Instead of going out to colleges and universities as usual, we had a day of prayer at PLBC on Friday. As usual, breakfast was at 8 AM and devotions at 8:45, but then we had free time until 11 when we began our first segment of prayer.
We were to spend two portions of our day in prayer with one segment being an hour and the other, after lunch at 1 PM and lasting until 3 PM.
The first section went by relatively quickly as I spent some time in Bible study and prayer. After approximately a 30 minute lunch break, we all began our second session.
I personally found the time very rejuvenating and restoring. It was wonderful being able to spend some quality time alone and uninterrupted with God. I know spending that much time (3 hours!) with Him should be a must and a priority in my life, yet somehow I manage to fill my days with other things. Some are seemingly important and others possibly worthless.
At 4:30 PM, ten of us set out for the Place of Loving People (the Korean Church) for a night of intercessory prayer. We arrived around 6 PM and they were VERY excited to see us. They fed us Korean food (I wish I could remember what it was called) and it was very delicious. Because there were so many of us, we didn’t get to eat very much and were all soon very hungry.
The praise team invited Brett to join them in their singing and they very graciously put up the words of the songs in English on the projector so we could sing along too. After the singing, we began the prayer time. The lead singer (I forget his name ) led us to topics on which to pray and then we individually prayed out loud, some in English, most in Korean, or silently.
These people have some of the most beautiful hearts I have ever experienced. Their name truly and accurately describes who and what they are, very loving people. After the service, we stuck around for a short time and fellowshipped with them before heading on our way.
We made a stop at Metrotown Mall for frozen yogurt, but soon resumed our journey because it was getting late and the mall was closing.
Due to the weekend bus schedule and the late night, we had missed our bus back to PLBC. At the King George SkyTrain Station, Lauren, Jared, and Vu caught a cab and split the fare. However, Brett, Christina, Liesl, Laura, Sarah H, Sarah M, and I walked 24 blocks to Fraser Highway at 152nd Street where we came upon a friend who offered us a ride.
After using the washroom and purchasing candy and our day bus passes for Saturday at Safeway, we climbed in Chris’ car, reducing the travel time from an hour to 10 minutes. He had to make two trips, but we were ever so thankful for a rest and his kindness.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Thursday May 27, 2010
Thursday morning my team and I set out for CDI College of Business, Technology, and Healthcare in Surrey. The trip only took about 30 minutes and we were soon at the bus stop directly across the street from the one building school. We walked in the building and saw the entire college in approximately 3 minutes and saw maybe 3 students walking around.
I tried to talk with the receptionist who then sent me to another lady who informed me that we needed to make an appointment if we wanted to obtain any information. I relayed this message to Seth and we left the college.
We sat outside for a few minutes trying to decide what to do. We were either going to go back to PLBC to receive a new assignment or going out into the community to set up Soularium. Seeing as it was already 10:30, we figured it was almost too late to begin again. So we decided to make the best of our situation.
While sitting, two men from a different country (go figure) walked by asking for directions. We didn’t know where the street was located off the top of our heads (duh, we don’t live here! haha), but I pulled out my map and was eventually able to point them in the right direction. We figured we were in the right place at the right time, even if it was only to help give street directions instead of life direction.
A few short minutes later, we headed down towards Tim Horton’s in hopes of setting up Soularium. After realizing it wouldn’t work in there, we caught a bus down to City Central Mall and set up in the food court. Jonny and Adam went to the closest coffee shop, called Blendz, and set up a sign like before saying they would buy coffee if a person would share their story.
Sarah M and Sarah H manned the survey table for most of the time while Callie and I sat on a random bench reading and trying to talk with the people who sat down next to us for a rest. We had several people stop by and take the survey and chatted with a few people on the benches. Sarah H was able to give a Bible to a man that had gotten out of prison that very day! It was wonderful!
While sitting on the bench and facing a luggage store, I noticed a man wearing a red Canada hat enter that was acting strangely. I continued to watch him as he strolled around the store, proceeded to pick up a wallet from the selection placed on one table, and shove it in his back pocket. Before I could really even process what had happened, he lifted his head and looked directly into my face. I froze and freaked out for a few seconds.
I looked down at my book and continued to “read” as if I had seen nothing. I watched him as he suspiciously walked around the store a bit more acting like he was browsing through the phone cases. Eventually he left and headed toward a different store, Zellars.
I immediately went over to Callie and told her what I saw. She told me to find and tell the mall security. So I set off to find them. However, I could not and soon went back to the food court.
Just a few minutes after arriving back at the food court, a loud beeping sounded over the speaker followed by a voice saying “May I have your attention please. There is an armed situation in the mall. Please stand by for further instructions.” This continued on for several minutes and all I could think about was the suspicious man in the red Canada hat that had stolen a wallet and the fact that I never found a security guard.
A few minutes later, we saw two mall security men running toward Zellars. Finally a voice came over the speakers saying the issued had been resolved. I still wonder if it had anything to do with that man.
Our group reconvened at 3:45 PM and headed toward the SkyTrain station to begin our journey back to PLBC. That night we had our debriefing at 8 PM and worship at 9 PM. Seth spoke about waiting on God, something I know I struggle with more than I wish I did.
He hit home by stating that, “Waiting is not the same thing as doing nothing.” Just because we are in a time of waiting does not mean we should be in a time of inactivity! I believe this message hit home with many of us in the room that night. I know it did for me.
I tried to talk with the receptionist who then sent me to another lady who informed me that we needed to make an appointment if we wanted to obtain any information. I relayed this message to Seth and we left the college.
We sat outside for a few minutes trying to decide what to do. We were either going to go back to PLBC to receive a new assignment or going out into the community to set up Soularium. Seeing as it was already 10:30, we figured it was almost too late to begin again. So we decided to make the best of our situation.
While sitting, two men from a different country (go figure) walked by asking for directions. We didn’t know where the street was located off the top of our heads (duh, we don’t live here! haha), but I pulled out my map and was eventually able to point them in the right direction. We figured we were in the right place at the right time, even if it was only to help give street directions instead of life direction.
A few short minutes later, we headed down towards Tim Horton’s in hopes of setting up Soularium. After realizing it wouldn’t work in there, we caught a bus down to City Central Mall and set up in the food court. Jonny and Adam went to the closest coffee shop, called Blendz, and set up a sign like before saying they would buy coffee if a person would share their story.
Sarah M and Sarah H manned the survey table for most of the time while Callie and I sat on a random bench reading and trying to talk with the people who sat down next to us for a rest. We had several people stop by and take the survey and chatted with a few people on the benches. Sarah H was able to give a Bible to a man that had gotten out of prison that very day! It was wonderful!
While sitting on the bench and facing a luggage store, I noticed a man wearing a red Canada hat enter that was acting strangely. I continued to watch him as he strolled around the store, proceeded to pick up a wallet from the selection placed on one table, and shove it in his back pocket. Before I could really even process what had happened, he lifted his head and looked directly into my face. I froze and freaked out for a few seconds.
I looked down at my book and continued to “read” as if I had seen nothing. I watched him as he suspiciously walked around the store a bit more acting like he was browsing through the phone cases. Eventually he left and headed toward a different store, Zellars.
I immediately went over to Callie and told her what I saw. She told me to find and tell the mall security. So I set off to find them. However, I could not and soon went back to the food court.
Just a few minutes after arriving back at the food court, a loud beeping sounded over the speaker followed by a voice saying “May I have your attention please. There is an armed situation in the mall. Please stand by for further instructions.” This continued on for several minutes and all I could think about was the suspicious man in the red Canada hat that had stolen a wallet and the fact that I never found a security guard.
A few minutes later, we saw two mall security men running toward Zellars. Finally a voice came over the speakers saying the issued had been resolved. I still wonder if it had anything to do with that man.
Our group reconvened at 3:45 PM and headed toward the SkyTrain station to begin our journey back to PLBC. That night we had our debriefing at 8 PM and worship at 9 PM. Seth spoke about waiting on God, something I know I struggle with more than I wish I did.
He hit home by stating that, “Waiting is not the same thing as doing nothing.” Just because we are in a time of waiting does not mean we should be in a time of inactivity! I believe this message hit home with many of us in the room that night. I know it did for me.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Wednesday May 26, 2010
The morning of May 26th proved to be an interesting and patience practicing morning for many people on our trip. Our entire group, yes all 27 of us, travelled together to UBC, University of British Columbia due to the simple fact that the campus is HUGE! During the regular schooling year, the university enrolls approximately 45-50,000 students. Needless to say, all 27 members of our group were greatly needed and appreciated.
As excited as we were to see the campus we had heard so much about, the trip there made many want to turn around and go back home. We missed three buses due to an array of issues such as not knowing where the bus stop was to having half of our group missing (on two different occasions) when the bus arrived.
Nevertheless, we managed to arrive via the Canada Line (a newer version of the SkyTrain) and the 99 B-Line bus straight into the campus of UBC. Pretty crazy that it has its own bus. Well, more like 10.
We finally met up with Pastor Craig O’Brien, the main person involved in the UBC campus ministries, Suzanne, and Rich to talk about the campus and begin our research and outreach for the day. After lunch we split into our normal four groups and headed out to conquer the campus.
My group and I headed toward Region 3 which turned out to be the Engineering and Sciences section of the campus. After settling down in one of the buildings and setting up Soularium, Callie, Jonny, and I set out to prayer walk half of the region.
We headed back to the building that temporarily housed the other three and switched off. Just like them, we had many people stare at our table and the pictures as they passed by, but no one would stop to take the survey. We headed back over to the cafeteria area for a time of debriefing around 3:30 PM.
After that, we essentially split into two groups for our free evening. On our way to the Canada line station, I sat next to a man on the bus who, after a bit of conversation, revealed that he was involved in the program at UBC that trained Baptist pastors. It’s wonderful to find fellow believers amidst the vast lost-ness that encompasses most of Vancouver.
The group I was with headed towards Olympic Village and we weren’t sure what to expect when we arrived. We didn’t necessarily see what was so Olympic (or village-y) about the place, but alas, we enjoyed ourselves immensely. It’s all about the journey! :)
Our supper was at a small restaurant that served both Chinese and Western (hamburgers and such) dishes. The role of greeter, waiter, and cook were all fulfilled by one small Chinese man. Our orders were quickly taken and quickly served despite the large number (ten) of our group. Most of us ordered some kind of hamburger while Liesl tried to order beef stew. However, he didn’t have beef stew and so she agreed to accept his substitute of minced beef. Liesl didn’t really know what she ordered, and to be honest, it wasn’t any clearer when the plate of food arrived. We all enjoyed our food, save Liesl, who ate mostly just the mushrooms mixed throughout her food and the French fries from the plates of others.
On our way back to PLBC we stopped off at Metrotown Mall for a taste of frozen yogurt. We arrived back at base and essentially wound down from then on until our heads hit our pillows for a much needed and desired night of slumber.
As excited as we were to see the campus we had heard so much about, the trip there made many want to turn around and go back home. We missed three buses due to an array of issues such as not knowing where the bus stop was to having half of our group missing (on two different occasions) when the bus arrived.
Nevertheless, we managed to arrive via the Canada Line (a newer version of the SkyTrain) and the 99 B-Line bus straight into the campus of UBC. Pretty crazy that it has its own bus. Well, more like 10.
We finally met up with Pastor Craig O’Brien, the main person involved in the UBC campus ministries, Suzanne, and Rich to talk about the campus and begin our research and outreach for the day. After lunch we split into our normal four groups and headed out to conquer the campus.
My group and I headed toward Region 3 which turned out to be the Engineering and Sciences section of the campus. After settling down in one of the buildings and setting up Soularium, Callie, Jonny, and I set out to prayer walk half of the region.
We headed back to the building that temporarily housed the other three and switched off. Just like them, we had many people stare at our table and the pictures as they passed by, but no one would stop to take the survey. We headed back over to the cafeteria area for a time of debriefing around 3:30 PM.
After that, we essentially split into two groups for our free evening. On our way to the Canada line station, I sat next to a man on the bus who, after a bit of conversation, revealed that he was involved in the program at UBC that trained Baptist pastors. It’s wonderful to find fellow believers amidst the vast lost-ness that encompasses most of Vancouver.
The group I was with headed towards Olympic Village and we weren’t sure what to expect when we arrived. We didn’t necessarily see what was so Olympic (or village-y) about the place, but alas, we enjoyed ourselves immensely. It’s all about the journey! :)
Our supper was at a small restaurant that served both Chinese and Western (hamburgers and such) dishes. The role of greeter, waiter, and cook were all fulfilled by one small Chinese man. Our orders were quickly taken and quickly served despite the large number (ten) of our group. Most of us ordered some kind of hamburger while Liesl tried to order beef stew. However, he didn’t have beef stew and so she agreed to accept his substitute of minced beef. Liesl didn’t really know what she ordered, and to be honest, it wasn’t any clearer when the plate of food arrived. We all enjoyed our food, save Liesl, who ate mostly just the mushrooms mixed throughout her food and the French fries from the plates of others.
On our way back to PLBC we stopped off at Metrotown Mall for a taste of frozen yogurt. We arrived back at base and essentially wound down from then on until our heads hit our pillows for a much needed and desired night of slumber.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Tuesday May 25, 2010
After breakfast and our usual morning devotion, Kelly came to chat with us, see how things were going, and receive our feedback. We shared both uplifting and discouraging stories and talked about our schedule for the next two weeks.
We are officially at the half way point of our trip. Weird. The first week went by really slowly and the second week sped by rather quickly.
My team set off for Kwantlen Polytechnic University in Langley, a town directly east of Surrey for our days’ research. After arriving, we headed toward the administration part of the university to obtain our usual information. The campus was tiny and the amount of students we encountered was even smaller than that, possibly miniscule.
We weren’t able to obtain the information we needed and after being told to contact the main campus in Surrey, we decided to try the cafeteria in hopes of finding students. We were still unsuccessful. Adam, Sarah M, and Sarah H decided to stay at the cafeteria and eat their sack lunches while Jonny, Callie, and I went down the road to a cheap Chinese and Thai restaurant. Adam, Sarah H, and Sarah M took Soularium in hopes of finding a place to set up.
After lunch, we headed toward a place that seemed promising, New Life Christian Counseling. However, the lady was in a session and couldn’t meet with us at the time, so we said we would return in an hour. We stopped by the Chamber of Commerce and talked with a nice lady that was able to give us a large chunk of information in regards to the city of Langley.
We found the other three set up at a coffee shop, drinking coffee, and praying that someone would come in and see their sign and take the offer of “Tell us your story and we’ll buy you a cup of coffee.”
Jonny, Callie, and I set off towards the Willowbrook Shopping Centre that we were told was just down the road, but we never arrived. We came close, but decided that by the time we set foot inside, it would be time to head back to catch our bus back to Surrey. We dejectedly walked back the way we came only to get caught in the rain. We stopped at Tim Horton’s for some coffee and to rest after our long walk. Praise God for umbrellas and coffee shops!! :)
So far the day felt very discouraging and unproductive. The other three had just about as much productivity as we did. They sadly reported that no one told their story, but a few people did show interest. We headed back to PLBC around 4 PM.
It’s so incredibly easy to become discouraged when we frequently do not receive any kind of affirmation from the work we are doing. Kelly shows his appreciation for the work we are doing and the time we are saving him by doing all of this research and travelling. Sadly, that is easy to forget amidst the hustle and bustle of the every day. Please be in prayer for us in the aspects of encouragement and our abilities to focus as we continue our work through the next two weeks.
We are officially at the half way point of our trip. Weird. The first week went by really slowly and the second week sped by rather quickly.
My team set off for Kwantlen Polytechnic University in Langley, a town directly east of Surrey for our days’ research. After arriving, we headed toward the administration part of the university to obtain our usual information. The campus was tiny and the amount of students we encountered was even smaller than that, possibly miniscule.
We weren’t able to obtain the information we needed and after being told to contact the main campus in Surrey, we decided to try the cafeteria in hopes of finding students. We were still unsuccessful. Adam, Sarah M, and Sarah H decided to stay at the cafeteria and eat their sack lunches while Jonny, Callie, and I went down the road to a cheap Chinese and Thai restaurant. Adam, Sarah H, and Sarah M took Soularium in hopes of finding a place to set up.
After lunch, we headed toward a place that seemed promising, New Life Christian Counseling. However, the lady was in a session and couldn’t meet with us at the time, so we said we would return in an hour. We stopped by the Chamber of Commerce and talked with a nice lady that was able to give us a large chunk of information in regards to the city of Langley.
We found the other three set up at a coffee shop, drinking coffee, and praying that someone would come in and see their sign and take the offer of “Tell us your story and we’ll buy you a cup of coffee.”
Jonny, Callie, and I set off towards the Willowbrook Shopping Centre that we were told was just down the road, but we never arrived. We came close, but decided that by the time we set foot inside, it would be time to head back to catch our bus back to Surrey. We dejectedly walked back the way we came only to get caught in the rain. We stopped at Tim Horton’s for some coffee and to rest after our long walk. Praise God for umbrellas and coffee shops!! :)
So far the day felt very discouraging and unproductive. The other three had just about as much productivity as we did. They sadly reported that no one told their story, but a few people did show interest. We headed back to PLBC around 4 PM.
It’s so incredibly easy to become discouraged when we frequently do not receive any kind of affirmation from the work we are doing. Kelly shows his appreciation for the work we are doing and the time we are saving him by doing all of this research and travelling. Sadly, that is easy to forget amidst the hustle and bustle of the every day. Please be in prayer for us in the aspects of encouragement and our abilities to focus as we continue our work through the next two weeks.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Monday May 24, 2010
All across Canada people were celebrating Victoria Day (Queen Victoria’s birthday) with parades, parties, fireworks, etc. The normal things people do on national holidays. So Callie and I decided to celebrate as well seeing as we had the day off.
We began our celebration by sleeping in until 9:30 AM or so. It was simply divine! Around 11 we headed to the bus stop and arrived in Chinatown at approximately 12-ish. We weren’t hungry at the time, so we began our search for cheap Canada merchandise. It turned out to be relatively easy and we felt satisfied with our finds. We also stopped at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Park, a real Chinese garden even with rocks imported from China! It was pretty, but small.
After walking around for a few hours in the tourist part of Chinatown, we somehow ended up in the residential section where the only things being sold were food items such as veggies, dead fish, and lizards on sticks. Needless to say, the smell was grotesque and we hastened to leave this part of town.
Then we ended up on Hastings Street, the bad part of Chinatown. We quickly turned around and followed our noses back to the markets and eventually found ourselves back in the touristy section.
Even after the gag-reflex inducing sights and smells at the Chinese markets, our stomachs began to complain of hunger. So we stopped at a Chinese bakery and purchased a Mango Cream Roll. We hurried to a small coffee shop where we had stopped earlier so we could consume this hopefully delicious food item.
The first bite was interesting and sent our taste buds for a loop. However, all the following bites were eaten with pleasure and with minimal talking.
We began our trek home with nothing out of norm occurring. We were, of course, the minority on all transit vehicles. But even this is losing its weirdness and slowly become natural for us, or so it feels.
Upon our arrival at PLBC, we simply chilled. We hung out for a while and then headed out to find our supper. We had our hearts (and stomachs) set on Chinese, but the closest place was closed. We were forced to buy toasted subs that simply did not meet our standards.
The rest of the evening was relaxed and ended with a small, unplanned yet wonderful time of worship.
We began our celebration by sleeping in until 9:30 AM or so. It was simply divine! Around 11 we headed to the bus stop and arrived in Chinatown at approximately 12-ish. We weren’t hungry at the time, so we began our search for cheap Canada merchandise. It turned out to be relatively easy and we felt satisfied with our finds. We also stopped at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Park, a real Chinese garden even with rocks imported from China! It was pretty, but small.
After walking around for a few hours in the tourist part of Chinatown, we somehow ended up in the residential section where the only things being sold were food items such as veggies, dead fish, and lizards on sticks. Needless to say, the smell was grotesque and we hastened to leave this part of town.
Then we ended up on Hastings Street, the bad part of Chinatown. We quickly turned around and followed our noses back to the markets and eventually found ourselves back in the touristy section.
Even after the gag-reflex inducing sights and smells at the Chinese markets, our stomachs began to complain of hunger. So we stopped at a Chinese bakery and purchased a Mango Cream Roll. We hurried to a small coffee shop where we had stopped earlier so we could consume this hopefully delicious food item.
The first bite was interesting and sent our taste buds for a loop. However, all the following bites were eaten with pleasure and with minimal talking.
We began our trek home with nothing out of norm occurring. We were, of course, the minority on all transit vehicles. But even this is losing its weirdness and slowly become natural for us, or so it feels.
Upon our arrival at PLBC, we simply chilled. We hung out for a while and then headed out to find our supper. We had our hearts (and stomachs) set on Chinese, but the closest place was closed. We were forced to buy toasted subs that simply did not meet our standards.
The rest of the evening was relaxed and ended with a small, unplanned yet wonderful time of worship.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Sunday May 23, 2010
Our plans for Sunday were to attend The Church of Loving People, a Korean church made up of mostly young people. However, at the bus stop, Christina and I had to head back to PLBC because she was rather ill and desperately needed rest. We arrived back safely and after she went to lie down for a while, I headed to my room for some of my own rest and relaxation. I know we both would have loved to attend the church, but I also know it was meant for us to be here.
I was able to talk with my mom and dad, my sister Amanda, my brother Ben, my niece Mikah and nephew Noah, and Claire all because I had to stay behind. It was amazing and much needed! I spent some much needed time in Bible study, read from a few of the books I brought along, and did my laundry.
When the group arrived back at the college, we all just hung out. Some played sand volleyball while others played cards or on their computers.
At 9 PM we headed into the A-Frame for our Sunday night worship. After some wonderful time spent singing, Seth opened up the floor for those of us that may have something to share. Some shared verses and others shared lessons they had recently learned or were still in the process of learning. I decided to share what I had been reminded of that very morning.
During my Bible study that morning I had been reading in Haggai about how the people’s plans were not going as they wanted. God said through Haggai in 1:9, “ ‘You expected much, but see, it turned out to be little. What you brought home, I blew away. Why?’ declares the LORD Almighty. ‘Because of my house, which remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with his own house.”
I felt God reiterating the point to me that when I try to do things my way and when I want to go by my own agenda, the things I plan will not go as I wished. But if we follow God’s will and do as He commands, He will fulfill our needs and give us our desires. We still shouldn’t do things for God so we can get our way. Instead, we should have the desire to please Him and bring Him glory. I know this, but I guess I need reminding every now and again. :)
Once we finished with worship, I played a few games of Rummy with Marisol and Mike and learned two new card games, Pairs and Polish Poker. All were fun, but I think I managed to lose almost every hand no matter the game haha.
All in all, I am very thankful for the quiet, slow days amidst the hustle and bustle of city life in which I am now immersed.
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’” ~Psalm 91:1-2
I was able to talk with my mom and dad, my sister Amanda, my brother Ben, my niece Mikah and nephew Noah, and Claire all because I had to stay behind. It was amazing and much needed! I spent some much needed time in Bible study, read from a few of the books I brought along, and did my laundry.
When the group arrived back at the college, we all just hung out. Some played sand volleyball while others played cards or on their computers.
At 9 PM we headed into the A-Frame for our Sunday night worship. After some wonderful time spent singing, Seth opened up the floor for those of us that may have something to share. Some shared verses and others shared lessons they had recently learned or were still in the process of learning. I decided to share what I had been reminded of that very morning.
During my Bible study that morning I had been reading in Haggai about how the people’s plans were not going as they wanted. God said through Haggai in 1:9, “ ‘You expected much, but see, it turned out to be little. What you brought home, I blew away. Why?’ declares the LORD Almighty. ‘Because of my house, which remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with his own house.”
I felt God reiterating the point to me that when I try to do things my way and when I want to go by my own agenda, the things I plan will not go as I wished. But if we follow God’s will and do as He commands, He will fulfill our needs and give us our desires. We still shouldn’t do things for God so we can get our way. Instead, we should have the desire to please Him and bring Him glory. I know this, but I guess I need reminding every now and again. :)
Once we finished with worship, I played a few games of Rummy with Marisol and Mike and learned two new card games, Pairs and Polish Poker. All were fun, but I think I managed to lose almost every hand no matter the game haha.
All in all, I am very thankful for the quiet, slow days amidst the hustle and bustle of city life in which I am now immersed.
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’” ~Psalm 91:1-2
Colored People by dc Talk
I strongly believe that Vancouver must be the influence for this song…
“Pardon me, your epidermis is showing, sir
I couldn't help but note your shade of melanin
I tip my hat to the colorful arrangement
Cause I see the beauty in the tones of our skin
“We've gotta come together
And thank the Maker of us all
“We're colored people, and we live in a tainted place
We're colored people, and they call us the human race
We've got a history so full of mistakes
And we are colored people who depend on a Holy Grace
“A piece of canvas is only the beginning for
It takes on character with every loving stroke
This thing of beauty is the passion of an Artist's heart
By God's design, we are a skin kaleidoscope
“We've gotta come together,
Aren't we all human after all?
“Ignorance has wronged some races
And vengeance is the Lord's
If we aspire to share this space
Repentance is the cure
“Well, just a day in the shoes of a color blind man
Should make it easy for you to see
That these diverse tones do more than cover our bones
As a part of our anatomy”
“Pardon me, your epidermis is showing, sir
I couldn't help but note your shade of melanin
I tip my hat to the colorful arrangement
Cause I see the beauty in the tones of our skin
“We've gotta come together
And thank the Maker of us all
“We're colored people, and we live in a tainted place
We're colored people, and they call us the human race
We've got a history so full of mistakes
And we are colored people who depend on a Holy Grace
“A piece of canvas is only the beginning for
It takes on character with every loving stroke
This thing of beauty is the passion of an Artist's heart
By God's design, we are a skin kaleidoscope
“We've gotta come together,
Aren't we all human after all?
“Ignorance has wronged some races
And vengeance is the Lord's
If we aspire to share this space
Repentance is the cure
“Well, just a day in the shoes of a color blind man
Should make it easy for you to see
That these diverse tones do more than cover our bones
As a part of our anatomy”
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Saturday May 22, 2010
Our day off was one filled with some of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen and been immersed in during my time of existence. Liesl, Laura, Christina, Marisol, Sarah H, Brett, Jared, Vu, Kyle, Mike, Jonny, and I traveled to North Vancouver to Lynn Canyon Park.
While on the SkyTrain, I had the pleasure of talking with a native Vancouver couple whose son attended and recently graduated from Lindenwood University in Missouri.
Once we arrived at the Park, our first endeavor was to cross the suspension bridge. The view from the bridge was breathtaking and can hardly be described in words. The free swinging motion of the bridge frightened many people and they did not stop to appreciate the beauty of their surroundings before rushing to the other side and what they viewed as safety. Little did we know that this was only the beginning of the beauty that we would discover.
Mike and Kyle had been to this park the previous day so we decided to set off in a new direction. We set our steps toward the waterfall we could hear in the distance in hopes to stop and eat lunch beside the rushing water. We never found a spot by the waterfall nor did we stop to eat our lunch.
However, we did find a large creek filled with freezing water from recently melted snow rushing down from the mountain top. Mike, Kyle, Christina, Marisol, and I spent time hopping from rock to rock in the creek, trying to keep our balance and stay out of the water.
After a while, Christina and Marisol turned back and Mike, Kyle, and I continued to climb up the side of the cliff and hike on through the gorgeous mass of trees and undergrowth. We spotted a lean-to down the side of the cliff and decided to have a closer look. We were curious as to whether someone actually inhabited this little shanty. When we were finally level with it, we realized someone did live in it, so we kept our distance and soon headed back up the cliff.
Once back at the top, we found the rest of our groups heading our way. We joined forces and continued on for a short while. We eventually realized that we were no longer on the path designated in the park. Instead, we were on the wrong side and apparently had been for a while.
We finally hopped back over the fence when we came to an impasse and could go no further.
We all crossed the bridge and Mike, Kyle, and I found a trail on the other side headed back toward the creek where we were rock hopping. This side was definitely steeper and required more focus. The trails were much narrower and the undergrowth thicker, causing slips and blunders every now and then. After a while, we realized once again that we were on the wrong side of the fence. Nevertheless, we continued.
When we arrived at the creek, we all felt very accomplished. Our last mission was to get back to the other side of the creek, a task that proved to be more difficult to complete than what we originally thought. First, Mike practically face planted in the water. I’m not sure how he managed to do that, but he did and did it very gracefully. I couldn’t help but laugh then and even now as I recall the memory! :)
We ended up pretty far down stream trying to find a place to cross. A convenient place never really came up, so we ended up using the next best thing…and all ended up in the water. I slipped on a mossy rock and ended up with a green backside and extremely soaked jeans and shoes. Kyle became wet up to his thighs and Mike just became even wetter than he was before.
After crossing to the other side, we realized it wasn’t the other side at all! It was a small little island in the middle of the wide creek. Disgruntled but not giving up, we realized we had to cross the freezing water yet again.
Our search for a place to cross began again and went about as well as the first search…not very. While Kyle was out in the middle of the water and Mike was looking on, I headed upstream a bit to investigate for myself. I was tired of waiting and just wanted to cross. I found a spot that would do and began my journey.
First, I had to walk across a log, hop onto a rock, and then walk across the log a bit more. After the log, I jumped to a rock mostly submerged in the water and waded through the knee high water to the next rock. It proved to be rather difficult to keep my balance and walk while combating both the freezing, rushing water and the slippery rocks beneath the surface.
I finally made it across without getting the top half of my body wet. However, my body from my waist down did not fare as well. I was soaked through and through.
By the time Mike and Kyle even realized I had left them, I was across and resting. They abandoned their crossing and headed toward the spot where I had crossed a few minutes before. I tried to explain to them how I managed to find my way across, but most of the trip was left up to their own decisions. They survived the rushing, freezing rapids (haha) and we were all soon united on the other side. I now understand why the chicken crossed the road…because he didn’t want to go through the creek!
As we were heading back to the lodge/café area, we came across a sign that read, “WARNING: EXTREME DANGER! Do not go beyond this fence. Area is extremely hazardous and has claimed several lives.” Naturally, we discovered this sign after we had hiked all over this area on the wrong side of the fence. Despite our wetness and all the possible dangers, not a single part of the adventure was regretted.
We retreated to the café that had a fire place and tired to dry out and warm up while waiting for the return of the others. Once all together, we headed back to the bus stop that would hopefully take us to supper. We stopped in Chinatown to eat at a small, and obviously, Chinese restaurant.
While waiting on Laura & Liesl to buy marshmallows and talking with Kyle, I was in the process of lowering my hand to a ledge to brace myself when I saw a used drug syringe lying directly below. I quickly jerked my hand away and honestly, freaked out a tiny bit. The needle of the syringe had been bent up and had I not looked before placing my hand, I would have been stuck, subjecting myself to who knows what. I was definitely happy when we continued on our way. We all made it back to PLBC safely with many stories and pictures to share.
In reflection of the day and events, I realized how people say being with nature makes you feel closer to God. While looking at the gorgeous landscape at the park, it made me wonder how anyone could not believe. Such beautiful, breathtaking creation as such could not have simply appeared and it is unmistakable that the earth is God’s canvas painted on to show His power and glory.
I also realized that by spending all (some is great and sometimes needed) of our time secluded in nature is not how we are meant to spend our lives. Thirsty people in the cities are constantly searching for something greater whether they realize it or not. By filling their lives with things such as drugs, they are trying to fill that empty hole they feel inside. We, as believers, know the solution; the way to the living water. And we have the capabilities to show them the way.
While on the SkyTrain, I had the pleasure of talking with a native Vancouver couple whose son attended and recently graduated from Lindenwood University in Missouri.
Once we arrived at the Park, our first endeavor was to cross the suspension bridge. The view from the bridge was breathtaking and can hardly be described in words. The free swinging motion of the bridge frightened many people and they did not stop to appreciate the beauty of their surroundings before rushing to the other side and what they viewed as safety. Little did we know that this was only the beginning of the beauty that we would discover.
Mike and Kyle had been to this park the previous day so we decided to set off in a new direction. We set our steps toward the waterfall we could hear in the distance in hopes to stop and eat lunch beside the rushing water. We never found a spot by the waterfall nor did we stop to eat our lunch.
However, we did find a large creek filled with freezing water from recently melted snow rushing down from the mountain top. Mike, Kyle, Christina, Marisol, and I spent time hopping from rock to rock in the creek, trying to keep our balance and stay out of the water.
After a while, Christina and Marisol turned back and Mike, Kyle, and I continued to climb up the side of the cliff and hike on through the gorgeous mass of trees and undergrowth. We spotted a lean-to down the side of the cliff and decided to have a closer look. We were curious as to whether someone actually inhabited this little shanty. When we were finally level with it, we realized someone did live in it, so we kept our distance and soon headed back up the cliff.
Once back at the top, we found the rest of our groups heading our way. We joined forces and continued on for a short while. We eventually realized that we were no longer on the path designated in the park. Instead, we were on the wrong side and apparently had been for a while.
We finally hopped back over the fence when we came to an impasse and could go no further.
We all crossed the bridge and Mike, Kyle, and I found a trail on the other side headed back toward the creek where we were rock hopping. This side was definitely steeper and required more focus. The trails were much narrower and the undergrowth thicker, causing slips and blunders every now and then. After a while, we realized once again that we were on the wrong side of the fence. Nevertheless, we continued.
When we arrived at the creek, we all felt very accomplished. Our last mission was to get back to the other side of the creek, a task that proved to be more difficult to complete than what we originally thought. First, Mike practically face planted in the water. I’m not sure how he managed to do that, but he did and did it very gracefully. I couldn’t help but laugh then and even now as I recall the memory! :)
We ended up pretty far down stream trying to find a place to cross. A convenient place never really came up, so we ended up using the next best thing…and all ended up in the water. I slipped on a mossy rock and ended up with a green backside and extremely soaked jeans and shoes. Kyle became wet up to his thighs and Mike just became even wetter than he was before.
After crossing to the other side, we realized it wasn’t the other side at all! It was a small little island in the middle of the wide creek. Disgruntled but not giving up, we realized we had to cross the freezing water yet again.
Our search for a place to cross began again and went about as well as the first search…not very. While Kyle was out in the middle of the water and Mike was looking on, I headed upstream a bit to investigate for myself. I was tired of waiting and just wanted to cross. I found a spot that would do and began my journey.
First, I had to walk across a log, hop onto a rock, and then walk across the log a bit more. After the log, I jumped to a rock mostly submerged in the water and waded through the knee high water to the next rock. It proved to be rather difficult to keep my balance and walk while combating both the freezing, rushing water and the slippery rocks beneath the surface.
I finally made it across without getting the top half of my body wet. However, my body from my waist down did not fare as well. I was soaked through and through.
By the time Mike and Kyle even realized I had left them, I was across and resting. They abandoned their crossing and headed toward the spot where I had crossed a few minutes before. I tried to explain to them how I managed to find my way across, but most of the trip was left up to their own decisions. They survived the rushing, freezing rapids (haha) and we were all soon united on the other side. I now understand why the chicken crossed the road…because he didn’t want to go through the creek!
As we were heading back to the lodge/café area, we came across a sign that read, “WARNING: EXTREME DANGER! Do not go beyond this fence. Area is extremely hazardous and has claimed several lives.” Naturally, we discovered this sign after we had hiked all over this area on the wrong side of the fence. Despite our wetness and all the possible dangers, not a single part of the adventure was regretted.
We retreated to the café that had a fire place and tired to dry out and warm up while waiting for the return of the others. Once all together, we headed back to the bus stop that would hopefully take us to supper. We stopped in Chinatown to eat at a small, and obviously, Chinese restaurant.
While waiting on Laura & Liesl to buy marshmallows and talking with Kyle, I was in the process of lowering my hand to a ledge to brace myself when I saw a used drug syringe lying directly below. I quickly jerked my hand away and honestly, freaked out a tiny bit. The needle of the syringe had been bent up and had I not looked before placing my hand, I would have been stuck, subjecting myself to who knows what. I was definitely happy when we continued on our way. We all made it back to PLBC safely with many stories and pictures to share.
In reflection of the day and events, I realized how people say being with nature makes you feel closer to God. While looking at the gorgeous landscape at the park, it made me wonder how anyone could not believe. Such beautiful, breathtaking creation as such could not have simply appeared and it is unmistakable that the earth is God’s canvas painted on to show His power and glory.
I also realized that by spending all (some is great and sometimes needed) of our time secluded in nature is not how we are meant to spend our lives. Thirsty people in the cities are constantly searching for something greater whether they realize it or not. By filling their lives with things such as drugs, they are trying to fill that empty hole they feel inside. We, as believers, know the solution; the way to the living water. And we have the capabilities to show them the way.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Friday May 21, 2010
My group set out Friday around 9:15 AM for a trek across the Greater Vancouver area. We bused to King George SkyTrain Station in Surrey. Then we rode the SkyTrain to Waterfront in Vancouver where we switched to the recently built Canada Line (it was built for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games). We exited at Bridgeport where we caught a bus to British Columbia Institute of Technology’s Aerospace Technology Campus in Richmond.
The place was intimidating.
The building being built mostly out of concrete was very uniform in structure and appearance. The students, mostly all male, were walking around in jumpsuits looking like they just came from the airplane garage on the airstrip.
We stood out. We were uncomfortable and didn’t know what we were doing at this campus. Neither did they.
We walked in and people stared. We walked down the hall and more people stared. As we walked through the food line in the cafeteria, Jonny was asked if he was a new student. The school was small and people noticed us.
Callie and I talked with a secretary of the school and obtained the information we needed and after finishing our meals, we all left the college. We had been informed that after the lunch hour both the cafeteria and common area would be deserted, leaving us with no reason to stick around for our main focus was the students.
So we traveled into Richmond trying to feel out the community. We went to City Hall to research the demographics of the city and we pointed in the direction of a website. After the City Hall we went to the Richmond Centre, a mall, in hopes to set up Soularium seeing as we didn’t have the chance at the college. However, we were politely turned away. Only two surveys were allowed per year at the Richmond Centre and we weren’t to be one of them.
So we continued out of the mall and back to the Canada Line Station to head back to Waterfront. Needless to say, we all felt a little discouraged after our day. We felt as though we accomplished nothing, or at least very little.
We decided to hit Gastown on our way home and do a bit of tourist shopping. Callie and I poured through the shops looking for good deals on Vancouver shirts before finally making our selections and heading back.
While looking for a place to eat supper, Callie and I were asked several times for loose change from beggars on the streets. They were everywhere. However, one man caught my attention. He didn’t ask for anything as people passed. Instead, he sat quietly on the sidewalk with a sign and his dog. I didn’t have a chance to completely read what was written on the sign, but two words stood out to me: “God bless.”
I stopped, turned to Callie, and debated what I should do. I finally asked him if he was hungry. A seemly stupid question, but nevertheless, I asked. I unzipped my backpack so full of the many blessings I neglect to be thankful for in my life and gave him my sack lunch. He gratefully accepted it and Callie and I went on our way.
It breaks my heart to see these people. I think what breaks my heart even more is that while many of them can help themselves, some cannot and no one stops to give them the time of day. No one stops to show them that they care. No one shows them the love of Christ that we so readily accept.
Yes, he may have the ability to change his situation if he so desires.
But what if he doesn’t? What if he needs more?
I should be the one doing more.
Serving more.
No matter what.
“…not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve.” ~1 Peter 5:2b
The place was intimidating.
The building being built mostly out of concrete was very uniform in structure and appearance. The students, mostly all male, were walking around in jumpsuits looking like they just came from the airplane garage on the airstrip.
We stood out. We were uncomfortable and didn’t know what we were doing at this campus. Neither did they.
We walked in and people stared. We walked down the hall and more people stared. As we walked through the food line in the cafeteria, Jonny was asked if he was a new student. The school was small and people noticed us.
Callie and I talked with a secretary of the school and obtained the information we needed and after finishing our meals, we all left the college. We had been informed that after the lunch hour both the cafeteria and common area would be deserted, leaving us with no reason to stick around for our main focus was the students.
So we traveled into Richmond trying to feel out the community. We went to City Hall to research the demographics of the city and we pointed in the direction of a website. After the City Hall we went to the Richmond Centre, a mall, in hopes to set up Soularium seeing as we didn’t have the chance at the college. However, we were politely turned away. Only two surveys were allowed per year at the Richmond Centre and we weren’t to be one of them.
So we continued out of the mall and back to the Canada Line Station to head back to Waterfront. Needless to say, we all felt a little discouraged after our day. We felt as though we accomplished nothing, or at least very little.
We decided to hit Gastown on our way home and do a bit of tourist shopping. Callie and I poured through the shops looking for good deals on Vancouver shirts before finally making our selections and heading back.
While looking for a place to eat supper, Callie and I were asked several times for loose change from beggars on the streets. They were everywhere. However, one man caught my attention. He didn’t ask for anything as people passed. Instead, he sat quietly on the sidewalk with a sign and his dog. I didn’t have a chance to completely read what was written on the sign, but two words stood out to me: “God bless.”
I stopped, turned to Callie, and debated what I should do. I finally asked him if he was hungry. A seemly stupid question, but nevertheless, I asked. I unzipped my backpack so full of the many blessings I neglect to be thankful for in my life and gave him my sack lunch. He gratefully accepted it and Callie and I went on our way.
It breaks my heart to see these people. I think what breaks my heart even more is that while many of them can help themselves, some cannot and no one stops to give them the time of day. No one stops to show them that they care. No one shows them the love of Christ that we so readily accept.
Yes, he may have the ability to change his situation if he so desires.
But what if he doesn’t? What if he needs more?
I should be the one doing more.
Serving more.
No matter what.
“…not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve.” ~1 Peter 5:2b
Thursday May 20, 2010
Bill, a man of 74 and a mentor of Kelly’s, came to PLBC to teach us all about prayer and the many aspects of prayer. This incredible individual spends anywhere between two and three hours a day in prayer! What an inspiration!
We began the morning session around 9 and Bill talked until 12:30 PM with a short break in the middle. Then we took an hour break for lunch. Despite the depth and importance of what he was speaking, many of us were struggling to stay awake and pay attention. I went back to my room, decided to forgo lunch, and laid down in my bed. It was a wonderful nap and I woke up with enough time to scarf down my lunch before returning to the A-Frame at 1:30.
I found the second section of our orientation just as interesting, but much easier to pay attention to, especially after my nap. :) Bill taught us the importance to praying individually to the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, something I had never thought on much. When I pray, I tend to generalize to whom I am praying, instead of specifying as I should (many others agreed with this for themselves).
We finished the session around 4:30 PM then Liesl, Laura, Christina, and I set off on a hunt for our supper. We ate light and picked up a few movies on the way back to PLBC. I had every intention to watch the movies with them until I began talking with Rosie on Skype. I was soooo happy to see her face and hear her voice! We chatted for a few hours, laughed for most of it, and even shed a few tears.
Even though I have limited communication forms with friends and family, I thank God for the technology of today that allows us to video chat with others. To be practically with them even though hundreds, maybe even thousands of miles apart. :)
We began the morning session around 9 and Bill talked until 12:30 PM with a short break in the middle. Then we took an hour break for lunch. Despite the depth and importance of what he was speaking, many of us were struggling to stay awake and pay attention. I went back to my room, decided to forgo lunch, and laid down in my bed. It was a wonderful nap and I woke up with enough time to scarf down my lunch before returning to the A-Frame at 1:30.
I found the second section of our orientation just as interesting, but much easier to pay attention to, especially after my nap. :) Bill taught us the importance to praying individually to the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, something I had never thought on much. When I pray, I tend to generalize to whom I am praying, instead of specifying as I should (many others agreed with this for themselves).
We finished the session around 4:30 PM then Liesl, Laura, Christina, and I set off on a hunt for our supper. We ate light and picked up a few movies on the way back to PLBC. I had every intention to watch the movies with them until I began talking with Rosie on Skype. I was soooo happy to see her face and hear her voice! We chatted for a few hours, laughed for most of it, and even shed a few tears.
Even though I have limited communication forms with friends and family, I thank God for the technology of today that allows us to video chat with others. To be practically with them even though hundreds, maybe even thousands of miles apart. :)
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Wednesday May 19, 2010
Wednesday we headed up to the main campus of Simon Fraser University in Burnaby. This campus is located in the midst of the Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area and the landscape was breathtaking. I took a few photos, but soon quit for the pictures simply cannot do the scenery justice. This is something that must (and should!) be witnessed firsthand.
As we split up into groups of two, Callie and I headed off to find an administrator that could answer our questions about student enrollment and ethnicity. We were distracted by activity on the concourse. SFU was having a club day and most all of the clubs at the university had booths set up so students could check them out if interested.
As we strolled in the aisles between the booths, we became excited when we noticed four different Christian club booths. This was the most Christian activity we had seen on any of the campuses as of yet.
We were actually first approached by a Korean student that tried to sign us up for an International Youth Fellowship World Camp day. We explained that we weren’t students and she still persuaded me to write down my email address haha.
After a bit of confusion, we finally realized that this was a Christian organization and began speaking to a few of the members, Brian and Angus. They sent us in the direction of Seth and Kristin who are also involved in ministry on the campus.
Once we finished asking questions, we asked to be directed to an administrative office. Angus gladly showed us the way. Callie and I were able to speak with a man who allowed us to use a campus computer to finish our research.
We finished with that section of our research and headed back out onto the concourse. Adam, Jonny, Sarah M, and Sarah H were out there with their own table and Soularium already set up. Callie and I set off to find lunch and when we returned, the four of them were in a conversation with a man that once practiced Sikhism. Adam was able to share with him and even give him a Bible.
Throughout the course of the day we spoke with a non-practicing Jew, a few agnostic people, and one interested in the B’hai religion which believes that all the gods of different religions are actually the same god and that all ways are correct.
The booths began to be packed up around 2:30 and the rain hit at approximately 3 PM. We packed up and headed back to PLBC after staring at the beautiful view of Burnaby Mountain from a lookout point at the university.
Back at PLBC, we had a small worship service at 9 PM after our debriefing. Seth spoke on regaining our focus, something I, along with many others, have been struggling with. It was a good reminder that as much fun as we are having up here, that is not our main focus. God is and should always be.
As we split up into groups of two, Callie and I headed off to find an administrator that could answer our questions about student enrollment and ethnicity. We were distracted by activity on the concourse. SFU was having a club day and most all of the clubs at the university had booths set up so students could check them out if interested.
As we strolled in the aisles between the booths, we became excited when we noticed four different Christian club booths. This was the most Christian activity we had seen on any of the campuses as of yet.
We were actually first approached by a Korean student that tried to sign us up for an International Youth Fellowship World Camp day. We explained that we weren’t students and she still persuaded me to write down my email address haha.
After a bit of confusion, we finally realized that this was a Christian organization and began speaking to a few of the members, Brian and Angus. They sent us in the direction of Seth and Kristin who are also involved in ministry on the campus.
Once we finished asking questions, we asked to be directed to an administrative office. Angus gladly showed us the way. Callie and I were able to speak with a man who allowed us to use a campus computer to finish our research.
We finished with that section of our research and headed back out onto the concourse. Adam, Jonny, Sarah M, and Sarah H were out there with their own table and Soularium already set up. Callie and I set off to find lunch and when we returned, the four of them were in a conversation with a man that once practiced Sikhism. Adam was able to share with him and even give him a Bible.
Throughout the course of the day we spoke with a non-practicing Jew, a few agnostic people, and one interested in the B’hai religion which believes that all the gods of different religions are actually the same god and that all ways are correct.
The booths began to be packed up around 2:30 and the rain hit at approximately 3 PM. We packed up and headed back to PLBC after staring at the beautiful view of Burnaby Mountain from a lookout point at the university.
Back at PLBC, we had a small worship service at 9 PM after our debriefing. Seth spoke on regaining our focus, something I, along with many others, have been struggling with. It was a good reminder that as much fun as we are having up here, that is not our main focus. God is and should always be.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Tuesday May 18, 2010
Tuesday was much the same as Monday as in work. However, today all of the groups were going out to college campuses. My team traveled to Douglas College: The David Lam Campus in Coquitlam, BC, an area what was still uncharted for our entire team. The main Douglas College campus is in New Westminster and was infiltrated by Whitney’s team. Brett and Katie’s teams stayed in Surrey and researched Kwantlen Polytechnic University and Simon Frasier University respectively.
We arrived at the campus at approximately 12 PM and set off to find our lunch. Some of our group ate the lunch packed this morning while others including myself utilized the cheap but good cafeteria food available to us. After lunch, we split up to divide and conquer.
We hoped to do Soularium today, an activity that uses pictures to catch the attention of people passing by and giving us an opening to speak with about spirituality, what they believe, and hopefully what we believe, but we were unable to do so. Seeing as this college is also nonpartisan and non-religious, the administration wouldn’t allow us set it up on campus.
So instead, we continued with our research and such by individually speaking with students around the campus, other administration personnel, and people out in the community.
After returning to PLBC and chilling for a few hours, we had our debriefing time at 9 PM. We spoke about our days, both the good and bad experiences as well our expectations that were or were not met.
We also updated our knowledge about the Haiti team. Whitney and I had the opportunity to talk with Rosie on the phone and she assured us that things were looking up. The entire team was back in the States and most, excluding the four still in Miami, were either home or heading home. It was so good to hear my dear friend’s voice, knowing that she and all of the others were going to be okay. Prayers are still needed for the team as they recover from the physical, mental, and emotional trauma of the accident.
With all that being said, so much of me still wants to be with my friends right now. I want to be able to comfort them, listen to their stories, be a shoulder to cry on. But I know I’m here in Canada for a reason. God has called me to this place just as He called all of them to Haiti.
As I sit here and type, listening to the gentle sound of the rain falling and the occasional call of the peacock in the distance, I am comforted by the fact that even in the farthest corners of the earth I am still and will always be connected with those I love as long as I am doing as our God calls.
We arrived at the campus at approximately 12 PM and set off to find our lunch. Some of our group ate the lunch packed this morning while others including myself utilized the cheap but good cafeteria food available to us. After lunch, we split up to divide and conquer.
We hoped to do Soularium today, an activity that uses pictures to catch the attention of people passing by and giving us an opening to speak with about spirituality, what they believe, and hopefully what we believe, but we were unable to do so. Seeing as this college is also nonpartisan and non-religious, the administration wouldn’t allow us set it up on campus.
So instead, we continued with our research and such by individually speaking with students around the campus, other administration personnel, and people out in the community.
After returning to PLBC and chilling for a few hours, we had our debriefing time at 9 PM. We spoke about our days, both the good and bad experiences as well our expectations that were or were not met.
We also updated our knowledge about the Haiti team. Whitney and I had the opportunity to talk with Rosie on the phone and she assured us that things were looking up. The entire team was back in the States and most, excluding the four still in Miami, were either home or heading home. It was so good to hear my dear friend’s voice, knowing that she and all of the others were going to be okay. Prayers are still needed for the team as they recover from the physical, mental, and emotional trauma of the accident.
With all that being said, so much of me still wants to be with my friends right now. I want to be able to comfort them, listen to their stories, be a shoulder to cry on. But I know I’m here in Canada for a reason. God has called me to this place just as He called all of them to Haiti.
As I sit here and type, listening to the gentle sound of the rain falling and the occasional call of the peacock in the distance, I am comforted by the fact that even in the farthest corners of the earth I am still and will always be connected with those I love as long as I am doing as our God calls.
Monday May 17, 2010
Monday was our first day of actual campus and city work. The majority of the team traveled to North Vancouver to scout out the city’s bike rental shops and coffee shops in the area for Sean. Seth, Laurey, and Amber stayed at PLBC to begin the work on the website we will be creating. All of the information we gather will eventually be added to this website. Also, our final team member, Elyse, was flying into Vancouver around 7 PM and we were all excited to finally have her here.
My team had a different assignment for the day. We traveled to North Vancouver with everyone else but went in separate directions at Lonsdale Quay. After eating a quick lunch, we boarded the 239 towards Phibbs Exchange. From there we hopped on the next 239 bus to Capilano University, our destination for the afternoon.
Upon arrival, we scouted out the map, divided into two groups of three, and spread out across the campus. While we were still deciding in which direction to go, a young guy walked by and asked us if we knew a good place to eat. We stated that we didn’t, not much to his surprise because we looked just as confused as he did, and he went on his way.
Jonny, Callie, and I headed towards the information center in order to find answers to our many questions. The administrators were very helpful in answering our questions and sending us in the right directions for more answers. This university, like many of the universities in Vancouver, is nonpartisan and also not affiliated with any religion. This is very obvious in such areas as their school newspaper. It definitely makes me feel very blessed to go to a private Baptist college where I do not have to be subjected to such profanity and brashness. Some call it being naïve. I call it being in the world but not of it. John 15:19 says, “If you were of the world, the world would love [you as] its own. However, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of it, the world hates you.” (HCSB)
Even though some of our questions were unable to be answered, we did our best and met up with the other three at 4 PM to catch our bus back to the Seabus. At the bus stop, that same guy we had met earlier, named Eric, showed up to catch the same bus as us. We began a conversation with him and continued it for approximately an hour and a half. This trip has been filled with meeting many new people and learning many new things from people all over the world.
We parted ways as he headed back to the airport to go home and we to the SkyTrain to make our way back to PLBC. This day was the easiest transit day we have had since being in Canada. We didn’t have to run to catch a bus, we didn’t miss any by a few minutes, and we arrived back with time to spare.
At 9:30ish we began our debriefing time and discussed all that occurred within the different groups and assignments. Elyse finally arrived at approximately 10 PM and we all began to settle down for the night. Or at least I did. :) I’m not entirely sure what time I crawled into bed, but I do know it definitely wasn’t early enough. And so was the end of a successful first work day in the city of Vancouver.
My team had a different assignment for the day. We traveled to North Vancouver with everyone else but went in separate directions at Lonsdale Quay. After eating a quick lunch, we boarded the 239 towards Phibbs Exchange. From there we hopped on the next 239 bus to Capilano University, our destination for the afternoon.
Upon arrival, we scouted out the map, divided into two groups of three, and spread out across the campus. While we were still deciding in which direction to go, a young guy walked by and asked us if we knew a good place to eat. We stated that we didn’t, not much to his surprise because we looked just as confused as he did, and he went on his way.
Jonny, Callie, and I headed towards the information center in order to find answers to our many questions. The administrators were very helpful in answering our questions and sending us in the right directions for more answers. This university, like many of the universities in Vancouver, is nonpartisan and also not affiliated with any religion. This is very obvious in such areas as their school newspaper. It definitely makes me feel very blessed to go to a private Baptist college where I do not have to be subjected to such profanity and brashness. Some call it being naïve. I call it being in the world but not of it. John 15:19 says, “If you were of the world, the world would love [you as] its own. However, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of it, the world hates you.” (HCSB)
Even though some of our questions were unable to be answered, we did our best and met up with the other three at 4 PM to catch our bus back to the Seabus. At the bus stop, that same guy we had met earlier, named Eric, showed up to catch the same bus as us. We began a conversation with him and continued it for approximately an hour and a half. This trip has been filled with meeting many new people and learning many new things from people all over the world.
We parted ways as he headed back to the airport to go home and we to the SkyTrain to make our way back to PLBC. This day was the easiest transit day we have had since being in Canada. We didn’t have to run to catch a bus, we didn’t miss any by a few minutes, and we arrived back with time to spare.
At 9:30ish we began our debriefing time and discussed all that occurred within the different groups and assignments. Elyse finally arrived at approximately 10 PM and we all began to settle down for the night. Or at least I did. :) I’m not entirely sure what time I crawled into bed, but I do know it definitely wasn’t early enough. And so was the end of a successful first work day in the city of Vancouver.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Sunday May 16, 2010
We had the opportunity to worship at Cityview Baptist Church in Surrey on Sunday morning. Cityview Baptist Church is one of the biggest Baptist churches in the Greater Vancouver Area and one of very few that has a building. Most of the churches are held in homes or even out in nature at a park or something of sorts. On the front of their bulletin it stated, “Cityview: a church for LIFE” and on the back it explained the LIFE acronym:
Love God with our all.
Include people in the grace of Jesus.
Find freedom in the Truth.
Engage the world as a servant.
The service was good and Pastor Craig O’Brien spoke on how Jesus creates a new community within us and also how to seek the lost by moving toward them with open hearts. He said that if you “open your heart to the Father, He will bring more treasure (lost people) to you than you know what to do with.”
After the service and as I was walking out the front door, I saw a penny. I naturally picked it up. Then I saw another, and another! Someone jokingly stated that I must have opened my heart to God because He was bringing me treasure already. :)
Some people then went back to the College while others decided to stay around the city for a while longer. A group of 16 went to eat at a Thai restaurant where I ordered Mee Goreng. It was interesting but still tasty.
Once we finished eating, we headed to the bus stop to begin our transit home. Due to the fact that it was the weekend, we had to take 3 different buses and the SkyTrain instead of only taking one bus and the SkyTrain like usual. After we got off of the SkyTrain and headed to our bus stop, we realized we had missed it by approximately 4 minutes. The next bus didn’t come again until an hour later which meant we had to buy new tickets.
After running here and there hoping to catch a different bus, we decided to wait it out. The bus finally arrived and we made it to our next location only to realize that it had happened again. We had missed our bus by 4 minutes. It wasn’t until then that we learned that earlier that afternoon, the SkyTrain had shut down, therefore throwing off the times of all the transit vehicles. It was an adventure and we eventually arrived safely at PLBC.
At 7 PM, we held a worship service in the A-Frame building of our lodgings with ION Community Church, the new church that Sean is starting in the area. Brett, Seth, Laurey, and Liesl lead worship and Sean spoke. He spoke about how God wasn’t simply a rural God, but a God of the city and how we as Christians need to be moving with the masses. He informed us of the work we would be doing on Monday, for we would be working with him and for him in the North Vancouver area.
Following worship, Whitney, Seth, and I set off to divide all of us into the four groups that would be out gleaning the city and college campuses for information. In the middle of our dividing, we received the news about the truck accident involving the HLG Haiti mission team. We gathered up our team and went to the A-Frame to pray. It was wonderful that we could all pray together, being a strong force standing behind our fellow friends and believers in this time of pain and worry. It definitely helped bring comfort to those of us with close friends in the accident. I know that God hears the desires of our hearts, and that night, our hearts were with our friends in Haiti.
Love God with our all.
Include people in the grace of Jesus.
Find freedom in the Truth.
Engage the world as a servant.
The service was good and Pastor Craig O’Brien spoke on how Jesus creates a new community within us and also how to seek the lost by moving toward them with open hearts. He said that if you “open your heart to the Father, He will bring more treasure (lost people) to you than you know what to do with.”
After the service and as I was walking out the front door, I saw a penny. I naturally picked it up. Then I saw another, and another! Someone jokingly stated that I must have opened my heart to God because He was bringing me treasure already. :)
Some people then went back to the College while others decided to stay around the city for a while longer. A group of 16 went to eat at a Thai restaurant where I ordered Mee Goreng. It was interesting but still tasty.
Once we finished eating, we headed to the bus stop to begin our transit home. Due to the fact that it was the weekend, we had to take 3 different buses and the SkyTrain instead of only taking one bus and the SkyTrain like usual. After we got off of the SkyTrain and headed to our bus stop, we realized we had missed it by approximately 4 minutes. The next bus didn’t come again until an hour later which meant we had to buy new tickets.
After running here and there hoping to catch a different bus, we decided to wait it out. The bus finally arrived and we made it to our next location only to realize that it had happened again. We had missed our bus by 4 minutes. It wasn’t until then that we learned that earlier that afternoon, the SkyTrain had shut down, therefore throwing off the times of all the transit vehicles. It was an adventure and we eventually arrived safely at PLBC.
At 7 PM, we held a worship service in the A-Frame building of our lodgings with ION Community Church, the new church that Sean is starting in the area. Brett, Seth, Laurey, and Liesl lead worship and Sean spoke. He spoke about how God wasn’t simply a rural God, but a God of the city and how we as Christians need to be moving with the masses. He informed us of the work we would be doing on Monday, for we would be working with him and for him in the North Vancouver area.
Following worship, Whitney, Seth, and I set off to divide all of us into the four groups that would be out gleaning the city and college campuses for information. In the middle of our dividing, we received the news about the truck accident involving the HLG Haiti mission team. We gathered up our team and went to the A-Frame to pray. It was wonderful that we could all pray together, being a strong force standing behind our fellow friends and believers in this time of pain and worry. It definitely helped bring comfort to those of us with close friends in the accident. I know that God hears the desires of our hearts, and that night, our hearts were with our friends in Haiti.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Saturday May 15, 2010
After four days of successful and exhausting experiences in travels to, in, and around Vancouver, Saturday was our first day off. So, instead of resting, we decided to go out and experience Vancouver a little bit more! Kelly had told us that even if we stayed a year in Vancouver, we wouldn’t be able to see all the city has to offer. Even so, we decided that we are going to give it our all and see as much as we can.
We set out around 9 AM for the bus station and began our journey to Stanley Park in the North Vancouver area. According to most everyone we had spoken with, the park was beautiful and a must see while in the city. When we arrived in downtown Vancouver via the SkyTrain, we headed toward the bus stop. However, we couldn’t find our stop and decided we must have missed the bus. Many people were upset that we had to walk, but had we ridden the bus, we wouldn’t have had the wonderful opportunity to see the streets and beauty of the city. We were constantly snapping photos of the beautiful mountains framing the horizon behind the tall skyscrapers.
Before hitting Stanley Park, a group of us girls decided to eat lunch at The Great Wall Mongolian Barbeque. It was my first experience with Mongolian food and it was absolutely delicious! After struggling with the chopsticks for about ten minutes, I finally mastered them and ate my entire meal with them as well! I was sooo proud of myself and my accomplishment. :) So were Laura and Marisol, my teachers.
After our meal, we went directly to the bike rental shop and rented bikes. A few people rode tandems, a couple roller-bladed, and most of rode regular bikes. Stanley Park is known for the 22km or 13.7 mile bike and walking trail called the Seawall. I believe we biked around approximately 7 or 8 miles of the Seawall and although we were exhausted, we were enthusiastic and enthralled. The scenery was absolutely gorgeous and worth the 2 hours and $10 spent for the trip.
A small group of us also had the chance to see Spandy Andy dance in one of the beach sections of Stanley Park and the Seawall. Spandy Andy is called such because of the spandex he wears at all times. (I have a video of his dancing on Facebook if you wish to see a tidbit of his show)
Once we returned the bikes and skates to the bike rental shop, we were ready to begin a new adventure. However, we realized we were missing a person from our group. It was quickly discovered that we hadn’t seen Deon since lunch time, almost 3 hours ago. A few moments of subdued panic passed before a few people went to the bike shop to see if he had returned his bike. Deon soon appeared and our group was back together.
A section of our group set off to return to the college while the rest of us set off to go whale watching. Even though we technically failed to spot a real whale, we did find a beautiful spot to eat our supper and relax.
On our trek back to the SkyTrain Station, Jared spotted the place where the 2010 Winter Olympic Torch was housed during the games and we detoured for a short period of time. This was also where we found our "whale", a decoration near the torch holder.
When finished, we headed to the station, boarded the SkyTrain, and headed home. We had a few transit close calls but none that deserve mentioning.
Back at PLBC, we wound down and went to bed after an eventful and exciting day spent enjoying the creation of God...nature and each other.
We set out around 9 AM for the bus station and began our journey to Stanley Park in the North Vancouver area. According to most everyone we had spoken with, the park was beautiful and a must see while in the city. When we arrived in downtown Vancouver via the SkyTrain, we headed toward the bus stop. However, we couldn’t find our stop and decided we must have missed the bus. Many people were upset that we had to walk, but had we ridden the bus, we wouldn’t have had the wonderful opportunity to see the streets and beauty of the city. We were constantly snapping photos of the beautiful mountains framing the horizon behind the tall skyscrapers.
Before hitting Stanley Park, a group of us girls decided to eat lunch at The Great Wall Mongolian Barbeque. It was my first experience with Mongolian food and it was absolutely delicious! After struggling with the chopsticks for about ten minutes, I finally mastered them and ate my entire meal with them as well! I was sooo proud of myself and my accomplishment. :) So were Laura and Marisol, my teachers.
After our meal, we went directly to the bike rental shop and rented bikes. A few people rode tandems, a couple roller-bladed, and most of rode regular bikes. Stanley Park is known for the 22km or 13.7 mile bike and walking trail called the Seawall. I believe we biked around approximately 7 or 8 miles of the Seawall and although we were exhausted, we were enthusiastic and enthralled. The scenery was absolutely gorgeous and worth the 2 hours and $10 spent for the trip.
A small group of us also had the chance to see Spandy Andy dance in one of the beach sections of Stanley Park and the Seawall. Spandy Andy is called such because of the spandex he wears at all times. (I have a video of his dancing on Facebook if you wish to see a tidbit of his show)
Once we returned the bikes and skates to the bike rental shop, we were ready to begin a new adventure. However, we realized we were missing a person from our group. It was quickly discovered that we hadn’t seen Deon since lunch time, almost 3 hours ago. A few moments of subdued panic passed before a few people went to the bike shop to see if he had returned his bike. Deon soon appeared and our group was back together.
A section of our group set off to return to the college while the rest of us set off to go whale watching. Even though we technically failed to spot a real whale, we did find a beautiful spot to eat our supper and relax.
On our trek back to the SkyTrain Station, Jared spotted the place where the 2010 Winter Olympic Torch was housed during the games and we detoured for a short period of time. This was also where we found our "whale", a decoration near the torch holder.
When finished, we headed to the station, boarded the SkyTrain, and headed home. We had a few transit close calls but none that deserve mentioning.
Back at PLBC, we wound down and went to bed after an eventful and exciting day spent enjoying the creation of God...nature and each other.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Friday May 14, 2010
Friday was filled with two orientation meetings and more hands on experience. In the morning, we learned how to reach the Chinese population of Vancouver. Scott, our contact involved with the Chinese ministry, came to PLBC and shared his passion and much information with our group.
For instance, most of 400,000 the Chinese people in Vancouver came from China or Hong Kong and speak either Mandarin or Cantonese. Their religion, according to Scott, is most like a soup. It is a mixture of many different religions including Buddhism, Chinese folk religions such as ancestral worship, and many cults digressed from Christianity.
After lunch, Paul arrived to teach us about Sikhs. Paul spent many years living in India and he is more Indian than North American. The way he speaks, his gestures, and the way he acts simply screams Indian haha.
I can probably safely say that none of us had ever heard of Sikhs so we were very interested to learn of this new religious group. We had learned that a Sikh temple was a short walk down the road from us and some Sikhs lived in the neighborhood in which we are staying. Also, the men wearing turbans that we had so often seen around the city were not Muslims, but were Sikhs. The men wear turbans and the women wear head shawls because they believe that their hair is of extreme value and should be covered and protected.
The Sikhs are from Punjabi, India and also speak Punjabi. The religion originated from a religious war between the Muslims and Hindus of India. They believe in one main guru or god that they call Guru Nanak. They also live by three basic principles that include work hard and honest living, give money to the poor and take care of those around you, and remember the name of God.
The most interesting aspect to me was the fact that they believe many of the same things we as Christians believe. They are monotheistic and believe in God and Jesus. However, they believe Jesus was a saint and not the one true son of Jesus, a critical difference though.
Once our “classroom” orientation was finished, we went out onto “the field.” Paul took us to the Sikh temple where we took off our shoes, donned head wraps, and listened as their holy book was being read in Punjabi. The temple was beautifully decorated inside and out.
After observing their worship for approximately 20 minutes, we went to speak with a Sikh that wanted to share a little of his religion with us. We then went down to their food pantry of sorts where they serve food 24 hours a day to whoever is hungry. It was a great experience to try authentic Indian food in an authentic Sikh temple! We sat on a rug on the floor and ate with our hands. The food, for the most part, was delicious.
We had the chance to speak with another Sikh who offered to explain more of his religion and answer any questions that we had. It was interesting to hear of the religion from someone who practiced it every day. We asked a multitude of questions and he never seemed to tire of answering.
When we arrived back at PLBC, we debriefed with Paul and he answered more questions. Their religion and culture is truly intriguing.
After a long day of exhausting spiritual and mental work, we decided to wear ourselves our physically by playing kickball. After our game, we all traveled a short distance down the road to a little bundle of restaurants. Laura, Liesl, Marisol, Deon, and I ate Chinese and even had homemade fortune cookies.
With all the diversity, it isn't hard to see why people love to visit this place. For the native peoples here in Vancouver, the world and its cultures has come to them. These people are seeking so much more than a new place to plant their roots and begin afresh…And we are here to help them find it.
For instance, most of 400,000 the Chinese people in Vancouver came from China or Hong Kong and speak either Mandarin or Cantonese. Their religion, according to Scott, is most like a soup. It is a mixture of many different religions including Buddhism, Chinese folk religions such as ancestral worship, and many cults digressed from Christianity.
After lunch, Paul arrived to teach us about Sikhs. Paul spent many years living in India and he is more Indian than North American. The way he speaks, his gestures, and the way he acts simply screams Indian haha.
I can probably safely say that none of us had ever heard of Sikhs so we were very interested to learn of this new religious group. We had learned that a Sikh temple was a short walk down the road from us and some Sikhs lived in the neighborhood in which we are staying. Also, the men wearing turbans that we had so often seen around the city were not Muslims, but were Sikhs. The men wear turbans and the women wear head shawls because they believe that their hair is of extreme value and should be covered and protected.
The Sikhs are from Punjabi, India and also speak Punjabi. The religion originated from a religious war between the Muslims and Hindus of India. They believe in one main guru or god that they call Guru Nanak. They also live by three basic principles that include work hard and honest living, give money to the poor and take care of those around you, and remember the name of God.
The most interesting aspect to me was the fact that they believe many of the same things we as Christians believe. They are monotheistic and believe in God and Jesus. However, they believe Jesus was a saint and not the one true son of Jesus, a critical difference though.
Once our “classroom” orientation was finished, we went out onto “the field.” Paul took us to the Sikh temple where we took off our shoes, donned head wraps, and listened as their holy book was being read in Punjabi. The temple was beautifully decorated inside and out.
After observing their worship for approximately 20 minutes, we went to speak with a Sikh that wanted to share a little of his religion with us. We then went down to their food pantry of sorts where they serve food 24 hours a day to whoever is hungry. It was a great experience to try authentic Indian food in an authentic Sikh temple! We sat on a rug on the floor and ate with our hands. The food, for the most part, was delicious.
We had the chance to speak with another Sikh who offered to explain more of his religion and answer any questions that we had. It was interesting to hear of the religion from someone who practiced it every day. We asked a multitude of questions and he never seemed to tire of answering.
When we arrived back at PLBC, we debriefed with Paul and he answered more questions. Their religion and culture is truly intriguing.
After a long day of exhausting spiritual and mental work, we decided to wear ourselves our physically by playing kickball. After our game, we all traveled a short distance down the road to a little bundle of restaurants. Laura, Liesl, Marisol, Deon, and I ate Chinese and even had homemade fortune cookies.
With all the diversity, it isn't hard to see why people love to visit this place. For the native peoples here in Vancouver, the world and its cultures has come to them. These people are seeking so much more than a new place to plant their roots and begin afresh…And we are here to help them find it.
Thursday May 13, 2010
At 9AM, after breakfast and a short devotional, we hit the road with Kelly on a trip to the Middle Eastern Friendship Centre run by Tim in Whalley. Even though world seems like a huge place especially here with all the diversity, we found out how small it really is. Tim’s wife Joan is the sister of Sue Booth, the wife of Dr. Booth, a Professor of Music and the Chair of the Department of Music at HLG.
The Middle Eastern Friendship Centre is located in the midst of the Middle Eastern community of Vancouver. The centre has a library where people can come in and check out books written in their own languages and it also teaches many ESL, or English as a Second Language, classes. Tim cautioned us about speaking of our faith in the front room of the centre. They want all people to feel welcome and don’t wish to scare them off by shoving our faith down their throats. Don’t get me wrong, it definitely is not a place where the Christian faith is hidden. It is simply a known fact that religion, especially to Muslims, is an important part of their lives and they may take offense. If a person shows an interest in Christianity, they are often taken out for coffee and to chat. Tim also hopes for the centre to become a community for the people and they always have someone new come into the centre every day.
After our orientation time of Islam and a quick overview of how to interact with Muslims, Tim set us loose down King George Highway to meet some people and learn their stories. He also gave us a few questions to answer such as “What did I learn about the city, an individual, God, myself”, “Where did I see God work”, and “Who did I see?”
To be honest, I didn’t think this task would be too difficult or daunting. I had been on mission trips before and talked with people I’d met randomly. However, I was mistaken. Vancouver is different than any other place I’ve been. While walking on the street, most people won’t look you in the eyes let alone greet you making it almost impossible to begin a conversation. We had to be very intentional but at the same time, not weird.
Marisol, Deon, and I managed to chat with a few people, but nothing like I was hoping. Our conversations were short and at times, nonexistent. I racked my brain for things to say, simple conversation starters that would hopefully make way for a real conversation.
When we were finished, some came back to the centre with awesome stories while others shared our experience. We talked about our observations and answered the questions Tim asked. Although I didn’t answer out loud when he asked what we learned about ourselves, I answered it to myself. I already kind of knew this about myself, but I’m not a person that makes rash decisions and building relationships takes me a long time. These things were made clearer to me from this experience. If I hope or want to make any kind of impact, I must devote myself to the cause completely. It’s difficult for me to be only partly immersed when my heart longs to be fully devoted.
We debriefed and went to find supper. Marisol, Laura, Sarah, and I ate takeout from a small African restaurant while others ate a various food places in the area. We took our food to the gorgeous Holland Park located by the SkyTrain station and enjoyed our free time. After returning to PLBC, we played a little sand volleyball and then I went to bed, a great ending to a tremendous day.
The Middle Eastern Friendship Centre is located in the midst of the Middle Eastern community of Vancouver. The centre has a library where people can come in and check out books written in their own languages and it also teaches many ESL, or English as a Second Language, classes. Tim cautioned us about speaking of our faith in the front room of the centre. They want all people to feel welcome and don’t wish to scare them off by shoving our faith down their throats. Don’t get me wrong, it definitely is not a place where the Christian faith is hidden. It is simply a known fact that religion, especially to Muslims, is an important part of their lives and they may take offense. If a person shows an interest in Christianity, they are often taken out for coffee and to chat. Tim also hopes for the centre to become a community for the people and they always have someone new come into the centre every day.
After our orientation time of Islam and a quick overview of how to interact with Muslims, Tim set us loose down King George Highway to meet some people and learn their stories. He also gave us a few questions to answer such as “What did I learn about the city, an individual, God, myself”, “Where did I see God work”, and “Who did I see?”
To be honest, I didn’t think this task would be too difficult or daunting. I had been on mission trips before and talked with people I’d met randomly. However, I was mistaken. Vancouver is different than any other place I’ve been. While walking on the street, most people won’t look you in the eyes let alone greet you making it almost impossible to begin a conversation. We had to be very intentional but at the same time, not weird.
Marisol, Deon, and I managed to chat with a few people, but nothing like I was hoping. Our conversations were short and at times, nonexistent. I racked my brain for things to say, simple conversation starters that would hopefully make way for a real conversation.
When we were finished, some came back to the centre with awesome stories while others shared our experience. We talked about our observations and answered the questions Tim asked. Although I didn’t answer out loud when he asked what we learned about ourselves, I answered it to myself. I already kind of knew this about myself, but I’m not a person that makes rash decisions and building relationships takes me a long time. These things were made clearer to me from this experience. If I hope or want to make any kind of impact, I must devote myself to the cause completely. It’s difficult for me to be only partly immersed when my heart longs to be fully devoted.
We debriefed and went to find supper. Marisol, Laura, Sarah, and I ate takeout from a small African restaurant while others ate a various food places in the area. We took our food to the gorgeous Holland Park located by the SkyTrain station and enjoyed our free time. After returning to PLBC, we played a little sand volleyball and then I went to bed, a great ending to a tremendous day.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Wednesday May 12, 2010
Experiencing Vancouver
Wednesday began with an early (at least it felt early for us) breakfast at 8 AM. After eating, we all headed back into the A-frame/lobby section of our housing for orientation with Kelly, his wife Jeanne, and Sean, another church planter in Vancouver. The morning was filled with useful information for living in the city ranging from cheapest food choices to travel to things to do on our free Saturdays. We also went over our schedule for the next month and what we hope to achieve.
Kelly, Jeanne, and Sean all informed us of the diversity of Vancouver. According to Kelly, Vancouver is “multiculturalism on steroids.” We had yet to experience it, but it wouldn’t be long.
After eating a sack lunch (our lunchtime meals for the next month), most of the group headed to the bus stop to begin a day of travel around Vancouver. They were to take the bus to the SkyTrain station, board the Seabus, and then hop on another bus to the Canadian National Baptist Convention Office for a Prayer walking informational meeting with Glenna Heidt, the CNBC National Prayer Coordinator.
However, I traveled with Kelly, Dr. Hufty, and Seth to Wal-Mart to purchase track phones for the five team leaders to enable us to communicate with each other and Kelly during our stay. We were able to visit with Kelly and ask many questions as he drove across Greater Vancouver including Surrey, New Westminster, Vancouver, and North Vancouver. After Wal-Mart, we also traveled to the CNBC Office and awaited the arrival of the rest of the group. When the whole group arrived, Glenna began our second round of orientation for the day.
Once finished, we walked down the street to the bus stop and boarded the bus bound for Lonsdale Quay (pronounced key) for supper and a bit of shopping. The bus ride and the Quay were my first real introductions, other than Wal-Mart, to the diversity of Vancouver. Kelly wasn’t kidding when he said, “Welcome to becoming one of the minorities.”
At 7 PM and after a Greek supper of a Souvlak Pita and taking a large amount of pictures, we boarded the Seabus, a ferry, to begin our voyage back to PLBC. After the Seabus, we boarded the SkyTrain, which I would say is an equivalent to the El in Chicago. All of this again showed me more of the diversity of the city of which I had been told.
I know it’s hard to picture what I’m speaking of, so here are some numbers. In the Christian school connected with PLBC here in Surrey, there are 90 different languages spoken of only approximately 250 kids, grades k-12. In Vancouver, 64% speak a mother tongue besides English and you can choose to educate your child in one of five languages including English, French, Cantonese, Mandarin, and Punjabi. Over 50% of the worship in the churches here are in a different language.
In Canada, it is said that the people know who they are not, but they don’t know who they are. Canada doesn’t want to be a melting pot like the USA. Instead, they want to be known as a mosaic where everyone is free to be their own, speak their own language, and live as they want culturally. Let me tell you, that’s what they do. It isn’t uncommon to hardly hear English other than our own while in transit. It’s an amazing place, this city. Even if I never saw a “Welcome to Vancouver” sign, I know that I have not only been submerged in the city, but also embraced by it as well.
Wednesday began with an early (at least it felt early for us) breakfast at 8 AM. After eating, we all headed back into the A-frame/lobby section of our housing for orientation with Kelly, his wife Jeanne, and Sean, another church planter in Vancouver. The morning was filled with useful information for living in the city ranging from cheapest food choices to travel to things to do on our free Saturdays. We also went over our schedule for the next month and what we hope to achieve.
Kelly, Jeanne, and Sean all informed us of the diversity of Vancouver. According to Kelly, Vancouver is “multiculturalism on steroids.” We had yet to experience it, but it wouldn’t be long.
After eating a sack lunch (our lunchtime meals for the next month), most of the group headed to the bus stop to begin a day of travel around Vancouver. They were to take the bus to the SkyTrain station, board the Seabus, and then hop on another bus to the Canadian National Baptist Convention Office for a Prayer walking informational meeting with Glenna Heidt, the CNBC National Prayer Coordinator.
However, I traveled with Kelly, Dr. Hufty, and Seth to Wal-Mart to purchase track phones for the five team leaders to enable us to communicate with each other and Kelly during our stay. We were able to visit with Kelly and ask many questions as he drove across Greater Vancouver including Surrey, New Westminster, Vancouver, and North Vancouver. After Wal-Mart, we also traveled to the CNBC Office and awaited the arrival of the rest of the group. When the whole group arrived, Glenna began our second round of orientation for the day.
Once finished, we walked down the street to the bus stop and boarded the bus bound for Lonsdale Quay (pronounced key) for supper and a bit of shopping. The bus ride and the Quay were my first real introductions, other than Wal-Mart, to the diversity of Vancouver. Kelly wasn’t kidding when he said, “Welcome to becoming one of the minorities.”
At 7 PM and after a Greek supper of a Souvlak Pita and taking a large amount of pictures, we boarded the Seabus, a ferry, to begin our voyage back to PLBC. After the Seabus, we boarded the SkyTrain, which I would say is an equivalent to the El in Chicago. All of this again showed me more of the diversity of the city of which I had been told.
I know it’s hard to picture what I’m speaking of, so here are some numbers. In the Christian school connected with PLBC here in Surrey, there are 90 different languages spoken of only approximately 250 kids, grades k-12. In Vancouver, 64% speak a mother tongue besides English and you can choose to educate your child in one of five languages including English, French, Cantonese, Mandarin, and Punjabi. Over 50% of the worship in the churches here are in a different language.
In Canada, it is said that the people know who they are not, but they don’t know who they are. Canada doesn’t want to be a melting pot like the USA. Instead, they want to be known as a mosaic where everyone is free to be their own, speak their own language, and live as they want culturally. Let me tell you, that’s what they do. It isn’t uncommon to hardly hear English other than our own while in transit. It’s an amazing place, this city. Even if I never saw a “Welcome to Vancouver” sign, I know that I have not only been submerged in the city, but also embraced by it as well.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Tuesday May 11, 2010
My trip actually began Monday morning. I needed to pack and hadn’t done a thing. It was overwhelming and a very daunting task. Something I knew I needed to do but just hadn’t faced yet. I spent the whole day packing, then unpacking. Then shoving and removing clothes I didn’t need. I wasn’t sure what to take or what I would need for a whole month. I knew I would have the use of a washing machine and dryer, but it cost to use and if you know me at all, you know I’m not a big spender.
Around 5:30 PM I began my trip to St. Louis to stay with my friend Kyle (and his family) who was also going on the trip. Amanda, another student missionary, stayed with them as well. It was storming when I left, yet beautiful. A little down the road I ran into a detour that took me about 30 minutes out of my way. However, the scenic route was a beautiful one and I didn’t mind all that much. I continued to STL without a hitch…well, in a sense. I made a wrong turn and became a little lost but easily fixed my mistake with the help of Kyle’s father Randy.
We hit the hay relatively early in order to be ready for an early start the next morning. The morning definitely came sooner than we wanted and we started out the day a little groggy. However, we were soon dressed and ready to hit the road and face the traffic.
Our arrival at the airport and baggage check-in proceeded smoothly until we realized that one of our fellow students, Mike, didn’t have a seat on flight 1603 to Seattle, WA. This discovery was quickly called in to headquarters, a.k.a. Dr. Hufty, and he worked his magic. The rest of the group would travel as planned to Seattle arriving American Airlines at 12:20 PM Pacific time and Mike would arrive a few hours later via Southwest.
The flight went off without a hitch and four hours later we arrived at the Seattle/Tacoma International Airport. We unloaded from the airplane, grabbed our luggage, and continued to the baggage claim area. After settling in and hearing the instructions from Dr. Hufty, most of us set off in search of food. We were to be back and ready to leave at 6:30 in order to catch the 7:15 PM bus to Vancouver, BC, Canada. Our 6.5 hours at the airport included games, sleeping, eating, and a multitude of other endeavors.
By 7 PM we were all loaded on the Quick Coach bus and ready to take off on the 3 hour tour. Well, more likely 4.5 or 5 hour tour due to the fact that the bus made stops between Seattle and Vancouver. Our first 30+ minutes were filled with high energy photo taking of the sights in and around Seattle and of the illusive Space Needle. Our eyes deeply drank in the beautiful sights of the magnificent Washington scenery while our cameras flashed incessantly. Our cameras were slowly put away as the sun set and darkness ensued. Some students fell asleep while others continued to talk energetically.
At approximately 10:45 PM we pulled into the border patrol station. We unloaded ourselves and our belongings from the bus and stood patiently in line. Things were going well until it was our Vietnamese exchange student Vu’s turn to go through border patrol. The situation was not looking well when Dr. Hufty received the news that Vu’s trip had come to an abrupt stop. Through the grace of God and much prayer from Dr. Hufty and all of us on the bus, Vu was granted temporary citizenship to Canada and allowed to continue on the trip.
We reloaded the bus and traveled a few miles down the road only to unload once again to switch buses. This last leg of the trip only lasted 15 minutes, but it was enough time for Dr. Hufty to remind us of our goals and to encourage us in our work. Upon arriving at our lodgings at 11:30 PM, we unloaded for the last time that day at the sign that read “Pacific Life Bible College”, our new home for the next 28 days. We were greeted with donuts and a warm welcome by our missionary contact Kelly Manire. After receiving our room keys, we all headed off to make the dorm rooms our own and to say goodnight to a long, successful day of travel. Praise the Lord. :)
Around 5:30 PM I began my trip to St. Louis to stay with my friend Kyle (and his family) who was also going on the trip. Amanda, another student missionary, stayed with them as well. It was storming when I left, yet beautiful. A little down the road I ran into a detour that took me about 30 minutes out of my way. However, the scenic route was a beautiful one and I didn’t mind all that much. I continued to STL without a hitch…well, in a sense. I made a wrong turn and became a little lost but easily fixed my mistake with the help of Kyle’s father Randy.
We hit the hay relatively early in order to be ready for an early start the next morning. The morning definitely came sooner than we wanted and we started out the day a little groggy. However, we were soon dressed and ready to hit the road and face the traffic.
Our arrival at the airport and baggage check-in proceeded smoothly until we realized that one of our fellow students, Mike, didn’t have a seat on flight 1603 to Seattle, WA. This discovery was quickly called in to headquarters, a.k.a. Dr. Hufty, and he worked his magic. The rest of the group would travel as planned to Seattle arriving American Airlines at 12:20 PM Pacific time and Mike would arrive a few hours later via Southwest.
The flight went off without a hitch and four hours later we arrived at the Seattle/Tacoma International Airport. We unloaded from the airplane, grabbed our luggage, and continued to the baggage claim area. After settling in and hearing the instructions from Dr. Hufty, most of us set off in search of food. We were to be back and ready to leave at 6:30 in order to catch the 7:15 PM bus to Vancouver, BC, Canada. Our 6.5 hours at the airport included games, sleeping, eating, and a multitude of other endeavors.
By 7 PM we were all loaded on the Quick Coach bus and ready to take off on the 3 hour tour. Well, more likely 4.5 or 5 hour tour due to the fact that the bus made stops between Seattle and Vancouver. Our first 30+ minutes were filled with high energy photo taking of the sights in and around Seattle and of the illusive Space Needle. Our eyes deeply drank in the beautiful sights of the magnificent Washington scenery while our cameras flashed incessantly. Our cameras were slowly put away as the sun set and darkness ensued. Some students fell asleep while others continued to talk energetically.
At approximately 10:45 PM we pulled into the border patrol station. We unloaded ourselves and our belongings from the bus and stood patiently in line. Things were going well until it was our Vietnamese exchange student Vu’s turn to go through border patrol. The situation was not looking well when Dr. Hufty received the news that Vu’s trip had come to an abrupt stop. Through the grace of God and much prayer from Dr. Hufty and all of us on the bus, Vu was granted temporary citizenship to Canada and allowed to continue on the trip.
We reloaded the bus and traveled a few miles down the road only to unload once again to switch buses. This last leg of the trip only lasted 15 minutes, but it was enough time for Dr. Hufty to remind us of our goals and to encourage us in our work. Upon arriving at our lodgings at 11:30 PM, we unloaded for the last time that day at the sign that read “Pacific Life Bible College”, our new home for the next 28 days. We were greeted with donuts and a warm welcome by our missionary contact Kelly Manire. After receiving our room keys, we all headed off to make the dorm rooms our own and to say goodnight to a long, successful day of travel. Praise the Lord. :)
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