Roaming Cattle, Pouring Rain and Memorable Macchiatos...Week One

It's hard to believe we've only been here a week. It feels like much longer. I think when you shake off the fast pace of the western world and slow down to really breathe, walk, and connect with people...days seem much more full and you feel much more tired too. All has been well here. :-)

Our first week has largely been one of meeting the staff and the community workers, full of learning and observing. I'm always so humbled and blessed to meet people serving God sacrificially and faithfully- may I also live my life in the same way- putting others first and loving God most- depending on His strength.

I've always found Addis Ababa to be very interesting. Women roast corn on the side of the roads and sell vegetables. Kids play soccer wherever they can find a dry place to kick and run, these things remind me of Kenya. People greet each other with bows, handshakes, and kisses on the cheeks. You feel a great sense of community. There's a deep religious feel to here as well, with the calls to worship and many observing traditional religious dress, you feel a sense of tradition and reverence that you can't miss.  And of course, the beautiful kids of Ethiopia and their smiles can make your day. 

There are also big obvious contrasts of wealth and poverty in Addis. Even in nicer parts of the city, you can find women and children begging or kids sleeping on the streets- reminding you that poverty is still deeply rooted here and there is much that needs done.

My thoughts have been- what is our part, as westerners, in helping a place like Ethiopia to lift people out of poverty? I'm convinced the local church is the key to empowerment- them initiating the change in their own communities. But it's all very multi-layered, so I look forward to peeling that onion more, so I understand best strategies and can hopefully share what I learn with others in the time ahead.

I've sincerely loved being here. I've chuckled many times this past week. Huge herds of cattle are EVERYWHERE- and even cows cross bridges on their own like it's no big deal. 

I've also been amazed at the intense rain that has been falling in the morning and night- leaving in its wake- loud choruses of frogs enjoying the water I assume- and large amounts of mud- coating our shoes and jeans.

I've been grateful for the hot showers when they've been there and for the roof of our guesthouse that has held up during the storms. And for the amazing sunrises and sunsets after storms, reminding us of God's promises of a new day.

I've also been grateful for the macchiato (coffee) meetings we've had- with new and old friends- and teammates. Also- lunches and dinners of injera followed by popcorn and bunna, priceless :-) Times of prayer and discussion of God's provision, mission strategies and just life overall...have been WONDERFUL.

Noel and a french vanilla macchiato, yep- they have those here :-)

Me with one of my favorite sistas, she's going to teach us how to cook :-)

Thank you for your prayers, they've been felt!

We did plan out our September schedule this past week. It's going to be very busy. Noel's Czech teammate- Kristyna arrives on Tuesday and will be with us a month. It will be good to have her here. Noel and her will be focusing on Exodus, their family empowerment project they're doing in partnership with Hope in View. We will all be visiting families, having trainings and retreats for kids and their families, and serving the staff as they serve. I will also begin meeting with various NGO's and ministries in Ethiopia- to discuss empowerment strategies and what is working and what hasn't been working. Excited again for that onion peeling. :-)

This coming week, please pray for:

1. Kristyna's safe arrival on Tuesday
2. Continued good health and good favor with the staff here and the community workers, etc.
3. A trip to the western part of Ethiopia on Friday through Sunday- where will be helping to facilitate a follow-up training for over ten rural churches and their leadership team.
4. Good preparation time and planning for a kids retreat to the south- next Monday-Wednesday.

Thank you for praying for us and helping us be here. It wouldn't be possible without you.

Our prayers are with you as well.

Hope you have a blessed and restful weekend and start to your coming week. As schools kick off, etc, may God give you His courage, His peace, His guidance in all. May His kingdom advance through our lives, our obedience to His call, and by His love.

Keep in touch.

Many Blessings from Ethiopia,

Holly with Noel