been blessed to travel on many mission trips, but I have never been on a trip with a more positive, patient crew. During an exhausting, frustrating, stressful day, I didn't hear one unkind word spoken by a team member. Amazing! Jesus shines through each one of them. God has already given us great memories, and we're sure to make many more.
This morning, we woke up to an incredible view...WOW...and then our hosts treated us to a delicious breakfast. We were welcomed with hospitality and Christian fellowship to our sister church's worship service, in which Pastor Jorge and the congregation prayed over us. What joy to sing in one spirit with our family in Christ.
Regina and I were honored to sing "Lord, I Need You," and the words spoke to my heart--as they have many times. We desperately need Him to give us strength, endurance, health, patience, boldness, and compassion this week...we're also already praying for an uneventful trip home!
This afternoon, we took a much-needed "siesta" and planned for VBS. Tonight, we'll have supper, meet with our hosts, and decorate our rooms. VBS begins in the morning, and though we'll have help in translating our message, please pray for the Holy Spirit to translate more than words to the children. Pray that Jesus will be evident on our faces as we share the story of the gospel. Pray that the children who come expecting games, drama, and recreation (and swimming--the church/school has a pool and VBS includes swim time) will find MUCH more. Pray that they find a Savior who is waiting to welcome them in.
Until manana. :)
Friday, June 20, 2014
Spain Mission Trip
Mission trips are all about flexibility, trusting God and adventure; and just five hours into the trip to Denia, this intrepid group of travelers has had the chance to experience all three.
Our flight to London had mechanical issues (some sort of leak in the galley, and then another leak near a wheel well) right away, so we didn't get off the ground. Thankfully, American Airlines had another plane for us, which we hope to board soon.
Everyone is keeping a great attitude--even the little guys (Jackson and Tyler). We've teased Tanner about spilling a water bottle on the plane and perhaps causing the leak 😉
Seriously, we are glad to be given a plane with NO problems, and whether we have to take a bus, train or burro to Denia, we WILL get there...eventually.
😃
Our flight to London had mechanical issues (some sort of leak in the galley, and then another leak near a wheel well) right away, so we didn't get off the ground. Thankfully, American Airlines had another plane for us, which we hope to board soon.
Everyone is keeping a great attitude--even the little guys (Jackson and Tyler). We've teased Tanner about spilling a water bottle on the plane and perhaps causing the leak 😉
Seriously, we are glad to be given a plane with NO problems, and whether we have to take a bus, train or burro to Denia, we WILL get there...eventually.
😃
Sunday, December 8, 2013
Day 3 and Day 4
Sorry for the delay, but still struggling with my cold.
Day 3
The men, of course, were still hard at it in the basement. It is taking a tremendous amount of thinking to allow for the unique Colorado requirements. They continue to put up the walls. The bathroom is looking great with the shower enclosure installed. The Parrish' men have all been lending a hand with all the work, including the trips to Home Depot. It is really awesome watching Vincent Logozzo, James Spencer, Mike Briggs, Bob Jones, and Charlie Parrish take time to train them. The boys are thrilled to build their church. They are enthusiastic hard workers. Just to be clear, Kelly Parrish is also helping. :-)
The ladies were very busy this morning getting ready for the Mom/Kid breakfast. Although we did most of the prep work yesterday, they were busy decorating and setting up the craft tables. Brandi was delighted by the turn-out. We had 14 ladies and numerous children! I arrived late, but saw how much fun everyone was having. This was advertised as a come and go party, but they never went. They came and stayed! The last lady left after 11 a.m. It was amazing to see how hungry for relationships these ladies are. Most of them are not from Colorado and just feel alone. We were talking with Brandi at how God's timing is always perfect. God knew it was time for them to be in Timnath. He had already started working on the ladies of Timnath. They may not be aware of what they are longing for, but they are definitely searching!
After cleaning up the party, we all ate lunch together and took time to share about our experiences so far and made plans for the rest of the day. I always enjoy hearing from the team because everybody's experience is different. One of the things we discussed is what a difference serving the community makes. I challenged the group to take that knowledge and apply it when we get home, such as during the Living Christmas Cards next weekend, but this group seems to always be serving. ( I have a great team!)
We ended our night by going to Old Ft. Collins to eat. Hollywood couldn't design a prettier setting. I can honestly say the whole team is falling in love with Ft. Collins/Timnath. After dinner, some of us crazy people went for a stroll in -8 degree weather to enjoy the beauty and a little ice cream! As cold as it was, it was well worth it.
DAY 4
We started this great day with a great breakfast at a cute diner called "Silver Grill". They have the most amazing cinnamon rolls! After breakfast, we went to the first Living Rock church service. We opened with a time of worship through prayer and scripture reading. Kelly spoke to us from 1 Peter 2: 4-10. We discussed how we are all called to be royal priests through Christ. We talked how God is the living rock. He gives life to everything, even things that don't have any. It was great to spend time focusing on the true reason we are here. I can tell you one of the sweetest things was listening to Noah Parrish pray outload with all these adults around. He, and the other boys , do not hide their faith!
After worship, it was time for the guys to start working. Mike and Zach are installing all the electrical. Brandi, Zachary, Noah, Joshua, and Anna Faith, along with the ladies, anointed the walls, floors, and stairs with scripture. This was a very important task for the Parrish's. What a way to spend your Sunday!
This brought the end of the trip for two of our members, Kim Spencer and Amy Briggs, who are flying home. Please pray for their safety while driving back to Granbury from the airport.
We made it an early night, so the Parrish's could get some order to their home before tomorrow morning.
Continue to pray for God to multiply the work the men are doing.
Day 3
The men, of course, were still hard at it in the basement. It is taking a tremendous amount of thinking to allow for the unique Colorado requirements. They continue to put up the walls. The bathroom is looking great with the shower enclosure installed. The Parrish' men have all been lending a hand with all the work, including the trips to Home Depot. It is really awesome watching Vincent Logozzo, James Spencer, Mike Briggs, Bob Jones, and Charlie Parrish take time to train them. The boys are thrilled to build their church. They are enthusiastic hard workers. Just to be clear, Kelly Parrish is also helping. :-)
The ladies were very busy this morning getting ready for the Mom/Kid breakfast. Although we did most of the prep work yesterday, they were busy decorating and setting up the craft tables. Brandi was delighted by the turn-out. We had 14 ladies and numerous children! I arrived late, but saw how much fun everyone was having. This was advertised as a come and go party, but they never went. They came and stayed! The last lady left after 11 a.m. It was amazing to see how hungry for relationships these ladies are. Most of them are not from Colorado and just feel alone. We were talking with Brandi at how God's timing is always perfect. God knew it was time for them to be in Timnath. He had already started working on the ladies of Timnath. They may not be aware of what they are longing for, but they are definitely searching!
After cleaning up the party, we all ate lunch together and took time to share about our experiences so far and made plans for the rest of the day. I always enjoy hearing from the team because everybody's experience is different. One of the things we discussed is what a difference serving the community makes. I challenged the group to take that knowledge and apply it when we get home, such as during the Living Christmas Cards next weekend, but this group seems to always be serving. ( I have a great team!)
We ended our night by going to Old Ft. Collins to eat. Hollywood couldn't design a prettier setting. I can honestly say the whole team is falling in love with Ft. Collins/Timnath. After dinner, some of us crazy people went for a stroll in -8 degree weather to enjoy the beauty and a little ice cream! As cold as it was, it was well worth it.
DAY 4
We started this great day with a great breakfast at a cute diner called "Silver Grill". They have the most amazing cinnamon rolls! After breakfast, we went to the first Living Rock church service. We opened with a time of worship through prayer and scripture reading. Kelly spoke to us from 1 Peter 2: 4-10. We discussed how we are all called to be royal priests through Christ. We talked how God is the living rock. He gives life to everything, even things that don't have any. It was great to spend time focusing on the true reason we are here. I can tell you one of the sweetest things was listening to Noah Parrish pray outload with all these adults around. He, and the other boys , do not hide their faith!
After worship, it was time for the guys to start working. Mike and Zach are installing all the electrical. Brandi, Zachary, Noah, Joshua, and Anna Faith, along with the ladies, anointed the walls, floors, and stairs with scripture. This was a very important task for the Parrish's. What a way to spend your Sunday!
This brought the end of the trip for two of our members, Kim Spencer and Amy Briggs, who are flying home. Please pray for their safety while driving back to Granbury from the airport.
We made it an early night, so the Parrish's could get some order to their home before tomorrow morning.
Continue to pray for God to multiply the work the men are doing.
Saturday, December 7, 2013
Ft. Collins, CO. days 1-2 Living Rock Church Plant
We had a few snags with our air travel, but was able for the first group to make it. Our drivers, Vince, Mike and James, made great time without any bad road conditions. Thank you for praying them here. We are still waiting for Miller Scanlon to arrive. His flight was cancelled on Thursday night, and as you know the rest of the flights have been cancelled. We are talking with him to see how we can get him here.
After all arriving, we finally ate! We had pizza with the Parrish's. Most of us, this was the first time meeting with them. They were blown away with their testimony and how they are being obedient to God's calling. We spent time just visiting with them and their family. They shared with us God's vision for Living Rock(www.livingrocknetwork.com) and how the Parrish's family is included in it. They shared how they are here to love on their community through Christ. They told us about a few Divine appointments that have occurred since arriving 7 weeks ago. I will share just one with you.
As we drove into the neighborhood, Brandi shared their discussion with the subdivision developers. They noticed a grey shaded area on the map of the subdivision Timnath Ranch and asked what that shaded area n the middle of the map was for. The developers replied" Don't worry about that area. Nothing will be built there, because the original land owners designated that area for a church and as you will notice, Churches aren't built around here". Wow! Some of you may already know, but the town that Kelly and Brandi moved to is named Timnath which means assigned portion. You can find this in Joshua 19, where God assigned Timnath to Joshua his portion of the Promise Land. I don't think one would need any more confirmation from God than this. They are where God wants them.
The rest of evening was spent going over the Building Permit requirements. Of course this made our plans change a lot. The reorganizing went on into the next morning. We now have extensive knowledge of Code Laws in Colorado that we were not aware of before arriving. Vincent had to meet with the Code inspector just to get clarifications on some of the Codes.
Day 2.
We were so excited to get started on this day. This was the day that we were helping with the Timnath Christmas Celebration. The reason we got so excited is because the town was excited we were here. Brandi has numerous friends and contacts at City Hall just from offering to help with this activity. People are blown away that she would have people come all the way from Texas just to help them with their basement, and volunteer to help the city. Just one example on how this has been a great testimony. Brandi went to volunteer in Noah's class. She was sharing with the teacher about us when the teacher started crying. " They just came to help you" she said, " I have never heard of someone doing that." It is crazy how just our presence has made an impact on this community. You can tell that this trip was ordained by God, because it is definitely not any of us that can make that type of impact.
The guys went to get supplies in the morning, but was hard at it by the afternoon. The re-planning took a lot of time and effort. Our guys worked it out to meet the Code requirements and the Parrish's needs. By the end of the day, they had most of the floor plates installed. We had to cut the day short to go set-up the celebration.
The ladies did major prep work for the celebration and the Mother/child breakfast coming up on Saturday. We had to go to Wal-Mart to purchase all the supplies. After coming back, we prepared lunch for all of us. We then made dozens and dozens of mini- muffins, a coffee cake, and raspberry bars for the breakfast. We planned the children activities, or we had Amy plan the activities. She is awesome!
In case some of you missed our weather forecast, It was in the negatives last night while we were working the OUTDOOR celebration. We ran a photo booth in front of the fire station. The firemen were nice to let us use the office for printing and thawing of toes occasionally. We had to serve chili, cookies, hot chocolate, and apple cider. There was a choir concert at the Presbyterian church, Christmas carolers strolling, a hay ride, and the arrival of Santa. It was really like living in a Hallmark Movie. We were able to connect with several of the participants. Kelly and Brandi thought it was a great success from their stand point. After we got warm, we did too :-). just kidding.
Our camera is M.I.A. so pictures will be posted later, as well as Day 3.
Continue to pray for us, the Parrish's, and the town of Timnath.
In Him,
Angie Logozzo
P.S. Just wanting to share the Christmas prayer of Kelly and Brandi. They are praying for at least one salvation by Christmas. So join them in praying for this.
After all arriving, we finally ate! We had pizza with the Parrish's. Most of us, this was the first time meeting with them. They were blown away with their testimony and how they are being obedient to God's calling. We spent time just visiting with them and their family. They shared with us God's vision for Living Rock(www.livingrocknetwork.com) and how the Parrish's family is included in it. They shared how they are here to love on their community through Christ. They told us about a few Divine appointments that have occurred since arriving 7 weeks ago. I will share just one with you.
As we drove into the neighborhood, Brandi shared their discussion with the subdivision developers. They noticed a grey shaded area on the map of the subdivision Timnath Ranch and asked what that shaded area n the middle of the map was for. The developers replied" Don't worry about that area. Nothing will be built there, because the original land owners designated that area for a church and as you will notice, Churches aren't built around here". Wow! Some of you may already know, but the town that Kelly and Brandi moved to is named Timnath which means assigned portion. You can find this in Joshua 19, where God assigned Timnath to Joshua his portion of the Promise Land. I don't think one would need any more confirmation from God than this. They are where God wants them.
The rest of evening was spent going over the Building Permit requirements. Of course this made our plans change a lot. The reorganizing went on into the next morning. We now have extensive knowledge of Code Laws in Colorado that we were not aware of before arriving. Vincent had to meet with the Code inspector just to get clarifications on some of the Codes.
Day 2.
We were so excited to get started on this day. This was the day that we were helping with the Timnath Christmas Celebration. The reason we got so excited is because the town was excited we were here. Brandi has numerous friends and contacts at City Hall just from offering to help with this activity. People are blown away that she would have people come all the way from Texas just to help them with their basement, and volunteer to help the city. Just one example on how this has been a great testimony. Brandi went to volunteer in Noah's class. She was sharing with the teacher about us when the teacher started crying. " They just came to help you" she said, " I have never heard of someone doing that." It is crazy how just our presence has made an impact on this community. You can tell that this trip was ordained by God, because it is definitely not any of us that can make that type of impact.
The guys went to get supplies in the morning, but was hard at it by the afternoon. The re-planning took a lot of time and effort. Our guys worked it out to meet the Code requirements and the Parrish's needs. By the end of the day, they had most of the floor plates installed. We had to cut the day short to go set-up the celebration.
The ladies did major prep work for the celebration and the Mother/child breakfast coming up on Saturday. We had to go to Wal-Mart to purchase all the supplies. After coming back, we prepared lunch for all of us. We then made dozens and dozens of mini- muffins, a coffee cake, and raspberry bars for the breakfast. We planned the children activities, or we had Amy plan the activities. She is awesome!
In case some of you missed our weather forecast, It was in the negatives last night while we were working the OUTDOOR celebration. We ran a photo booth in front of the fire station. The firemen were nice to let us use the office for printing and thawing of toes occasionally. We had to serve chili, cookies, hot chocolate, and apple cider. There was a choir concert at the Presbyterian church, Christmas carolers strolling, a hay ride, and the arrival of Santa. It was really like living in a Hallmark Movie. We were able to connect with several of the participants. Kelly and Brandi thought it was a great success from their stand point. After we got warm, we did too :-). just kidding.
Our camera is M.I.A. so pictures will be posted later, as well as Day 3.
Continue to pray for us, the Parrish's, and the town of Timnath.
In Him,
Angie Logozzo
P.S. Just wanting to share the Christmas prayer of Kelly and Brandi. They are praying for at least one salvation by Christmas. So join them in praying for this.
Monday, November 4, 2013
Hoboken Mission Trip - Day 4, Sunday, November 3, 2013
Hi Y'all!
Praise our loving Lord Jesus Christ!
Today we helped set up and take down Cordero School for the worship time at Hamilton Grace in Jersey City -- a new congregation started by Hoboken Grace. The worship time was God-focused, very similar to our Edge Service. Jean Carlos preached on John 6:44, emphasizing that God is always pursuing us.
They block off the rear portion of the auditorium with curtains and have a welcome/meet and greet area there complete with a good spread of breakfast foods: fruits, juice, bagels, donuts, etc. They also have coffee set up in the hall. There are several rooms across the hall for graded children's programs and an area for parents with little children, equipped with a large screen video feed of the service.
They do the Lord's supper differently than we do. They place juice and pita bread on four high-top tables adjacent to the two aisles. Early in the service, they tell the folks that Jesuswants to have a relationship with them and that, if they feel led, they should simply get up anytime during the service and commune with Him. Many did throughout the service.
Something else impressed me. The worship leader (Justin, our host) led a prayer time. He prayed a simple prayer and then instructed us to talk silently with God -- again emphasizing the reality of having a relationship with our Father. Then he shut up for about four minutes and actually gave us time to talk with God.
As I am writing this, Ryan, Roger, Ashton and John are at the office where we worked Friday organizing the storage space with our host, Nancy, who is a professional organizer. I stayed at the apartment to write this because my sore arm has rendered me useless for any kind of physical activity. Except for taking pictures (see below) and carrying a few small items, I wasn't much help this morning. Prayers much appreciated.
God was at work this morning -- at least in me. Even before the worship time began, He was overwhelming me with His prenense, goodness and love. I wept. I also saw people praying together spontaneously. It is obvious to me that these folks really do love and care for each other and want our Father to work through them in each others' lives. Glory to His Name!
Keep praying that God will use us for His glory. I am struck by the humble, servant attitude of Ashton, John, Roger and Ryan.
I love you. God bless you.
Fred
Hoboken Mission Trip -- Day 5, November 4, 2013
Hi Y'all!
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!
Well, Day 5 is almost I the bag. Ryan, John, Roger and Ashton are finishing up at the office as I am writing this. We had a very busy day today. We spent first two hours organizing the storage space at one of the offices. Because they hold their services at three locations, none of which are at the office locations, and because they hold many community events at parks, they have a ton of stuff to store and having it organized is especially important.
At 11:00 a.m. we went to the homeless shelter where we cleaned the floor, sorted clothes, raked leaves, trimmed shrubs, served lunch and interacted with the people. Ashton and John did especially well at connecting with the people. I felt as if I couldn't connect much, though I tried.
After the homeless shelter and a brief lunch, we were back organizing at the office. Nancy, our hostess and organizer in chief, said she was very pleased at all we got done.
Some might question why we came, since no direct evangelism was attempted. In fact, I have had those thoughts at times. But God brought Acts 6 to mind. We are here as servants to the church so the leaders can give their full time to the Word and to the ministries our Lord has called them to. I am greatful that He chose to use me. Thank you all for supporting us with your prayers.
Our Lord willing, we will leave about 9:30 in the morning on a plane bound for DFW and should be back in Granbury by 3:00 p.m.
I love you. God bless you.
Fred
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!
Well, Day 5 is almost I the bag. Ryan, John, Roger and Ashton are finishing up at the office as I am writing this. We had a very busy day today. We spent first two hours organizing the storage space at one of the offices. Because they hold their services at three locations, none of which are at the office locations, and because they hold many community events at parks, they have a ton of stuff to store and having it organized is especially important.
At 11:00 a.m. we went to the homeless shelter where we cleaned the floor, sorted clothes, raked leaves, trimmed shrubs, served lunch and interacted with the people. Ashton and John did especially well at connecting with the people. I felt as if I couldn't connect much, though I tried.
After the homeless shelter and a brief lunch, we were back organizing at the office. Nancy, our hostess and organizer in chief, said she was very pleased at all we got done.
Some might question why we came, since no direct evangelism was attempted. In fact, I have had those thoughts at times. But God brought Acts 6 to mind. We are here as servants to the church so the leaders can give their full time to the Word and to the ministries our Lord has called them to. I am greatful that He chose to use me. Thank you all for supporting us with your prayers.
Our Lord willing, we will leave about 9:30 in the morning on a plane bound for DFW and should be back in Granbury by 3:00 p.m.
I love you. God bless you.
Fred
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