Monday May 16, 2011

Monday was an informative and exploratory day. Our group traveled with Leslie, a semester missionary staying at the MNYBA, to Graffiti 2 in Mott Haven (the Bronx). When we arrived, we were introduced to Chris and his dog Proof (who are a part of the New York VBS mission curriculum for 2011!) and he told us the history behind Graffiti 2 and the work that the church does in Mott Haven. According to data, Mott Haven is the worst borough of New York City to raise children, and over half of the population of Mott Haven is children.
After a quick introduction, our small group split up to prayer-walk the area for approximately 30 minutes. It sprinkled the entire time until the last few minutes where it completely poured and we were all soon soaked through. We rested a bit and were preparing to leave when we were asked to help unload carpentry tools and housing items and carry those up to a second floor apartment. We quickly tackled the job and soon had the truck unloaded and the apartment full.
Our group then set out for the MNYBA building so we could obtain our afternoon assignments. Upon arriving, we were told that we were to spend the rest of the afternoon doing Soularium. Due to the rain, Jared, Katy and I decided to find a coffee shop in which we could set up. Starbucks is the most common coffee shop and can be found every couple of blocks (no exaggeration either). However, also because of the rain, every Starbucks near 72nd and Broadway were full with no empty tables.
With that, we set out for 34th street (Herald Square) where we knew of many more Starbucks locations. But alas, every single one was once again full! So, for about two and a half hours, Katy, Jared and I walked around in search of a place to set up with no avail. It was a disheartening afternoon.
We traveled back to our housing after a while and relaxed until supper time. When we became hungry, Jared and I traveled back to 34th street to eat at a Chinese restaurant. It was delicious! We spent a bit of time walking around the area and then headed back to our housing.
After arriving back, we realized that laundry was a must. However, it was 7:30 PM and the Laundromat closed at 8 PM. We realized we would simply have to wait until the next day.
Dr. Brown (our sponsor) arrived for a two night, one day stay in New York around 7:30 PM. At 10 PM, we had a small worship service with Brett, Lacey, and Matt leading the singing and Dr. Brown giving a word. It was greatly needed and well timed. He spoke on knowing God’s plans for us, and that we should realize that we do not deserve to know. God always tells us what He knows we need and what we can handle. Nothing more, nothing less.