Saturday, April 4, 2009

Day 2: Addis Ababa – Compassion Project #145

Dear Parents, Family & Friends

We have quite the experience in Addis Ababa this morning. Roosters, prayers by the Muslims and the Orthodox Christians were broadcasted by the hour over loud speakers. So, we are now in Ethiopia, and the culture here is so very unique.

We got ready for breakfast at 7.30am, followed by individual devotion on Philipians, and then head out to the Compassion Site #145 for our time of ministry. We were greeted with warm smiling faces, all 260 of them, and some of their parents. Songs, Hugs, Kisses, Roses, and a coffee ceremony awaited us. We also had a small briefing by the Project Facilitator, the Local Church that partner with the site, and the Compassion Staff. It is really interesting to know that the Local Church has such a huge role at this Project. They selected 200 children that needed sponsorships from their neighborhoods, amongst 1000 others who also are very needy and could use education. What a holistic way to go. The partnership is important to Compassion as they do not manage the projects.

Love the children, they were so accepting and want to kiss us to show us their love and their friendships. We played balls, painted nails, blew bubbles, and did 3 VBS' for them. O my goodness, these children were so receptive of the Bible stories, and could repeat them after us when we asked for volunteers.

These are the future generations of Ethiopians that will reach their nation for Christ. What a privilege it is for us to be able to take part in their investments now. We prayed over them, that they will know Christ intimately, and that they will feel His Presence daily. That the LORD of the Harvest will anoint and set them apart for the good news.

We will be going to a local church service tomorrow and head out to Debre Zeit, 45 mins South East of Addis Ababa. We are going to live in a farming community, and work amongst the most needy work here in Ethiopia. Please pray for our strength, readiness and ability to adapt.

Blessings and Grace, christabel

4 comments:

The Z Family said...

Dear Julia,

Your warm smile, your lovely appearance, and your beautiful heart will send beams of sunlight to all of the children, in the name of Jesus. He is using you in a mighty way. We will miss you at the Easter service. But we know that you've been called to a far away land for a purpose that is greater than any of us know.

Peace and Joy,

The Z Family

Unknown said...

Dear Kelly,
We just know the Lord is going to use you and the entire team. We thank Him that you have all arrived safely and your first couple days have been hard at work serving Him.

We pray that your beautiful countenance continues to shine through and you share your love

Dad & Mom

Rodriguez Family said...

HI Hannah,

We love and Miss you. CoCo misses you too.

Papi and Mom

The Lams said...

Dear Sarah & Erika,

We love you both very much.
Keep shining that light(Matt 5:16) along with your shining smiles!
May the team continues to be use in a mighty way. Be safe..

Love Ma,Dad & Nyla