Sunday, May 25, 2008

Calgary Project Update #2

Howdy y'all!

They don't actually talk like that in Calgary, but regardless I'm looking forward to the stampede in July. It is one of the largest outdoor events in the world. (Check it out: www.calgarystampede.com)

The past two weeks have been extremely challenging for me. Let me share a bit about this next leg of the journey with you...

As of two weeks ago I still didn't have a job. It has been very disappointing for me, as I had heard the jobs here in Calgary were more numerous than the people. I was applying mostly for waitressing, but also some jobs related to my program of study (electrical engineering).

By the middle of this week I still hadn't heard anything promising, but had been offered a hostessing job at a restaurant and pub, The Barley Mill. It has a great atmosphere, the people are friendly and the food is absolutely delicious. They are well-known for their 3 outdoor patios, and 25 different kinds of beer! This job pays ok, so I've decided to take it, and look for another part-time job in the meantime.

I've also been struggling with finding time to myself. Living in such close quarters with these students and staff has made it almost impossible to find a space where I can pray and read my bible without being interrupted. After a busy couple days (including my birthday, complete with cakes, balloons and a rollerskating adventure!), I decided to take it easy.

Today we began our MDAs. MDA = movement development area. These are areas of the city, or partnerships with churches which we have chosen to concentrate on. I'm hoping to spend one or two evenings a week ministering to single moms and their children, through a program called 'Jesus Loves You'.

Please be praying:
- that I can reenergize through spending time with God, that I will grow closer to Him
- that he will give me chances to share my faith with the other hostesses and servers at the Barley Mill
- that God will bless the 'Jesus Loves You' ministry, and that I'll be used to make an impact

Thank you so much! You guys rock!

Calgary Project Update #1

(originally written May 10)
Hello from Calgary, Alberta, Canada!
I am so excited to be out here in Western Canada!
Thank you to those of you who have been praying for me, and giving generously to God that I might be here to be used by him to help make a difference in Calgary.

Our team consists of 27 students and 11 staff (including interns) from across the country. We've all been here since Monday (May 5th) and have had a blast getting to know one another. I am amazed at the way the Holy Spirit has united us. Please pray that we continue to experience this unity! I really feel a supernatural kind of bond with these men and women, and look forward not only to what God will do through us, but what He'll do in our hearts to make us better lovers of Him.

Since arriving earlier this week, we've been hanging out a lot. We've had the chance to job hunt and hand out resumes. Also, we have been going to training sessions, about how to depend on God's Holy Spirit, how to get around in Calgary, how to transition our conversations to talk about spiritual things, and how to resolve conflict.

I'm really looking forward to learning how to be a better witness for Christ. I'm nervous about sharing my faith with a coworker, but I know God has prepared the opportunities in advance. I know He wants everyone to hear what He has done for us in sending Jesus to die on the cross. Please pray that I'll proclaim the gospel boldly! Pray that I keep my focus on Him, and stay open to being used in any situation.

Recap of prayer requests:
- that our team would continue to get along, and resolve any conflict appropriately
- that I would stay focused on Jesus, and proclaim the gospel boldly
- also, that the last $500 of my financial support would come in before the end of next week

Thank you again for supporting me. I truly appreciate your gifts and prayers, and will update you again in about two weeks.

God bless!