Good Shepherd Mission, Andra Pradesh, India

At Frankfurt Airport

2012-01-23T05:20:00.000-06:00

As we are waiting to board the final leg of this incredible journey, we would like to share with you a few final thoughts and laughs that will always bond our group-- -always knowing when the shot ladies have begun the inoculations because the screaming begins -the introduction of Sister Sue and Sister Sue who always seemed to sit next to each other for introductions so Pastor Paradise called them Double Sue -when Sue Yoch was no where to be found you just looked for where the children had gathered -the men took longer to choose the material for their shirts and pants than the women did for their chuttidahs -chicken for every lunch & dinner -children screaming when they saw a white woman then you knew they had received a shot already -Sam knew how to fix John's watch such as turn OFF the alarm and set all the functions so John gave it to him -the man in red at the Kolladam camp who was the clinic caretaker gave Jay a scoop of water from the bucket (not so clean!!!) to rinse a patient's mouth -Jill's overflow moment after listening to the stories at the HIV/AIDS clinic -the GP (husband of the gyn doctor) thought Helen was 70 years old because she dyed her hair blond-excuse me, it's gray!!

-watching the eyes of the newbies on the first two days when driving in the van -the competitiveness of Diane & Vicky in the lion & goat game -the men had something thumping above their ceiling tiles and Henry said,"oh yes Brother, it is a squirrel.". The next morning they told Praveen about the thumping and he said, "oh yes Brother, it is a rat!"

-Joy told Vicky that she had small hair

-Steph and her counting of mosquito bites-71 -Sue Werner's personal eye appt with the hospital eye doctor --and last but not least, Sagar shared with us that there is a God called Murgan-the God of stink!

We will be home soon!!=

Passage John 3:16:
¹⁶ “For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.

At the Chennai Airport

2012-01-22T13:28:00.000-06:00

Good-bye at the airport!

Last Day in India

2012-01-22T05:09:00.000-06:00

Last night the girls decorated our hands and feet with henna. It was a very late night. We struggled to get up but the girls were bright eyed!! We learned that sleep for them is maybe 6-7 hours.

We left the mission after Mary's wonderful breakfast and chai tea. All the children and staff were there and we prayed!! Everyone shook our hands knew some of our names, and said, "safe journey sister or safe journey brother.". Amidst tears we boarded the van to Bro Paradise's church. What a celebration!! The congregation really worshipped with their voice and lots of energy!!

Saturday

2012-01-22T05:05:00.000-06:00

We went to Vadamala Pet, John Wesley's church for worship. Pastor Daniel brought some of his parishioners. Pastor Daniel's son was amazing on the drums!!!

Pastor Bern has become quite animated in his messages!!

We then played with the children in the afternoon. Lots of fun!!

In the evening, gifts were distributed to the children. The older children received clipboards and pens from Pastor Bern & Vicky to use for their exams. Sue Yoch, Morgan, & Stephanie brought all sorts if gifts--bubbles, pencils, note pads, balls, hair ties, hair clips, puzzles--the children had fun picking from the suitcase!!

The children and their gifts!!

We helped the children make Jesus bracelets. Each color represented symbols of Jesus' love. Red is Jesus' blood, black is sin, white is purity, green is growth of the spirit, and yellow is for heaven. The children had a blast!!

Jesus bracelet

Celebration

2012-01-21T07:50:00.000-06:00

This picture was taken from the balcony of one of the ladies' room. Preparation for the big celebratory meal in which the role is reversed--we serve (over 200 people) rather than being served(even though the meal was prepared by staff). This practice has been occurring now for about 6 years. I have participated in 3 of those servings and it is truly a blessed feeling to give to those who have enjoyed giving to us this visit. The people at GSM are a true representation of what God's servant hood is all about.

A pot of rice. And Jesus took 5 loaves and 2 fishes to feed five thousand.

We purchased gifts for the children and staff but Bro Henry presented all of us with a stole for our work this week at GSM. You just cannot fathom how rich one feels from serving at GSM. We all thought we would be the givers after working hard to raise money for free medicines, gifts, and food and receiving monetary donations but WE are the real recipients!!

Henry and Sue Yoch

Sis Sue presents Mary with her saree. The staff and evangelists all received clothing-shirt & pants for men and sarees for women. Mary prepared many of our meals. Anitha, Praveen's wife, prepared some lunch and evening meals.

Sue Werner helped present a plate, cup, and blanket to the children.

Dr Chad presents to some of the older boys.

Sis Diane giving each person a large plate for their meal.

Sis Morgan fills cups with water.

Dedications

2012-01-21T06:56:00.000-06:00

Bro Henry stands between 2 cottages at the HIV/AIDS Center donated by Dr Phyllis Wintz.

The dedication of Peggy's Place donated by Dr Phyllis Wintz in memory of her mother. Everyone from the HIV/AIDS Center came to pray in the room with us. They are so thankful to have a refuge after being cast out of their village. Sponsorship for an HIV/AIDS patient is $40/month.

We dedicated the refurbished Charlie van. This vehicle is used so hard to transport not just guests but people and staff. The van needed a new windshield, wipers, all windows needed to be fixed, the inside was replaced, and update on the engine functions.

We dedicated the 3 wheeler. This vehicle is used to transport people from town to the hospital. The government has stopped working on the passageway for people from town to use (a tunnel under the railroad tracks). The passageway is open but has filled with deep standing water which makes the opening impassable for pedestrians and vehicles. This 3 wheeler saves wear and tear then on the Charlie van.

Friday at Good Shepherd Mission

2012-01-20T05:35:00.000-06:00

The picture of India. Let me introduce Noel. He is Praveen's and Anitha's son. Noel was very shy and scared of us but not last night.

We almost made it to the rock to see the sunrise but it didn't matter because what we saw was beautiful.

Morgan captured the rising sun. One of the boys from the mission sits in the background on another rock. Three boys came along to help us fragile Americans up and then down the rock.

Even though we were tired from last night, we got up early to hike the rock!! We had challenged Sagar last night to hike with us and he came-Praveen drove us to the start probably 3/10 of a mile away. We are so delicate!! We also had 3 boys from the mission to help us up and down. Unfortunately, we didn't have chai tea on the rock because the boys broke the thermos.

The hostel girls just love Stephanie!!

Sue gets a complete eye exam.

Isn't this boy precious? He was at the clinic today with his mother.

We knew the nurses were doing the shots because we could hear the children screaming. In fact one little girl screamed in the hallway each time one of us looked at her!!

Diane & Sam keeping order in the Hep B vaccine room.

People waiting to see the GP.

Dr Jay triages for a potential extraction but the man was not interested in any extraction.

Clothes

2012-01-19T13:37:00.000-06:00

The tailor is measuring Jay for his shirt and pants.

John getting measured by the tailor.

All dressed up in our chuttidahs!! Yup! We were allowed to choose between a chuttidah or saree as our gift from GSM so we chose the chuttidah!! Look at Steph's beautiful gagra (half saree). We hosted a meal for the hospital doctors and their family at a hotel in Thiraputhi.

Thursday

2012-01-19T06:37:00.000-06:00

We began our day with a trip to the Bone Setter's Hospital. This visit is a necessity for our groups as it was a visit to the Bone Setter's that precipitated the idea of a clean hospital for the poor at GSM. The running of the Bone Setter's is generational with the mixing of herbs a secret. It was amazing what we saw. This woman was treated for a hip fracture by splinting her leg, however, they showed us her X-ray which indicated a complete fracture in the neck of the femur. In our society, the head of the femur would be removed and replaced with a titanium head.

Dr Jill explains to Praveen this young lady's options so he can translate the information to her.

Dr Jay begins to anesthesize this lady for an extraction.

Several people watched surgeries!

Kolledam Continued

2012-01-18T12:51:00.000-06:00

Pastor Bern is being interviewed by the newspaper.

Dr Jill talks with a boy who is terrified and was too afraid of the dentists.

Vicky holds a patient's head and Praveen shines a light while Dr Jill gets ready to extract a tooth.

Dr Chad shows Morgan where this patient had to have the lidocaine.

Diane is our Distribution Manager. She helped package meds for the patients and give away toothbrushes and toothpaste.

After camp, we went to Kolladam where Prasad and his family made us a wonderful meal. Right now Prasad has 14 boys that stay at the hostel. We toured the village amongst a throng of children wanting to shake our hands.

Vicky & Steph have been playing clapping games with the children.

We found baby goats are our town tour.

Morgan having a good time holding her goat.

Steph attracts the children everywhere she goes!!!

Steph and her latest friend

Dental/Medical Camp at Kolledam

2012-01-18T09:29:00.000-06:00

We had a dental/medical at Sathavedu near Kolladam. More than 500 people came for treatment. Nurse Morgan & Sue were not too busy with Hep B vaccines but the dentists had a steady stream of extractions!! Camp lasted almost 4 hours!!

The Team prays before beginning work.

Sue is holding an infant waiting for a shot. Everyone in the camp knows when the ladies Are working because we hear screaming!

Sue & Morgan

John is the headmaster of sterilizing the equipment. Sue also assisted.

Dr Jill checking the sterilization containers.

Dr J and Dr Chad set up equipment

Dr Jill preparing for extraction. Today the patients had to hold their supply tray.

Dr Jay takes time to check Bro Henry's teeth.

Off to Kolladam

2012-01-18T05:23:00.000-06:00

Early start today so Morgan prepared a wash bucket and we washed and rinsed some delicates!! Bro Henry said 9AM departure time but remembering TII-Time in India we all gave our guess--not sure who was closest today but we left at 9:15AM!!

So we are off to Kolladam. Does Vicky really know the way?

Evening Worship

2012-01-17T12:40:00.000-06:00

We went to the church that was donated by Bob & Darla Wagner. The small village was not far from GSM but it was a long distance down a very windy dirt road. We were outside again and battled mosquitoes and roaches.

Bro Henry & Pastor John welcome the Team to Appalayagunta.

Good Shepherd Mission Hospital

2012-01-17T12:35:00.000-06:00

Marianna & Charlie and Bro Henry & Praveen

Dental Camp Day 2

2012-01-17T08:49:00.000-06:00

Morgan & Vicky brushing their teeth.

Praveen watches Dr Jay assess a dental patient's needs. He has a very gentle demeanor with each patient. Shortly after we started camp, Winnie joined Dr Jay to help with translations. Unfortunately, many people today just wanted medication for pain or cement to tighten their loose teeth.

Winnie

Hep B vaccines. Many chocolates (aka tootsie rolls) were handed out today. Steph holds a baby tightly while Morgan administers the shot. Steph was pleasantly surprised later in the morning when one of the babies peed on her!

Sue Yoch also helped with Hep B vaccines.

While we were all VERY busy working, Bern was playing Ninja with the boys in the dental triage room.

Dr Jill extracts 5 primary teeth on this young man that never fell out!

God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. — John 3:16 (NIV)

Evening Activities

2012-01-16T12:55:00.000-06:00

We worshipped at Kakavedu where John Paradise is the evangelist. There was lots of dancing, praising, and singing in the streets. The Team led Amazing Grace and Do Lord!

Mary and Prem helping Steph choose a gagra (half saree). She is going to look beautiful!

Pastor Bern did his first street preaching. He shared a story about 2 doctors and a carpenter telling us that if people don't know about Jesus then they won't know about His love, power, and grace that are ours!

Look! We saw other Americans in Puttur!

A street in Puttur

Dental Camp at Good Shepherd Mission

2012-01-16T08:35:00.000-06:00

It was a bit hard getting started today after only getting back to the mission at 4:30AM but the dentists managed to get up early. As we waited for breakfast we had yesterday's and today's devotions. We reflected on our journey to GSM and "letting God work through us.". We also talked about letting our actions speak louder than words (Colossians 2:5).

We made our way to the hospital to get ready. The people were already assembled in the lobby.

We introduced the team and dentists.

Vicky and Sue packing meds for dental patients.

Getting the room ready.

We had noticed this woman during the introduction who really looked like she was in pain. We found her and Chad began working on a severely infected tooth.

Jill also had an extraction.

Chad shows the dentist a tooth that cannot be saved.

John pulls first duty of equipment sterilization

Passage Colossians 2:5:⁵ For though I am far away from you, my heart is with you. And I rejoice that you are living as you should and that your faith in Christ is strong.

Jill & Chad Have Arrived

2012-01-15T15:28:00.000-06:00

We are at the Chennai airport waiting for Jill & Chad. Praveen, our driver Bala, 2 boys from the mission, Jay, & I left at about 9:30pm and got to the airport in 2 hours. We took rest in the van and are now waiting for their call.they have lots to do-go through customs and then wait for the luggage. Hopefully in an hour. Jay is really anxious!

Sunday HIV/Aids Center

2012-01-15T11:59:00.000-06:00

Some of us just couldn't wake up but we headed out to the HIV/ AIDs Center for baptisms! We toured the beautiful and serene setting. There are lots of needs at the Center-- more beds along with people waiting to be admitted to the Center (t costs $40/month-contact Calvary UM Church office if interested).

HIV/AIDS Center

Immersion Baptisms

Jesus Statue

Passage Mark 1:40:
⁴⁰ A man with leprosy came and knelt in front of Jesus, begging to be healed. “If you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean,” he said.

Sunday Hospital

2012-01-15T11:48:00.000-06:00

Before we could get into the hospital, Pastor Bern and Bro Henry tried out the 3-wheel car. Monies for this car came fro Doug Pearson and family, Diann Connor, and Helen & Jim Hartman in dedication to Doug's Dad. This car is used to transport people from the HiV/AIDS center to Thirapathi for treatment and medications.

Nursing Students

3-Wheel Car

Dr Jay is checking Stephanie's vitals with the Pulse oximeter! After touring the hospital and checking the dental room (working on a plan for tomorrow's first dental camp), we had lunch and took rest. Some of the group snuck out And played with the children!!

Sunday Worship

2012-01-15T11:39:00.000-06:00

We started the day learning how to use the yo-yo and a few other toys. The children then gathered in the ashram for worship. They were singing when we arrived. It was so awesome to see the beautiful faces and gorgeous smiles. Pastor Bern gave the message along with Bro Henry, Bro Praveen, and Bro Sagar. Afterwards everyone came forward for blessings and pictures.

Sunday Morning Yo-Yo

Worship

Pastor Bern

Off To Good Shepherd Mission

2012-01-14T18:42:00.000-06:00

After getting off the plane, through customs, collecting all the luggage, and trying to steer those luggage carts, we finally made our way out to Bro Henry, Praveen, Rathna, Vijay and many others from the mission. It took us 2 hours to get to the mission but it felt like 4 hours. The children adorned us with flowers as we got off the bus and then we followed the band past the hospital and into the ashram. We prayed our thanks for our safe travel. Jill & Chad are now on the plane. They will arrive 24 hrs later than planned and we prayed for their safe travel. We then continued to Henry's house which was lit with beautiful lights. The children prepared a beautiful chalk message in the dirt-Welcome to India! We've had our chai tea and now we take rest for 3 hours to begin a very busy day.

Chennai Airport

At the Mission

Chalk Message

Welcome Band

Welcome

Home

Matthew 25:35
For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home.

Chennai

2012-01-14T12:51:00.000-06:00

Hi there!! Everything went well except Jill & Chad's plane had to return to Dallas because a wheel wouldn't go up. As of Frankfurt they were still in Dallas.

Jill & Chad are coming in tomorrow same time. She is sending me info. I'll let you know what we will do etc once we see Henry!

Galatians 5:13 For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

Frankfurt

2012-01-14T06:17:00.000-06:00

At the Frankfurt airport.

Thus says the Lord, . . . Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. — Isaiah 43:1 (NRSV)

The Journey Begins

2012-01-13T16:30:00.000-06:00

At the Phila airport and ready to go. We left Calvary with a wonderful send off from family and friends and made great travel time.

A special thanks to our drivers from St John's Reformed Church for safe travel and lifting 20 fifty lb. bags into the van!! We will see YOU Jan. 23rd!!

Passage Isaiah 6:8:

⁸ Then I heard the Lord asking, “Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?”
I said, “Here I am. Send me.”

The Travelers.....leaving Good Shepherd with a lifetime of memories.....

2011-06-22T22:15:00.000-05:00

Maureen Reports:

"It’s been a busy half week as we wrap up in the clinic and begin our journey home. Monday was spent just treatingpatients. We visited the Bone Setter’s hospital in Puttur on Tuesday morning before clinic. In the evening we visited the HIV/AIDS care center again. Karen purchased a bicycle for a patient who lives at the care center, so her daughter can stay with her and ride the bike to and from school. We presented the bike to the woman and her daughter Tuesday evening, and enjoyed some time with the residents of the care center. Wednesday evening we served dinner to the children and elderly at the mission, and then had a program which included string games via an object lesson by Diane, presentation of some gifts for the children, and our sad goodbying. We are on our way to Chennai tomorrow morning, and then to Delhi. Thank you again for your prayers and support. It’s been a wonderful experience.

The following are some of the people whose lives we’ve touched and been touched by.

Patient testimonials:

Amanda with Honey – he is a 15 year old boy with cerebral palsy. He was challenging and fun to work with. Family support was great, and his parents were good to follow through with his exercises. He was always excited to participate in therapy. We worked on motor and oral motor activities. His father is an evangelist for the mission.

Diane (Monisha) – she is a young girl with leg weakness and hypermobility. She was unable to climb stairs without help due to her problem, but we made gauze “orthotics” and taped them to her feet, and she was able to go up steps without help. We are looking forward to seeing what real orthotics in the US will do for her. Her family was very helpful with her exercises and very grateful for the therapy.

Stephanie with Rani – she had had a stroke and was complaining of dropping things with her hand and having foot weakness with difficulty keeping her shoe on. She was very motivated, compliant, and eager to please. She could understand English very well, smiled all the time, and gave us a “thumbs up” when she was happy with her newfound ability.

Megan with Prasad – he had a problem with his vestibular system, and wouldn’t turn his head when he walked because he got dizzy. He would say “thank you” after every exercise. His comment every day was “much improvement”. By the end of our stay, he had no dizziness, and was walking and turning his head normally.

Karen with Vijay Harish – he is a young man with a shortened leg and foot deformity. He is having quite a bit of pain when he walks, so he can’t play with his friends. We worked on stretching his foot and strengthening his hand. We ended by casting his foot, to see if our orthotist friends in the US might have any suggestions for him. He and his father are hopeful for any help to relieve his pain, so that surgery can be avoided.

Rachel with Sam – he is a young man with Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy. We worked on strengthening of all his muscles, and stretching his trunk. He is an extremely polite and gracious man, and positive. Sam has maintained his strength over the last two years of being seen in the clinic in spite of his progressive disease. His father is very supportive of his son.

Maureen with Job – he was a patient with shoulder problems on both sides. We stretched his shoulders and taught him exercises. As he left he said that the care he received from this team was such a blessing, and he prayed that God would “give you riches and long lives so that you can continue to bless the people of India.”

The team now leaves for Chennai and Delhi to see more of this ancient country!! Posts to follow!

We have made friends....last day at Good Shepherd

2011-06-22T22:12:00.000-05:00

Amanda with friend

Presenting the bike

Karen with friend

Maureen and patient

Megan and patient

Monisha

Rachel

The spa day mentioned previously

Steph and patient

String success

Update from Puttur

2011-06-19T20:54:00.000-05:00

Maureen reports:

"The good stuff continues for the PT team at Good Shepherd Mission. Friday we had a very busy day in the clinic, as each day more people hear about the work we are doing. Friday night we shared in the prayer service at the Ashram, and Diane gave an object lesson to the children. The object that she taught from was a Chinese jump rope, and she talked about jumping around in an effort to please God, when what He wants is for us to make a connnection with him, be in a relationship with Him (at which point she landed on the rope instead of jumping over and around it.) The kids enjoyed the lesson, and the perk at the end was that they all got Chinese jump ropes. Mary says the girls were using them the next morning.

Saturday we had a typical day in the clinic, but in the midday we visited a yarn factory. One of our patients is the factory manager, and he invited us to tour the factory. It was really amazing. This factory takes raw cotton and the end product is a very fine thread which is sold for creating cotton fabric.

Sunday morning we donned our new saris and attended the service at the Lutheran church across the street. After, many of the girls decided to just take the day to rest/recuperate/prepare for the coming week. But while fellow team members lounged on their cozy cots in an airconditioned room, Karen and Megan decided to pamper themselves with a "girl's day". This consisted of eyebrow plucking, 30 minute foot soaks, leg shaving, pedicures coconute oil massage to legs and feet, deep conditioning of their hair with coconut oil, facial masks, nail painting and day dreaming of cool drinks and soothing breezes.

Diane is working on her next object lesson, which will occur Wednesday evening. This week we'll begin the process of saying goodbye to many of our patients and friends at Good Shepherd. We will visit the HIV/AIDS care center, and the bone setter's hospital. We'll be on our way to Chennai on Thursday morning, and then flying out to Delhi/Agra on Saturday morning.

Thank you for all your prayers and support back home. We will blog one more time before we leave Puttur."

Most Recent Pictures

2011-06-19T20:50:00.000-05:00

Diane prepares her lesson for the children

The boys get involved

The girls try it out

The Sari Wrapping Lessong

The team dressed in their Indian finest

Table Talk

Yarn Factory close to the mission

Report from Maureen....followed by photos :)

2011-06-16T15:19:00.002-05:00

We continue to have a wonderful time at Good Shepherd Mission and in Puttur. The clinic is running well and busy, which is what we prayed for!

Sunday morning we attended the local Lutheran church in Puttur, which is the church that was formative in Brother Henry’s spiritual life. The preacher and congregation welcomed us very warmly. Sunday evening we visited GSM’s HIV/AIDS/TB care center. We’ll attach pictures of this beautiful facility later, as it was very late and the pictures we took don’t do it justice. The last of 8 cottages is nearly complete, and will likely be completed on the outside before we leave. There are 8 people who are living at the care center now. This facility is evidence of the faith of Brother Henry and Praveen, and God’s work through GSM.

Monday we spent a busy day at the clinic, and then ate our evening meal outside, enjoying the cool breeze. (We eat dinner usually around 9 pm.) Afterward we sat around in a circle and talked and played games, which was really a great bonding time.

Tuesday morning we stood in and watched eye surgeries. Thirteen patients had cataract removal surgery that morning. Cataracts are a very big problem in India, and it’s fitting that GSM is restoring sight to so many people, helping them to spiritually and physically see the Light.

After the eye surgeries we had a busy clinic day, and during the midday when we often “take rest”, we opted instead to go to a nearby waterfall, which is considered a fertility waterfall. (Let it be said that TWO of us took rest several times throughout the morning this day, and were therefore well rested for the waterfall. Check out the blog pictures to find out who!) Karen and Stephanie decided to join the other Indian locals in the waterfall, and Karen said that it felt “amazing”. Anything wet and cool would HAVE to feel amazing! That night some of us had head and neck massages, compliments of one of the mission boys.

Amanda spent some time one morning teaching Diane some yoga stretches. After feeling so great (so the story goes!?!), Diane had an inspiration to have Amanda conduct a yoga group session at the clinic. Mary has also asked for Amanda to do some yoga with the girls in the morning before school, starting next week when the kids are all back.

Wednesday was Sam’s (Henry’s grandson) birthday. We were able to celebrate in traditional Indian custom by sharing cake and dinner (in that order – you have to love this country!) with the birthday child and family. This was also a going away celebration of sorts, as Sam will be attending a boarding school in Chennai and left the mission today.

Thursday we took the day off, and visited Tirumala, a pilgrimage site for Hindus. Tirumala was interesting… a very crowded site, with scenic mountain views. We appreciated the cool breeze on the mountain top. We had a very nice lunch in Tirupathi after our trip up the mountain.

The bulk of our time in spent in the clinic; from 9 or 10 am to 2 or 2:30, then again from 5 to 8 pm. All of us are encouraged at the compliance of our patients with coming to therapy and also adhering to their home instructions. They are so appreciative, and we are encouraged at their progress, and their kind words. The next blog will include some of the patient testimonies, but as a teaser: several patients have said that they don’t see this type of care in Chennai or even anywhere in India. We are abundantly blessed with good health, good resources, and each other. Praise God!

A busy week!!

2011-06-16T15:18:00.000-05:00

Sharing time in the evening

Sharing music

Being ministered to by GS staff

Cataract Patients

Flowers for all

Sharing the fun!

Maureen works with a patient

New friends

Taking rest

Down Time

Viewing the eye surgery

Fun in the falls

Yoga excercises

News from the Team!!

2011-06-12T15:18:00.000-05:00

Maureen reports the following....then check out the pictures below this post!!

"The PT team in India is doing well. Though we have only been here for four days, we have been in the clinic three days. The number of patients that we are seeing and treating is growing, and the clinic is bustling! We are working out the kinks in scheduling as we get busier, which is a wonderful problem. The students are doing very well...being creative, compassionate and flexible beyond all expectations in such a different environment.

Yesterday the girls played cricket with some of the young children. The kids appreciated having us play with them, and they taught us how cricket is played. Megan says now that she understands the rules, its a "whole lot more fun!" As it turns out, Karen is an excellent batter - just ask her!

The team was part of a very heartwarming story that has recently unfolded at GSM. There is a young girl named Vani who has been living at the orphanage for 7 years. She had slowly been providing details of a past that involved living with her parents in a village hundreds of kilometers away. She apparently was chased by thieves and hopped on a bus to Tirupati. The woman who helped her there brought her to GSM many years ago. As the details emerged about her past, Brother Henry sent people from the mission to accompany Vani as they traveled back to her home town. Vani and her mother enjoyed a happy and tearful reunion. On Friday, Vani and her mother and uncle traveled back to Puttur and GSM to thank Henry for his care. It was wonderful to see her back here again, even temporarily.

Friday night we attended prayer in the Ashram (chapel). Although many of the children are still gone for summer vacation, we still raised our voices in a LOUD and joyful chorus! Afterward the children and the team danced in a circle that grew to include all the children in the Ashram. It was a wonderfully big circle with Brother Henry in the middle celebrating with us!

Saturday we went into Puttur to buy material for saris, chuddidhars and some souvenirs. Mary was ever-patient as we made and changed our minds many times. Rachel helped the storekeeper by pulling the best choices off the shelves as he watched on. They were glad to see us come... and glad to see us go!

This week we are looking forward sharing our stories after six days of treatment in the clinic, a trip to Tirumala, and the Bone Setters Hospital in Puttur. The mission will become a bit more active as the rest of the children come back from summer break."

Hard at work and play at Good Shepherd Mission

2011-06-12T15:15:00.000-05:00

Air Conditioner Maintenance

In the Ashram

Working in the PT Clinic

The Good Shepherd Cricket Team

Time to relax

Measuring for Chuddidahs and Saris

With the children

Shopping Indian Style

Maureen with Vani and her mother

News from the Traveling Team

2011-06-11T08:48:00.000-05:00

Dr. Maureen Raffensperger leads a team of three physical therapist assistant students to complete their final clinicals in the field at Good Shepherd Mission. The team arrived safely on Thursday night and is busy working. Maureen reports :

"A team of seven PTs, PTAs and student PTAs from Missouri Western arrived Wednesday night to Good Shepherd Mission. After a brief nap, we were up and running (mostly!) and evaluated and treated 12 patients. Praise God!! Brother Henry has advertised "free physical therapy" in the local newspaper, so we expect to be VERY busy from today forward. The physical therapy department has moved into the old maternity building, and is very spacious and nicely equipped.

We were welcomed in traditional Indian fashion with flower leis everywhere we went. The team got a taste of fresh mangos, with lessons from Henry on how to eat them "Indian style".

So far the patients are diverse, everything from young children to very old with a lot of variety in complaints. We are learning to communicate in one of the most difficult settings, due to the language and cultural barriers. We are hopeful for this experience to to be enlightening...socially, educationally, culturally and spiritually"

Pictures below of their arrival. More to follow in the next few weeks as they travel and serve and learn together about our friends in India.

Summer 2011 Physical Therapist Assistant Trip

2011-06-11T08:44:00.000-05:00

Departing for India

Midnight Welcome in Madras

Welcome India Style

The PTA's get ready for the day!

Home away from home

Mango season

Welcome to Good Shepherd Mission

Violent weather at Good Shepherd Mission April 2011

2011-04-06T21:32:00.001-05:00

Severe Weather and Damage at Mission!

We received word yesterday, April 5, 2011, that there had been an extremely violent storm in Puttur, Andra Pradesh where Good Shepherd is located. The damage to buildings, trees, power, and water is quit severe. There appears to be extensive damage to trees and consequently to power lines. No one at the mission was hurt, although quit shaken. We are encouraging our friends and the friends of Good Shepherd to consider making an extra gift to the mission for the purpose of repairs to the mission buildings and infrastructure. If you have any questions please call Wyatt Park Christian Church in St Joseph, MO. As always, 100 percent of all gifts will go directly to the misison. I will attach the email that I received from Henry. Pictures are below.

Dear Brothers and sisters, Blessings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,I wish to inform you of an incident that happened yesterday Monday 4th April.we had very severe and heavy Rain and Winds. At the mission we had SEVERE WINDS/RAIN and caused much damage to the hospital, Van (Dr.Charles), mission house, girls home etc;

1.The front portion of the Van ha been damaged…

2. Part of the hospital in patient’s ward has been damaged, the doors , Windows were broken because of the severe wind and fall down and brokenToilet door broken, dental room door broken and clapsed.
3.In the mission House upstairs roof/ceiling and rooms damaged.
4.No electricity….No water….some cell phone towers not in use.
5.A big neem tree in front of girls’s home fall down.
6.The newly repaired toilets and bath room roof at girls home fall down due to wind
7.Everyone is safe by the GRACE of God.This is for your kind information
Please keep us in Prayers.
God Bless you
Yours in Christ,
Bro.Henry

Pictures of Mission and Hospital Damage

The 100 year old mission house took a beating as did the hosptial.

Downed Power Lines and Trees


Damage to the roof of the Dining Porch and Water Tank

2011-02-27T18:24:00.002-06:00

We are back in the USA! Almost home!

We set out on this trip with a mission to serve and bless people, but we feel like they were a greater blessing to us.

Now we pray that the Lord would keep them until we meet again and we seal His wisdom for how we should act. As Diann said multiple times during the trip, "We are His hands". He has chosen these weak vessels for His service. A reoccurring thought while in India is that I cannot tell these people "be warm" and not give them a blanket or "eat and be well", but offer no food.

I have always prayed for God to feed the nations and have heard incredible stories of His provision, but someone's hands set out the food that fed the homeless. God's work in someone's heart set their hands to motion. Being at Good Shepherd was to glimpse behind the curtain of that process. The man who prayed for the blanket and received one from our hands that night, and Praveen feeding countless homeless people from his home at the mission are just a few examples.

These people are being God's physical answer to our prayers for the lost, the orphan, the sick, the outcast, and the starving. I am overwhelmed by the need, but have also been given focus for where to begin. I cannot save the world. I wasn't meant to play that role. The world will find its savior in Christ, but I want to be His hands and feet.

I love Good Shepherd Ministry's desire for people to know Christ as the only way to salvation, while caring for their physical needs. If this sounds like a shameless plug for Good Shepherd, it is.

If you feel the Lord tugging at your heart-act.

Good Shepherd is in the early stages of becoming a registered federal nonprofit organization. This should open more opportunities for grants, loans, etc. For now they depend on generous donations given through Calvary Church of Mohnton (for tax reasons-also several other churches are linked to Good Shepherd--Wyatt Park in St. Joseph Missouri and GlobalNim) to feed/house over 150 children and elderly, offer free medical care, medication, pay salaries, run medical camps, support local churches, feed and clothe the homeless, house and care for aids patients, and maintain/ repair vehicles and buildings.

They have done so much on so little! How can we help?

We had some meetings on the porch with Henry to discuss the mission's needs.

URGENT: a new vehicle. The engine on the other vehicle they had recently died.

Repairs to the van: as mentioned in the blog- this vehicle is desperately in need of repair. (as much as I enjoy watching the road go by through the floor.)

*** Sponsor an orphan, elderly person, or aids patient for about $30 per month.

*** sponsor a nursing student to go to school. $500 for 18 months of schooling to complete course.

***sponsor an evangelist and help pay his salary. (they serve local churches and villages)

***get a few friends together and sponsor free meds for 50 people. $125 per day.

***pay for a Hysterectomy $300

***Cataract surgery $15 to give someone the gift of sight.

*** $175 to host a special night of feeding and giving blankets to the homeless.

*** sponsor entire hospital for a day. $200.

***send money or ideas for beds at the girl's hostel. Henry is thinking of something like a bunk bed with a work station beneath it.

****You can send any amount of money for general needs or designate how you want it used specifically.

GO: Pray about taking the trip with us next year. (we are hoping to go again next year) bring a friend or two :) the mission is always able to use more hands on deck. Nurses, doctors, maybe a mechanic to fix the van, carpenters to build beds for the children, or people without obvious skill (like me).

For more information, or with ideas, contact one of the team members or Diann Connor at (610) 921- 0815, Calvary United Methodist Church in Mohnton (610)777-8441, Wyatt Park in St. Joseph Missouri, or GlobalNim.

The need is great but our God is greater. He is Lord of every nation.

Overwhelmed and overjoyed,
Team 11 in '11

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

2011-02-26T18:56:00.001-06:00

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

2011-02-25T05:45:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was our last full day here at the mission. It began with an early morning wake up call so that Nathaniel, Tara, Dee, Sue, and I could climb a nearby mountain. Praveen sent a few of GSM's young men along to assist us and carry chai in a thermos up the mountain for a tea party at the top. We watched the boys leap from rock to rock wearing only flip flops, while we bumbled and stumbled up the steep mountain in our "proper footwear". The view is amazing. The Indian landscape stretches on for miles. The sun was just finishing its climb above the horizon as we had tea together and watched monkeys chase each other up and down the hillside. Sue was right when she said that watching the boys carry the cups and coffee thermos to the mountain top reminded her of a Columbian coffee commercial.

After breakfast Mary and Anitha came and wrapped us in our tailor-made saris (One of our gifts from Henry) he wanted us to wear them to the medical camp. A few of us learned the importance of tying your skirt tightly, which is the structure of the whole outfit. Those people have probably never seen so many flashes of white belly skin as we pulled and tucked all day, trying to stay together. The camp about 5 minutes away, was held in a brilliantly painted one-room church. Inside, tables and chairs lined the perimeter and people were packed wall to wall waving slips of paper and babbling rapidly in Telegu. We treated the children with vaccinations and a few doctors from the clinic volunteered to write prescriptions and see patients. The school children pushed their faces against the bars yelling "Sister, what is your name? Sister, come!" until a teacher would rush at them and scoot them away. Towards the end of the day they were brave enough to wander inside and we sang together. They taught me how to do a traditional Indian dance. I'm sure my teammates were amused.

After the medical camp we went back to the mission. Henry offered to take us shopping, but the children were out and we decided to spend the evening at home with them. Their demeanors had changed a little from earlier in the week with a lot more head drooping and lip pouts. It was clear that they didn't want us to leave. "One more song, sister. One more!". A young girl who cannot speak or hear wandered into the hostel. I followed her in and sat with her for a while. She goes to a school that teaches her sign language, but nobody at the mission understands it. She is usually in the back of the crowd hanging back with a sweet smile on her face. I was wishing I knew how to talk with her. Communication has been a difficulty this week. The poor girls get so frustrated when they can't say enough in English. The relationship has mostly been formed through games, hugs, songs, and what few words we have in common. they started calling me "momma" today. That is not making it any easier.

At 7pm Henry held a children's meeting at the church. We were able to give all of them (including some of the elderly gypsies who wandered in) stuffed animals, candy, gum, and other treats. A few hundred little hands waved in the air, reaching for our gifts. I've rarely seen a child so excited about a gift and never about a pack of gum. Afterwards, Praveen's son, Sam sang "Give thanks with a grateful heart." (He is actually 10 yrs old) and the children extended their hands to pray for us. We lined up outside the door and the children exited the Ashram one at a time and said their goodbyes.

At night, a few of the girls came over to put henna designs on our hands and feet. Sue and Bonnie in particular are covered with bold designs stretching up from their feet to their knees. Nathaniel, Tara, and I stayed up with the girls and gave them ice-cream as a late-night snack. They are so grateful for everything and most refuse gifts numerous times before accepting.

These people are amazing and saying goodbye is so hard. More to come. This bus is bumpy and it is making it difficult to type.

By his Grace,
Team 11 in '11
He took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them, "Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me." Mark 9:36-37

2011-02-23T19:49:00.000-06:00

I'm going to begin tonight with a few Team India bloopers because this evening was probably the most difficult. We'll make you laugh before you cry. We've had a lot of animal adventures here in India. Like leaving Pastor Stacie home alone to fend for herself when a bat came into the house. She never actually saw it leave and we are wondering if we've really heard the last of it. Today we had a little squirrel visitor in Sue, Dee, Jean, and Lori's room. They took turns screaming like a vocal version of "the wave" as the squirrel tore through the room from bed to bed. Lori said it is like the wild kingdom. Jean is missing a ceiling tile above her bed and had some gecko visitors. When they finally decided to ascend back into the ceiling someone asked " are they gone?". Looking up, one of the geckos shot out one little scaly green hand from the ceiling "not quite" was his answer. My question was will "Geico" stop at nothing? Really now... Geckos in the ceiling as you sleep?

Today a gypsy woman walked up to our porch with a monkey on a string and Dee asked if she could hold it. Nobody was around to speak better sense to her, but afterwards Henry said that maybe holding a monkey on a string is a bad idea. She still says it was worth it.

Last night we had to wake Bonnie to allow the tailors to measure her. She seemed entirely out of it, wouldn't speak to anyone and stared dead-eyed and straight ahead. The tailors measured her and she went back to bed. The next day we learned that she was sleep walking and doesn't remember any of it.

On Sunday morning, as the pastor handed Sue the microphone so that she could speak he leaned in and said "You look strong, like man". She just looked back at him and said "Thanks.", not quite sure how to respond to that. We won't be letting her live that one down.

Ok, those are a few bloopers, now on to our day. In the morning we went to the clinic to hand out sunglasses and medication to the cataract surgery patients from yesterday. For 15 US dollars Good Shepherd Ministries can give one person the gift of sight. This includes meals and an overnight stay. It was amazing to see the patients going home with new sight.

We loaded into the van and were off to Pannur for a medical camp at a school. More screaming, syringes, singing, and doing the hokey pokey with a few hundred children in the schoolyard. We vaccinated about 70 kids.

I opened a bathroom stall during set up, asking the girls who had followed us "can I use this one?". Just as I said that, a frog jump down into the hole we call a squatty potty. Guess not.

Surrounded by children, they began commenting on my pale complexion and then rushed off and returned pushing a light-skinned boy with blonde hair in front of me. "He is Indian" they said. He was a smudge of white in a sea of rich chocolate brown skin. Clearly Indian, but freckled and pale, just like me :)

After leaving the medical camp, we came home for food and free time. Dee, Tara, Sue, and Nathaniel went out to play with the children. They taught them a new Indian game and kept asking Dee what day we are going home. They nearly cried when she told them. I don't want to think about leaving.

A few of us went to visit Praveen at his house. He and his wife, Anitha are amazing, taking in some of the orphans to live in their house, and feeding the homeless. They are the true picture of genuine faith. They keep no savings but give generously and have trusted God to provide every item they own. Praveen's son, Sam has overwhelmed me with his sweet spirit. At such a young age (8 yrs old), he has such a heart to serve his people. He wants to come to America and study to be a doctor so that he can return to the mission and work in the clinic. Anywhere there is a job to be done, Sam is there. Translating for us, setting up for church, serving food, I asked him tonight if it makes him sad to see people living in poverty. He said "Yes, that is why you need to go home and show pictures of how the Indian people's situation is so that you can maybe make program and raise money to help them."

Bonnie and I went to Puttur for a shopping trip. We demanded to walk to town rather than be driven. Our escort took us through stopped trains then jumping off elevated platforms, across tracks and climbing up the other side as we crossed the tracks, much to the amusement of the Puttur people. Apparently they mean to have an underpass beneath the train tracks for walking, but a few years later, and it is still under construction.

Shopping is such an experience in Puttur. The store clerks ask what you are looking for and then ruffle through drawers and glass cases, bringing up boxes and packages full of merchandise. Before you are done, every inch of counter space is covered and you feel so guilty for having him pull everything out for you, that you buy much more than you intended.

After shopping, we headed to the Ashram for a "special" service, as Henry said. When we arrived, they were hanging a banner announcing that Diann had donated money to feed and give new blankets to the gypsies. This is where the night gets hard. Men and women. blind, lame and diseased. some old with walking sticks. Others young and with children filed into the meeting hall. Pastor Stacie was right to say that it reminded her of Jesus feeding people in the bible.

We prayed over the food and then began serving. The meal was a special chicken byriani dish with rice and a special treat- ice cream! One older gentleman said he had never had a byriani meal or ice cream in his life and he was at least 75! Praveen said that most of them were probably eating ice cream and a good meal for the first time tonight.

Praveen told me that he was sitting with the gypsies just before we arrived and one of them told him that just that morning he was shivering in the cold and asked God for a blanket. Someone gave him a towel but it wasn't warm enough. He walked into town when the Good Shepherd van pulled up and asked him to get inside. Tonight he was given a new blanket and Praveen was able to give it in Jesus' name. Watching the little gypsy children interact with us, shirtless and smiling, was heart warming. Praveen told us that the reason they don't wear a shirt is because they don't own one. Sitting on the porch as I type, I feel a chill in the air, and can't help but be grateful that those precious little children have a blanket to keep them warm tonight and full bellies. Often these people go without food for the entire day and then go to homeless programs put on by the rich and are served meager portions at the temples. After serving dinner, I broke down. I've seen poor people. I've seen homeless people, but never starving people. Not so close that I touched them, fed them, talked with them. To see thin skin stretched across skeleton faces and legs so thin they looked like painted bones and muscles. It was my wake up call and my call to action. I cannot feed the world, but by God's grace, I can help these people. Looking from the beautiful children to their elders gave a shocking depiction of where they are headed if something isn't done. Lord, grant me the strength to help even one life for your glory.

On the way out a man stopped me and began babbling. I asked Sam to translate and he told me that he asked if I would "remember him". Then he lifted his pant leg to reveal to large, angry black callouses on his knee that made Dee, the nurse who was with me, cringe. "Oh. He wants me to pray for his knee." "No, sister." Sam responded. "He says he prays so much that it makes his knees like this." He lifted the other pant leg to reveal identical callouses on the opposite leg. I asked to take a picture and captured the picture in my mind as well. I will not forget him.

I used to be so overwhelmed when I thought about the need in other countries, that I did nothing. Being here has directed and specified my focus. Those needy people in India are not strangers anymore. I now call them friends, and it's time to act.

Off to bed. We are up before 6am tomorrow for an early morning hike, then a medical camp.

Be blessed,
Team 11 in '11
If you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday. Isaiah 58:10

2011-02-22T16:37:00.002-06:00

We are resting now after a much more relaxed schedule. Somehow we are still exhausted. After breakfast we took a drive to Tiraputi to the temple of Hindu's most powerful God. The drive took us through several small villages dotted with brightly colored buildings covered in painted advertisements. Every flat space in India is an opportunity to put a plug in for something-often for items as dull as PVC piping or concrete.

On the way we nearly ran head-on into a bus. A frequent enough occurrence but this particular bus was very colorful and had the words "God is good" displayed across the front in large neon letters. Talk about driving a point home. Soon enough we were in Tiraputi. Skyscrapers and thatch-roofed hovels were next door neighbors. The streets, although divided by a center island, didn't stop people from barreling towards oncoming traffic.

The temple was perched on top of a high mountain between two hills. Indian mountains put our Pennsylvanian mounds to shame. Before ascending, we went through a "security check" which consists of brown uniformed men and women who peeked into our bus long enough to make it awkward. I was shocked to learn that people walk barefooted to the top, about 5 hours, to prove themselves. At the top is a mini village with fast food restaurants, and street stands selling statues, necklaces, and food. The air is thick with incense and many of the men and woman are only discerned by their form of dress, having shaved their heads in devotion to their god.

Pat and Pastor Stacie had multiple people approach and hand them a camera. At first Pat thought they wanted their picture taken but they were asking for Pat and Stacie to get in a picture with them. We are quite an attraction in India. Some of them have probably never seen such pale people in person. We lingered briefly and prayed under our breaths.
During the long trip down the mountain, it began to rain and we learned that the bus windows don't roll up. Poor Praveen was getting the brunt of it and we rigged a contraption consisting of my scarf, a seat cushion,
and my foot to keep the rain at bay.

Praveen treated us to lunch at a hotel in the city. The food was incredible as usual and we were getting ready to leave just as the power went out. Perfect timing. For those of you who didn't know, working electricity is not a promise in India and may cut out at will.

After making our way back, a few of us went to the clinic and were able to witness a cataract surgery. We shared fabric head coverings and surgical masks and walked into the operating room snapping pictures while they operated. The patients ask no questions as we intrude on their surgery. Later Mary took us into our very own city of Puttur for a short shopping trip. We encountered our first cow guarding a jewelry store and a man let us feed him a banana. Apparently the cow is believed to be a goddess and is dotted with red paint as a sign of this.

The tailor came over tonight to deliver our Saris, a gift from Henry. There was a lot of laughter as we tried to figure out how to assemble them. Dressing in India is such an experience-full of folding and pinning and wrapping and tucking.

Tomorrow is a busy day of medical camps so we are calling it a night.

Lord, save these people.
By his Grace,
Team 11 in '11
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made." John 1:1

2011-02-21T21:12:00.000-06:00

Today can only be described as intensely emotional. We were either laughing hysterically at an inside joke or crying together. We left for our first medical camp in the morning. We drove for about 1 1/2 hours to Sathyavedu to a small concrete school building. We set up camp on a long metal table with a tapestry draped across. We had an assembly line of unwrapping needles, filling them, holding children, making them cry, and giving them a tootsie roll. We started singing loud, happy songs in an attempt to make our room seem a little more inviting to those waiting outside. The yodeling failed, so we turned to church songs and show tunes. They still cried, probably thinking "what crazy people these Americans are. They sing while they stab us."

After the camp, we made our way to Kolladam to see the Good Shepherd Ministry's boys home. We ate in the church building. Henry's brother, Prasad fed us the most incredible Indian cuisine. Afterwards we rested and then handed out lollipops to the local school children. I taught them a "lollipop song" which they sang at various intervals for the remainder of our time there.

Soon the children were out of school and walking us through the surrounding village. This was truly one of the highlights of my day. Watching these villages rush by from the safety of a van, it is easy to feel detached. Walking with the children to their homes was an entirely different experience. They grabbed my hands and led me through dirt streets with sewage flowing to either side. Naked children peeped out of doorways without doors, and women cooked over open fires. To see the children's eyes light up as they said "Auntie, this is my home. Come." made my heart ache. The team and children all walked as one big parade down the village lane. The children were directing the adults to let us take their picture and stopping at intervals to pick flowers for us. "Auntie, look another flower!" I let the kids lead me off the path into an open field "Look! Watermelons! Want one, Auntie??" I kindly refused and they grabbed my hands and pulled me through the field to where the women were working. One of the smallest boys walking with us began ordering the women around so that I could get some pictures. Dee was right when she said she feels like she is in a national geographic TV show. The female workers carried bundles on their head as they picked melons and handed them up onto a large truck. Maybe if I wasn't so busy thinking I was a National Geographic photographer, I would have seen the strong and determined woman running towards me brandishing a large stick like a Viking broad sword. She brushed past me and swiped at one of the children in our group ranting in some Indian language. In her defense, our children were stealing watermelons and using them like beach balls. I began to walk them out of the field thinking the woman had spent her rage when Pat, Tara, and Diann screamed for me to come. The woman was on the war path again and what their angle afforded was a view of me walking leisurely towards them and a woman rushing at my back with a baseball bat of a stick. I still think she was all bark and no bite.

Another point of interest while in Kolladam was the thatched roof houses with a satellite dish perched on top. They may not be able to feed their family, but some have TVs that you can see glowing through the rough opening they call their doorway.

Leaving Kolladam was emotional. We had bonded with children we may never see again. The next ride was much shorter and brought us to a church in, and I mean, the middle of nowhere. So rural it took us a few attempts to figure out how to get the van over to it. We all sang a few songs from the front of the church. They love to hear us sing and I'm beginning to wonder if they are tone deaf. Singers we are not, but God deserves all the praise we can give Him. More flower garlands, then Bonnie spoke on being alive in Christ and even brought visuals- two palm branches. Lori got to hold the most beautiful little baby girl through the service, and after church we prayed for and talked with the people.

They are always so receptive to prayer and seemed very confused when I asked them to return the favor. I kneeled and bowed my head just as they had, and after a few nervous giggles, an old malnourished-looking woman placed her hand on my head and quietly muttered. I don't want them to over spiritualize America. It is their faith that I am humbled by--walking miles to church when most Americans mutter when they can't find a close parking space. These people come to church with empty bellies and leave with full souls. You can see how much it strengthens them to meet with us- foreign believers. I think they feel less alone when they see that God's power is moving all over the world.

The drive home was more lighthearted. Driving in India is...well... like a video game and I'm not sure who wins. Most roads are narrow, one-ways. Most drivers use their high beams at all times at night. They beep every time they intend to pass. Slower vehicles yield to faster ones and pedestrians draw the shorter straw, second only to dogs and goats. It began to rain and it seemed our driver was too confident in his eyesight to use the wipers. We asked Praveen if they worked. He said "no, sister. They only work in the rainy season and this isn't it." We told Praveen we would strap him to the roof with two towels and he could wave his arms. I think we nearly crashed a hundred times. Not to scare anyone back home ;)

Back at the house, the emotional part came in again. Before dinner Bonnie took Me, Tara, Sue, and Dee to the girls hostel to see how they slept. How they sleep is on a hard concrete floor with thin blankets strewn haphazardly across the floor and at least three girls to blanket. They have another blanket that they use as a pillow, so they need to choose...comfort or warmth. Along the wall are a bunch of little trunks and bags all lined up. EVERYTHING they own can be kept in one bag. They didn't notice us come in or flinch as we flashed our cameras at them. All God's little girls were sound asleep for the night. I pray they were dreaming of heaven where difficulty is washed away in the light of His face.

With Thankfulness for all he has blessed us with,
Team 11 in '11
Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. I Peter 4:10

2011-02-20T15:33:00.001-06:00

Today was so rich with detail, but I will attempt to be brief. Pastor Stacie woke up sick in the middle of the night. We gathered around her in prayer and she went back to sleep. In the morning she felt a little better and decided to do the two morning baptisms. They were a husband and wife. To my knowledge, the man was a prominent member of society and involved politically. He gave the testimony of how he was involved in black magic for over 35 years until the Lord gripped his heart. His wife was more hesitant, but with time the truth of the gospel washed over her soul. What an amazing event to be a part of.

After the ceremony, we loaded into the van and were off to a church in Nigara. Pastor Stacie, who was planning to preach, stayed behind which meant that our 20 minute drive to the church involved writing a quick message in 20 minutes that was supposed to be 20 minutes long. I've probably never written so much so fast, or found the scriptures I was looking for so quickly. God is amazing. The church was lined with mats and was fully packed save a narrow aisle down the center. We were seated behind the pulpit and the service began. Dee and Sue led a few songs with hand motions that made a few of the church attendees giggle in embarrassment. Soon they warmed up, and loosened up, enough to sing along. Bonnie, Diann and I spoke while Praveen translated for us. After I finished speaking, Henry told me that he had been preparing to speak on that same topic (Difficulty). It is amazing how God aligns two minds to get his message across. The service was followed by prayer time. These people are desperate for prayer. They will wait in line until you lay your hand on their head and pray for them.

Back at the mission we had he opportunity to experience and serve lunch to the orphans and other men and women at the mission. GSM (Good Shepherd Mission) serves about 250 people 3 meals per day. It is overwhelming to be there, watching them sit in button row lines on the floor of the ashram, and to feed them. In honor of our presence everyone was given a special treat: vanilla ice-cream.

Tara with 3 girls at GSM

We had free time after lunch which meant Tara, Dee, Sue, and I were looking for the kids so that we could beg them to play with us. It didn't take too much coaxing. A few hours and 50 games, a puppet show, yoyo lesson, juggling, and a few games later we were back in our room sighing relief in the cooler air. There is no heat like the Indian sun and summer isn't even here yet!

Soon it was time for yet another trip. This time to the GSM's aids clinic about 1 mile away which drove more like two. While we were there we dedicated a prayer garden at the clinic and pastor Stacie performed about 20 more baptisms in the garden's pool. Beyond the pool is a statue of Jesus and the man he healed in Bethesda. Praveen said that the importance of this statue is that many people in India can't read and have no access to God's word. They want this to be a place where people can come with their needs and find their savior in Christ. The statues tell a story for the Indian people.

My heart nearly melted when a little boy (who I later learned is an HIV patient) got up to pray for our team. He couldn't had been more than 3 yrs old, but boldly stepped up to the microphone and gave a long prayer in our honor. Praveen told me that they would often find this little boy sitting by the pool alone and praying for people. He was baptized tonight along with the others and each received a new bible in their native tongue, and enjoyed their first communion together.

It was a full day with much more to come in the morning. Tomorrow we leave for kolladam (a 3 hour drive) to visit GSM's boys home and give vaccinations in the village. We will not return until the evening. Pray for safe travels and God's glory!

In Him, through Him, and all to Him,
India '11
"for an angel of the Lord went down at certain seasons into the pool and stirred up the water; whoever then first, after the stirring up of the water, stepped in was made well from whatever disease with which he was afflicted" John 5:4

In love with India

2011-02-19T19:25:00.000-06:00

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

2011-02-18T19:19:00.002-06:00

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

2011-02-18T05:24:00.000-06:00

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

2011-02-17T18:08:00.000-06:00

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

2011-02-17T13:42:00.001-06:00

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

2011-02-13T13:41:00.000-06:00

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

Nagari Outdoor Revival - 2/8/2011

2011-02-09T08:42:00.000-06:00

The team led an outdoor revival on the streets of Nagari. In addition to communicating the salvation message, the service featured music and native Indian dance. From streets to rooftops literally 360 degrees surrounding the event, hundreds of people enthusiastically gathered to watch and listen.

Praise the Lord! Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise in the assembly of the godly! Let Israel be glad in his Maker; let the children of Zion rejoice in their King! Let them praise his name with dancing, making melody to him with tambourine and lyre! For the Lord takes pleasure in his people; he adorns the humble with salvation. Let the godly exult in glory; let them sing for joy on their beds. Psalm 149:1-5

Very busy at GSM

2011-02-06T09:55:00.000-06:00

The Pittsburgh group has been extremely busy at GSM since their arrival! It's amazing that they even made it out of the USA February 2nd in the latest "weather" blast. Now they are in sunny and warm Puttur--80s during the day and "chilly" 60s at night!!!! The group has already participated in one medical camp at the hospital and is now serving some of the poorest who come to GSM!!

Showing the Love of Jesus through Giving - February 5, 2011

Sponsored by donations from the congregation at ACAC in Pittsburgh, the team distributed blankets and food to the needy. Prior to the sharing of blankets and food, they were presented with the good news of Jesus' love for them and the salvation that is available through Him.

Matthew 5:16 Let your light shine.... from God's hand through ours to the furthest reachings of the world.

The Journey Home

2011-01-06T20:32:00.000-06:00

The team is en route to Brussels after a very busy day beginning with one final medical camp, time to say goodbyes to now dear friends, shopping in Chennai and eating at Pizza Hut and then heading to the airport where a contingent of Good Shepherd family waited with them until they went through the doors. I spoke with Dean before they were getting on the plane (1:00 this afternoon - 12:30 AM Chennai) and they were all doing well. Scheduled arrival home to KC is 7:00 PM tomorrow evening....they cannot wait to share their stories and the joy of this trip. Please continue to pray for their safe travel.

"The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore." ~Psalm 121:8 KJV

Sharing with Friends

2011-01-06T06:13:00.000-06:00

The team gave clothes and blankets to all the children and elderly. They prepared a meal for all the children, elderly and staff at the mission and several from the area. After serving everyone they sat and ate with their friends,thanking them for their care over the past two weeks.

It is Thursday evening in Puttur and the team is in Chennai heading for the airport in a while to begin the journey home.

Mountaintop

2011-01-05T06:15:00.000-06:00

From Dean (as I post this the team is serving a banquet to all who come from Puttur and surrounding villages):

"Well a group of six intrepid hikers (5 guys and Kelsey) arose early to hike "The Rock." I think the five guys were blessed by Kelsey's presence. We left the mission building around 6:30am and headed to the summit with several of the mission guys and a container of tea. The hike was about 30 minutes. The day is a little overcast but the views from the top were awesome. Brother Chad provided the morning repast on the top....

Snickers bars for everyone (I love that guy). What could be better, Snickers, tea, good friends and a great view. Great start to the day. We are not going to the Hindu temple (Thiramala?). We decide to stay here go to the bone setters, the HIV/AIDS center and hang with the kids while the banquet is being prepared.

Henry asked if we wanted to add another medical camp. Tomorrow morning we will be have a camp at the mission and then leave for Chennai. Again, this is possible because of the funds to buy vaccine, meds and pay for the Physician time. Thank you to all who support this trip and the mission.

The team has become very close to the kids at the mission and to the staff. There will be more than a few tears shed tonight and tomorrow as we leave. I cry every time. I know it is coming and yet it hits me like a ton of bricks. I know that we are being blessed by them as much as we are serving them. It is easy to feel the presence of God in this place. The smiles on the kids, the laughter from everyone say it all. Henry and the mission seldom miss an opportunity to share the love of Jesus in the small corner of the world. It has been an honor to share this trip with 10 other individuals. I have seen team members stop and pray for villagers on the street of Kolladam, play with children with complete abandon, and comfort a crying child at a medical camp. Our Sunday devotion was about Christ telling Peter to "feed my sheep." I have no doubt that we are indeed doing our best to fullfill that command. May God guide and protect us in the last two days. "

Church at Yanadavetu - Built in Memory of David Miller

2011-01-04T19:36:00.000-06:00

From Kelsey Stephens:

"Last night we went to the church that was built in 2008 in honor of David Miller from Wyatt Park Christian Church. I grew up knowing David from WPCC and was with the team when the church was dedicated. When we arrived, I assumed that we would only be there for a few minutes; long enough for the team to look around and meet the evangelist. But when we arrived we were ushered inside and seated at the front of the room. The door was left open and slowly people from the village started to make their way in to sit on the floor. Brother Dean was beckoned to give a short message, and while he was speaking I kept my eyes on the door and watched as villagers came in every few minutes to listen. Several of the mothers in the crowd had their babies and small children with them. As I was watching I kept thinking about the open door and how eager people were to come in and hear a message. It is my hope that as those babies grow up and as new babies are born in that village, that the door to Brother David's church is always open and as welcoming as it was last night, and that the messages shared speak of God's open heart and his eagerness to be in relationship with his people. It was a humbling experience to be part of the team that dedicated the church, and to be back there two years later to see the good work that is happening for the people of that village."

Faces of India

2011-01-04T19:32:00.000-06:00

So many images of children of God whom we go to serve. These are just a few of those who came for treatment and for care.

Then Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them. For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." ~Matthew 19:14

Medical Camp at Motor Vehicle Inspection Office

2011-01-04T19:22:00.000-06:00

Picture with the Americans

Waiting to be treated

Kelsey, Ashley, Tina and Heather

School at Kolladam

2011-01-04T19:18:00.000-06:00

School Yard

Outdoor Classroom

Indian School Room

The Kolladam medical camp was held at a rural school close to the village. The pictures give a good visual of an Indian school.

Flex and Flow

2011-01-03T20:32:00.000-06:00

Monday was a very long day. The team went to Kolladam to do a short medical camp at a small rural school. After visiting in Kolladam, the team was scheduled to attend a ceremony at a seminary about three hours from the mission. Henry has been honored with an honorary doctorate from that school. Because of some political unrest in the area Henry decided not to and they stopped by a roadside cafe on the way back to the mission. They were supposed to return quite late and though it was not the midnight return time, they were all still quite ready to relax.

From all reports, everyone is doing well. It is Tuesday morning in Puttur right now and Chad made the comment that he does not think the team realizes they have two more full days at the mission before leaving for Chennai on Thursday. That has not sunk in yet....

Pictures tomorrow!!

Saturday and Sunday

2011-01-02T14:15:00.000-06:00

Saturday evening the team gave a meal to all the children, elderly and poor in the Puttur area and fed approximately 200 people. Gary began Sunday morning with a devotion on the following call from Christ:

" When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” "
~John 21:15

The team then spent Sunday morning at a medical camp, which was re-scheduled due to their delayed arrival.

Villagers queue to register for the medical camp

Ashley loads a syringe

Madison's turn to hold

Chad plays with the children in the village

The team also had opportunity to shop and have some down time in the afternoon on Sunday. All the members have been measured and fitted for new Indian clothes as a gift from the mission.

Kelsey picks up a few things in K&L Textiles, downtown Puttur

Chad receives a shave

Making Friends

2011-01-01T09:50:00.000-06:00

Sharing some images of what happens outside of the medical camps and worship services at Good Shepherd. While the medical camps are concentrated work and the pace can be hectic, the children at Good Shepherd Mission - 150 mission children who either are orphans or whose parents are unable to support them - capture our hearts and give much joy in just being together for a short time and part of their lives.

Chad and friends

Cammie and girls

Madison and friends

Tina and girls

Andrew - boys will be boys

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T12:58:00.000-06:00

The team is ready to celebrate the New Year!

Complete with a sermon.....and Santa

Puttur is 11.5 hours ahead of Central Standard Time so they have already rung in the New Year Good Shepherd style with worship at the ashram at the mission.

Dean with Praveen Kumar (on the right) whom we sponsor. Chirangeevi had to join in too!

Camp at Karvetinagar

2010-12-31T12:52:00.000-06:00

Duke, Cammie, Tina and Heather along with mom help give the vaccine

The children are so tiny sometimes the leg is best!

This morning the team travelled to a small village about 15 K from the mission to offer a free medical camp and vaccines for the people of the village. As in the states, children do not like shots and many hands help the process. The parents are extremely grateful for the opportunity. Hepititis B shots cost approx. $10 for the series of three. The Good Shepherd staff will follow up with the additional two vaccines, paid for by donations raised in St. Joseph for the medical camps. A field worker's salary is about $1.50 per day so these parents are unable to provide the vaccine for their children.

A Note on the Worship from Ashley

2010-12-31T12:44:00.000-06:00

Ashley wrote to share her experience of village worship. As Americans, we are sometimes the only foreign faces that the Indian villagers ever see. Combine that with the excitement of the New Year and quite a crowd gathers. We still share the gospel and pray with them but culture clash is sometimes a bit overwhelming even for a second time traveler.

"Last night our group traveled into a village where a church had been build by funds generated through VBS at Wyatt Park Christian Church to attend a worship service. This particular worship service was different from any other that I've been to in India. The audience was especially excited for our arrival and was growing more and more rowdy as the night went on. Upon arriving at the village we were met by lots of people all crowded into an allyway where the service would be held. The space was too small to accommodate seating for everyone so children began crawling up on roofs and walls so they could get a good look at us and see everything that was going on. People from the village continued to gather pushing as close to us as possible attempting to touch us and shake our hands and greet us. No matter how many hands we shook there were always more reaching out through the crowd so we were continually surrounded; it began to get extremely overwhelming. Seeing this, Henry immediately placed men from Good Shepherd who had accompanied us to the worship service behind where we were seated for the purpose of controling the crowd. Even as the numbers increased behind us they kept the curious villagers a safe distance away.

Soon after we arrived the sun went down and the allyway was lit completely by hanging strings of lights. The service carried on as always with lots of dancing and singing and noise and people. Suddenly without warning we lost electricity and were left sitting completely in the dark. It was impossible to see even the person next to us as we sat and waited for the lights to come back on.

It was unnerving to sit in the dark surrounded by a crowd we could not see, but I knew that we were safe because of the men from Good Shepherd who were keeping the crowd back and quickly working to fix the electrical problem. Within minutes the lights came back on and the service continued on as if nothing had happend!

I am extremly thankful to be hosted by such good people here. With everthing from food, to rest, to transportation to security we couldn't be better taken care of. "

Ashley Slawson

"I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life." ~John 8:12 NIV

Worship with Our Indian Brothers and Sisters

2010-12-30T15:54:00.001-06:00

Waiting on the porch to leave for Kakavedu

After a long day the team headed off to Kakavedu, a small village served by Good Shepherd with a church built by WPCC vacation bible school children 10 years ago. Brother Paradise is the evangelist who shepherds the Christian flock in Kakavedu but also serves whatever needs any of the villagers have...for example getting rice rations for the lepers who are unable to use public transportation and helping to care for the elderly. Village worship begins with music and someone brings the word...in this case, Dean. The team then prays for whomever comes forward.

The team listens as worship begins

Bringing the word

"For when two or three gather in my name, there I am with them."~ Matthew 18:20 NIV

Thursday Medical Camp at GSM Hospital

2010-12-30T06:42:00.000-06:00

First Medical Camp - Andrew, Tina and Kelsey loading syringes, Duke and Ashley vaccinating, Dean and friend

After a night of rest the team conducted the first medical camp at Good Shepherd Hospital on the mission complex. 336 general patients were given free medical care for various ailments. The team vaccinated 100 children for Hepititis B. After resting this afternoon they will worship this evening in Kadavedu - the church built by WPCC bible school children and served by Brother Paradise.

Duke and Ashley vaccinating, Heather and Madison prepping

A Good Shepherd Welcome

2010-12-29T22:17:00.000-06:00

The Good Shepherd Mission welcomes the team with a band and procession through the mission complex. Despite the weariness of travel all team members are ready to go....medical camp beginning as this is posted, Thursday morning in Puttur.

"Make a joyful noise unto the Lord all ye lands..." Psalms 100:1

In Puttur

2010-12-29T17:06:00.000-06:00

The team is sleeping at the mission as I write this note. I spoke with Dean and Henry this morning and all is well. The computer situation is tenuous so we are hoping to get pictures soon but they arrived to a band and welcome from all the children, elderly and staff. Medical camp tomorrow.

Safe Arrival!

2010-12-29T06:49:00.003-06:00

The team has arrived safely in Puttur. After an 8 hour delay in the Brussels airport they landed in Chennai at 10:30 PM last evening (our time) and are now finishing their first day at the mission. Pictures to come soon!

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him and He will direct your paths." ~Proverbs 3:5-6

Travel Update

2010-12-28T07:26:00.002-06:00

The team is in Brussels but delayed several hours as their Jet Airways flight is arriving from Newark. Flight is now scheduled to depart at 5:20 Brussels time (10:20 AM here). Henry called this morning and he is aware of the change. Please continue to pray for their safe travel on the final leg of the journey to Puttur.

India Mission Team 2011

2010-12-27T20:45:00.005-06:00

Team members (left to right): Heather Slawson, Madison Herrington, Cammie Herrington, Ashley Slawson, Duke Koerperich (behind Ashley) Tina Reynolds, Andy Zeiler (in the hat), Dean Mausolf, Chad Gaddie, Kelsey Stephens and Gary Reynolds.

Our team made it safely to Chicago and the flight to Brussels was on time. They flew over the storm on the east coast and will arrive in Brussels to connect to Chennai. They were excited and ready to go. Be sure to scroll through the pictures in the five prior posts from 12/26 accessed onthe left side of the blog page....all the support and prayers are deeply appreciated. They will feel God's presence through your intercession for His light to shine through them at Good Shepherd in Puttur.

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all the things I have commanded you..." ~Matthew 28:19

At the airport...

2010-12-27T20:44:00.002-06:00

And is ready to go....

2010-12-27T20:37:00.003-06:00

and packs......

2010-12-27T20:23:00.002-06:00

The Team Prepares

2010-12-27T19:18:00.003-06:00

With prayer and dedication

2010-2011 Team of Intrepid Travelers

2010-12-19T21:38:00.002-06:00

We are one week away from leaving Kansas City on yet another trip to visit our friends at Good Shepherd Mission in Puttur, Andra Pradesh, India. The group of eleven (yes only eight are pictured) is excited, scared, unsure, confident and ready to go. We will be leaving mid-morning on December 27. We will arrive in Chennai, India about 30 hours after departing. Our American Airlines trip will have us flying from Kansas City to Chicago, Chicago to Brussels, and then Brussels to Chennai. We return home on January 7 following the same itinerary. We are very excited about celebrating New Years in India with our friends. Please keep us in your prayers and thoughts.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:27-29

Our Sisters Return

2010-07-01T12:39:00.002-05:00

I am sitting in my own home pondering several things.

As I wait for the mission girls to bring me Chai & Mary to bring Bombay toast & broken (scrambled) eggs, my heart aches knowing that unless I fix something, I will be waiting a long time. My faith is in God through Jesus Christ, our Lord and technology takes a lonely back seat!

My Little (Great) Grandma had a saying about the road to Hell & good intentionsions, but technologically speaking, my trip did not go as planned. "Hot Spots" in Puttur are anywhere you are when the current (electricity) goes off, but there are no WiFi connections around the GSM. There is internet connection at Henry's & Praveen's houses, but it is unreliable at best.

We had a faith building, God inspired trip to Good Shepherd Mission and visit with our family in Puttur & Kolladom India. Deb said it best when she exclaimed, "My life will never be the same!" None ever are after a trip to India! Physically, we are challenged every minute. It is just HOT!!! We did sleep in air conditioned comfort, thanks to new AC at the Mission & at Kolladom. During our work days, we just enjoyed a good sweat. . . bandanas to wipe it off & bottled water & mango soda to replace the fluids! We met new children at the Mission (ask Linda about the "Dirt Brothers") and saw new schools. We visited with old friends and family. Like our own families at home, the children are growing into lovely & delightful young men (Ahnand's boys would break some hearts!) and women who praise the Lord with their songs and deeds. Winnie (Vijay's daughter) is on the brink of entering Medical School and is faced with the reality of finding financing. Her grades are good, but since she claims to be Christain on her application, her Low Caste standing is moved to High Caste which makes her uneligible for scholarships. Please join us in prayer to find ways to help her.

Dear Friends, please know that "serving" the Lord does not have to feel like a sacrificing burden, instead it feels like you are "getting" to do something you will love to be part of. Sometimes I am afraid that people see how much "fun" we have while we are on mission to India and think that we are just going for our own reward, but that is the beauty of following Christ. It is a joyful journey with Him. You can be forever encouraged to be the hands & feet of Christ. I am sorry that my words cannot express what my heart knows to be true. Know that I am constantly searching for others to share this journey. . . people who will "get it". . . understand the joy & need to serve Him by loving His lambs!
Linda, Debbie & I want to thank you for letting us share this with you!

Vicki Gentzell

2010-06-26T11:13:00.002-05:00

It's been a couple of days since we sent post, but TISI (This is India)! Thursday we had a medical camp at the "Friendly" School. Deb stayed at the Mission (with “GI upsets” - 'nuff said!). I helped Dr Murthy. He taught me to diagnose some problems! Nopea = pain. The people would say "nopea nopea" & point at their heads or legs or arms. There is lots of pain. India is hard on the body. They would say "montha" & rub their stomach or point at their feet. This could possibly be gastric reflux. If feet were a concern, then we would check blood sugar for Diabetes. We saw many people & gave many medicines.

After the medical camp we rested, Linda & I then went to the second VBS church. We worshipped mightily! We prayed for many children, elders of the church and for the success of the church!

On Friday, we shopped at the Steel Store & the Fancy Shop. Debbie was amazed at the traffic, the noise & the monkeys! TISI. The electrical current was out for several hours. We are then so thankful when it comes back on & we praise God! We worked on our Bible Study for a while; Beth Moore provides a good study. We got new clothes from the tailor. Linda's & my chudeedahs (tunic and pants outfit) fit nicely & we looked good (even if we say so ourselves)! Deb was wrapped by Mary in her first ever Sari! She looked like a beautiful Indian woman! Then we preached the Word at the Good Shepherd Ashram. It was a great evening! Many of our old friends were there. Vajeya Grace & Winnie & Minnie all were there. After the service, we all sat in the yard by the porch & laughed & talked. Everyone had to see Debbie's electronic Kindle Bible. Henry & Praveen really like it. Vajeya Grace sat with Linda & me and asked about all her friends in Missouri...Pastor Scott, Sis Jeanette & Bro Dean and the children, Sis Susie, Sara & Bro Thom. We have made many friends here at Good Shepherd Mission. We have strong prayer partners reaching around the world.

Finally, it is Saturday. We started slowly again with Bible Study, lots of good discussion. We will have to finish when we get home! We shopped at the Silver Shop for anklets & toe rings. You never get enough toe rings. Anitha told us how to wear the toe rings if you are married or unmarried, so we are good to go! The current was off when we returned to the mission & was off for at least 2 hours. Just when we thought we could not stand it anymore, God sent the rain & cool wind to care for us until the current returned. Please know that as we have tried to explain what we have been doing & even a little of how it has affected us, we are sure we are where we are supposed to be, doing what we are supposed to do! God is richly blessing us!

Isaiah 40:31
…but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength
They will soar on wings like eagles
They will run & not grow weary
They will walk & not be faint.

2010-06-25T15:57:00.002-05:00

As we sit here today thinking about what we have seen and done, it is hard to believe that we have been here almost a week. I have seen more of God in these last few days than I expected. Brother Henry wanted us to go to Tirumala this morning to see the largest Hindu Temple in India. He had to arrange another driver with a bigger car because Bala doesn't speak English very well so Praveen and Paul went with us. It was a lovely drive up the mountain to the temple. It was so serene and peaceful, little did I know what was at the top. When we got out of the car and walked to the temple, it reminded all of us of an amusement park, lots of chaos going on. At one point when I was walking down the stairs and the people were selling their 'wares' everywhere, all I could think of was how Jesus had overturned the tables in the temple where the people were doing their selling. We all talked about that and realized that our religion and their religion are sooooooooooooo different. I am so glad that our God is a loving and caring God and not one we have to bribe with 'things' to make him happy with us. We need to live the life that he taught us. We had a lovely lunch at the Hotel Bliss and returned back to Puttur for rest. I think we are going to rest this evening before doing a medical camp tomorrow.
Your Sister in Christ,
Deb Sherard

.....Freely you have received, freely give...... Mathew 10:8

Message from Sister Debbie

2010-06-24T08:34:00.001-05:00

Greeting to all from Puttur,

As we sit here today thinking about what we have seen and done, it is hard to believe that we have been here almost a week. I have seen more of God in these last few days than I expected. Brother Henry wanted us to go to Tirumala this morning to see the largest Hindu Temple in India. He had to arrange another driver with a bigger car because Bala doesn't speak English very well so Praveen and Paul went with us. It was a lovely drive up the mountain to the temple. It was so serene and peaceful, little did I know what was at the top. When we got out of the car and walked to the temple, it reminded all of us of an amusement park, lots of chaos going on. At one point when I was walking down the stairs and the people were sellint their 'wares' everywhere, all I could think of was how Jesus had overturned the tables in the temple where the people were doing their selling.We all talked about that and realized that our religion and their religion are sooooooooooooo different. I am so glad that our God is a loving and caring God and not one we have to bribe with 'things' to make him happy with us. We need to live the life that he taught us. We had a lovely lunch at the Hotel Bliss and returned back to Puttur for rest. I think we are going to rest this evening before doing a medical camp tomorrow.

Your Sister in Christ,

Deb Sherard

Monday Activities in Pictures

2010-06-22T05:39:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was jammed packed full of experiences.We started the day at the Good Shepherd Mission HIV/AIDS Support & Care Center. Here are some pictures to share.

In the afternoon, we "took rest, Sisters." We are really liking the afternoon rest! In the evening, we went to the Hospital to see the patients who had been selected at the Medical Cilinic on Sunday. They will have cataract surgery about 11:00PM. There are about 25 patients. We got a lovely surprise at the hospital as a baby had been born in afternoon. A beautiful girl baby was loved on by Linda & Debbie! The mother was somewhat disapointed that she did not have a boy baby. The baby & mom made 5 generations of women present at the hospital!

We then went to Brother Daniel's village to worship. We were greeted by rows of children with candles lighting our way to the church. We were given large leis of flowers & then we adjourned to an outside praise worship. There was much music! Ahnand's son Andrew is growing into a handsome young man with a voice of an angel! It truely is like watching your nephews & nieces grow up when you come back to the Mission. They are a precious generation of believers who are not afraid to proclaim their love for Jesus Christ! We all shared the message and drove back to the Mission.

Our final "new experience" for the day was a heavy rain storm. Usually it is hot & dry when we visit, but this time hot & wet! We sat on the porch & watched children & adults hurry through the rain & puddles. God Bless the young girl who ran to Praveens house (twice) to get Chai for us! Heavy rain brings many visitors to the porch. We have had many Gypsies around the mission this time. The "civilized" Gypsies sleep in a group of blue tarp tents. They were here last week, but one afternoon...gone without a trace (except the trash). Now the "uncivilized" Gypsies who sleep anywhere they put out their mat are here. Henry & his family care for the Gypsies. Viola (Henry's late wife) used to wander through the Gypsy camp to see if there were any babies who needed blankets or clothing. Henry allows them to sleep on their porch when it rains, even though their chattering late into the night often keeps him awake. Henry & our friends at Good Shepherd are truly the hands & feet of God, providing for those who do not have anything.

We are having many exciting experiences and will have many exciting stories to tell, so when we get back, please be patient with us as we will want to share! We are preparing to go to Kolladom today & spend the night, so we will post sometime tomorrow.

Sister Vicki Gentzell

The following pictures: Mother and son aids patients; Prayer garden in front of HIV/Aids Center

Group in front of the HIV/Aids cottages; Linda loves the new little girl

Monday at HIV/Aids Center

2010-06-21T10:10:00.002-05:00

We just received word from Sister Vicki:

Just a quick note. We spent the morning at GSM HIV care & support center. Our hearts are humbled and stolen by the people we saw. A 3 year old boy and his mother who reside there greeted us as we arrived. They are both HIV positive. Linda & Deb collected the stories and pictures of residents and families. There is much to be done, but there is much going on at the present time. Much more to come!!!

It rained hard this afternoon, so the porch is full of Gypsies! India is full of all kinds of people. We are waiting to go to worship at a nearby village. It maybe very short visit, depending on the rain. We will keep you posted!

Your Sisters in Christ
Vic

Isaiah 40:31~
"..but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength
They will soar on wings like eagles
They will run & not grow weary
They will walk & not be faint."

Word from Good Shepherd

2010-06-20T15:08:00.002-05:00

Though no pictures are attached I spoke with Sister Vicki this morning via cell phone. They are all doing very well. They had just returned from a medical camp in a small village by Tiriputi and Vicki was able to help identify 25 people for free surgery at the hospital tomorrow. They have toured several schools and spent time with the children. The medical camps are very busy...much need. They have many stories to share and hope to be able to send pictures and more information tomorrow. "Internet is unreliable" was a direct quote and they spent several hours without "current" for the last few days. They are enjoying their service time with the Good Shepherd staff. We will update, whether we have photos or not!

Stateside reporter - Sister Jeanette

Brief Report with More Promised

2010-06-18T11:27:00.002-05:00

We place our trust in the Lord, not technology!

I am very disappointed that I cannot get my laptop to connect to internet, but we go to Praveen's house or use Henry's laptop. We just cannot communicate as much as we would like to. Last night (Thursday evening US time) we worshiped in Kakavedu in a street service. We all spoke the message & prayed for the people. It started to sprinkle a little while Praveen prayed. The internet would not load up so we could not send. Today (Friday) we visited several schools and Linda & Deb loved seeing the children learning. We shopped at K&L textiles and had a lot of fun.The current went off for a short time. Long enough to make us appreciate it when it came back on. We laughed & praised the Lord for the fan.

Friday evening worship at the Ashram was beautiful. I prayed the Power of Protection message as Praveen translated my words to Teligu. We prayed for the evangelists and for the children. I think we are going to the Hindu temple at Tirimula tomorrow morning. We will keep you posted.

In Christ's Love,
Vicki Gentzell

Spreading the Word

2010-06-17T06:51:00.004-05:00

We worshiped last night at another church in Kakivedu We worshiped in the street with a medium gathering of mostly women & children. We sang with the praise band. Vicki shared a message about teaching the word to our children & family. We should share the stories morning & night, coming & going. If we don't share the good news we are not pleasing Our Lord! Last night we shared & pleased the Lord! Linda taught the Five Finger Prayer, as only a teacher can. She had the crowd counting on thier fingers & praying for others. Debbie taught from her Bible on her Kindle (Henry is very interested in it!) that we would never stop praying for them! There were chickens on piles of straw & dogs wandering throuh the crowd and we had a great evening!

On Thursday morning, we began our Beth Moore Bible study. We all listened to the CD & followed in our work books. It was a very revealing, we prayed for God to open our hearts to understand the Word. Beth taught that though we think we are persuing God, actually He is persuing us! He wants to be with us and care for us. We are excited about our study!

We just returned from morning worship in Appalayagunta. This is an area that Pastor John and his congregation had to fight for the right to worship! Back in the late 1990's, Jeanette and others in a Mission team tried to worship in the village, but were threatened by non-believers and had to leave before they could meet. The villagers cried & begged them to stay. Today they have a thriving church group that meets on Wednesday mornings, Friday evenings and Sunday mornings! The Lord is greatly pleased with the people in Appalayagunta! A village that is difficult to spell, impossible to say and easy to love!

Linda (finally) made a new friend of Noel, Praveen's youngest son!

We are planning to go shopping at K&L textiles this afternoon.

First Day Medical Camp from Sister Debbie

2010-06-16T06:34:00.003-05:00

Good Morning All,

What a glorious day in Puttur. God has blessed us with being able to attend our first medical camp. I had no idea what I was getting into, but this day has opened my eyes and my heart. We were welcomed into the hospital with an opening ceremony by Brother Henry. He introduced us and the doctors that would be providing care at this camp. We were then given the 'royal treatment and tour' of the facility. We spent time working with people who had just had eye surgery. The bandages were taken off and we were allowed to help them put their dark glasses on for the first time. This was a very special time for me since my mother has lost most of her eyesight and has had numerous eye surgeries. We were introduced to a Muslim woman who had just had eye surgery. We need to remember that our God is the God of all, specific religions don't matter, God loves all. After the eye clinic tour, we finished with the rest of the hospital and watched the drs. work with their patients. What an awesome experience to see how WPCC impacts people half way across the world.

Debbie

"The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed..."~Luke 4:18

News from Sister Vicki and the Travelers!

2010-06-15T10:42:00.003-05:00

Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ,

Our adventure so far has been all about the journey, not the destination! God pulled out all the stops to move us where we needed to be. We have met some very nice accommadating people along the way. Linda seems to always find a teacher to share experiences, Sleeping in the airport at New Delhi was much the same as sleeping in the airport at Newark, except they let you stay all night in Delhi. I went a little bonkers when we were without water for a couple of hours. It shames me that I can take my eye off of Jesus for just a moment & sink into the sea, just as Peter did. He provided us with water just a little later. We must be strong in our faith, for He is true & kind. We are just a little tired, but excited to be here.We stopped somewhere in Chennai for an Indian Continental Breakfast. Picture corn flakes with hot buffalo milk. TISI (this is so India) then back to our long ride to Puttur. Mary had fixed us a "Sunday" lunch. Red chicken legs & cooked carrots & peppered potatoes.

We have just finished at the Ashram saying hello to the children who are back from summer holiday and to the families & staff at the Mission. I have guessed so many people incorrectly, it is not funny! The kids change so much in 2 years! Everyone is tall & strong. Today is Edward Samuel Joel's 10th birthday, so, of course there was cake to be fed to us all! Whoops, probably given Sister Deb the head's up on that one. We are having dinner at Anitha & Praveen's house, so I am using Praveen's laptop, since I am having laptop power struggles. I will bring my laptop to Praveen's house daily to post.

In Christ's love!
Vicki Gentzell

"Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you." ~Psalm 9:10

We are in India, Sister!

2010-06-14T23:59:00.002-05:00

Just spoke with sister Vicki via cell phone call to Brother Henry. They are all well, all their bags came through just fine and they are with Brother Henry and the Good Shepherd staff on their way to the mission where they will have time to rest and recover from their trip for a little while. I asked if it was hot and Vicki said "we are in India Sister, it is hot!" but they are delighted to be there and begin to serve with our brothers and sisters at Good Shepherd Mission. Thank you for your prayers!!

"The LORD reigns, let the earth be glad; let the distant shores rejoice!" ~Psalm 97:1

Delhi Update

2010-06-14T14:49:00.004-05:00

We have a report from Vicki. They are in the Delhi airport.....it is 1:30 AM on Tuesday and they have found a spot to wait until their flight at 6:45 AM to Chennai. Everything is closed but they are all doing fine and anxious to get their final flight. Please pray for their safe travel and for their luggage! The phone call was very short but Vicki wanted us to know that they are all well after their 15 hour flight from Chicago to Delhi. We will keep this updated!!

"O my Strength, I watch for you; you, O God, are my fortress" ~Psalm 59:9

Flex and flow

2010-06-13T20:28:00.003-05:00

Our sisters missed the connecting flight in Chicago due to weather and have been re-routed on a flight directly to Delhi. Sister Vicki told the airline representative that an upgrade to business or first class would be acceptable :) if they could work that out. Once in Delhi they will spend the night in the Indira Ghandi airport and then catch an early Tuesday AM flight to Chennai arriving at 9:20 AM.

Please keep them in your prayers! It is always an adventure and each trip is unique. We pray for their strength and flexibility as the journey has taken an unexpected turn.

Check out the first post by clicking on "older post" to see our team at the KCI airport!

Three Musketeers Leave for Good Shepherd

2010-06-13T16:46:00.003-05:00

A new adventure and mission trip for Good Shepherd got off to a spurting start this afternoon. Linda Swope, Vicki Gentzell and Deb Sherard left KCI 2.5 hrs late for Chicago then to India via Brussels. Hopefully all connections will be made and they arrive safe, on time and with some energy left.

Keep tuning in for the latest updates from Vicki, Linda and Deb. Your prayers for them and for those that they will encounter are greatly appreciated and sought after.

"the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Psalm 121:8

2010-01-09T05:26:00.002-06:00

In Frankfurt

The plane from Frankfurt to Newark is scheduled on time and has just arrived. We landed in snow--we had circled for an hour!

The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time on and forevermore. -Psalm 121:8 (NRSV)

2010-01-08T10:32:00.001-06:00

Send Off at the Airport

We are in the airport waiting to go through baggage security and then to the ticket counter. We will see you in Frankfurt!

In you, O LORD, I take refuge; . . . Be to me a rock of refuge, a strong fortress, to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress. -Psalm 71:1, 3 (NRSV)

2010-01-08T07:45:00.001-06:00

Friday

We all slept like rocks last night. Praveen came about 11am and took us to the music store. We had a great time there. The one man there wants to study music in the USA. He played and sang songs for us. I accompanied him on Suzy Q!!!! We then went to Spencer's and shopped til we dropped-actually it was as long as it took for Doug to kill himself-1 hour 45 minutes. It is okay-he had fun!! Lavanya met us at Spencer's-she is sponsored by the Humphrey's-and we paid $200 for her last semester tuition in college. She is studying chemistry. We ate at Pizza Hut and then back to the hotel to check out. We are now waiting comfortably at the hotel before going to the airport to wait outside before we can enter.

A vision for the appointed time ... speaks of the end. ... If it seems to tarry, wait for it; it will surely come, it will not delay. -Habakkuk 2:3 (NRSV)

2010-01-08T05:04:00.003-06:00

Thursday Night

We are in Chennai. We ate at the hotel and then Praveen took us to St. Thomas Basilica--very, very beautiful!! There was a wedding while we were there. We then went down to the Bay of Bengal (right behind the church) then back to the hotel for rest, early dinner, and sleep.

Jesus said, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." -Mark 6:31 (NIV)

2010-01-07T06:31:00.005-06:00

Thursday

We had breakfast at Vijay and Grace's house.

Doug wants one!

After breakfast, we sang hymns and said prayers. Grace is giving Stacie a blessing and then the tears began flowing as we said our good byes and gave hugs. Well, maybe not good byes but "see you later"!

Doug-I thank God for Charlie and Marianna for opening up my eyes to what God is doing through Brother Henry here at GSM. Miracles truly happen here, and we are the fortunate ones to see them with our own eyes. For me, these mission trips to GSM are an integral part of every journey with God. Perhaps the most vivid times in my life when I can actually feel His transforming power at work in and through me and my co-missionaries.

Before leaving, we blessed the new slit lamp and new dental chair. The microscope will be picked up in Chennai tomorrow and brought to the airport for our send off!!

Give thanks to the LORD, because he is good; his love is eternal. -Psalm 136:1 (TEV)

2010-01-07T06:11:00.010-06:00

Wednesday Evening

Our last evening at the mission was probably the most powerful and emotional. We purchased blankets for the poor (this sect of poor do not bathe, some do not wear clothing, and they do not live in houses). We distributed 50 blankets. They treasured their gifts-you would have thought we had given them a million dollars!

The children are lined up in the Ashram receiving one set of clothing and a blanket.

Tara is distributing a blanket.

This little boy is at the mission with his brother. The father has passed away and the mother also stays at the mission so she can be watched because she is mentally unstable. He carries the little beanie baby puppy around with him that we gave him. He is so precious.

Vijay, Henry's brother, leads the Evangelists in prayer thanking us for our journey to GSM and for safe travel home. Paradise is to the right of Vijay (with microphone). We held a service at his village when we first arrived. The tears flowed as we were thanked individually.

The outside area was dark--we served food to over 400 people!!!

The story behind this picture--Mary served us food for almost two weeks and Doug served Mary heaping amounts of food out in the court yard--they feel it is their duty to serve as we are guests. So, after we served, we went back to the house (for dinner-not that we were hungry) and Mary brought heaping amounts of food for Doug.
Ahh amaaa!!

After no one was hungry to eat (as it was 10:30 pm) and we were physically, emotionally, and spiritually exhausted, the girls brought henna to decorate our hands. It took about an hour and then we had to wait an hour to let it dry(we couldn't do it)--we just went to bed and just crashed!

Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. -James 1:17 (NRSV)

2010-01-06T07:32:00.013-06:00

Dedication

The band and singers sang the Welcome song for each person and special guests--whew, I thought we were going to be singing ALL day!!

Sister Diann reads the dedication for Terry's cottage.

Robin says a prayer.

Sister Diann displays the sign.

Brother Doug and Sister Helen read the dedication and Sister Deb prays for Phyllis' cottages.

Pastor Stacie says the prayer for the Jesus room Sister Diann dedicated to the team.

People enjoying a wonderful meal!

Banana leaves for plates--Doug & Pete used the leaves for plates and ate with their hands but the rest of us remained Americanized!!!

Jen-It's good to be back... I'd say it's good to be home but I don't want to scare anyone! You really do feel so welcome here, and you know it's where you are suppose to be. I said when I was here in '97 how stunning the children are here, and nothing's changed. Pete had devotions the other morning and the verse he chose was Matthew 18:5- "Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me.". This verse totally explains Good Shepherd Mission. Henry is completely open to God's will. He surrenders it all, and in his weakness God's grace gives him the strength to provide for so many. You can see the love of Jesus coming through in the faces and smiles of all the children here. Henry receives these children with open arms and in return he is blessed over and over again.

Henry and his grandson, Henry Samuel, Praveen and Anita's son.

[Jesus] took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them. -Mark 10:16 (NIV)

2010-01-06T05:36:00.004-06:00

Tuesday Night

The team was treated to a wonderful meal last night by Praveen and Anita. Before leaving, we saw the new slit lamp that was purchased with your generous donations. Brother Henry and Praveen and ALL the satff are so excited and appreciative of the gifts--slit lamp, dental chair (funds from Grace Evangelical in Missouri), microscope, clothing gifts for all the children and staff, blankets for the children and 50 poor people, a dedication meal and celebration (funded by Sister Paula Flippin), a meal hosted and served by the team, dinner for the medical staff, only 4 medical camps which the strikes cut short because we were unable to get to Kolladam--please note, all medications not distributed at camps is then distributed free at the hospital--and lastly, part of the prayer garden (the rest of the garden will be completed as the cottages will be finished--more donations are needed for it's completion). We have a list of needs and concerns for women health issues to work on next. One last note so it is not forgotten,Praveen has decided to have the 5 residents for the HIV/AIDS center begin residing now rather than February 1 even though there is no furniture, ceiling fans, lights, and other amenities in which donations are needed.

Deb--This musical chorus has played over and over in my head for the past ten days:
"We are standing on holy ground, for I know that there are angels all around. Let us praise Jesus now, for web are standing in His presence on holy ground."

Wherever God is present becomes sacred and he is surely present at the Good Shepherd Mission. We have felt it again and again.

Mary has spoiled us. We have such a variety and abundance of food for each meal (but nothing goes to waste because what is not eaten goes to the children). We came back one day to potato chips.

The Dedication!!

What work has gone into getting the cottages ready and how beautiful they are!!! This picture shows Terry's cottage. Can you see the brick walkway?

The psalmist wrote, "The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts; so I am helped." -Psalm 28:7 (NRSV)

2010-01-05T12:54:00.007-06:00

HIV/AIDS Center

We started the day working at HIV/AIDS center--lots to do because the dedication is tomorrow. We really wanted to work on the prayer garden but the brick layer had to do the work so we went with the flow!!! Deb, Jen, and Morgan are painting the walls.

Robin is helping filter the sand from the gravel.

Doug and Pete are transferring gravel.

Robin - Philippians 4:9
"Put into practice what you have learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together will work you into his excellent harmonies."

I hope to be as gracious, open, and loving as the people I've met in India. Their wide open arms and hearts are truely an expression of God's excellent harmonies.

Morgan- I want to thank my wonderful family for allowing me to take this journey. The Good Shepherd Mission is a place all should see, hear, or experience for themselves.

Pete says hi and tell my mom to send money. (Don't worry-we ARE bringing him home!!!!!)

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord and not for people. -Colossians 3:23 (TEV)