Yesterday was the day of many goodbyes. We had one last helping of Mary's good cooking and took a trip to the aids clinic. Diann wanted us to see the prayer garden in the day time. The garden was a completely different experience in dull sunlight. The clinic glows with brilliant colors painted along the trim and face of the building, a vibrant relief from the scorched landscape. The little boy who prayed for us during the baptism walked out of his room bare-footed and as cute as ever. I asked Praveen if we could get him to show us how he prays in the garden. A few words babbled in Telegu sent him walking towards the life-size monument of Jesus. He crossed the tile stage and laid himself at the feet of Jesus. Curling up with his head to the ground, he began to pray rapidly in his own language. Not one of us, Telegu or not, could understand him. He paused long enough to lift his head and reach for Jesus, then began again- his little voice a pleading tone that captured all of our attention. David is his new name. It is the name he chose the night Stacie baptized him. I wish I could recreate that seen for you. Watching a three year old boy on his knees in prayer.

The van's next destination was a sacred waterfall where people of the Hindu faith go to pray. It was beautiful and strange all at once. A few women were washing their saris in the trash laden pool at the base of the waterfall. People showered under its flows or lounged at the edge.

Back at the mission for one final meal, the team loaded the van and began the long drive to Chennai. The children ran out for one last goodbye. Everyone was quiet as the mission disappeared from view. So much has happened and there is so much to be done. I don't think any of us will forget these people. I think all of us left a little piece of our heart in India; each with a different face, a name, a memory.

Once in Chennai we had time to visit St. Thomas' basilica and the beach. I'll spare your gag reflex and not describe the beach in detail.

Day two in Chennai meant that poor Praveen was forced to walk around the shops with us. We split off from almost half of our group because they had other plans before returning home. We are finally at the airport and waiting to board our flight to Germany.

We spent some of our waiting time discussing ways that we can be a help to the ministry. As we talk, I am overwhelmed by how much they need and also by how much they accomplish with such little resources. God has clearly and abundantly blessed this ministry. Henry is dreaming big dreams and we all want to see them fulfilled. More to come. To God be the glory!

In Him,
Team 11 (6 still standing) in '11
"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."  John 15:5