METE continued

Thanks to my new friends Josh and Lori, here are some more pics of our Covenant Missionary Training (METE) so you can have a little insight into the last two weeks of my life.  I really valued this time to connect with my new team members and to experience spiritual renewal.  Every morning we had solitude time built into our schedule, and I was reminded of the power of PRAYER.  When we take the time to be quiet before God incredible things can take place in our hearts.

This was one of our first nights out together - ECC President Gary Walters had us to his home, and we played a game that was a mix between charades and catch phrase.  This is one of my Congo teammates, David, acting cold?! We did not win this round:)

Mary (with Michael), on the left will be working at the International School in Cameroon, and Lori (with 9 week old Charlie) will be serving in Central African Republic (CAR). Lots of baby love in this group!

One of our learning excursions was a cultural analysis walking around Devon Ave.  Of course the best way to start conversation is by going to the salons! So we had henna done.  It was part of the assignment!

Lori had the Evangelical Covenant Church symbol done so we could discuss religious symbols and what they represent to us.  I've heard people say that this symbol looks like four guys in a hot tub...:)

Paul and Gretchen DeNeui had us over for a Thai dinner on our last night.  It was great to have so much opportunity to get to know the Covenant World Mission staff.  They are truly wonderful resources and friends for us.

It was fun to see everybody talking about where in the world they had been and were going around the world map.  We are a very well traveled crowd!

My country of service, DRC.

This is Paul, with one of my Congo teammates, Debbie.  It was a blessing to meet her and her husband.  We are going to share some exciting adventures together! 

We were taught a Thai string tying  ceremony  that has been adapted in the Thai church  from traditional local religion.  A beautiful example of contextualization done well. 

The whole group with our string blessings. I am thankful to know these folks, and am excited to see how God provides for us as we embark on our fundraising and missionary journey!