Real Life Kenya 5/29/09 - 6/29/09 - Making Disciples; Reaching Our World

Mary HAD a Little Lamb

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Feasting. It's one of my favorite things to do. Something significant happens when people share a meal together...in any culture. We recently found out, however, that Kenyan feasting has some things that rarely happen in the US.

Last Friday, we had one of our translators purchase 3 lambs for us. They were tied up to our fencing for a few days, grazing on the grass and at night, they ransacked our kitchen to eat all the bananas we could find. Then, on Monday, they met their demise. With the help of some Kenyans, they were slaughtered, skinned, gutted and cooked. There is another AIM team in Kenya. They came to visit, along with many of our new Kenyan family, and we feasted until we were stuffed. Spontaneously, everyone broke out in song and dance. The feast was about more than fresh lamb; it was about fellowship and celebration of what God has been doing.

What has God been doing, you ask? Great question! He has been showing up in incredible ways. We have seen the sick healed and the lost found. We have built some incredible relationships with the Kenyans we have been serving alongside; many have shared with us that they have been encouraged and renewed in their faith because of our team's faithfulness to God. Even our host pastor told me that in 10 years of hosting teams, ours is the most incredible and top notch team he's ever seen. What a compliment! So your son or daughter or sibling or friend...they have made an impact for Jesus Christ on this trip. The stories we all have will last for hours. Some will make you laugh; some will make you cry. If we are lucky, some of our stories will help you to see how your financial and prayer support has changed the world. Thank you for being part of this.

So, this afternoon, we are on our way to Nairobi (the capitol) to spend a few days as a team debriefing our trip. Then, late Sunday night, we will begin our long journey home! This will be the last blog...Soon you'll get the real thing! Below, I have a few final thoughts from some of the team. Please continue to pray for us, as our adventure isn't over yet! God Bless!

Shaye

Tim

Well, its been a pretty crazy time in Kenya. God has been stretching me pretty much every day! Being on a team with 14 girls has been interesting, but God has been more than faithful in meeting all of my needs. And my team rocks the house. I have gotten to become "a real man", as our Kenyan driver, friend and good brother in Christ, Ben, told me after I killed one of the 3 lamb we had for supper on Tuesday night. It was pretty intense; look forward to pictures! I am truly thankful for all God has done to use me to love on my brothers and sisters here in Kenya. Thank you for all your prayers. We'll see you soon!

Mary Grace

So today we are leaving Eburru. We are heading to Nairobi for the weekend before we fly back to America. This has been the most amazing trip I have ever taken. I have learned so much about myself and the Lord through this journey. While we were in Eburru we had our little Kenyan family, made up of our translators and people we have met in the community. The people here are filled with the joy and strength of the Lord. Everywhere we go we hear the people greeting us, saying "habari" (or "hello! how are you?) and little kids flocking to us, yelling and wanting to walk with us everywhere. This goodbye is probably the hardest one I have ever had to do, but I am such at peace knowing that the Lord is moving in Eburru and that those people are going to spread the love of Christ even after we are gone. The next couple of days is going to be all about processing the trip and spending some time with the team. See everyone soon!

Dasha

As I write this blog, we are pulling away from the huts that have been our home for the last month. I am caught up in a bunch of emotions - I am glad to be going home, but I am mostly sad to be leaving our new friends and family. God has done so many things in Eburru since we have been here. I am amazed at all the different ways He can work through people. The people of Eburru are so genuine, open and friendly. I will most them profoundly. I will miss the community of direct, honest conversation and smiling, encouraging faces looking back at me. I have come to realize that these people do not need us - really, we need them. God has done great thigns in Eburru before we arrived and He will continue to do so after we have left. He has so blessed our team by letting us witness his awesome ability while we are here. I will never forget His mightly love after being here.

To God be the glory, great thing He has done!

Eburru Rocks the House

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hi All!
We have only 4 days left in Eburru before we leave for Nairobi (where we will spend the last couple days). And I think I speak for the team when I say that we will each leave a little bit of our hearts here. We have each been privleged to play a role in bringing God's kingdom to Eburru. Whether it's leading a new brother or sister to Christ, strengthening the faith of the Church body, spreading AIDS awareness, or telling the ever-present children how much Jesus loves them. Please pray that we go about our last days with purpose, making the most of the opportunities God gives us and saying goodbye to the precious people here.

Blessings,

Shirley

also - our apologies for the lack of pictures - the computers here in Kenya are alot slower, making the process of adding pics impractical. You will have to wait to see the picutres when we all return home!

Here are some thoughts from the team:

Chelsea Gilgenbach:

Hey friends,

On this trip we have been blessed with some awesome translators to help us reach these broken people in Africa. The word "translator" in this context means so much more than eliminating language barriers. They are all so madly in love and devoted to Christ, but one sticks out to our group more than the others. Jonathan (aka King Julius) has been the father of our entire team. He is constantly pouring his love into us, his children in Kenya. We got to all make him cards and celebrate Father's Day with our Kenyan dad. Jonathan and his wife have been unable to have children of their own. So as much as he has truly blessed us, God has also provided us as a huge blessing to Jonathan. Our God is such an awesome God. I can't wait to see you all in a week and tell you more. I love you Brandon and Kelly.

Chelsea Gilgenbach

P.S. Daniel, Rachel says if you can get off work, PLEASE come to the airport.

Krista Hickman:

God is doing so much in the city of Eburru. One way my heart has been tugged is for a little girl named Estena. My heart broke for this little girl from the moment I laid eyes on her. She was aboslutely beautiful but looked so empty inside. I did everything in my power to make Estena smile or laugh, but nothing worked. I have never seen a child seem so hopeless and empty inside.

Yesterday at church, Estena came up to me with her arms stretched high. I picked her up, but she still looked at me with eyes shut to the world. I began praying that God's love through me would somehow break through to this small child. After the church service, Estena came again, arms stretched high. As I held her tight and sang in her ear, she looked at me and smiled. When I left Estena, she was laughing and smiling ear to ear. A little love can change a person in big ways!

SIDENOTE: I love you Ben & family!

Krista

PS - Ashley says "Happy Father's Day Mike." and Happy Father's Day KDG from KDG!

Leigh Krahl:

Jambo from Kenya! This is our last week in Eburru. I can't even imagine leaving the people I have grown to love and minister to. My heart is so in love and broken for this place and these people. I have seen and experienced God in mighty ways over the past 3 weeks. Please be in prayer for our team to keep following the leadings and promptings of the Holy Spirit in these last 4 days. Also, please be in prayer for a man, Isaac, that Rachel and I have been sharing the Gospel with. He has big strongholds in his life; pray the Lord would break them and soften his heart. I cannot wait to share all the ways I have seen and experienced the Lord with my friends and family. All of your prayers have been felt, keep praying!

all my love -

Leigh

PS - KBO...I spoke with a baboon yesterday, and he told me that he was Rafiki's body double in the Lion King...jealous!

Chelsey Butrum:

Hello from Kenya! My time here has been awesome, and I can't believe we only have 1 week left.

I have been blown away by how welcoming everyone has been. We are constantly welcomed into the homes of the citizens of Eburru. They make us chai and listen as we share our stories and the gospel. There is such a sense of community here, and everyone is so willing to help out. Whether it was planting grass on a dam or picking up trash in the City Center, the people of Eburru have encouraged and praised us the whole way. THere is such a spirit of God here, and I can see Him on the faces fo the people we meet.

I am looking forward to seeing everyone back in the States (especially my B), but I am really excited to see how God will wrap up our time here in Kenya. Hugs and kisses to all my friends, family, and kids.

See you in a week!

Chelsey

Family Newsletter

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Our community living has allowed us to form quick bonds. We are truly a family in Christ - complete with a Kenyan surrogate father - Jonathan! He is our beloved translator, who ministers with us, eats with us, fellowships with us, and laughs with us. Think of King Julius in "Madagascar", and you will know exactly how he talks. Since he has no children of his own, Jonathan has gladly adopted us 15 "mazungus" (white people) for the month of June. Parents, rest assured that he takes great care of his "daughters" and his "son". For example, Jonathan makes sure that our bags are not too heavy, and he always tries to get us to eat 5 platefuls of food (at least).

There is something beautiful about forming relationships with these Kenyans that will last all eternity. The bond we have in Christ overshadows any cultural differences, because we worship the same Heavenly Father.
Shirley

Here are some thoughts from a few of our "family members":

Rachel:

Today is our 11th full day here in Eburru. I am experiencing the Lord in powerful ways. Our team has had several ministry opportunities at "the Center" in Eburru, where we are living this month. "The Center" is basically a shanty town where flocks of kids run up to you, latch on, and have no intention of letting go. The other day my teammate Katy and I had the opportunity to travel in a matatu (taxi) with some of our Kenyan friends who translate for us to a small, poverty-stricken village outside of Eburru to visit a family with a very sick 16-year-old girl. She has a heart condition that caused her to have a stroke, and she was numb all over her body. Our friend Jonathan prayed the most powerful prayer I have ever heard over Hannah, asking God for His will to be done in her life and if the enemy had a hold on her, Jonathan claimed victory in Christ, asking Him to release her and bring healing. Katy also had the opportunity to pray for her. I know that God changed me as I looked at Hannah's beautiful face, her eyes filled with fear and hopelessness. I sat there in a mud hut, heated by a small coal fire, surrounded by brothers and sister in Christ who have nothing, yet because of Jesus possess all things.

Rachel

Kim:

God is so amazing. He has blessed me with being part of such a wonderful team. It's such a pleasure to serve the people of Eburru alongside them. It's so wonderful how close we have all gotten in such little time. I have been inspired by everyone on the team in some way. It's such a joy for me to be around such Godly and loving people 24/7.

Throughout my time here God has really been teaching me so much. He's been showing me that He can use me in my brokeness, despite my faults and failures. Even when I feel God can't use me, that's when He works through me the most. God has also been reminding me that He is my ultimate Comforter, Provider, Healer, and Lover, and that I need to rely more on Him.

I miss you all so much and can't wait to see you! Kiss Boston for me! God bless.

Kim

Katy:

I wanted to tell you a little bit about what God is doing in Eburru. This past week our team saw two people get saved, Bwana Asifiwe! Praise God!

For a few mornings we went to this dam to plant grass. The roots in the soil prevents erosion, and this will stop flooding during the rainy season. On the last day of planting, families from houses surrounding the dam came and helped us. Our service was very meaningful to them because it is their crops that get destroyed during floods. These neighbors were honored and deeply touched that we had come all the way from America to show the Lord's love to them.

We've been spending alot of time with Pastor Steve - a local pastor who plans alot of our ministries. A couple of days ago he showed us this giant house that he had recently purchased. It was the largest house I've ever been in. It was initially built for a colonial statesman but has recently been inhabited by several families (all at once) that would build fired in the rooms, severely damazing the infrastructure. Pastor Steve's vision is to renovate it into an orphanage and ultimately, a school. I thought this was really neat.

Please pray for these two ministries.

I've been having a wonderful time pouring out love to the children who hang out at our camp. I'm still soaking everything in. I love you, and I miss you.

Be Blessed,

Katy

Squatties, Strange Food and Other Adventures

Mon, 8 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Greetings from Kenya!

It is 2:13pm in Naivasha, Kenya and I was able to come into the city for a few minutes to send you an update! First, I thought you'd like to hear a small story. Hope you laugh.

Yesterday, our team went to a wonderful church service. Being in Swahili, we understood very little, but had a great time. About 1/2 way through the service, I realized that the abundance of water I've been drinking had caught up to me and I had to find a bathroom. (In Kenya, we don't have Western toilets, only holes in the ground.) Someone directed me to a small building outside, which I promptly went to, only to find a large room with an open door frame. Confused, I walked around the building and resigned myself to the fact that this must be their bathroom. Dasha came up to me and we decided we'd brave it together. Taking our respective corners, we squatted. She did fine; I had some performance anxiety. After Dasha left, some kids came and stood in the doorway, watching me. Figuring they were just wondering if I was white all over, I shooed them away and I finally succeeded. It was mildly embarrassing. It wasn't until later that the real humor came.

I was telling Shirley, the other leader, about our adventure. She said, "Wait. Why didn't you shut the door?" "What door?" I answered. I realized then that whatever room Dasha and I used wasn't the bathroom. The mission field is truly adventurous.

As a team, we are learning so much here. We've spent several days getting to know the Kenyans and sharing life with them: laughing, eating, playing and story telling. This next week is going to be filled with some Bible studies and VBS for over 200 kids and we are serving some very real needs here, from physical labor to providing food for alot of people. The team is doing well; we are all growing and connecting and learning to love one another. Even our health is good! Some have hearts that are breaking for the brokenness they see around them. And as their leader, I am blessed to see that they are serving God with passion out of their brokenness. Perhaps one monumental moment was when in the middle of the night, Dasha helped deliver a healthy Kenyan baby boy!

Below, I've posted a few "mini-blogs" from some of our teammates. Thank you for sharing your beloved child or friend with us. Each one here is truly a blessing for the Lord. I hope you enjoy! (Also, the next blog will not be posted until next Monday. Each participant will post something once!) Please keep praying for us!

Shaye

Stephanie:

Hey, y'all!

I'm surrounded by Southerners trying to get me to conform =)

Africa is AMAZING and so is the Lord, He has already done mighty things and it's only been a few days. Kids are so adorable here in Kenya and the weather is beautiful.

Anyway - here is one funny fact! I offically know how to use a squatty pottie as a bathroom! (A squatty is a hole in the ground...you definitely cannot sit!)

P.S. Melissa, I love you!

Emma:

Hey everyone! Wow, I don't even know where to start. Well, we made it! We arrived at Eburru friday afternoon and settled into our cozy little huts. Ever since then we've been drowning in kids. They're so loving and eager to interact with you, it melts my heart! The viedw from our hut is absolutely breathtaking. I can't even put it into words. I'm completely flattered and overwhelmed with joy at the fact that God chose me to share this romantic, beautiful scene with Him. The past couple of days I've really been dwelling on the concept of falling in love with God, I mean head over heels, heart-racing, sweaty palm kind of love. I'm so stoked to go deeper with Him and see what other intimate moments He has for us to share.

I love you all! Emma, Psalm 143:8

Ashley:

It's amazing what two and a half days in Eburru, Kenya will do for you. When you see a small child with hard eyes, suddenly it just doesn't matter that you've been using a hold in the ground as a toilet. Asa you walk through the center of town and see children covered in dirt, with clothes full of holes and no shoes, suddenly it doesn't really matter if you showered today or not. (Or within the past 5 days.) When you see where these children live and realize how often they acutally eat, suddenly your small hut and warm 3 meals a day feel like paradise. Over these past few days, the Lord ahs really been showing me that there is something bigger than my wants, my desires, and even my needs. I have found a joy in selflessness that i never knew was possible. But isn't that what our God is about?

"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him." 2 Corinthians 2:9

PS - Chelsea G says "Thanks for the birthday note, Brandon."

Team Arrived Safely

Thu, 4 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hello family, friends, and blog readers-

I just wanted to give a very quick update that the team has arrived safely in Kenya and that they are with their local hosts. They are tired but very excited to be there. We will post additional updates in the next few days.

Blessings,

Chad M.

Training Camp Happenings

Mon, 1 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

"May He equip you with all you need for doing His will. May He produce in you, though the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to Him. All glory to Him forever and ever! Amen." Hebrews 13:21

Amen! That has very much been our mindset these past 3 days at training camp. The Lord is equipping our team and preparing us to share His glory with those in Kenya. We have united together incredibly fast to prepare for our big adventure together. We have prayed together, worshipped together, planned together, and have shared our visions for the summer together. We've been able to have some fun as well, such as when we conquered a giant "spider web" (be sure to ask about it later) and solved a giant jigsaw puzzle (with blindfolds, see the picture to the right). I think the entire team would agree with me when I say that we Cannot wait to get on that plane Wednesday and joureny to KENYA! yeah!

Shirley

The whole team! "Asante" is Swahili for "thank you", so we made copies of this picture to give to the host pastor and those who serve alongside us in Kenya.

Tomorrow, tomorrow, I'll love ya, Tomorrow!!!

Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

You're only a day away!

Shirley and I can't wait to see you guys. We are thinking of you and praying for you. Take a deep breath. God has adventure ahead of us. As long as you bring your passport and a willing heart, we will succeed. No last minute stress over forgotten socks or the wrong t-shirt or busted shampoo bottles here. Our God is in control and we are going to join Him on a great journey.

We'll see you tomorrow!

seven-seven-zero. watch for me!

Wed, 27 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hello, friends! This is Shaye and Shirley...together! We are already in Gainesville and working super hard to prepare for you to arrive! We even spoke with the host pastor this afternoon! He rocks. We have so much we'd love to share with you!

THIS IS WHY YOU NEED TO KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR PHONE!!! We will be calling you either tonight or tomorrow night to chat a little bit. Have a list of your questions or ways we can be praying for you. We'll chat, laugh, and pray. And we are so excited! Specifically, watch for a '770' area code on the phone number. We will either be calling you tonight, Wednesday or tomorrow, Thursday. We'll do our best to check out the comments on this blog if you need a specific phone number called or anything else.

Can't wait!

We think you are awesome.

The Kind of Fasting God has Chosen

Sun, 24 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Okay, team. We are just days away. Are you excited or what?

Lately, I've been praying more about what God is asking me to fast from for the duration of our trip. (If you don't know what I'm talking about, check out week one of The Journey!) I know that God is asking me to walk in true sacrifice. Basically, I don't want to offer God something that costs me nothing. So, as I've been asking God to reveal to me what I can give Him, He's brought these words to me.

Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
       to loose the chains of injustice
       and untie the cords of the yoke,
       to set the oppressed free
       and break every yoke?

Is it not to share your food with the hungry
       and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter-
       when you see the naked, to clothe him,
       and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?

Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
       and your healing will quickly appear;
       then your righteousness will go before you,
       and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard.
Then you will call, and the LORD will answer;
       you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.

Isaiah 58:6-9

What is God asking you to lay at His feet? What is He calling you to surrender? As you consider this in these next few days, remember that your sacrifice to Him has the potential to launch you into the kind of fasting that God has chosen for us: to loose the chains of injustice and to set the oppressed free. Then, our light will break forth like the dawn and the glory of the Lord will be our rear guard.

Do your desire to join me? Let us walk into the kind of fasting that God has called us to.

I cannot wait to join with you in this journey.

Oh, Those Summer Nights

Sun, 24 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I love that song. When I sing it in my head, I've got some awesome Olivia Newton-John twang going on. It makes me think of warm summer nights with crickets chirping and bonfires. Even as I think of our time in Africa, I picture warm nights with djembes beating in the distance.

Wrong.

For the first few weeks, our nights will be COLD. Yes, COLD. Not just cool, but COLD. I know this may mess with your packing plans, but trust me when I tell you that you are going to want to bring layers to wear and to sleep in. You may also benefit from bringing a winter cap and a pair of mittens. At some points, we will be at a high elevation (on the side of an inactive volcano, to be exact) and our summer nights will be different that you might expect!

Take a little time to check over your packing an adjust accordingly! By the way, if you are feeling really upset with this news, pray a little and remember that God will be there with us! We have a big adventure ahead of us and that may mean being flexible as we go!!!

Can't wait!

Mud Pies

Sun, 24 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hi Team!

Soo, it's almost here! Get excited. As you're packing, here is a little tip concerning training camp - it's supposed to rain in Georgia, Alot. A raincoat and old shoes (ones that you don't care if they get real muddy) are essentials. The AIM staff even recommended bringing clothes/shoes to training camp that you don't mind throwing away afterwards. So, look through your "take to Goodwill" bag and find some old clothes/shoes to bring. We'll embrace the rain and the mud. Mud pies. Mud facials. Mud slip and slide. Well, maybe not that extreme, but it'll be an adventure for sure.

I can't wait to meet you all in Less than 1 Week - know that I'm praying for each one of you!

Shirley

Final Paper Work Past Due 1 Week:

Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Your final paperwork is past due!
This was expected to be in the office. If your Account Page does not show that all is in; you need to get that done today, NO EXCEPTIONS!

You need to mail ALL the documents to:

Adventures In Missions
Admissions Department

6000 Wellspring Trl

Gainesville, GA 30506

Baggage Regulations

Wed, 13 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Many of you have been asking about luggage regulations for travel. For your flight to Kenya from Atlanta, the regulations are 2 checked bags, not weighing more than 50 pounds each. If you go over the limit, you will be responsible for the excess charges. However, for a one month trip you should be able to pack in one bag with no problem.

Also, you need to check with your airline for your domestic flight to Atlanta when you come for training camp. Many airlines only allow 1 bag for their domestic flights. The excess charges can sometimes be a little steep. Those charges are not reimbursable.

Expectations

Wed, 13 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

"Remember not the former things,
nor consider the things of old.
Behold, I am doing a new thing;
now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
I will make a way in the wilderness
and rivers in the desert."

-Isaiah 43:18,19

I am embarking on this journey to Kenya for many reasons. Mainly, it's an opportunity to share God's love through service to the ends of the earth, literally. And frankly I'm tired of living comfortably. I really desire to know what it's like to really have nothing, so that Christ may become everything. My hope is that the Lord will manifest Himself in ways we've only read about--that He will deepen our faith and will teach us to hear His voice and act in obedience to it. I want to see Him blow us away.

My expectations probably seem somewhat vague, but really, I can have all these expectations, but the reality is God has plans of His own. I know that the work we do in Kenya is far more important than the things I anticipate. I just have faith that He will do the new thing in its entirety, and He will do it all for His glory.

"I see a generation rising up to take their place
With selfless faith, with selfless faith.
I see a near revival, starting as we pray and seek,
We're on our knees, we're on our knees."
-Hillsong United "Hosanna"

Reimbursements General Facts

Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Once your entire trip and airfare is paid for, you may submit your additional trip
expenses to us for reimbursement from your account. The allowable reimbursements
are those expenses which you incur as a direct result of your participation on this trip.
The IRS limits us on what can be reimbursed - things they consider direct expenses for
this trip.

The items you can submit for reimbursement are:
Airfare tickets
Medical insurance
Shots needed only for this trip
Passport and Visa expenses for this trip only

To be reimbursed for these expenses, you MUST submit your receipts to us prior to
training camp. The original receipt is the only form we can accept. WE CANNOT
ACCEPT CHARGE CARD STATEMENTS OR A COPY OF A CHECK.

We will process those receipts and reimburse you only if you have the amount to cover
the cost in your support account. We will provide a partial reimbursement if the funds
left in your support account do not cover the entire receipt after your trip is complete. We process reimbursements:
After you leave on your trip
Mid-Way through the trip
Upon completion of the trip

Sometimes in the summer months it is difficult to keep up with the demand of
reimbursements. Plan on your reimbursement check taking about a month to process
from leaving on your trip to a month after the completion of your trip.

Any additional money which comes in after your trip is complete will go toward covering
any trip deficit you may have, but cannot be used for reimbursement of expenses.

When submitting receipts to us, please fill out the reimbursement form that you can find
from your Account page.

Again, ALL REIMBURSEMENT REQUESTS MUST BE SUBMITTED TO US PRIOR TO YOU GOING OUT.

Directions to Airport and Gainesville

Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Directions to the Atlanta Airport :
MEETING AT THE AIRPORT: When you fly into the airport you are to meet in the Atrium, located right outside security. It is a huge gathering room with lots of sofas, food court etc. We will be there to meet you . Look for us in our Aim t-shirts and big smiles :) .

Directions to Adventures In Missions Gainesville, Georgia

From Atlanta, Hartsfield Atlanta Airport and the South:

Take the Connector (I-75/I-85) northbound until the two interstates split just north of Midtown. Though I-85 heads northeast and would appear to split off to the right, be cautioned: I-85 is a left exit and only the left three lanes will take you there safely! Stay northbound on I-85. You willl pass under the Perimeter (I-285) at Spaghetti Junction. Continue northward on I-85 until you reach exit 113, which is the beginning of I-985. Take I-985 (also a left exit) northbound for 24 miles until you reach exit 24. Exit there. Take a left at the end of the exit ramp, towards downtown Gainesville. You are on U.S. Hwy 129. It takes just under an hour from downtown to get to this point.

Continue north on Hwy 129 (you will turn right about a mile from the interstate and another right at a T in the road). You will cross over Lake Lanier at two points: the Chattahoochee River fork and the Little River fork. A few miles beyond the second bridge you will come to a traffic light. You will take a right at the light onto Nopone Road . Follow Nopone for 1 mile to Bogus Road ; turn left onto Bogus. You will see our sign about a mile in on the left hand side (but you won't see a building). Turn left into our driveway and you will come to our building.

From Greenville/Charlotte and the Eastern Seaboard:

Take I-85 southbound from Greenville/Spartanburg until you cross the Georgia state line at Hartwell Lake. Continue southward until you reach exit 137 ( Gainesville/ Jefferson). Exit there, turning right at the end of the ramp, towards Gainesville. You are on U.S. Hwy 129. Travel for about 17 miles until you cross over I-985, then follow the instructions in the second paragraph above.

From Chattanooga/Nashville and the Midwest or Appalachia:

Take I-75 (or I-24) southbound from Chattanooga until you cross the Georgia state line. Continue southward on I-75 until you reach exit 312, which is State Hwy 53. Go east on 53, being careful to stay on 53 as it goes through some small towns and makes a few turns. After going through the town of Dawsonville you will come to a major intersection with GA 400. Go north (left) on 400 to the very next traffic light and turn right on Harmony Church Rd. You will come to a stop sign a the jct. of 136 ( Price Rd. ). Turn right on 136. Travel on 136 for about 10 miles and it will end at Rt. 60. Make a right on 60 ( Thompson Br. Rd. ) and then a left at the very next light which is 283 ( Mt. Vernon Rd. ). Take 283 to the first stop sign and turn right on Jim Hood Rd. After a few miles you will come to a light - US 129. Go straight and the road becomes Nopone Rd. Go about a mile and turn left at the top of a hill on Bogus Rd. Go a mile on Bogus and you will see the sign for Adventures in Missions on the left. Turn there and follow the road to the end and you have arrived. Note: This is a 2 lane, windy road and is about 80 miles across, taking about 2 hours from the I-75 exit.

Alternate Route via interstate. Take I-75 south to I-285 and go east on I-285 to I-85. Go north on I-85 to exit 113, I-985. Take I-985 north to exit 24, US 129. You can then follow the directions above in coming from Atlanta. Note: This way is much longer mileage wise and sometimes much longer time wise, depending on the time of day and the Atlanta area traffic. But it's all interstate until you get to 129 (the last 10 miles).

"Hi" from Shirley

Sat, 9 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hi Kenya Team!

I just wanted to take a quick moment to say hi and introduce myself. I apologize that it took me a few days to do so - I am not very technology-savvy, and this whole blog thing is very advanced for me (It's sad to admit, I know). Actually, I hope I'm "posting" in the right section. But I am very excited and feel very privileged to join this team at the last minute. Let me tell you - it was a huge God-thing, as I wasn't even considering it until I heard about the need for another leader. Then, as I was praying about it, God confirmed this trip in numerous ways and worked out all the details. He is so good!

I was a participant on this trip back in 2005, and always said that I would jump at the opportunity to return, whenever I felt God calling me. The trip was beautiful and hard and challenging and unforgettable and amazing, all in one.

So - bottom line - I am so grateful to be joining your Kenya 09 team as one of your leaders. I have already started praying for each one of you and our journey together. Which, speaking of "Journey", I think the 3 week devotional started yesterday. It's really a great preparation tool, and I encourage you to go through it purposefully. Can't wait to meet you!

Blessings,

Shirley

Crazy Story...be encouraged!

Sat, 9 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So over the past week I had been frustrated with my money situation. I had seen the Lord bring in a good amount of money, but my weak heart was tired of not seeing any more money. I didn't even realize I was frustrated until I started writing an email to a friend and then I just went on and on about money this, money that. So anyways, on Thursday me and Leigh Krahl, another member of our team, were up at the Lubbock IHOP bldg praying and getting crazy blessed by the Lord. And they had these healing rooms and it was awesome! And so I get done and they have spoken healing and prophetic words to me, and I am just soaking and this guy, Chris, who I met on Tuesday, 2 days before, had told me that him and his wife would be praying about supporting me and I was like cool, didn't think twice about it. So Chris comes over and sits next to me and says he has gotten the approval to write me a $2000 check for Kenya and that he will get it to me next week!I just laughed for the next 15 minutes before the Lord. I mean how does that happen? Hahahaha...isn't that freakin crazy. I don't even know this dude! Jesus just whispered to me "Do you really think I'm not gonna do this?" So yeah, enough said.-Let us expect big things from the Lord!

How I Was Called to the Missions Field

Fri, 8 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

My calling to missions can best be described through the ways I've received a couple of scriptures. The first significant scripture is the parable of The Workers in the Vineyard from Matthew 20:1-16. Through this, I learned that I should not work out my salvation like a laborer expecting wages but, rather, like a vulnerable child obeying a God who is worthy of worship and service.

The most influential passage is from Matthew 25:31-46, The Sheep and the Goats. Of all of my favorite powerful passages in the Bible, this one has had the most impact on me. I believe that it reveals a beautiful piece of God's character and it exemplifies what missions should look like and the mindset we should have - serve God by serving man.

After my first mission trip to Mexico, I learned that every person who is a member of the Body of Christ is called to missions. Some go while others provide financial and spiritual support. I know that one of my spiritual gifts is service and I know God wants to use this to further His kingdom. After Leigh mentioned Kenya, I immediately felt led to go. So...I'm going to Kenya!

Expectations of My Mission Trip

Fri, 8 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The people I will be visiting experience daily struggles that I will likely never have to endure in my lifetime. I expect to tell them that God is bigger than their suffering and that He is good and only He can offer them a life of provision and not of poverty. I expect to encourage the many missionaries that are already there and I look forward to continuing the ministries the Lord has already began through them. I know that many of our team members have already seen the glimpses of the big plans that are being prepared for us. I am excited to take part in those and I expect to simply be an empty vessel.

Kenya Visa Entry Information

Thu, 7 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kenya Visa Entry Information

To be able to enter Kenya you will have a $25 Visa Entry Fee to pay at the border. Everyone is to bring the exact amount with you in US Dollars. The bills cannot be older than 2001.

We will collect this from you as you register for Training Camp. We will issue you a receipt for the cash and you can fill out a reimbursement form for that fee if you have the extra funds in your Support Account.

When you enter the country, we will give you the cash to pay your fee.

How I was called to the Mission Field

Thu, 7 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I have always felt like God has told me that He would use me in missions, I just didn't know when or where. I went on a few mission trips to Reynosa, Mexico when I was in the seventh and eighth grade and I knew then and there that God had called me to much more. When I witnessed all the hurting people in the world that are filled with hopeless thoughts about their life due to their circumstances I knew He was calling me to help the hopeless. My parents, soon after my Mexico trips to the orphanage, decided that missions weren't safe and that I couldn't go on them anymore. This was hard for me because I knew that God would protect me as long as I was doing His will, but my parents didn't care about anything but "keeping me safe". I think God just did this to grow me closer to Him and learn to rely on Him to obey my parents, even if I didn't agree with them. I have always felt inclined and called to go to Africa. God called me to this Kibera trip so loudly. Two weeks before I even knew about the trip I told three close friends of mine that I felt like I would go to Kenya someday, whether it was soon or ten years from now, I just knew God wanted me there and would provide a way some how. I had no idea it would be so soon. He showed me the trip through two different people on the same day. I found out the details about the trip and knew it was where God wanted me to be. This was crazy exciting. I was so scared, nervous, excited, and overwhelmed because God had everything fall into place for this trip. He even spoke through my parents and they gave me the blessing to go, which in my life is almost as big of a blessing as getting to go on the trip. I am ready for God to use me, not only on this trip, but on trips to come. I know this confidently because God has told me in many ways that He is going to use me in so many different ways and places for His Glory.

-Chelsea :)

Expectations for My Mission Trip

Thu, 7 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

My expectations are basically seeing God move in ways I have never seen before and could not even imagine. I expect great things to be fulfilled and scripture to become our lives. I want to help mend these people's hopeless broken hearts and let them know there is something more to live for. I expect God to move in me in many different ways and throughout our team. I pray that He would allow team unity and help us become an instant family. I expect that He will move in all of us in ways we didn't even know were possible, that we couldn't even fathom. I pray that God would just prepare our hearts for all the works that are going to happen while we are in Kibera and even beforehand.

-chelsea

Timothy Durham

Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hey my name is Timothy Daniel Durham and I am 24 years old. I am a follower of Christ, born and raised in Victoria, TX. I graduated with a Bachelors degree in Mathematics, minor in Computer Science in May of 2008. I am an intern at the Wesley Foundation at Texas Tech, and I am a worship leader for the nations. I like to play guitar, sing, sleep, eat and hang out with friends. The most important thing you know about me is that Jesus loves me very much, and I love Him too.

How I Was Called to the Mission Field

Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So I started following Jesus when I was a Juniorish in high school. The Lord started drawing my heart to seek after Him wholeheartedly, especially in worship. I came to school because I felt the Lord calling me to go. I wasn't sure why He was calling me here to Texas Tech, but I followed and I was excited to see what the Lord had in store for me. It was a great experience for me to come here on my own and start seeking the Lord on my own and have a real relationship apart from that of my parents and family. I found that the Lord was calling me deeper in worship of Him, and He was drawing my heart after Him. Freshman year I felt the Lord tell me He wanted me to seek Him in His word and that was exciting yet challenging. It's a lesson the Lord has reminded me of many times since. As I sought the Lord throughout my life here at the Wesley Foundation, I found many people talking about mission trips and different things. I thought well that's kinda cool, but I just couldn't understand why we had to go so far! I mean those plane tickets are expensive, and I am a tight wad. When asked by a fellow student if I was thinking about going on a trip over the next summer, I responded in complete seriousness, "mission trips are for people who like to waste money and travel". About a month later the Lord had me seeking His face as to whether I should go on a mission trip to Peru, and from there it's been a roller coaster. That summer the Lord had a Peruvian pastor prophesy over me that I would lead worship for the nations. I have been on a mission trip every summer since and have seen the Lord move powerfully. I felt the Lord's heart for myself and His people. He continues to show up in huge ways when He calls me, and I say yes. I am overwhelmed by just how much the Lord has control over the world beyond myself. He is truly on His throne, and He truly delights in moving on behalf of His kids. The Lord is working all over the earth to draw all men unto Himself, and it's a blessing and a true honor to be able to play a part in His work.

Expectations of My Mission Trip

Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

We were asked to write a blog about how we felt before leaving on this mission trip. Here is what I'm expecting...I am thinking that God is going to show up in big ways. I feel confident that the Lord is going to show up powerfully in the miraculous through healing and changing people's lives. It had been confirmed to our group from Lubbock by 2 pastors that prophesied over us that we would see miracles and healings in Kenya. So woohoo! Praise the freakin' Lord! I'm getting ready for what He is going to do, and I don't know what that looks like but I think I'm holding on for the ride. It's cool to see the Lord drawing in all of the money; I know that my group and I have a lot farther to go, but I believe without a doubt that the money will be here and soon. I'm a little concerned to be honest about the fact that I will be spending a month in Kenya with all girls. I know that I will be blessed and that the Lord will take care of me, and so I guess I'm looking forward to some good male-bonding with Jesus! I have felt led by God to really be faithful with my time and with my mind throughout this month as I prepare for the trip. I think being faithful in my scripture reading and in prayer and in just being disciplined with seeking God will help me to be ready for the intense structure and focus that will be required of me when we get to Kenya. I feel like God is stripping me of my fleshly desires during this season too as I prepare for the trip. As I get ready to go I know that much will be required of us while we are in Kenya so I am preparing to be up to par with my mind and my focus. And I know it is all by the grace of God that we get there, but I think it is wisdom to prepare as the Lord leads us. It was prayed over me last night that I would be released and would not have anything holding me to back to be bold and strong in words of knowledge and prophecies that the Lord gives me while we are in Kenya. So I think that is right on that I would be strengthened by the grace of God to have focus, to lose my fleshly thoughts and to be a vessel through which God moves and does what He wants without question and without discussion.

how i was called to the mission field

Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I feel like my whole life is dedicated to be apart fo the mission field. My first missions trip was when I was nine with my family to Russia. Feel in love with serving and working with others and have had a heart for them ever since. Since that trip I have taken one more trip to Russia as well as three trips to Brazil and a trip to Mexico. This is my first trip in three years and I am so excited!! The Lord has called me to love the unloved and serve those in anyway that I can. I walk everyday of my life as if it is a missions field.

expectations of my missions trip

Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I am expecting the Lord to do BIG things while in Kenya! I am hoping to grow deeper with my intimacy with Lord, and have the whole month just deticated to hiim. I am expecting the Holy Spirit in drastic ways with healings and His amazing works. I hope to see the body of Christ come together in some great ways with out even knowing each other before the trip! I am just so excited to meet the Lord in a new way!

How I Was Called to the Mission Field

Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

We were asked to write a blog about how we were called to this mission trip. Here is my story...

I've always had a passion for Africa, probably originating from my obsession with the Lion King as I was growing up. Last semester as I was entering my college years, I really noticed God starting to move in my heart. I felt like something was missing, like I was just kind of floating through life. I felt out of place and abandoned for the next couple of months. I thought it was all just a part of the transition from high school to college and that it would go away. I found myself thinking more and more about how I could get involved and serve my community but nothing felt right. I searched online for different organizations but I always somehow found myself looking up pictures of children in Africa or videos or something. It was then that God really started to nudge me towards missions. I wanted so badly to love on those children with the love that Jesus himself shows me every single day. My friend suggested I look for a trip with AIM and I was so blessed to have found this one before the deadline. I can't wait to live out the month of June for God, praising, loving, and giving my all for Him.

Expectations of My Mission Trip

Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

We were asked to write a blog about how we felt before leaving on this mission trip. Here is what I'm expecting...

I'm expecting God to show up in the most surprising ways. He always does. Whenever you think you know how He's going to work, He changes it up on you and reveals himself in a completely new way which is AMAZING. Isn't that so cool? Ahhhhh I'm so stoked. He's going to shine, and shine BIG. Can't wait.

Also....

I expect this trip to be life-changing.
I expect to come back a different person.
I expect to be stretched and taken out of my comfort zone.
I expect to grow deeper in my faith.
I expect to be really tired sometimes.
I expect that I won't shower everyday.
I expect I will get homesick.
I expect to be heartbroken at some of the things we'll see.

Other than that, I don't really know what to expect! :)