Day One: Check!

I've only been here for one day of ministry, and yet it feels like I've been here for much longer. It was so nice to dive back into the swing of things with a staff that I completely admire and adore.

Bailey and I began our day with the Metro to the ministry center. Thankfully, Marc showed us how and where to change trains yesterday, so we were fully prepared.

When the staff gathered at the office, we joined in a time of prayer, worship, and devotion. Marc led the devotions today and reminded us about how we are called to love one another--especially prevalent with all that is happening back home these days. Always an encouragement and challenge.

We sang this song afterward, which was quite appropriate. May this be our prayer as believers united around the world.

We are one in the Spirit
We are one in the Lord
And we pray that all unity
May one day be restored.

And they'll know we are Christians
By our love, by our love
They will know we are Christians by our love.

We will work with each other
We will work side by side
And we'll guard each one's dignity
And save each one's pride.

We walk with each other
We will walk hand in hand
And together we'll spread the news
That God is in our land.

After a time of prep for the week, we went to get some kids from the Pinocchio orphanage (a newer center to CTL and an even newer one to me). Some kids rode back in the car while the others walked with us. Even with my minimalist Romanian skills, little spunky Alex seemed to keep me laughing the entire journey back the the center.

In the afternoon we played Blitz, Tenzi, basketball, and other outdoor games for a time. Daniel then took over and discussed the story of Zacchaeus. The kids answered questions and received candy for a treat. Afterward we did a team building activity where we had to build the tallest structure possible using cheese puffs and tooth picks. AND, a golf ball had to stay securely on top. There were some interesting things going around, but our team pulled out ahead for the win!

After hanging out and playing a bit more basketball, the kids had to journey back to their center--fortunately, we'll see them again tomorrow. There were a few that I was quite drawn to, and I'll be looking forward to seeing them again.

Bailey and I hung out at the office for a bit after that before meeting Nelu and Florina at the mall for some dinner and grocery shopping. We enjoyed a nice walk in the misty rain to the mall and a good time of hanging out with Nelu and Florina. We were quite grateful to be able to go grocery shopping with a car, seeing as we go through water like a parched man in a hot desert.

We were also grateful to be in a car as we headed back to our apartment as the storm grew exponentially and the lightening made the evening feel like midday. I loved every minute of it.

Needless to say, by the time we got home, we were exhausted, so it didn't take long to completely crash.

Until next time...

Thanks for praying!