Thank you so very much St. Mark for spoiling our child :) , worshiping with us, hearing our stories, sharing some of your own, continuing to support us over the years, and holding us in your prayers. It was great to be back. We love you guys!
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SMC is a time when ELCA missionaries around the world who are also on home assignment gather to "talk shop" (it´s our time every other year to reconnect, ask questions, talk in person with our insurance provider, etc.) celebrate what God is up to in the world (each area program director does a report of his/her region), learn something new (this year´s theme focused around contemplation- Be still and know that I am God), and of course, do just that– be with our friends and renew our spirits/rejuvenate ourselves to be propelled out again into service. Everette had a fun time as well (SMC has a kids´ program- that if I might add was really fabulous! Thank you Nina and Alyssa!!) playing in the park, reading and writing books, making ice cream and other yummy snacks, drawing on the side walk, blowing bubbles, watching movies, playing games, etc.
A big thank you to all who helped make this year´s SMC a success and to all our missionary friends around the globe both present and not present at SMC– God be with you– we carry you in our hearts and of course, prayers always. So many special moments here- amazing music, the sending of youth and leaders to Detroit, catching up with many dear friends and family, getting a sneak peek at the new worship facility, celebrating Bishop Bolick and Rita´s time spent with St. John´s (they are moving!), a thought-provoking lunch at Sweet Meadow Café...St. John´s THANK YOU for sharing the Sunday with us and for keeping us in your prayers- you are amazing!!
Thank you HTELC for your love and kindness! Celebrating the 4th of July with Holden Evening Prayer and a cookout, spending time with the kids (and adults) at Day Camp, and preaching and presenting were quite the treat and simply put fun, to be with such great people!! You are a blessing in our lives! We began our journey with Bethlehem Lutheran Church helping with the summer day camp. The theme this year was "The Fruits of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control)" led by Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp counselors. It was a blast to hang out with the kids (and adults!) and share several games with them that we play in the Latin America and Caribbean region! Justin preached and together we presented two forums on our mission and ministry. We also had a chance to play with kittens and ride horses with congregation members, visit Bandelier National Monument and Santa Fe, and eat lunch with the pastors. Thank you all again for inviting us...we are grateful!! Only for such an amazing congregation, would we brave the 115+ºF weather. Thank you Prince of Peace for showing us around Phoenix and letting us into your hearts. Big hugs, Kari A sampling of some of our recent adventures... Thank you Pella Lutheran for showing us the great teachers you are and opening up your community to us!! It was fantastic to spend time with you and we will cherish these memories for years to come. Much love, Kari, Justin and Everette
At the same time I was in Greensboro, Justin accompanied the Nebraska Synod Assembly, where he presided over the opening worship, interpreted/translated for the Vice President of the United Evangelical Lutheran Church in Argentina/Uruguay, and led a workshop on interculturality. Click here to read the synod´s post about his presentation.
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Home Assignment 2015
May 28-30- |