A year's gone by. I am so amazed by all the wonderful, crazy happenings and events of the last year.
Right off the bat, I was headed to Uganda and Kenya for two months of uncertainty, God's grace, and miracles. What remains with me the most is how vast God's creativity and glory is. How we can all experience Him, and how there is not only one way to worship and glorify His name. It was here I first remember recognizing my love for urban ministry and truly embarking on the journey I'm on today.
After my graduation from YWAM, I found myself working two months or so back at Dairy Queen, where I had been for about three years. I can honestly say I can't pinpoint any specific memories of those shifts, but I remember being back to worship at my home church, being able to help out at the Faith Bible Camp retreats, and my sister's graduation from high school. I volunteered at a local library, starting what I think may be my longest lasting project as I continued, today, with assigning genres to every book in the collection. During this time, I focused on just being with God and what that was like in the everyday world. I was able to serve and help those around me, because I had only a few commitments. It was a time of rest and peace for me, which I didn't fully take advantage of because only God knew what the next ten weeks held.
The end of May through August 1st, I lived in Rolla, Missouri working at Camp David of the Ozarks. As a support staff leader, I worked all day with six hours of sleep a night, and barely enough time to myself to take a shower. Halfway through the summer, I was blessed by another member joining our team, who was able to supervise my staff for an hour or so a day so I could get some alone time. I honestly saw him as a complete angel from God, because without this extra person, I would have gone absolutely crazy, but God provided exactly what I needed. That was probably the biggest lesson of my summer, that God is always there and He will always provide. In the midst of lice and bed bugs (both of which now eradicated), two horses passing away, broken showers and washers and dryers, almost not having a nurse a few weeks, mowers and other equipment breaking, pipes in the dish room backing up due to grease build up, getting chased by a snake, plus a few other surprises I'm probably forgetting, God was always there to give patience, health, ideas, wisdom, a person, a need, among so much else that only he could have provided and cared for. I learned I definitely was not doing my jobs based on my strength, but based on God's. I also learned that He will place me exactly where I am needed, because this summer was the first summer camp ran across lice, and I happened to be a lice expert, having combed through my own hair and my sister's many a time when we were younger and other various instances, when no one else had even seen the annoying little critter before. This is only one example of a time when I saw a unique strength of mine be needed and was able to use it to help the camp function and achieve our goal of reaching children of prisoners, so I know God meant for me to be there.
Recently, since August, things have been slow. Well, slow for me anyway. My first semester of community college went by easily, as I finished with a 4.0 for the semester. I'm working at the college library and continue to babysit, as well as work nursery at Mom 2 Mom and volunteer with Junior High ministry. I've been counseling the retreats at camp and recently helped plan a college retreat, the second one camp has had. Personally, I am starting to learn what it means to initiate spiritual conversations and to be responsible for my own growth and faith, to seek out challenge and help. In this, I sought to find a college ministry, but have not yet in my area. I also prayed for a mentor and God provided me with a fantastic woman who has been challenging me to answer the real questions and to see my true self in the mirror. I'm learning to be diligent in my devotions and self disciplined, because quiet time in life isn't mandated by the world or structured into the schedule.. I have to set aside time for God, and it can be so easy to let other things get in the way.
As I think on to this next year, I hesitate to even reflect on what little plans I do have, because I know how quick and positive God can change them. Currently I am scheduled for spring semester at Carl Sandburg College, and I have the intent to transfer somewhere else next fall, to study Urban ministry/studies and social work. I don't know what college yet, but I currently have 11 applications out, so something should come through! With summer, I am waiting for a yes or no answer to an application I sent to a Christian organization that does work in urban cities all over the United States. I have undergone the second interview and will find out after the holidays of my acceptance or not.
The overarching theme of the last year, in my life, has been relationships and community. I started out the year fearful of friendships and of people, waiting for them to give up on me or lie to me because of some instances that happened near the end of 2014. I didn't want to trust anyone or give them a piece of my heart, because it could so quickly and without warning be lost. I had to learn this wasn't a reflection on me, that there wasn't anything wrong with me. I learned to be confident in how God made me and in my Savior and the Spirit's guidance. I learned that relationships come and go, that personalities are different and that means all relationships will look different. While I wish I had a friend that dated longer than a year or two, I'm at peace with it and don't blame myself. Some people come and go in life, following the plan God has for us all.
3 countries and 9 states (I think) later, 2015 comes to a close. I can't even begin to imagine what will happen in this next year and don't have a clue about where I will be a year from now, but I am excited for a continuation of the journey Christ is leading me on.
Thank you for all of your continued prayers!
Merry Christmas, and a Safe and Happy New Year
Victoria
Sunday, December 27, 2015
Friday, October 23, 2015
Best Version of Me
I first realized it when I ended up hanging out with a couple of my sister's friends. Actually, I didn't even notice it. She called me out on it.
Another time was with a few fellow leadership members. Although I noticed that time, I saw the others doing it, too.
As I think back, I struggled with seeing others do this. A leader I knew from camp would perform this way, and it left me with a deep sense of distrust and confusion.
You see, sometimes people act different in different settings. With my sister's friends, I was making inappropriate jokes and laughing with them to fit in. Leaders and I were acting in ways we never would have acted around the kids. A leader from camp would be mentoring kids during the day, but at night would tempt me to do things I shouldn't. We have all these versions of ourselves. It's no wonder teachers and parents are surprised at a child's actions, but the child's friends predicted it happening long ago.
As a Christ-follower, we need to continually have our thoughts and actions reflect Christ. Christ is constant - He doesn't change his values based on who He is around, He doesn't become this separate person. He definitely doesn't sin just when the pastor isn't watching, or when He is alone. He never sinned, no matter the situation. When we profess to be a Christ-follower, everything we do must reflect Christ. We are His witness to the world.
I come to you with this out of my own sin. My own testimony tainted the image of what it meant to be with Christ. I actively lived a double life, having one all my Christian friends knew about and praised me for (the Africa Tori) and the one around everyone who it "didn't matter". While I would lead Jr High small group girls or get ready for my next mission trip over seas, I was dabbling in my pleasures of the flesh to satisfy my own desires, outside of Christ.
If I couldn't give my whole life, every minute, every conversation and action, as an example of what it meant to follow Christ in our day to day life... Then I failed in what it meant to be a Christian. As I purposely committed these sins, knowing full well I shouldn't, I was shaming God's name to all, the most of which to those involved.
I am not saying a Christian will never sin. We know full well to have a sin problem, a problem we cannot overcome and that Christ saved us. What I was doing was actively and knowingly turning my back on what God wanted for me in these moments of weakness, when I needed Him the most and He could have revealed His glory to me and through me, I allowed to be overcome by sin.
I chose darkness.
Instead of crying out to God to save me, to renew my mind to His thoughts and the truth, I gave in to the "quick fix" of my desire. While I could give you the correct, Godly answers on what I should do, what would ultimately work out for God's glory and the better in the long run, I was just not caring. Which in itself was pride, thinking I knew better than God's great plan for my life. In some ways, my church upbringing made it easier to hide, because I knew just the right way to act around the right people. I disrespected those I sinned with, because I was saying they were just objects and they didn't matter as to their ultimate opinion of me. They were just there to fulfill a desire. They are a person loved by Christ every bit as much as I am. As I tainted God's image to them, I can only pray my actions will not be a hindrance to their ultimate union with Christ.
I am sorry to those I drew down the path of destruction with me. I am sorry I disrespected you and thought of you as less.
I am sorry to those who my witness hindered your growth in Christ or your union with Christ.
I am sorry that I lived so many versions of myself. I am sorry for my lies in word and action to authority and leaders, as well as the hypocrisy I had in teaching those entrusted to me.
I am sorry to have shamed the name of Christ through my sin and choices. God, I ask for your forgiveness and to accept me back into your arms again.
I promise to renew my thoughts and actions align with Christ's and to bow my desires to His throne. I promise the Victoria each of you sees will soon be the one everyone sees. I promise this Victoria will be led in every deed by Christ's will and love, that this version of me will be the best it can be.
Christ's version is, the best version of Me.
Another time was with a few fellow leadership members. Although I noticed that time, I saw the others doing it, too.
As I think back, I struggled with seeing others do this. A leader I knew from camp would perform this way, and it left me with a deep sense of distrust and confusion.
You see, sometimes people act different in different settings. With my sister's friends, I was making inappropriate jokes and laughing with them to fit in. Leaders and I were acting in ways we never would have acted around the kids. A leader from camp would be mentoring kids during the day, but at night would tempt me to do things I shouldn't. We have all these versions of ourselves. It's no wonder teachers and parents are surprised at a child's actions, but the child's friends predicted it happening long ago.
As a Christ-follower, we need to continually have our thoughts and actions reflect Christ. Christ is constant - He doesn't change his values based on who He is around, He doesn't become this separate person. He definitely doesn't sin just when the pastor isn't watching, or when He is alone. He never sinned, no matter the situation. When we profess to be a Christ-follower, everything we do must reflect Christ. We are His witness to the world.
I come to you with this out of my own sin. My own testimony tainted the image of what it meant to be with Christ. I actively lived a double life, having one all my Christian friends knew about and praised me for (the Africa Tori) and the one around everyone who it "didn't matter". While I would lead Jr High small group girls or get ready for my next mission trip over seas, I was dabbling in my pleasures of the flesh to satisfy my own desires, outside of Christ.
If I couldn't give my whole life, every minute, every conversation and action, as an example of what it meant to follow Christ in our day to day life... Then I failed in what it meant to be a Christian. As I purposely committed these sins, knowing full well I shouldn't, I was shaming God's name to all, the most of which to those involved.
I am not saying a Christian will never sin. We know full well to have a sin problem, a problem we cannot overcome and that Christ saved us. What I was doing was actively and knowingly turning my back on what God wanted for me in these moments of weakness, when I needed Him the most and He could have revealed His glory to me and through me, I allowed to be overcome by sin.
I chose darkness.
Instead of crying out to God to save me, to renew my mind to His thoughts and the truth, I gave in to the "quick fix" of my desire. While I could give you the correct, Godly answers on what I should do, what would ultimately work out for God's glory and the better in the long run, I was just not caring. Which in itself was pride, thinking I knew better than God's great plan for my life. In some ways, my church upbringing made it easier to hide, because I knew just the right way to act around the right people. I disrespected those I sinned with, because I was saying they were just objects and they didn't matter as to their ultimate opinion of me. They were just there to fulfill a desire. They are a person loved by Christ every bit as much as I am. As I tainted God's image to them, I can only pray my actions will not be a hindrance to their ultimate union with Christ.
I am sorry to those I drew down the path of destruction with me. I am sorry I disrespected you and thought of you as less.
I am sorry to those who my witness hindered your growth in Christ or your union with Christ.
I am sorry that I lived so many versions of myself. I am sorry for my lies in word and action to authority and leaders, as well as the hypocrisy I had in teaching those entrusted to me.
I am sorry to have shamed the name of Christ through my sin and choices. God, I ask for your forgiveness and to accept me back into your arms again.
I promise to renew my thoughts and actions align with Christ's and to bow my desires to His throne. I promise the Victoria each of you sees will soon be the one everyone sees. I promise this Victoria will be led in every deed by Christ's will and love, that this version of me will be the best it can be.
Christ's version is, the best version of Me.
Sunday, July 26, 2015
A Piece of My Heart
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
Hebrews 12:1-3
The summer has been long, with a wide mix of emotions. Here I am, about to start my final week of camp. By God's strength, I've endured. I remember, about two or three weeks ago, I was feeling done and ready to go home. I never thought I'd make it to the end. The problems and tasks seemed so big, God felt so far. What I thought I was hearing from Him wasn't what was occurring. Trial after trial came after us, issues I've never dealt with in all of my camp ministry experience, and we wrestled with whether God wanted us to continue to endure our trials, pushing through them in the only ways we knew how, or if God was trying to shut doors we were shoving open. Personally I struggled with this, as I became sick from the stress, lost my best friend here because she decided she was done, and was lost without knowing how to improve or move forward. I struggled with feeling as though I was in an unhealthy environment, and whether I needed to take of myself, or push through. As I talked to my Dad, he reminded me about the disciples, Paul, and martyrs around the world - they weren't always in the healthiest of environments either. But God asked them to continue to lean on Him, and He will be faithful to His promises. I knew deep in my heart God had called me to this ministry. In the last week, as I pushed into Christ and the relationships around me, something new happened. Where I slammed a door shut two weeks ago with a possible future, God was slowly nudging open and showing me how I could trust Him. How what I was doing was making a difference, and how He isn't done yet. I had one final struggle (so far) though. I was empty, exhausted, and tired of taking care of everyone else. Any weekend event, I was the one responsible for everyone. All through the week, I was an intense part of keeping camp running so the counselors could focus on their kids, and as I was over young teenagers, at times I felt like a counselor myself as I worked through their problems with them. While I am so thankful for the opportunities God is giving me, to continue to pour into others, with the leaving of my best friend and one-on-one person... I was struggling to be fed. Every moment seemed like I was giving to someone else.
So yesterday, I set my boundaries and pulled back. Calling it my "no responsibility" day, I hung out in my bed. I realized I was trying to run the race God has given me, but I was trying to run it by myself. We have a policy here at camp, that when you go running, you take a partner. Today, during church service, I realized I needed to acknowledge my running partner in God, and not just continue the path on my own. He held my water and good shoes. He provides my breeze and easy trail. On the hard trails, He's there right beside me. Yesterday, into today, God not only gave me opportunities to be productive, but provided ways for me to relax. I started and finished a book, relaxing in reading wasn't something I had time for at all earlier in the summer. I was able to practice guitar a little, something else I was really missing in my busy day. I got ahead on some paperwork, folded majority of the camp laundry, and reorganized the laundry room so it wasn't daunting for everyone. I found time with a friend, as we spontaneously went swimming in our clothes and I kept dunking her because she couldn't dunk me. In all these things, I felt my spirit being filled and my hope grow. The big issues I saw, my piles of laundry and things to do, started to not seem so daunting to myself, either.
I could not believe how much God had renewed my energy. This morning, I went with some camp people to my favorite church here. It was such a relief to not feel like I had to take charge, and that we could just be a small group of friends hanging out. While in service, the pastor talked about finishing the race, with God, in intimacy with Him. How intimacy with God creates dependence on Him, leading to obedience to His voice, which ultimately leads us to joy. I realized how this summer, I was lacking joy as I thought I had my job all together, because I wasn't doing it with God. I lost sight of God wanting a say in how I managed dishes or the laundry. I saw my side of camp life as material and lacking need for the Spirit. There were times when I wouldn't give my all because I was tired, or I was hot, or it was "good enough". But God gave me a will and a renewed spirit today. I came home from church ready to continue doing laundry, cleaning up to start a new week, and finished up a few projects I kept putting off because they "weren't a huge deal". While I would normally feel exhausted, especially with how hot and humid it is, I feel joy and appreciation in getting jobs accomplished.
God showed up in another way, too. We sang the first song in worship today, and I just wasn't feeling it. At the church I go to, they only open with one song, with most of their worship at the end. I was partly scared I wouldn't have the spirit filling I needed before the start of this week. After the first song, I was just praying God would give me the experience I needed with His Spirit today. The church service continued with the fantabulous message I already talked about, but God wasn't done yet. In the last time of worship, God continued to show me pieces of Himself. Even when I can't see God, He is constant, and I need to remember His goodness, not only relying on how I feel Him in the moment, but on His promises, because His promises are always true. I was reminded of times in the past when I just felt completely embraced by God, Whether it was dancing with Him in the cornfields or seeing His beauty in a child... my God is constant, and His promises are always true, continuing to be true. The God I encountered in these Spirit filled moments is the same God I seek after in the valley of emptiness, and He will fill me again as I seek after Him.
After church, we always have an altar call of prayer time. As my time here comes to an end, I'm wondering exactly what to do next. I have some vague answers, but not any complete. As I was asking God if He wanted me to seek prayer, He said no. Don't do the altar call and ask Me to give the prayer team answers to give you. I realized I hadn't been in much prayer myself regarding this fall, and God wanted me to seek after Him myself, because He wanted to share His great plans with me. I was reminded again of how God wants an intimate relationship with me, to share His surprises and plans in my life with me. While prayer with others and for others is important, we can't forget to seek after God for ourselves, too.
As I have such a strong link to my church home here, I feel God has taught me what home really is. I would always laugh at myself as I referred to everywhere as home, whether in Madison, Uganda, Kenya, Galesburg, or Rolla, I would make so many comments about "when we get home" or "its at home" and the people around me would have to clarify where I meant, typically being back at where ever I was sleeping for the time. I see home as being where God wants me to be, and I'm thankful He has given me such a love, acceptance, and belonging in each place that I feel safe enough to call each of my adventures "home". I realized how thankful I am to have so many homes, so many places I belong, as I minister to kids who sometimes feel they have no home or place to go. So as I head home to Galesburg in a week... it hurts to be leaving home, too, and continue to pray for those who have no home to find the place they belong.
I know, this blog is a little more rambling and sporadic than most of my posts, with more topics and points than I would normally put, and still a few I left out, but I feel God wanted me to share all of it. Whether one piece or all affect you or not, I do pray something stands out, and I know God has a reason for it, if nothing other than for me to process the things He has done in these last few days. I have left a piece of my heart here, but have gained so much in return.
You're fantastic and amazing!
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
One Last Bag of Viva
Viva is one of my favorite foods. The trouble? This delicious cereal (though I eat it like candy) is only available in Europe, specifically purchased by me in Romania. When I went almost a year ago, I brought home something like 12 bags of this heaven on earth. A day or two would go by, and I'd eat some more. Share it with friends or give it to my fellow Romania travelers, having already run out of their stash. Slowly, my pile decreased, until only one bag of chocolaty goodness remained.
I remember thinking I would use it to celebrate. Something. Maybe I'd open it at new year's, but that passed by with me wanting to have it on the day I left for Africa instead. Then, I thought, this bag will taste even better if I waited until I got HOME from Africa, as that'd be a great accomplishment. Upon coming home, though, I pushed off the award for something else. And then other events would pass by, and I always would put the bag away, thinking the next accomplishment would be truly worth the prize.
Having brought the bag with me to camp, I thought I would use it to celebrate the first successful week with campers. The week passed by, and I decided I would enjoy my last bag on a rainy day, as a pick me up instead, as a reward of having made it through a day I struggled.
As days have passed, some more stressful then others, others more stressful than that, the bag lays in my secret food stash. Every night, I justify myself in why I could open my last bag of Viva. This happened, this broke, I'm sick, I'm grieving.... but each night, I remembered how I made it through, and how days will be better. How this honestly was not the worst day ever, and how more things could have gone wrong, but didn't. I remember the little joys, of a baby held or the face on my staff when they learn a new skill. So I put the bag away, close the chapter of the day, and look forward to the sunrise of a new story, with some new adventure.
Although, at the end of this summer... I better enjoy the bag of Viva before what was fantastic turns into a stomach ache :)
I remember thinking I would use it to celebrate. Something. Maybe I'd open it at new year's, but that passed by with me wanting to have it on the day I left for Africa instead. Then, I thought, this bag will taste even better if I waited until I got HOME from Africa, as that'd be a great accomplishment. Upon coming home, though, I pushed off the award for something else. And then other events would pass by, and I always would put the bag away, thinking the next accomplishment would be truly worth the prize.
Having brought the bag with me to camp, I thought I would use it to celebrate the first successful week with campers. The week passed by, and I decided I would enjoy my last bag on a rainy day, as a pick me up instead, as a reward of having made it through a day I struggled.
As days have passed, some more stressful then others, others more stressful than that, the bag lays in my secret food stash. Every night, I justify myself in why I could open my last bag of Viva. This happened, this broke, I'm sick, I'm grieving.... but each night, I remembered how I made it through, and how days will be better. How this honestly was not the worst day ever, and how more things could have gone wrong, but didn't. I remember the little joys, of a baby held or the face on my staff when they learn a new skill. So I put the bag away, close the chapter of the day, and look forward to the sunrise of a new story, with some new adventure.
Although, at the end of this summer... I better enjoy the bag of Viva before what was fantastic turns into a stomach ache :)
Monday, June 8, 2015
Go? No!
I could hear God's voice in my ear...
"Go, Tori. I want this for you."
"I don't want to. I don't need it, I'm okay."
"Will you please let me show you something?"
Sunday morning, I visited a new church with a friend. After two weeks of training at camp, I was exhausted and woke up with a raging sore throat, headache, and nausea. I knew it wasn't going to be a good way to start the first week with campers.
The church was absolutely fantastic. While it wasn't quite the cleanest on worship, and the speaker wasn't quite what I was used to (she also wore her sunglasses on her head the whole time... whoops!), I could feel the Holy Spirit moving. The service had a time for praying for another church in the community, as well as time to receive prayer at the alter.
As the time for prayer came, I knew God was calling me to ask for prayer. To receive healing, as well as His blessing into this next week. I felt my anxiety rising. I did not want to go. A completely new church, in a new state, with a friend I have really just met and didn't know how she would react or think of me making such a bold move.
I know God wishes for my obedience. As I attempted to reason with Him, to have the voice in my head be content with staying in my pew, a lyric from the worship set enters my mind.
"When you say go, I will go. When you say wait, I will wait"
And while I don't remember the rest of it, I remembered enough. I had just sang my praises, my commitment and promise to Christ. That when He said to go, I promised I would go!
Up to the alter I went. Onto my knees I fell. Tears fell for no reason other than God's grace and patience. A woman I didn't know prayed for me, and as she prayed for healing, rebuking the enemy in his silly schemes against my health, my throat was soothed. In a moment, my raging pain had ceased. Glory to God!!
While I still had my headache and nausea, God showed me so much. He is the Healer. He is asking me to be dependent on Him, to continually ask for healing and seek after His direction. When He says go, I have got to Go!!
A little more on this church family: My friend and I were welcomed into a home if we had no place to stay on the weekend (we do, but it was super amazing, too!) and when we went out for lunch, a group of older couples from the church invited us over to their table. The church home felt right, and we felt completely welcome. They, and we, are so excited to see each other at church again on Sunday, and to find a community home in a land so far from our own.
I cannot thank God enough for His healing, provision, and loving community. Yay, God!!!!
"Go, Tori. I want this for you."
"I don't want to. I don't need it, I'm okay."
"Will you please let me show you something?"
Sunday morning, I visited a new church with a friend. After two weeks of training at camp, I was exhausted and woke up with a raging sore throat, headache, and nausea. I knew it wasn't going to be a good way to start the first week with campers.
The church was absolutely fantastic. While it wasn't quite the cleanest on worship, and the speaker wasn't quite what I was used to (she also wore her sunglasses on her head the whole time... whoops!), I could feel the Holy Spirit moving. The service had a time for praying for another church in the community, as well as time to receive prayer at the alter.
As the time for prayer came, I knew God was calling me to ask for prayer. To receive healing, as well as His blessing into this next week. I felt my anxiety rising. I did not want to go. A completely new church, in a new state, with a friend I have really just met and didn't know how she would react or think of me making such a bold move.
I know God wishes for my obedience. As I attempted to reason with Him, to have the voice in my head be content with staying in my pew, a lyric from the worship set enters my mind.
"When you say go, I will go. When you say wait, I will wait"
And while I don't remember the rest of it, I remembered enough. I had just sang my praises, my commitment and promise to Christ. That when He said to go, I promised I would go!
Up to the alter I went. Onto my knees I fell. Tears fell for no reason other than God's grace and patience. A woman I didn't know prayed for me, and as she prayed for healing, rebuking the enemy in his silly schemes against my health, my throat was soothed. In a moment, my raging pain had ceased. Glory to God!!
While I still had my headache and nausea, God showed me so much. He is the Healer. He is asking me to be dependent on Him, to continually ask for healing and seek after His direction. When He says go, I have got to Go!!
A little more on this church family: My friend and I were welcomed into a home if we had no place to stay on the weekend (we do, but it was super amazing, too!) and when we went out for lunch, a group of older couples from the church invited us over to their table. The church home felt right, and we felt completely welcome. They, and we, are so excited to see each other at church again on Sunday, and to find a community home in a land so far from our own.
I cannot thank God enough for His healing, provision, and loving community. Yay, God!!!!
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
What's going on, What's next... Where are you?
Hey Friends!!
I'm sorry it's been so long. When I got home after graduation on March 14, my computer decided it would have issues connecting to internet, and I didn't exactly wish to publish a detailed update from my phone. But hey, I'm back, and excited to fill you in!!
The last five weeks or so, I've been living back home in Galesburg. My owners at Dairy Queen are absolutely amazing, and allowed me to continue where I left off these 7 months ago now. In addition to making ice cream and taking your order at drive-thru, I've been babysitting, attending some community activities, and volunteering at church.
I'm thankful many ministries I was a part of have welcomed me back, including the Jr High ministry with my 8th grade girls, and our Mom's ministries. Coming up, I'm looking forward to helping with Single Mom's Morning Out, an event where single mom's have the opportunity to get pampered with a massage, hair cut, car cleaning, nail painting, and much more! At this event, I will be a part of the nail painting, something I've never done. I'm excited to learn, though, and to connect with the women God wants me to pray for and bless. The other event coming up is during our bimonthly morning mom's ministry, where I will be subbing a class for the upper elementary home schoolers at the end of next month. My church has been great about providing new opportunities for me to grow and learn!
Speaking of my church, the last Sunday I am home I will be doing a children's presentation about my trip to Uganda and Kenya. We are also in communication to set up an adult event, so I will let you know when such an event is finalized!
Don't feel like you can only talk to me at an event, though. I love telling about what God did and is doing in Uganda and Kenya and how He grew and strengthened me during the last six months with YWAM, so please do not hesitate to call me or set up a coffee date before I go. Trust me, I have plenty of time to devote to you.
So.. what's next?
While I have talked about this opportunity before, I would like to share more with you. Memorial Day weekend, directly after my sister's high school graduation, I head to Rolla, Missouri to minister at Camp David.Camp David of the Ozarks is a 501c3 nonprofit Christian summer scholarship camp uniquely designed to meet the needs of children of prisoners. Their mission statement is to be a transforming agent in the lives of families of prisoners by introducing them to the love and hope in Jesus Christ, and to develop leaders who will impact our world. Here, I will be a part of their leadership team in the role of Support Staff Leader. This means I will lead a group of 10 to 14 individuals, some of whom used to be campers themselves, in the duties of dishes, janitorial, and other such tasks. The first week down in Missouri will be leadership training, followed by a week of staff training. Then, campers arrive. After about two months of week long camps, my last day will be around July 31st (details haven't quite been worked out).
And then?????
The big question. What the heck are you doing next fall. and, well....
I don't know.
Right, I don't know. For those of you who know me pretty well, that surprises you.
Because I truly don't know.
Having been accepted and soon registering for classes at the local community college, Carl Sandburg, that could very well be an option. I would continue working at DQ and volunteering at the church as I work towards an eventual bachelor's degree in business or counseling.
I have a different desire, though.
A dream, you may say.
You see, God has called me to urban ministry in Chicago. Exactly how, when, or with what organization has not come to light (prayers towards this would be appreciated...) but a lot can happen in the next five months to make that calling happen soon, especially with the relationships and contacts I could develop through the opportunities God has provided me with.
I thank God for the opportunities He has bestowed on me, and His blessings. It is such a joy to still have a bed at home in Galesburg, to have a job within days, a church community wanting to welcome me back. He continues to guide, in His timing, and as long as I have the next step, I see myself in pretty good nail pierced hands.
Love you all and blessings,
Tori
I'm sorry it's been so long. When I got home after graduation on March 14, my computer decided it would have issues connecting to internet, and I didn't exactly wish to publish a detailed update from my phone. But hey, I'm back, and excited to fill you in!!
The last five weeks or so, I've been living back home in Galesburg. My owners at Dairy Queen are absolutely amazing, and allowed me to continue where I left off these 7 months ago now. In addition to making ice cream and taking your order at drive-thru, I've been babysitting, attending some community activities, and volunteering at church.
I'm thankful many ministries I was a part of have welcomed me back, including the Jr High ministry with my 8th grade girls, and our Mom's ministries. Coming up, I'm looking forward to helping with Single Mom's Morning Out, an event where single mom's have the opportunity to get pampered with a massage, hair cut, car cleaning, nail painting, and much more! At this event, I will be a part of the nail painting, something I've never done. I'm excited to learn, though, and to connect with the women God wants me to pray for and bless. The other event coming up is during our bimonthly morning mom's ministry, where I will be subbing a class for the upper elementary home schoolers at the end of next month. My church has been great about providing new opportunities for me to grow and learn!
Speaking of my church, the last Sunday I am home I will be doing a children's presentation about my trip to Uganda and Kenya. We are also in communication to set up an adult event, so I will let you know when such an event is finalized!
Don't feel like you can only talk to me at an event, though. I love telling about what God did and is doing in Uganda and Kenya and how He grew and strengthened me during the last six months with YWAM, so please do not hesitate to call me or set up a coffee date before I go. Trust me, I have plenty of time to devote to you.
So.. what's next?
While I have talked about this opportunity before, I would like to share more with you. Memorial Day weekend, directly after my sister's high school graduation, I head to Rolla, Missouri to minister at Camp David.Camp David of the Ozarks is a 501c3 nonprofit Christian summer scholarship camp uniquely designed to meet the needs of children of prisoners. Their mission statement is to be a transforming agent in the lives of families of prisoners by introducing them to the love and hope in Jesus Christ, and to develop leaders who will impact our world. Here, I will be a part of their leadership team in the role of Support Staff Leader. This means I will lead a group of 10 to 14 individuals, some of whom used to be campers themselves, in the duties of dishes, janitorial, and other such tasks. The first week down in Missouri will be leadership training, followed by a week of staff training. Then, campers arrive. After about two months of week long camps, my last day will be around July 31st (details haven't quite been worked out).
And then?????
The big question. What the heck are you doing next fall. and, well....
I don't know.
Right, I don't know. For those of you who know me pretty well, that surprises you.
Because I truly don't know.
Having been accepted and soon registering for classes at the local community college, Carl Sandburg, that could very well be an option. I would continue working at DQ and volunteering at the church as I work towards an eventual bachelor's degree in business or counseling.
I have a different desire, though.
A dream, you may say.
You see, God has called me to urban ministry in Chicago. Exactly how, when, or with what organization has not come to light (prayers towards this would be appreciated...) but a lot can happen in the next five months to make that calling happen soon, especially with the relationships and contacts I could develop through the opportunities God has provided me with.
I thank God for the opportunities He has bestowed on me, and His blessings. It is such a joy to still have a bed at home in Galesburg, to have a job within days, a church community wanting to welcome me back. He continues to guide, in His timing, and as long as I have the next step, I see myself in pretty good nail pierced hands.
Love you all and blessings,
Tori
Necessities of Life
What does every human need to live?
Food.
Water.
Shelter.
Now, what does every first world country seem to need in order to live?
Internet
Electricity
Phone
Car
Running water
Well built house
For two weeks, I observed communities lacking the American view of life. For another two weeks, I lived that way myself.
These places lacked internet, electricity, cars, running water, and the houses were made out of mud.
Guess what, though? They were LIVING. At times, more than I daresay us in America, as so many of us are glued to TV and computer screens.
You see, I question our standard of life.
In the village of Ugunja, where I lived for two weeks, most houses weren't even accessible by car as we walked through the trees. Families lived together, generations on a plot of land, being there for each other. It was common to go visit your neighbor without warning them, or for a visitor to come without beckons. They worked hard, developed relationships with each other, and while food or water may not always be easy to get, they understood the concept of God's provision.
While there, we didn't have water or electricity. Yes, I survived. In fact... those were some of the simplest, most calming weeks of the trip. Our team grew close together, we had conversations with each other. When you don't have the distraction of a phone or TV, conversations happen!
The lack of the "first world necessities" wasn't because the village was dirt poor. No, they weren't rich... but when a whole community lives this way, I question the need as well. Not only that, but even if they could afford running water, that means pipe lines getting laid all throughout the area, pipe lines that weren't there. This is what they grew up in, most people lived their whole lives here, so they didn't know what they were "missing out on", nor did they have the "staying connected" reasons we do.
Don't get me wrong, I'm thankful for the amenities we have. With it, I can stay in contact with my friends in Germany, Romania, Uganda, and all over the states. I can cross the ocean in a few hours, a trip to Chicago is common. For many in the village, the area they were born may be all they know. A trip to Nairobi, an eight hour bus ride away, isn't a trip taken lightly.
I don't tell you these things to pity the people I met.
In fact, I tell you these things so we can begin to rid ourselves of the mindset that these people are less than us because they have to travel a kilometer for water.
I tell you these things so we can stop pitying them, and blaming them for their lives, saying they waste their money and resources, just because google isn't a click away.
I ask that we measure rich and poor by the community around them, and see what the real needs are. In my opinion, these villages don't need the means to plumbing and electricity, as much as they have a need for education. Education for a job, for care of children, proper hygiene, agriculture, and taking care of their land and community. Not for a Western education system, but an education that fits their culture and their world.
"[The organization] gave me a cow so I could have income and a better life. But I lack the money to feed the cow. Many days, I go hungry so the cow can eat." -a Kenyan villager
I ask to redefine our standards of life, to be thankful for what we have, and to understand a village before we judge or pity the people. I ask us to see what the true needs are, needs exempt from our Western lens.
I ask us to love them as they are, and not ask them to become like us.
Friday, February 20, 2015
To Africa and Back
Thank you all for your prayer support these last two months!! There are so many situations and opportunities that I saw God so present and working, looking out for my team and I, and it's all helped by your prayer support! I apologize so much for not updating you all during the trip, outside of my Facebook page. Between our busy days and a lack of computer or internet, I was unable to devote the time I really wanted to to update you all.
There are so many memories and stories, its hard to know where to start. Here's a general overview of locations, as well as our ministries with a few stories and memories. I hope you enjoy!
January 5 through January 18: YWAM Torch Base, Jinja, Uganda.
Ministries: door to door evangelism, childrens' programs, an island medical clinic, and church services.
Favorite Memory: While in a village called Mesesa, we did door to door ministry and a chilren's program. My heart broke as these kids, that I only just met, felt safe enough to fall asleep in my arms and chose to cling to my skirts. I loved having a child asleep in my arms as I helped run duck duck goose or sang along with the kids.
Culture fun: Went to the Source of the Nile in Lake Victoria and went swimming in a pool
January 18 through January 25: YWAM Hopeland Base, Near Jinja, Uganda.
This week was very rejuvenating for our team as we spent a lot of time in worship together, played ultimate Frisbee, and did an amazing ropes course.
Ministries: Prison, door to door and loudspeaker evangelism, a disabled childrens' home, a childrens' program for the missionary kids, cleaning a shed, and agriculture.
Favorite Memory: At the disabled childrens' home, this was a little girl named Rashida. While many of the kids were mentally handicapped, she had a physical handicap in her calves. Brook (my leader), a little boy named Peter, Rashida, and I all went on a walk down the road. Peter would go and pick flowers for Rashida to have. On the walk back, he got extremely tired and didn't want to go on. Rashida noticed, and moved over on her wheelchair so he could join her on it. At the most, Rashida was maybe 8 years old. I was so encouraged by her joy and care for Peter.
Culture Fun: Everywhere we went, throughout Kenya and Uganda, we were called Mzungu. This means foreigner. So as we went through villages, we heard the calls of the children saying "Mzungu, Mzungu! How are you?" and the only response they knew was "Fine, how are you?".
January 25 through February 7: Ugunja Village, Kenya. A remote area with no electricity or running water, or any doors on our squatties :)
Ministries: School visits, home visits, church services, 2 day pastor seminar
Favorite Memory: At a home visit, we met a woman named Monica. A few days before our visit, she found she couldn't stand up or walk anymore. We spent a half hour praying for her, where she was soon able to stand and move her legs. Over the next few days, we persistently prayed, visiting her a few more times. Last I've heard, she has been able to take a few steps confidently, getting better each day. This was one of the places I truly knew God was personal and was speaking to me, hearing my prayers. We had prayed for her the first time, and she was scared to even try standing. We were praying for her again, and I specifically asked God to give her confidence to stand on her own, that we wouldn't have to prompt her to stand. As my prayer ended, we were quiet, and she moves to stand on her own. Each time we prayed, she grew stronger. Not only was God's glory shown to the people of her compound that God is powerful and answers prayers, but our team was rejuvenated and refreshed, our excitement and spirit filled again as we watched God move. God shows His power and glory when he chooses, and he taught us that persistence and love are key.
Culture Fun: On one of our off days, we went to a water fall. We heard there was a hippo up river, so our contact took us up. Next thing we know, this little island on the other side (where the hippo was) is on fire. Then 20 feet up river, another fire starts. We figured out that the Kenyans were starting fires for us so the hippo would come up out of the water. By the time they were done, there were six or seven fires going. Only in Africa...
February 7 through February 18: Niarobi, Kenya
Ministries: Maximum security prison, youth prison, youth groups, slums/dumps, soccer, disabled childrens' home, and church services
Favorite Memory: Honestly, I don't know where to start with this. By far, this was my favorite week of ministry. The opportunities we had were so diverse, different each day and most were completely new experiences. While at the maximum security prison, I spoke at a church service of about 250 prisoners. I was super nervous, because it was my first time really speaking in front of a church on the trip. After I was done, the pastor gets up to speak, and says I said all he was going to say, and that he would just finish my sermon. God completely gave me the topic to speak on, because it wasn't really one I would be able to figure out on my own. That morning reassured and encouraged me so much, giving me confidence to speak twice more that week.
The disabled childrens' home was so joyous. I was so happy to be seeing the kids' faces light up as we painted their faces and fed them lunch. They just longed for hugs and physical contact. They would sing and dance with the music playing, so perfectly beautiful. Not ashamed to say that I left there crying.
Culture Fun: On our last day of ministry, we went to a worship conference at one of the churches we had visited a few times that week. For four hours, we sang, danced, and worshipped. Legit, fantastic African dancing. Now that I think about it, I'm reminded of Zumba dancing. That active and rigorous. I was so exhausted and sweaty by the end, but so refreshed. There was no better way to end our time of ministry.
Some awesome foods:
Chapoti (kinda like a thick, greasy tortilla)
Posho (flour and water. In Kenya, it was a dense, cake like texture, while in Uganda, it was more like a watery rice texture.
Sugar cane
Rolex (Chapoti with an egg)
Drinking chocolate
Mangoes
Horned Melon
Types of Soda: Passionfruit fanta, Pineapple fanta, Mirinda, Novida, Krest, Kale
We also ate a lot of rice, beans, pineapple, watermelon, and tea!
Some words in Swahili:
Tupa : Throw
Paka : Cat
Chair : Kiti
Nipe : Give me
Jesus : Yesu
Baby : Mtoto
Tupa Paka : Throw the cat
Bafu iko wapi : where's the bathroom
Kwenda Uko : Go away
Feel free to ask me any questions! No question is too silly:)
What's next?
Currently, I am in Madison, WI doing debrief with YWAM. Next Friday, we start stateside travel, visiting churches, schools, and youth groups telling about our various trips. After about a week and a half of that, we will return to Madison, WI for a financial seminar and preparing for graduation. Graduation will be on Saturday, March 14.
After graduation, I have no clue what I will be doing. Much of the decision depends on a job, a place to live, and wanting to continue in some of the activities I have in Galesburg. Please be praying for me as I try to figure out adult life:)
This summer, I will be working at Camp David in Rolla, Missouri. Camp David holds week long camps for children of parents who are or have been in prison, within a two hour radius of St Louis. While I am not sure yet of my exact position, I am excited for this amazing opportunity to grow and challenge myself as I solidify the changes God and I have made in my life throughout DTS.
Recently, God has confirmed His calling in my life for urban ministry. While in Nairobi, I felt so at peace and comfortable in the city, yet challenged by the needs of the people. I realized how many of the issues I was actively exposed to there are ministries I can participate in in an American city. Between prisons, refugees, at risk children, poverty, and immigrants, all ministries I have a strong heart for, I can find them all in the city. I have an opportunity to work in Chicago, Minneapolis, or St Louis come autumn, so please join me in prayer these next few months as I ask God where He would like me to go and what organizations to work with.
Thank you, everyone!
There are so many memories and stories, its hard to know where to start. Here's a general overview of locations, as well as our ministries with a few stories and memories. I hope you enjoy!
January 5 through January 18: YWAM Torch Base, Jinja, Uganda.
Ministries: door to door evangelism, childrens' programs, an island medical clinic, and church services.
Favorite Memory: While in a village called Mesesa, we did door to door ministry and a chilren's program. My heart broke as these kids, that I only just met, felt safe enough to fall asleep in my arms and chose to cling to my skirts. I loved having a child asleep in my arms as I helped run duck duck goose or sang along with the kids.
Culture fun: Went to the Source of the Nile in Lake Victoria and went swimming in a pool
January 18 through January 25: YWAM Hopeland Base, Near Jinja, Uganda.
This week was very rejuvenating for our team as we spent a lot of time in worship together, played ultimate Frisbee, and did an amazing ropes course.
Ministries: Prison, door to door and loudspeaker evangelism, a disabled childrens' home, a childrens' program for the missionary kids, cleaning a shed, and agriculture.
Favorite Memory: At the disabled childrens' home, this was a little girl named Rashida. While many of the kids were mentally handicapped, she had a physical handicap in her calves. Brook (my leader), a little boy named Peter, Rashida, and I all went on a walk down the road. Peter would go and pick flowers for Rashida to have. On the walk back, he got extremely tired and didn't want to go on. Rashida noticed, and moved over on her wheelchair so he could join her on it. At the most, Rashida was maybe 8 years old. I was so encouraged by her joy and care for Peter.
Culture Fun: Everywhere we went, throughout Kenya and Uganda, we were called Mzungu. This means foreigner. So as we went through villages, we heard the calls of the children saying "Mzungu, Mzungu! How are you?" and the only response they knew was "Fine, how are you?".
January 25 through February 7: Ugunja Village, Kenya. A remote area with no electricity or running water, or any doors on our squatties :)
Ministries: School visits, home visits, church services, 2 day pastor seminar
Favorite Memory: At a home visit, we met a woman named Monica. A few days before our visit, she found she couldn't stand up or walk anymore. We spent a half hour praying for her, where she was soon able to stand and move her legs. Over the next few days, we persistently prayed, visiting her a few more times. Last I've heard, she has been able to take a few steps confidently, getting better each day. This was one of the places I truly knew God was personal and was speaking to me, hearing my prayers. We had prayed for her the first time, and she was scared to even try standing. We were praying for her again, and I specifically asked God to give her confidence to stand on her own, that we wouldn't have to prompt her to stand. As my prayer ended, we were quiet, and she moves to stand on her own. Each time we prayed, she grew stronger. Not only was God's glory shown to the people of her compound that God is powerful and answers prayers, but our team was rejuvenated and refreshed, our excitement and spirit filled again as we watched God move. God shows His power and glory when he chooses, and he taught us that persistence and love are key.
Culture Fun: On one of our off days, we went to a water fall. We heard there was a hippo up river, so our contact took us up. Next thing we know, this little island on the other side (where the hippo was) is on fire. Then 20 feet up river, another fire starts. We figured out that the Kenyans were starting fires for us so the hippo would come up out of the water. By the time they were done, there were six or seven fires going. Only in Africa...
February 7 through February 18: Niarobi, Kenya
Ministries: Maximum security prison, youth prison, youth groups, slums/dumps, soccer, disabled childrens' home, and church services
Favorite Memory: Honestly, I don't know where to start with this. By far, this was my favorite week of ministry. The opportunities we had were so diverse, different each day and most were completely new experiences. While at the maximum security prison, I spoke at a church service of about 250 prisoners. I was super nervous, because it was my first time really speaking in front of a church on the trip. After I was done, the pastor gets up to speak, and says I said all he was going to say, and that he would just finish my sermon. God completely gave me the topic to speak on, because it wasn't really one I would be able to figure out on my own. That morning reassured and encouraged me so much, giving me confidence to speak twice more that week.
The disabled childrens' home was so joyous. I was so happy to be seeing the kids' faces light up as we painted their faces and fed them lunch. They just longed for hugs and physical contact. They would sing and dance with the music playing, so perfectly beautiful. Not ashamed to say that I left there crying.
Culture Fun: On our last day of ministry, we went to a worship conference at one of the churches we had visited a few times that week. For four hours, we sang, danced, and worshipped. Legit, fantastic African dancing. Now that I think about it, I'm reminded of Zumba dancing. That active and rigorous. I was so exhausted and sweaty by the end, but so refreshed. There was no better way to end our time of ministry.
Some awesome foods:
Chapoti (kinda like a thick, greasy tortilla)
Posho (flour and water. In Kenya, it was a dense, cake like texture, while in Uganda, it was more like a watery rice texture.
Sugar cane
Rolex (Chapoti with an egg)
Drinking chocolate
Mangoes
Horned Melon
Types of Soda: Passionfruit fanta, Pineapple fanta, Mirinda, Novida, Krest, Kale
We also ate a lot of rice, beans, pineapple, watermelon, and tea!
Some words in Swahili:
Tupa : Throw
Paka : Cat
Chair : Kiti
Nipe : Give me
Jesus : Yesu
Baby : Mtoto
Tupa Paka : Throw the cat
Bafu iko wapi : where's the bathroom
Kwenda Uko : Go away
Feel free to ask me any questions! No question is too silly:)
What's next?
Currently, I am in Madison, WI doing debrief with YWAM. Next Friday, we start stateside travel, visiting churches, schools, and youth groups telling about our various trips. After about a week and a half of that, we will return to Madison, WI for a financial seminar and preparing for graduation. Graduation will be on Saturday, March 14.
After graduation, I have no clue what I will be doing. Much of the decision depends on a job, a place to live, and wanting to continue in some of the activities I have in Galesburg. Please be praying for me as I try to figure out adult life:)
This summer, I will be working at Camp David in Rolla, Missouri. Camp David holds week long camps for children of parents who are or have been in prison, within a two hour radius of St Louis. While I am not sure yet of my exact position, I am excited for this amazing opportunity to grow and challenge myself as I solidify the changes God and I have made in my life throughout DTS.
Recently, God has confirmed His calling in my life for urban ministry. While in Nairobi, I felt so at peace and comfortable in the city, yet challenged by the needs of the people. I realized how many of the issues I was actively exposed to there are ministries I can participate in in an American city. Between prisons, refugees, at risk children, poverty, and immigrants, all ministries I have a strong heart for, I can find them all in the city. I have an opportunity to work in Chicago, Minneapolis, or St Louis come autumn, so please join me in prayer these next few months as I ask God where He would like me to go and what organizations to work with.
Thank you, everyone!
Thursday, January 1, 2015
Everything, New Year's, 47 hours away
Everything
My Ugenya (Uganda and Kenya) outreach team felt we were supposed to prepare this skit to do at churches or other evangelism opportunities. The video follows a girl's story of fellowship with God, in aspects of creation, then her temptation into sin. Several struggles follow, such as guys, money, alcohol, models, and eventually a fall into depression with cutting and considering suicide. She throws the gun down, running to God, but all the demons of her past fight against her, pulling her back as she runs to God. God breaks in, cleansing her from her past, so she joins back in fellowship with Him. In our version, we also added an intercessor friend who is praying for the girl throughout her struggles. Before we started practicing, we prayed to ask God which parts He desired us to have. Well... God asked me to be the main girl. Her story follows so closely to my own life (see a previous blog post from September, "No One Else Can Play Your Part") that I felt God wanted to do some further healing in me by physically acting out this part. Today, we ran through the whole thing a few times (I hurt!), and I already feel God working and having me see how far I have really come from my past. This skit has touched millions, so I'm super excited to be a part of a change in another's life, as well as see healing in my own. After outreach, I'll be sure to post a video of our performance in Africa. Please, take a second and pray for me because I don't act.. at all... and this part is difficult, as well as exhausting and painful.
New Year's
New Year's Eve was spent a little differently this year. The past four years, I've been about an hour away at Expeditions Unlimited with my high school youth group. We'd always have tons of food, playing Dutch Blitz and Just Dance. This year, though still in the bitter cold, was basically spent packing and cleaning, which did keep me up until midnight! A year ago, I'd never imagined this is where I would be. I was imagining myself at Cedarville studying elementary education, basically having the next three years figured out. Now, I'm leaving the country for two months to go to a new continent and have no clue what I'll be doing come this next September. Looking back, I've grown so much. My dependency on Christ and Father has grown immensely, with a knowledge of how much more growth there is still. A deeper relationship with Him, an everlasting peace, and so much security in my faith... I wouldn't trade this year for anything. He has done so much, I can't even imagine how much more He is going to do!
47 hours
At 10:30 pm Saturday, I will be sitting on a plane, probably freaking out over one of the greatest adventures of my life. Our first flight will take us to Philly, then to Qatar, followed by our final flight into Uganda. After a total travel time of 48 hours, we will arrive at our destination just in time for supper and bed. The days leading up to this wonderful beginning are filled with skits, songs, prayer, and the dreaded packing. Our team time has been wonderful, filled with laughs and awesome times at the laundry mat. I am stoked to get closer to this team and to positively impact the people of Kenya and Uganda. We spend three weeks in Uganda, then three weeks in Kenya before we fly home. God is going to do some crazy amazing things! I will have some updates on my facebook and will try to post a blog or two (we only have one computer we will be sharing), but you can also 'like' the YWAM Madison facebook page for some short updates as well. I am so excited to come home and tell you all more about my trip!!
Another quick prayer request? That I quit losing things!!! :) No clue what's going on, but I can't find some of my outreach supplies. They'll turn up, but prayer is always appreciated.
On a more slightly-stressful-but-knowing-God-will-provide note, I am currently in need of $1250 for this trip. I ask that you prayfully consider donating towards my ministry among women and children at risk. At this point, please donate online at www.ywammadison.org/donate (be sure to put my name in the "Please designate my donation towards" box) or mail a check to P.O. Box 8503 Madison, WI 53708, with a separate note designating the amount for me. Thank you!
Thank you all so much for helping me get this far! I could not have done it without your support!
Love and Blessings,
Tori
New Year's
New Year's Eve was spent a little differently this year. The past four years, I've been about an hour away at Expeditions Unlimited with my high school youth group. We'd always have tons of food, playing Dutch Blitz and Just Dance. This year, though still in the bitter cold, was basically spent packing and cleaning, which did keep me up until midnight! A year ago, I'd never imagined this is where I would be. I was imagining myself at Cedarville studying elementary education, basically having the next three years figured out. Now, I'm leaving the country for two months to go to a new continent and have no clue what I'll be doing come this next September. Looking back, I've grown so much. My dependency on Christ and Father has grown immensely, with a knowledge of how much more growth there is still. A deeper relationship with Him, an everlasting peace, and so much security in my faith... I wouldn't trade this year for anything. He has done so much, I can't even imagine how much more He is going to do!
47 hours
At 10:30 pm Saturday, I will be sitting on a plane, probably freaking out over one of the greatest adventures of my life. Our first flight will take us to Philly, then to Qatar, followed by our final flight into Uganda. After a total travel time of 48 hours, we will arrive at our destination just in time for supper and bed. The days leading up to this wonderful beginning are filled with skits, songs, prayer, and the dreaded packing. Our team time has been wonderful, filled with laughs and awesome times at the laundry mat. I am stoked to get closer to this team and to positively impact the people of Kenya and Uganda. We spend three weeks in Uganda, then three weeks in Kenya before we fly home. God is going to do some crazy amazing things! I will have some updates on my facebook and will try to post a blog or two (we only have one computer we will be sharing), but you can also 'like' the YWAM Madison facebook page for some short updates as well. I am so excited to come home and tell you all more about my trip!!
Another quick prayer request? That I quit losing things!!! :) No clue what's going on, but I can't find some of my outreach supplies. They'll turn up, but prayer is always appreciated.
On a more slightly-stressful-but-knowing-God-will-provide note, I am currently in need of $1250 for this trip. I ask that you prayfully consider donating towards my ministry among women and children at risk. At this point, please donate online at www.ywammadison.org/donate (be sure to put my name in the "Please designate my donation towards" box) or mail a check to P.O. Box 8503 Madison, WI 53708, with a separate note designating the amount for me. Thank you!
Thank you all so much for helping me get this far! I could not have done it without your support!
Love and Blessings,
Tori
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