In love with India

Today was very full and we are now back at our rooms. Tonight's agenda includes picking out fabric to have some traditional Indian clothing made- a generous gift from Henry- and enjoying some juggle time with the girls. Sue and Nathaniel are our team jugglers.

Being at the clinic today was an incredible experience. We were led into the lobby and seated in a panel-like formation facing a few hundred patients awaiting treatment.  They remained seated as Henry introduced each member of our team and presented us with yet another flower garland. He thanked us for coming, and prayed before launching the free clinic day. We were given a tour of the clinic (Dedicated in 2004) and spent some time in Henry's office dreaming about future plans and discussing needs for the ministry.  I'm so excited about God's work in Good Shepherd. It is incredible to see people receiving treatment and medication who may have never received it otherwise.

After our tour we came back for lunch and presented Henry with gifts. Here he is with his daughter-in-law, Anitha, holding some new books that she is anxious to steal and read first.

Lunch was followed by free time, which meant naps all around. Jet lag can be pretty overwhelming when you've traveled half way around the world.

Tonight was a service in the Ashram with all of the children. We heard some beautiful young voices who weren't shy about taking the microphone and worshipping God. Then it was our turn to return the favor. Dee can play the piano- saving the day and the ears of our listeners. We taught the children new songs with hand motions. After worship, we had the opportunity to speak and hand out a special surprise. A piece of cake for everyone there.  The children are captivating and I think we are all completely in love with them. India is such a beautiful country.  The people break your heart and fill it all at once.

Tomorrow is a full day. Pastor Stacie is performing 2 baptisms before we travel to a memorial garden for a dedication ceremony. After that, pastor Stacie will baptize about 20 more people and then we have the opportunity to experience their very first communion service as new believers.  Now to rest so that we are refreshed for our work :)

By his Grace,
Team India 2011

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.  John 13:34-35

Good Shepherd Mission - Saturday, February 19th

Our team has arrived safely to the Good Shepherd Mission after an eventful bus ride from the airport. It even included a Chai Tea stop at about 3:30 am. A truly Indian experience. :) we were greeted at the mission by drumbeats and men dressed in red costumes. Beyond them were hundreds of little lights shining on either side of the path. Like two strings of glowing pearls, the children held candles bathing their faces and brilliant smiles with light. They adorned us with flowered necklaces and beckoned us into the middle of their music and we danced. Well, Bonnie and I (Leah) did. The night (or morning) ended too soon and we were ushered off to bed to get another hour of sleep before breakfast.

Now we await our first Indian meal. On the agenda this morning is a trip to see the free health clinic, then a free afternoon to relax. We finish the day enjoying an evening service with the children. I can't wait to get to know them. Praying for God to blow our minds today and open hearts to His truth.

Flowers for our arrival-thanking the Lord!

Henry and Diann at the airport

 It is the LORD your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him.  Deuteronomy 13:4

Frankfurt, Germany

We made it to Germany thanks to our sovereign God and our fearless leader, Diann. Now we stretch our legs and wait for the last leg of our journey to begin. the first flight was mostly uneventful and spoiled as we were fed two good meals and offered hot towels. 9 1/2 more hours until we are unleashed in India. :)
(pictures and write ups by Leah Perlman)

My soul, wait in silence for God only, For my hope is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation, My stronghold; I shall not be shaken. On God my salvation and my glory rest; The rock of my strength, my refuge is in God. Trust in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us.  Psalm 62:5-8

Philadelphia Airport

The team has come together at the airport. We are well fed (thanks Diann!) and ready for our 8 hour flight to Germany. Our energy level is pretty high (we tried to walk off some of it). We have been enjoying some time getting to know each other and are filling the airport with laughter. God is good :)

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1

February 17, 2011 - St. John's Reformed Church, Sinking Spring, PA

Their journey has begun!  And what a send off they received with around a dozen fans hugging and waving!!  From L-R, Leah Perlman, Nathaniel Caprioli,Diann Connor, Sue Yoch, Bonnie Comeau, and Dee Parmer pose for the first of many pictures that will highlight their journey from PA to the Good Shepherd Mission in Puttur, India.  For some, this is their first trip and for others (Diann #2 and Bonnie #3 or #4??) they know the awesome experience the newbies will have!!  Other team members will meet at the Philadelphia airport-Pastor Stacie Dougherty (#2), Tara Durkin (#2), Pat Durkin, Lori Knauer, and Jeanne Kelly.  Take off time to Frankfurt is 6:10 pm.  Please lift all team members up in prayer as they travel half way around the world to continue God's work!

Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?”  And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”   Isaiah 6:8

Hope after Cataract Surgery - February 9, 2011

Funded by the ACAC church family, 16 women underwent eye-saving cataract surgery. Major regional causes of the development of cataracts are:
1) Poor nutrition
2) Air pollution
3) Staring at the sun, worshipping the creation as a god.
A donation of $15 affords one person light. This cost includes transportation for patient and companion from villages to Good Shepherd Mission Hospital, meals for the overnight stay, surgery, sun glasses, eye drops and follow-up visits.

1As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth.  2His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"  3"Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.  4As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me.  Night is coming, when no one can work.  5While I am in the world, I am the light of the world."  John 9:1-5