Yay for friends!

This weekend turned out to be an encouraging and energizing time for me. On Saturday, we waited out some bad weather in the morning, which seems to be a pattern here. After cold rainy nasty mornings, many days during this time of year turn out to be sunny warm days. It turned out that Saturday became such a day and we went to Ballykeel with Colin and played football with him for several hours, as well as a few kids from Ballykeel. I was very encouraged by the time and had the opportunity to really find out more about his personal life and his story. That evening, we went to a Hope barbecue at Niel and Catherine's house, which not only served as great meal, but also some good time in relaxation, prayer, and worship. On Sunday, the Hope team put on the morning service, and though (or because) we did not play any major role, all went well, followed by another splendid and free meal at our friend Paul's house.

Today was our day off, as is each Monday, and Erin and I traveled to Coleraine, Garvagh, and Portstewart to meet with three of our friends from Samford, Danielle Greenwade, Laura Vandal, and Chad Robison. They are over on a 2 week mission trip and it was so encouraging and exciting to see some familiar faces and friends.

This week, we look forward to a sweet 4th of July party with at least us 4 interns, as well as Danielle, our intern coordinator with Hope, who is also American. We will have decorations and good food and will see what kind of havoc we can wreak upon this part of the UK. This week, be praying for more specific opportunities to spend quality time with some kids, particularly for me: Sean, John, Michael, Benny, and Vinny (some of the older kids I play football with-none of which are believers). Also pray that my relationship with Colin will continue to grow and deepen so that we can go deeper and help him grow in his young faith. As one more request, please be praying for healing in my knee, which I injured early on while playing football, and has continued to decrease mobility and increase pain. Thank you all for praying and for you love and support- I am a weak vessel that needs all the support I can get so that the Lord's love will be shown and not me.