Hi friends!
So, I realized some of you might be wondering why I am going back, how this decision was made, what happened!?
Well... I will start from the beginning...
When I got to South Africa in April and began my DTS, of course everything was new... new cultures, new people, new everything! Most of us are used to having our own room but instead I shared a room with 3 amazing girls. But because of that, I no longer had a place to pray alone... so I would usually go to the roof and pray. It was usually empty and it gives such a beautiful view of Muizenberg. There are 3 main things that happened in my decision to go back to South Africa, the first thing happened while praying on the roof....
So one night, I was praying on the roof and I could see the city lights and I felt God say, "You're going to go to the villages for 3 months".... and I'm like okay whatever you say God, whatever that means lol....
I never forgot what He said that night but I didn't think about it a whole lot. Next... I had been waiting to hear more about YWAM's "Frontier Missions." The day came where Adelson spoke about this ministry and at one point he mentioned Sudan, and something stirred in me. I began researching Sudan, the places YWAM has been in Sudan, and pretty much anything I could find (South Sudan specifically)... After this, I just left it and figured God would do what He wanted, when He wanted...
The third thing that happened... The leader of the Church Planting School had mentioned something to me about this school but I dismissed it, thinking I probably won't want to do a school right after my DTS. But for whatever reason, I began looking up whatever I could find about the school. I saw that it started in September and I saw the classes it provides....but then this is what really stuck out....
This school will be going to Sudan...to the villages...for three months....
Now, I don't know about you all but I don't fully believe in coincidences... all of this happened by May 2010.
So, for the past 4ish months I've been praying about this school, about Sudan, and just asking God to give me whatever it is He desires. During these 4 months I knew this is what I wanted and what God wants. So here I am, it's decision time, and all I can do is trust God. He will do whatever He wants with this situation....
...and as most of you know, I sold my car and some other things for my first trip. Now I have nothing else to sell so I really do have to fully rely on God to provide. It's insanely scary!! I've heard a million miraculous stories of how God provided in others' lives, I've read their books, I've seen it... and I've always said to God, how I would love to see Him do something crazy like that in my life!! ....and now here I am, thinking... well maybe this is the time where God does something like that for me... so... here we go... SOUTH AFRICA ROUND 2!!
Thank you guys for your support, encouragement, and love!! It means so much! Pray with me for strength, finances, and faith... I know God is going to do something crazy....
Let's do this!
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Heading back to Africa!!
Hi Friends!
WOW!!! So, I am obviously back from my 5 month DTS (Discipleship Training School)! It was the best, hardest, most exciting, and life changing thing I have ever done. My heart has grown for missions even more! God has shown me so many new things about Him, about me, people, life, everything... and I have lots of fun stories to share... I'll have to find a fun spot to put all those stories.... Anyway, so what is my next adventure? Well... I'm heading back to South Africa on September 24! YAY! I'm so so so excited and can't wait to see what God does this time.
As you can tell, I'm not very good at keeping up with this whole blogging thing. Plus, for the two months I was in Steinkopf, South Africa, we didn't have internet access so that really gave me an excuse to be lazy about blogging LoL. However, this is South Africa Round TWO! ...and I'm going to try my best to keep up with updates... I've also thought about doing some Video Blogs, that way you all can really see what's going on.
For now... Here is my newsletter. It has a ton of information about YWAM, Church Planting (my next school with YWAM), and a little info about me :)
Thank you all so much for your support and encouragement!
I love you all LOTS and LOTS!
Here we go!!!
Here is my newsletter with all the info about my next mission!
I have this note in "newsletter form" as well, if you would like an email let me know!
Love you all... here we go!
YWAM: Youth With A Mission
Kelly Slaton
“To know God and to make Him known”
Youth With A Mission (YWAM) is an international movement of Christians from many denominations, united by love and dedicated to presenting Christ personally to this generation. YWAM is completely a volunteer organization comprised of people of every age serving in both short and long term capacities all over the world. All staff and workers are non-salaried. YWAM is currently operating in more than 1000 locations in over 180 countries, with a staff of over 18,000.
The YWAM Muizenberg, South Africa Base is located in Cape Town. This base serves as a multi-cultural platform to embrace, equip and launch people into all nations to reveal Christ.
Kelly has spent the last 5 months in South Africa where she completed Discipleship Training School (DTS). A DTS consists of 3 months of lectures and local outreach in the community of Muizenberg, followed by 2 months of outreach in another location. Kelly’s outreach location was in Steinkopf, South Africa.
The Steinkopf Team consisted of 5 team members from 5 nations (USA, Brazil, Namibia, Nigeria, Kenya). For two months the team ministered to the youth, old age home, disabled home, and children of Steinkopf. God used them in many ways!
What is Kelly’s next step? The School of Church Planting and Leadership!
Beginning: SEPTEMBER 26, 2011!!!!!
WHO IS YWAM?
When YWAM began in 1960, the main focus was giving young people opportunities to demonstrate the love of Jesus to the whole world, according to His command in Mark 16:15. Today, we still focus on youth, but we have members (known as “YWAMers”) of almost every age and many of our short-term efforts have grown into long-term endeavors that have impacted lives and nations.
YWAM has a decentralized structure that encourages new vision and the exploration of new ways to change lives through training, convey the message of the gospel and care for those in need. We are currently operating in more than 1000 locations in over 180 countries, with a staff of over 18,000.
WHAT IS YWAM DOING IN MUIZENBERG?
YWAM Muizenberg has two defining aspects that makes the base unique. The first is that it is nations base. Meaning, they often have over 30 nations represented on the base at one time. This creates a very dynamic environment that increases our ability to gain God's heart for the world and creates many opportunities to learn from one another.
The second prominent aspect is that they are a pioneering base. They not only desire to gather many nations in one location, but they seek to see these people equipped to go out into all nations to reach the lost. In line with this, YWAM Muizenberg runs various training schools as well as many ministries to take part in.
HOW DOES KELLY FIT INTO ALL THIS?
WHAT IS HER NEXT STEP?
Kelly was raised in Orlando Florida. She grew up learning about God but not fully accepting Him as her personal Savior until April 2010. Kelly felt her first call to missions and joined the Faith Assembly of God youth group. She went on her first mission trip to Managua, Nicaragua for 8 days with 16 other members from the youth group. This was in May of 2010.
During this time she was also student at the University of Central Florida. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in December of 2010 from UCF. After returning from Nicaragua, Kelly knew she wanted to give missions another try, and that’s when she found out about YWAM!
Kelly joined YWAM to complete her DTS in April 2010 in Muizenberg, South Africa. After graduating from DTS in September 2010, she has decided to join YWAM as a full time student. During her DTS Kelly prayed and asked God what her next step should be. Kelly has a passion for Africa and feels that God has called her to learn about Church Planting. The School of Church Planting and Leadership is another source of training that YWAM offers.
NEXT STEP: WHAT IS CHURCH PLANTING?
About three-billion people in the world do not yet know Jesus Christ. Almost two-thirds of those people do not have the Bible in their own language or understand how the Word of God fits in their culture. This means that over two-billion people will not come to know Jesus unless someone is daring enough to take God's love and move into these cultures with an aim to evangelize, disciple, and plant churches.
God has stirred YWAMers to commit them to pioneer church planting. In obedience and faith teams have been formed, trained, and launched. Missionary Floyd McClung wrote, “It is essential we recognize the New Testament does not speak of just winning ‘sheep’ but also forming them into ‘flocks’… Church planting is a fulfillment of God’s desire to father His people into kingdom communities.”
THE SCHOOL OF CHURCH PLANTING AND LEADERSHIP: 6 MONTHS
3 Months Lecture Phase with Local Outreach.
The Lectures consist of:
-Evangelism Methods -Church/Mission History
-Discipleship Makers -Hebrews 6
-Biblical Worldview -Acts and life of Paul
-Unreached People Group ….and more!
3 Months Outreach Phase:
The students will prayerfully choose which location to complete their outreach. The locations the teams will possibly choose from are: South Sudan, Mozambique, and East London (South Africa).
WHERE DO KELLY’S FINANCES COME FROM?
The 35,000+ short term and 18,000+ long term staff members of YWAM are all voluntary workers who are supported financially and through prayer by their local churches, family and friends. Kelly has included her budget below to tell us what she needs.
WHAT WILL KELLY NEED FOR SIX MONTHS?
Plane Flight: $1,700.00
School Fees:
Lecture Phase: $2,300.00
Outreach Cost: $1,500-$3,000
Medical Insurance: $300 one time payment
Personal Expenses: $300 one time payment
TOTAL: around $6,000.00
Kelly is currently focused on raising finances for the Plane Flight. The School Fees do not need to be paid before the school starts. Of course this would be best. However, YWAM allows students to raise funds during the Lecture Phase (First 3 months of school). Because YWAM is a non-salaried organization, they are flexible with fees and due dates knowing that God always provides enough in His own way and time.
HOW TO DONATE?
There is a Donate button on this page that puts your gift into a PayPal account I have set up... cool!
Donations can also be mailed, send me an email if this option is best for you!
Any Questions? Prayer Requests? Anything!! Email Kelly at:
KellyMSlaton@yahoo.com
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this.
Please be in prayers with Kelly as she goes after her next mission!
Websites and more fun information!
ywammuizenberg.org
Fun Stuff to read:
http://ywamarua.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-02-08T00%3A00%3A00%2B08%3A00&max-results=5
Videos in Issore Pyam, South Sudan:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5XvXNYxkGU
http://ywamafricom.org/video/ywam-yei-south-sudan
Video about the YWAM Arua, Uganda Base. They work in Southern Sudan as well:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgjdTNlMpII&feature=share
WOW!!! So, I am obviously back from my 5 month DTS (Discipleship Training School)! It was the best, hardest, most exciting, and life changing thing I have ever done. My heart has grown for missions even more! God has shown me so many new things about Him, about me, people, life, everything... and I have lots of fun stories to share... I'll have to find a fun spot to put all those stories.... Anyway, so what is my next adventure? Well... I'm heading back to South Africa on September 24! YAY! I'm so so so excited and can't wait to see what God does this time.
As you can tell, I'm not very good at keeping up with this whole blogging thing. Plus, for the two months I was in Steinkopf, South Africa, we didn't have internet access so that really gave me an excuse to be lazy about blogging LoL. However, this is South Africa Round TWO! ...and I'm going to try my best to keep up with updates... I've also thought about doing some Video Blogs, that way you all can really see what's going on.
For now... Here is my newsletter. It has a ton of information about YWAM, Church Planting (my next school with YWAM), and a little info about me :)
Thank you all so much for your support and encouragement!
I love you all LOTS and LOTS!
Here we go!!!
Here is my newsletter with all the info about my next mission!
I have this note in "newsletter form" as well, if you would like an email let me know!
Love you all... here we go!
YWAM: Youth With A Mission
Kelly Slaton
“To know God and to make Him known”
Youth With A Mission (YWAM) is an international movement of Christians from many denominations, united by love and dedicated to presenting Christ personally to this generation. YWAM is completely a volunteer organization comprised of people of every age serving in both short and long term capacities all over the world. All staff and workers are non-salaried. YWAM is currently operating in more than 1000 locations in over 180 countries, with a staff of over 18,000.
The YWAM Muizenberg, South Africa Base is located in Cape Town. This base serves as a multi-cultural platform to embrace, equip and launch people into all nations to reveal Christ.
Kelly has spent the last 5 months in South Africa where she completed Discipleship Training School (DTS). A DTS consists of 3 months of lectures and local outreach in the community of Muizenberg, followed by 2 months of outreach in another location. Kelly’s outreach location was in Steinkopf, South Africa.
The Steinkopf Team consisted of 5 team members from 5 nations (USA, Brazil, Namibia, Nigeria, Kenya). For two months the team ministered to the youth, old age home, disabled home, and children of Steinkopf. God used them in many ways!
What is Kelly’s next step? The School of Church Planting and Leadership!
Beginning: SEPTEMBER 26, 2011!!!!!
WHO IS YWAM?
When YWAM began in 1960, the main focus was giving young people opportunities to demonstrate the love of Jesus to the whole world, according to His command in Mark 16:15. Today, we still focus on youth, but we have members (known as “YWAMers”) of almost every age and many of our short-term efforts have grown into long-term endeavors that have impacted lives and nations.
YWAM has a decentralized structure that encourages new vision and the exploration of new ways to change lives through training, convey the message of the gospel and care for those in need. We are currently operating in more than 1000 locations in over 180 countries, with a staff of over 18,000.
WHAT IS YWAM DOING IN MUIZENBERG?
YWAM Muizenberg has two defining aspects that makes the base unique. The first is that it is nations base. Meaning, they often have over 30 nations represented on the base at one time. This creates a very dynamic environment that increases our ability to gain God's heart for the world and creates many opportunities to learn from one another.
The second prominent aspect is that they are a pioneering base. They not only desire to gather many nations in one location, but they seek to see these people equipped to go out into all nations to reach the lost. In line with this, YWAM Muizenberg runs various training schools as well as many ministries to take part in.
HOW DOES KELLY FIT INTO ALL THIS?
WHAT IS HER NEXT STEP?
Kelly was raised in Orlando Florida. She grew up learning about God but not fully accepting Him as her personal Savior until April 2010. Kelly felt her first call to missions and joined the Faith Assembly of God youth group. She went on her first mission trip to Managua, Nicaragua for 8 days with 16 other members from the youth group. This was in May of 2010.
During this time she was also student at the University of Central Florida. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in December of 2010 from UCF. After returning from Nicaragua, Kelly knew she wanted to give missions another try, and that’s when she found out about YWAM!
Kelly joined YWAM to complete her DTS in April 2010 in Muizenberg, South Africa. After graduating from DTS in September 2010, she has decided to join YWAM as a full time student. During her DTS Kelly prayed and asked God what her next step should be. Kelly has a passion for Africa and feels that God has called her to learn about Church Planting. The School of Church Planting and Leadership is another source of training that YWAM offers.
NEXT STEP: WHAT IS CHURCH PLANTING?
About three-billion people in the world do not yet know Jesus Christ. Almost two-thirds of those people do not have the Bible in their own language or understand how the Word of God fits in their culture. This means that over two-billion people will not come to know Jesus unless someone is daring enough to take God's love and move into these cultures with an aim to evangelize, disciple, and plant churches.
God has stirred YWAMers to commit them to pioneer church planting. In obedience and faith teams have been formed, trained, and launched. Missionary Floyd McClung wrote, “It is essential we recognize the New Testament does not speak of just winning ‘sheep’ but also forming them into ‘flocks’… Church planting is a fulfillment of God’s desire to father His people into kingdom communities.”
THE SCHOOL OF CHURCH PLANTING AND LEADERSHIP: 6 MONTHS
3 Months Lecture Phase with Local Outreach.
The Lectures consist of:
-Evangelism Methods -Church/Mission History
-Discipleship Makers -Hebrews 6
-Biblical Worldview -Acts and life of Paul
-Unreached People Group ….and more!
3 Months Outreach Phase:
The students will prayerfully choose which location to complete their outreach. The locations the teams will possibly choose from are: South Sudan, Mozambique, and East London (South Africa).
WHERE DO KELLY’S FINANCES COME FROM?
The 35,000+ short term and 18,000+ long term staff members of YWAM are all voluntary workers who are supported financially and through prayer by their local churches, family and friends. Kelly has included her budget below to tell us what she needs.
WHAT WILL KELLY NEED FOR SIX MONTHS?
Plane Flight: $1,700.00
School Fees:
Lecture Phase: $2,300.00
Outreach Cost: $1,500-$3,000
Medical Insurance: $300 one time payment
Personal Expenses: $300 one time payment
TOTAL: around $6,000.00
Kelly is currently focused on raising finances for the Plane Flight. The School Fees do not need to be paid before the school starts. Of course this would be best. However, YWAM allows students to raise funds during the Lecture Phase (First 3 months of school). Because YWAM is a non-salaried organization, they are flexible with fees and due dates knowing that God always provides enough in His own way and time.
HOW TO DONATE?
There is a Donate button on this page that puts your gift into a PayPal account I have set up... cool!
Donations can also be mailed, send me an email if this option is best for you!
Any Questions? Prayer Requests? Anything!! Email Kelly at:
KellyMSlaton@yahoo.com
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this.
Please be in prayers with Kelly as she goes after her next mission!
Websites and more fun information!
ywammuizenberg.org
Fun Stuff to read:
http://ywamarua.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-02-08T00%3A00%3A00%2B08%3A00&max-results=5
Videos in Issore Pyam, South Sudan:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5XvXNYxkGU
http://ywamafricom.org/video/ywam-yei-south-sudan
Video about the YWAM Arua, Uganda Base. They work in Southern Sudan as well:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgjdTNlMpII&feature=share
Friday, May 20, 2011
Time is flying by...
Woww… IT’S BEEN 7 WEEKS!! I’ve been in South Africa for almost two months. The time is flying by! We’ve gone through 7 weeks of lectures and they have all been more than amazing!! The topics of each week have been:
The Character and Nature of God, The Trinity, Hearing The Voice of GOD, Father Heart of God, The Cost of Discipleship, Grace, Personal Design and Calling, and next week will be on Relationships :)
We have 4 weeks left of lectures and the 5th week we will spend in Mossel Bay, South Africa. So… what have I been doing? What have I been learning? What will happen for the next three months? LOTS and LOTS!
This place feels like home now… I mean, it did when I first got here, but now it feels normal. I know everyone much better, building some great friendships, learning so much about God, learning more of who I am and how God made me, learning to really rely on God… SO many things… I’m so thankful to be here! I have had some hard days/nights of course, but God has brought me through them… The other night we were learning a lot about the Holy Spirit and we had another school there with us just praying and encouraging us… One thing God spoke was that I am right where I need to be, that He is fighting for me, that I am like a plant that is taken out of it’s holder and being planted into the soil. At first, things might be new and uncomfortable but He is making the roots much stronger for me, and they will grow deep. So, I’m learning to really trust God with that instead of constantly asking Him what’s going on, what should I do, etc… It’s so nice to know that we have a God in heaven who is fighting for us, who wants the best for us, and who we can lean on and trust in at all times!
Soo…besides all of the weekly lectures, we have a lot more going on… Twice a week we go to a township called Capricorn. It’s a 5 minute drive so we all pile in the bed of a truck… usually 6-7 of us. It’s a pretty funny sight because we are all a mixture of people from: America, Nigeria, South Korea, South Africa, New Zealand, Kenya, Germany… but a beautiful mixture at that! We go to Capricorn every Tuesday and Wednesday. There are two ministries there on Tuesday: Children’s and Door to Door. I work with the children’s ministry. We walk through the township to a “safe house” where 12 children live with one house mother. The children have been either abandoned, abused, or just couldn’t be taken care of. They are all so beautiful and fun to be with. There are 6 girls and 6 boys. The five of us (Charlenn, Chirlaine, myself, Dachung, and Jihye) go here every Tuesday and Wednesday for 2 hours. We play for awhile with the kids and then gather them together and plan something fun! Usually we start with a song, then share a story from the Bible, do a fun craft, and then pray. Their house mother is a Christian so they all know about God and Jesus… it’s a lot of fun seeing them want to learn more… and it is soo cute and wonderful to see them pray! They all know the Our Father and will proudly/happily pray it outloud. Some of them are learning and like to pray without the Our Father which is so great to see also… they understand that they can pray anything to our God and that God hears all of our prayers.
The door to door team does exactly that. They walk through Capricorn to the different houses talking with the people, asking if they need prayer, encouraging people, sharing God's love, praying for healing. Praise Report!!~ Our team went to a house where a woman had terrible asthma, needing the inhaler, and they prayed for healing... and God healed her, AMEN? Amen!! How amazing is our God! They still go to her house and she is doing well. There are also a lot of sad stories within the community, a lot of pain, but we are in prayer that God can heal this community.
We also have outreach where we just walk to the beach, or wherever God might lead us, and share His love with people. It’s a bit challenging and awkward at first because you basically walk up to a stranger and say Hi, how are you? …and pretty much every time it turns out to be a great conversation between you and a stranger. But, I believe that God makes these “God appointments” for us to share His love with others. It’s probably one of my favorite things to sit and pray with a stranger. It’s so encouraging… and God put us on this earth to care about each other, so ya… that is some of what we’ve been doing.
What else… ah! For the last two months of the DTS (Discipleship Training School) we will be on Outreach.. so the lecture and local outreach phase will end and we will travel to a new location. One team will be going out of the country and the team I am going with is headed to Steinkopf, South Africa!! This is in the north-west part of South Africa near the border of Namibia. I don’t know a lot about this location yet, we’re just about to learn everything we will do there, what it’s like, what the culture is like.. I think we might be starting a youth group there, but I really have no idea. Either way, we all just want to do whatever God’s will is. I’m super excited! The people on my team are Dachung, Tahnii, Jihye, Refemetswe, Pascal, and Ana. Please be in prayer with us that we will see God’s vision for this place, that we will be obedient to His will, that we will have boldness, a heart for this place and the people there, and also for finances to come through. We have to raise $10,000 Rand which is about $1,500. We don't have all of the funds yet but of course God is our Provider and we trust in Him!
Thank you all so much for your support, prayers, and love. My time here has been so amazing and life changing… I’m very excited to see what else God has in store. I will try and update a little bit more often!! If you have any questions, comments, anything, feel free to comment below or email me… Love you guys lots!!! I miss you all too!! Blessings!!
Kelly
The Character and Nature of God, The Trinity, Hearing The Voice of GOD, Father Heart of God, The Cost of Discipleship, Grace, Personal Design and Calling, and next week will be on Relationships :)
We have 4 weeks left of lectures and the 5th week we will spend in Mossel Bay, South Africa. So… what have I been doing? What have I been learning? What will happen for the next three months? LOTS and LOTS!
This place feels like home now… I mean, it did when I first got here, but now it feels normal. I know everyone much better, building some great friendships, learning so much about God, learning more of who I am and how God made me, learning to really rely on God… SO many things… I’m so thankful to be here! I have had some hard days/nights of course, but God has brought me through them… The other night we were learning a lot about the Holy Spirit and we had another school there with us just praying and encouraging us… One thing God spoke was that I am right where I need to be, that He is fighting for me, that I am like a plant that is taken out of it’s holder and being planted into the soil. At first, things might be new and uncomfortable but He is making the roots much stronger for me, and they will grow deep. So, I’m learning to really trust God with that instead of constantly asking Him what’s going on, what should I do, etc… It’s so nice to know that we have a God in heaven who is fighting for us, who wants the best for us, and who we can lean on and trust in at all times!
Soo…besides all of the weekly lectures, we have a lot more going on… Twice a week we go to a township called Capricorn. It’s a 5 minute drive so we all pile in the bed of a truck… usually 6-7 of us. It’s a pretty funny sight because we are all a mixture of people from: America, Nigeria, South Korea, South Africa, New Zealand, Kenya, Germany… but a beautiful mixture at that! We go to Capricorn every Tuesday and Wednesday. There are two ministries there on Tuesday: Children’s and Door to Door. I work with the children’s ministry. We walk through the township to a “safe house” where 12 children live with one house mother. The children have been either abandoned, abused, or just couldn’t be taken care of. They are all so beautiful and fun to be with. There are 6 girls and 6 boys. The five of us (Charlenn, Chirlaine, myself, Dachung, and Jihye) go here every Tuesday and Wednesday for 2 hours. We play for awhile with the kids and then gather them together and plan something fun! Usually we start with a song, then share a story from the Bible, do a fun craft, and then pray. Their house mother is a Christian so they all know about God and Jesus… it’s a lot of fun seeing them want to learn more… and it is soo cute and wonderful to see them pray! They all know the Our Father and will proudly/happily pray it outloud. Some of them are learning and like to pray without the Our Father which is so great to see also… they understand that they can pray anything to our God and that God hears all of our prayers.
The door to door team does exactly that. They walk through Capricorn to the different houses talking with the people, asking if they need prayer, encouraging people, sharing God's love, praying for healing. Praise Report!!~ Our team went to a house where a woman had terrible asthma, needing the inhaler, and they prayed for healing... and God healed her, AMEN? Amen!! How amazing is our God! They still go to her house and she is doing well. There are also a lot of sad stories within the community, a lot of pain, but we are in prayer that God can heal this community.
We also have outreach where we just walk to the beach, or wherever God might lead us, and share His love with people. It’s a bit challenging and awkward at first because you basically walk up to a stranger and say Hi, how are you? …and pretty much every time it turns out to be a great conversation between you and a stranger. But, I believe that God makes these “God appointments” for us to share His love with others. It’s probably one of my favorite things to sit and pray with a stranger. It’s so encouraging… and God put us on this earth to care about each other, so ya… that is some of what we’ve been doing.
What else… ah! For the last two months of the DTS (Discipleship Training School) we will be on Outreach.. so the lecture and local outreach phase will end and we will travel to a new location. One team will be going out of the country and the team I am going with is headed to Steinkopf, South Africa!! This is in the north-west part of South Africa near the border of Namibia. I don’t know a lot about this location yet, we’re just about to learn everything we will do there, what it’s like, what the culture is like.. I think we might be starting a youth group there, but I really have no idea. Either way, we all just want to do whatever God’s will is. I’m super excited! The people on my team are Dachung, Tahnii, Jihye, Refemetswe, Pascal, and Ana. Please be in prayer with us that we will see God’s vision for this place, that we will be obedient to His will, that we will have boldness, a heart for this place and the people there, and also for finances to come through. We have to raise $10,000 Rand which is about $1,500. We don't have all of the funds yet but of course God is our Provider and we trust in Him!
Thank you all so much for your support, prayers, and love. My time here has been so amazing and life changing… I’m very excited to see what else God has in store. I will try and update a little bit more often!! If you have any questions, comments, anything, feel free to comment below or email me… Love you guys lots!!! I miss you all too!! Blessings!!
Kelly
Sunday, April 10, 2011
I'm like a sponge...
What a week it has been!! Every week we have a lecture topic and to start off we learned about the "Character and Nature of God." It was such a great way to start out, learning a lot about our God.. He is awesome! One of the things that stood out for me was that we are Righteous! We are counted as righteous by our faith alone. I knew that it wasn't through works, but I never thought of myself as righteous. What a glorious God we have... I also took away with me that God is pleased with me. I think at times we can all be very hard on ourselves. It is so hard for humans to just accept a gift, especially from God. So we try so incredibly hard to be perfect, to scrub away the junk, to do everything we possibly can to be righteous. But, in reality.. we will never be perfect. No one is good, not one (Romans 3:10)... but we are righteous through faith. So it is important to remember that changing is a process.. and that God will give us strength and help us at all times.
So... that was week one of lectures... we learned a ton from Romans 1-8. If anyone would like my notes just email/facebook/comment here... :)
I'm sure some of you are wondering what a typical day looks like for a DTS (Discipleship Training School) Student.... Welll.....
7am- Breakfast
7:30-8am- Quiet Time
8-1pm- Lecture
1pm- Lunch
1:30-6- Free time, work duties, outreach
6pm- Dinner
This is what a typical day looks like. On certain days we have prayer and worship together in the mornings and night times. There was a list of work duties we were able to sign up for. When you sign up that means it will be your work duty for the three months that we live here. My work duty is to tidy the laundry room, vacuum the stairs, clean mirrors, mop the laundry room, and few little things. We don't have to do all of this every day, but we kind of decide what day we want to do each thing. A few of them are daily.
Anywayyy....
We haven't done outreach yet. But, tomorrow we will be learning about that! During the three months that we live here, we will be doing local outreach. I think I heard there is a childrens ministry and possibly outreach to college age as well. We'll see :)
We also find out our outreach locations for the last two months that we are here. They will be somewhere in South Africa and somewhere in Asia! We have to choose one or the other. I've been praying for guidance a lot for outreach... I will let you all know what the options are, ack! Soo excited!!
I mentioned in my last blog, my two roommates Jihye (G-hey) from South Korea and Marina from South Africa.. we also have another roommate, Refemetswe (rolled R...Ref-em-et-sway) she is also from South Africa. I love my roommates! We all get along great and are having lotsa fun together. Next door there are 3 girls, Charlenn (from Canada but she is really South African because she was born here), Chirlaine (South African as well), and Tahnii-Jae (Tanny-J from Namibia)... and then we have 2 guys, Rohan from South Africa and Pascal from Kenya. They are the only guys in their room... and then last is Marcus from Germany and Evie from Norway, they are married and are such a sweet couple! They are always up for an adventure! So in total, we have 11 in our school. Some schools have 15-25 or more... but I'm glad we have a small school... makes everyone closer I think.
Our leader is Ashley and she is from Tennessee... she led and worked with YWAM in NY also, but has been in SA for about a year. She is awesome! On staff for our DTS are Ana (Brazil), Vernel (South Africa), Dachung (Nigeria), and Belinda (SA)... they are all amazing people who love God. It's so fun getting to know everyone and learning about their cultures. We have also met the staff of YWAM and some of the elders. I am so happy to be a part of YWAM because of what God has made it through these amazing people.
I'm soaking up every minute of this. I feel like a sponge... just taking it all in. I'm not sure what God wants me to do with my life, but that's why I'm here.. to find out.. and as YWAM says, "to know God and to make Him known"
I miss everyone at home but I know God is taking good care of everyone. I love you all. Thank you so much for your support and encouragement. Love you guys!
and I love love love our God!!!
Kelly
So... that was week one of lectures... we learned a ton from Romans 1-8. If anyone would like my notes just email/facebook/comment here... :)
I'm sure some of you are wondering what a typical day looks like for a DTS (Discipleship Training School) Student.... Welll.....
7am- Breakfast
7:30-8am- Quiet Time
8-1pm- Lecture
1pm- Lunch
1:30-6- Free time, work duties, outreach
6pm- Dinner
This is what a typical day looks like. On certain days we have prayer and worship together in the mornings and night times. There was a list of work duties we were able to sign up for. When you sign up that means it will be your work duty for the three months that we live here. My work duty is to tidy the laundry room, vacuum the stairs, clean mirrors, mop the laundry room, and few little things. We don't have to do all of this every day, but we kind of decide what day we want to do each thing. A few of them are daily.
Anywayyy....
We haven't done outreach yet. But, tomorrow we will be learning about that! During the three months that we live here, we will be doing local outreach. I think I heard there is a childrens ministry and possibly outreach to college age as well. We'll see :)
We also find out our outreach locations for the last two months that we are here. They will be somewhere in South Africa and somewhere in Asia! We have to choose one or the other. I've been praying for guidance a lot for outreach... I will let you all know what the options are, ack! Soo excited!!
I mentioned in my last blog, my two roommates Jihye (G-hey) from South Korea and Marina from South Africa.. we also have another roommate, Refemetswe (rolled R...Ref-em-et-sway) she is also from South Africa. I love my roommates! We all get along great and are having lotsa fun together. Next door there are 3 girls, Charlenn (from Canada but she is really South African because she was born here), Chirlaine (South African as well), and Tahnii-Jae (Tanny-J from Namibia)... and then we have 2 guys, Rohan from South Africa and Pascal from Kenya. They are the only guys in their room... and then last is Marcus from Germany and Evie from Norway, they are married and are such a sweet couple! They are always up for an adventure! So in total, we have 11 in our school. Some schools have 15-25 or more... but I'm glad we have a small school... makes everyone closer I think.
Our leader is Ashley and she is from Tennessee... she led and worked with YWAM in NY also, but has been in SA for about a year. She is awesome! On staff for our DTS are Ana (Brazil), Vernel (South Africa), Dachung (Nigeria), and Belinda (SA)... they are all amazing people who love God. It's so fun getting to know everyone and learning about their cultures. We have also met the staff of YWAM and some of the elders. I am so happy to be a part of YWAM because of what God has made it through these amazing people.
I'm soaking up every minute of this. I feel like a sponge... just taking it all in. I'm not sure what God wants me to do with my life, but that's why I'm here.. to find out.. and as YWAM says, "to know God and to make Him known"
I miss everyone at home but I know God is taking good care of everyone. I love you all. Thank you so much for your support and encouragement. Love you guys!
and I love love love our God!!!
Kelly
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Florida to South Africa...
What an incredible journey it has been… and it’s only been 4 days so far! As some of you know, it took a little longer then expected to get here. I left Orlando Thursday morning, however due to weather we departed almost 2 hours late! When I arrived in New York I had 20 minutes to get to a terminal that was about 30 minutes away. On the plane I met a man named Martin who was also traveling to South Africa but his next flight would take him home to Zimbabwe. So, Martin and I RAN to the slowest airport train in the world that took us 4 terminals away… and then we had to go through security again and then I got to the terminal. As I ran to the terminal I knew it was too late, it was like a movie scene… I was so tired from running (did I mention I was probably carrying 15lbs with me) that I fell to my knees and cried, only for a second though! Lol…mostly because I was physically and emotionally exhausted and also of course because I knew I had to do some more waiting!!!!! The people who work for South African Airways set us up for the next flight, 24 hours later…
My new friend Martin and I had 24 hours to wait… JetBlue did nothing to help us unfortunately. The supervisor was not very nice but oh well, what can ya do? I didn’t mind staying in the middle of the airport because I had my new friend Martin who was nice and I felt safe having him there. So we found a place with tables and cushioned benches and set up camp! Martin happened to work for Disney also! I had seen him on the plane before we met and I thought I recognized him… well I’m sure I saw him in the Disney tunnel many times. Martin is also a Christian so we had that in common too. I’m not sure if I was meant to miss my flight or not but I know no matter what happens in life, good or bad, God will ALWAYS turn it into good.. and I’m so thankful I had Martin there. He filled me in on a lot of South Africa info and things to do, and what not to do, etc lol.
We survived the 24 hours in the airport and made it on the flight to Johannesburg… and everything was okay with our bags, they were on the flight with us. We made it to Jo-burg and had to quickly part so I could catch my flight to Cape Town… I did and everything went perfect from there. I arrived in Cape Town, got my bags, and finally saw the stranger holding a “YWAM” sign… Vernel is his name. Vernel took me to where a few girls were waiting, we had to wait for the couple from Norway to arrive within an hour. A total of 4 arrived together this day, 4 students, and 3 staff members/leaders were there to pick us up. As we headed to the base, I remember the feeling I had when I arrived in Nicaragua, looking at all of the different places, the mountains, the people… so exciting!
It’s day 2 now and so far we’ve gone on an adventure to where the market (grocery) is, shops, (Coffee!!) shops, and restaurants. It’s like a 3 minute walk from our base and it’s gorgeous. There are a ton of surfers and people on the beach; it’s a little chilly but during the day it happened to be a kind of warm. There is also a really pretty pathway on the beach to go to the next town where apparently there are lots of shops, and things to do. We had lunch at a place on the beach today (me and two other girls in my school).. a place called Sha-bean and it’s owned by an Australian.. his name is Guy and he was very kind!
Sooo… I have 2 roommates so far!! One is Jihye, she is from South Korea.. she is so sweet and usually very quiet, but funny too.. it’s only day two so I’m excited to get to know her and everyone else still.. my second roomie arrived today and her name is Marina, she is from South Africa, we’re the same age and it seems like we have a lot in common. We’re waiting on our third roommate to get here although she might not make it. We will be praying for her. Chirlaine is from South Africa also, she is the first friend I made because we arrived the same day/time. Tahnii-Jae (pronounced Tanny-jay) arrived today from Namibia and is 17, I’m excited for her to be here. The couple that also arrived the same day as I did are from Norway, they’re very kind. So we only have 3 guys in our school for sure, the 4th is David from India who might not be able to make it, praying for him also.
So far I’ve made friends from South Korea, Vryheid-South Africa, Namibia, France, Norway, Jamaica, Brazil, and Australia. There are a lot of people here from South Africa, but SA is huge so they’re from all over the country.
I love all of the people I have met so far, I only mentioned those in my DTS (Discipleship Training School) and the leaders but there are also a lot of other students who are studying the Bible here. They are part of a nine month intensive course that goes through the Bible 5 times! Wow! We also have people staying at the base from different countries who go on outreaches.
I am soo very excited to be here. I can’t wait to see what we will be doing each day and how it’s going to be for me, etc… I feel 100% at peace being here, like this is exactly where God wants me right now. I don’t feel sad or uncomfortable or scared. Just very much at peace. I do think about my family and friends A LOT but when that happens I just pray for them and that God is watching over them. Love you guys!
Our school starts tomorrow so I’ll keep you all updated on what that is like! I have no idea what to expect but I know it’s going to be a lot of work but a lot of fun and challenging things will happen. I can’t wait to see what God is going to do through all of us!!
New word: Hawking
I saw this word on a building along with, No Loitering, No skating etc…Hawking means to sell things on the street… this sign said No Hawking
That’s all for now folks… I love you and miss you all soo very much. If any of you have a prayer list please prayer for our YWAM group just that God continues to provide and take care of us… we have those 2 who might not be able to make it, God will take care of wherever it is they need to be.
I love you all lots!!!
Kelly
My new friend Martin and I had 24 hours to wait… JetBlue did nothing to help us unfortunately. The supervisor was not very nice but oh well, what can ya do? I didn’t mind staying in the middle of the airport because I had my new friend Martin who was nice and I felt safe having him there. So we found a place with tables and cushioned benches and set up camp! Martin happened to work for Disney also! I had seen him on the plane before we met and I thought I recognized him… well I’m sure I saw him in the Disney tunnel many times. Martin is also a Christian so we had that in common too. I’m not sure if I was meant to miss my flight or not but I know no matter what happens in life, good or bad, God will ALWAYS turn it into good.. and I’m so thankful I had Martin there. He filled me in on a lot of South Africa info and things to do, and what not to do, etc lol.
We survived the 24 hours in the airport and made it on the flight to Johannesburg… and everything was okay with our bags, they were on the flight with us. We made it to Jo-burg and had to quickly part so I could catch my flight to Cape Town… I did and everything went perfect from there. I arrived in Cape Town, got my bags, and finally saw the stranger holding a “YWAM” sign… Vernel is his name. Vernel took me to where a few girls were waiting, we had to wait for the couple from Norway to arrive within an hour. A total of 4 arrived together this day, 4 students, and 3 staff members/leaders were there to pick us up. As we headed to the base, I remember the feeling I had when I arrived in Nicaragua, looking at all of the different places, the mountains, the people… so exciting!
It’s day 2 now and so far we’ve gone on an adventure to where the market (grocery) is, shops, (Coffee!!) shops, and restaurants. It’s like a 3 minute walk from our base and it’s gorgeous. There are a ton of surfers and people on the beach; it’s a little chilly but during the day it happened to be a kind of warm. There is also a really pretty pathway on the beach to go to the next town where apparently there are lots of shops, and things to do. We had lunch at a place on the beach today (me and two other girls in my school).. a place called Sha-bean and it’s owned by an Australian.. his name is Guy and he was very kind!
Sooo… I have 2 roommates so far!! One is Jihye, she is from South Korea.. she is so sweet and usually very quiet, but funny too.. it’s only day two so I’m excited to get to know her and everyone else still.. my second roomie arrived today and her name is Marina, she is from South Africa, we’re the same age and it seems like we have a lot in common. We’re waiting on our third roommate to get here although she might not make it. We will be praying for her. Chirlaine is from South Africa also, she is the first friend I made because we arrived the same day/time. Tahnii-Jae (pronounced Tanny-jay) arrived today from Namibia and is 17, I’m excited for her to be here. The couple that also arrived the same day as I did are from Norway, they’re very kind. So we only have 3 guys in our school for sure, the 4th is David from India who might not be able to make it, praying for him also.
So far I’ve made friends from South Korea, Vryheid-South Africa, Namibia, France, Norway, Jamaica, Brazil, and Australia. There are a lot of people here from South Africa, but SA is huge so they’re from all over the country.
I love all of the people I have met so far, I only mentioned those in my DTS (Discipleship Training School) and the leaders but there are also a lot of other students who are studying the Bible here. They are part of a nine month intensive course that goes through the Bible 5 times! Wow! We also have people staying at the base from different countries who go on outreaches.
I am soo very excited to be here. I can’t wait to see what we will be doing each day and how it’s going to be for me, etc… I feel 100% at peace being here, like this is exactly where God wants me right now. I don’t feel sad or uncomfortable or scared. Just very much at peace. I do think about my family and friends A LOT but when that happens I just pray for them and that God is watching over them. Love you guys!
Our school starts tomorrow so I’ll keep you all updated on what that is like! I have no idea what to expect but I know it’s going to be a lot of work but a lot of fun and challenging things will happen. I can’t wait to see what God is going to do through all of us!!
New word: Hawking
I saw this word on a building along with, No Loitering, No skating etc…Hawking means to sell things on the street… this sign said No Hawking
That’s all for now folks… I love you and miss you all soo very much. If any of you have a prayer list please prayer for our YWAM group just that God continues to provide and take care of us… we have those 2 who might not be able to make it, God will take care of wherever it is they need to be.
I love you all lots!!!
Kelly
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Work, Visa, Pack, ACK!!!
I leave in 16 Days!!! Holy Bible! I'm so excited!!
So life without a car has certainly been interesting. For the first week I really was stranded BUT thankfully my dad works down the street so we had a system going where he would pick me up before he went to work and then I'd have his car for a few hours... then I realized I should try and work if possible but that would mean needing a car for the entire day. Well, my dads friend is "watching" someone's car so the friend used that car, my dad is using his friends car, and I'm using my dads car. Got it? haha... It could not have worked out any better. Everyone has a car! yay! God has again provided. So I've been able to work at Disney a little more, which although I'm ready to get out of Disney, I have to admit I still have fun with it... and I've been able to work with some awesome girls!
Anyway, about 2 weeks ago I sent my Visa papers to D.C., and they have been approved! Yay, Jesus! I'm just waiting to receive it in the mail :) God is good... all the time. The last thing I have left is to pack! They gave us a list of things to bring, all of your basic necessities. Clothes, sleeping bag, backpack for hiking, warm clothes though because it will be their winter during our summer. I haven't started packing but I did buy a few warm sweaters :) all I need is to find a warm jacket! I'm assuming their winter is kind of like Florida's winter... but they also said it's very windy and rainy. I need to get some of those cute rain boots maybe...so much to do! I've decided not to do a lot of shopping over here, one because I don't have a ton of money (lol) and two because I can always buy things over there once I see what I really need... La!
Besides waiting on my visa to return and figuring out what to pack and how to get to work... God has continued to do amazing things financially. By selling my car it gave me just enough to go on my trip... but then other expenses started coming up, like the overnight mailing fees, shot prices, visa fees, fees everywhere! But God has continued to surprise me. When I started this whole "I want to go to South Africa" thing I thought how great it would be to go DEBT FREE! I don't have a ton of debt but I have to admit, I do have a credit card that I have been paying off. When I was about 22 I went a little crazy with a credit card (nothing too serious) but, well, I need to pay off $1,700. Don't JUDGE ME!!! lol, lesson learned. ANYWAY, I received funds from my tax return this month AND... also 2 of my amazing family members from up north made a wonderful donation to the trip. SO with that tax return I will be able to go to South Africa DEBT FREE! AND God once again surprised me with the donation from my family, what a blessing!! God is sending me to South Africa with all of my tuition funds and plane ticket paid for, my credit card paid off, and EXTRA money for whatever I might need while I am over there. WOW!!!!!!!!!! I love seeing God work in my life and through others as well :)
What a journey this has been... In January of this year I honestly did not think I would make it to South Africa by April. But God did it...amazing. Things happened so quickly that before I knew it I had a plane ticket, visa, funds, and more. I can't believe I have reached this point. I leave in 16 days and it still doesn't feel real, once I'm at the airport maybe it will? lol... so crazy to think it's actually happening.
Through this whole thing I have gone through soo many emotions. I can't even count the number of nights I have just cried with music blasting in my room, usually music by"Jesus Culture." But God got me through those days/nights and my faith was tested... I felt like the disciples who were on the boat with Jesus, the storm came and they were worried by it, afraid that they would drown.. and Jesus said-- "He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”" (Mark 4:40) and He calmed the storm. I know we are human and we're going to be scared and cry and be unsure but at the same time we know Jesus will calm the storms... on these nights I didn't know how he would calm my storms but I knew he would, I just cried it out with God. What a great feeling it is to cry with our God, our Father. It is so comforting to know He is always there.
I just want to say thank you, to all of you. Thank you for your prayers, thank you for your donations, your encouragement, your help with the garage sales.. some of you have shared your stories/blogs with me and those have been more than helpful as well.. I'm so thankful for all of my friends and family who have helped me through this journey. THANK YOU!
I love you all dearly and pray that God blesses and watches over you always.
I will keep you all updated on this whole journey, stay close and keep praying!
Love and Blessings,
Kelly
So life without a car has certainly been interesting. For the first week I really was stranded BUT thankfully my dad works down the street so we had a system going where he would pick me up before he went to work and then I'd have his car for a few hours... then I realized I should try and work if possible but that would mean needing a car for the entire day. Well, my dads friend is "watching" someone's car so the friend used that car, my dad is using his friends car, and I'm using my dads car. Got it? haha... It could not have worked out any better. Everyone has a car! yay! God has again provided. So I've been able to work at Disney a little more, which although I'm ready to get out of Disney, I have to admit I still have fun with it... and I've been able to work with some awesome girls!
Anyway, about 2 weeks ago I sent my Visa papers to D.C., and they have been approved! Yay, Jesus! I'm just waiting to receive it in the mail :) God is good... all the time. The last thing I have left is to pack! They gave us a list of things to bring, all of your basic necessities. Clothes, sleeping bag, backpack for hiking, warm clothes though because it will be their winter during our summer. I haven't started packing but I did buy a few warm sweaters :) all I need is to find a warm jacket! I'm assuming their winter is kind of like Florida's winter... but they also said it's very windy and rainy. I need to get some of those cute rain boots maybe...so much to do! I've decided not to do a lot of shopping over here, one because I don't have a ton of money (lol) and two because I can always buy things over there once I see what I really need... La!
Besides waiting on my visa to return and figuring out what to pack and how to get to work... God has continued to do amazing things financially. By selling my car it gave me just enough to go on my trip... but then other expenses started coming up, like the overnight mailing fees, shot prices, visa fees, fees everywhere! But God has continued to surprise me. When I started this whole "I want to go to South Africa" thing I thought how great it would be to go DEBT FREE! I don't have a ton of debt but I have to admit, I do have a credit card that I have been paying off. When I was about 22 I went a little crazy with a credit card (nothing too serious) but, well, I need to pay off $1,700. Don't JUDGE ME!!! lol, lesson learned. ANYWAY, I received funds from my tax return this month AND... also 2 of my amazing family members from up north made a wonderful donation to the trip. SO with that tax return I will be able to go to South Africa DEBT FREE! AND God once again surprised me with the donation from my family, what a blessing!! God is sending me to South Africa with all of my tuition funds and plane ticket paid for, my credit card paid off, and EXTRA money for whatever I might need while I am over there. WOW!!!!!!!!!! I love seeing God work in my life and through others as well :)
What a journey this has been... In January of this year I honestly did not think I would make it to South Africa by April. But God did it...amazing. Things happened so quickly that before I knew it I had a plane ticket, visa, funds, and more. I can't believe I have reached this point. I leave in 16 days and it still doesn't feel real, once I'm at the airport maybe it will? lol... so crazy to think it's actually happening.
Through this whole thing I have gone through soo many emotions. I can't even count the number of nights I have just cried with music blasting in my room, usually music by"Jesus Culture." But God got me through those days/nights and my faith was tested... I felt like the disciples who were on the boat with Jesus, the storm came and they were worried by it, afraid that they would drown.. and Jesus said-- "He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”" (Mark 4:40) and He calmed the storm. I know we are human and we're going to be scared and cry and be unsure but at the same time we know Jesus will calm the storms... on these nights I didn't know how he would calm my storms but I knew he would, I just cried it out with God. What a great feeling it is to cry with our God, our Father. It is so comforting to know He is always there.
I just want to say thank you, to all of you. Thank you for your prayers, thank you for your donations, your encouragement, your help with the garage sales.. some of you have shared your stories/blogs with me and those have been more than helpful as well.. I'm so thankful for all of my friends and family who have helped me through this journey. THANK YOU!
I love you all dearly and pray that God blesses and watches over you always.
I will keep you all updated on this whole journey, stay close and keep praying!
Love and Blessings,
Kelly
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
ByeBye Car HELLO SOUTH AFRICA!!
Sooo...I sold my car! It was something I've thought about doing since this all started but for certain reasons I decided not to right away... after praying and considering all of my options I knew it was what needed to be done. I had been to Carmax for the past two months and after the first time I was like there is NO WAY I am selling my car for the price they gave me. Well, after I realized it would be almost enough for my trip, I decided to go through with it. I had them reappraise my car a 2nd time and again they gave me the low price..
This past Friday, I was on my way to carmax...a good friend of mine had prayed for me over the phone and I knew God was right there in the passenger seat next to me. This was such a scary decision for me. As most of you know, I do not like making decisions. Once I got into the parking lot of Carmax I prayed that God would give me favor and watch over me as I went through this process. I asked to speak with a manager who then forwarded me to the "appraisal guy." Long story short, they gave me an extra $1,000!!!! AMEN!!! I am so thankful we have a God who truly is our Provider, who is bigger than anything else in the world... that when the world says the economy is down, or the bank is broken... our God is Still there to take care of us. Ugh, I LOVE IT!!
The next day (this past Saturday), I bought my plane ticket! It's really happening!! The last thing I need is my VISA. I probably should've gotten this before the ticket, but for some reason I thought we had to show a purchased plane ticket.. I know, silly thinking. But, it's okay because I'm trusting God will take care of it... look what He's done so far! I love how my YWAM Leader put it, "I love the suprises God has for us and can't wait to see what else he surprises you with!" God DOES have surprises for ALL of us!!
This week my dad has been letting me borrow his car. Yesterday (Monday) I got all of my vaccinations. There's really only a few since most of them were completed when I was young. I had to get a Tetanus shot, Hepatitis A, typhoid, and an Xray (to show that I do not have TB).. the Xray was cool, I took a picture with my iPhone lol.
So now, I have a plane ticket, shots, and am just waiting on my Visa. I will be sending all of my Visa papers this Thursday. PRAY PRAY PRAY!
Thank you ALL for supporting, encouraging, donating, and praying. I can't thank you enough. Please continue to pray! ..and if you have any prayer requests don't hesitate to email or comment.
LOVE and BLESSINGS!!
Kelly
This past Friday, I was on my way to carmax...a good friend of mine had prayed for me over the phone and I knew God was right there in the passenger seat next to me. This was such a scary decision for me. As most of you know, I do not like making decisions. Once I got into the parking lot of Carmax I prayed that God would give me favor and watch over me as I went through this process. I asked to speak with a manager who then forwarded me to the "appraisal guy." Long story short, they gave me an extra $1,000!!!! AMEN!!! I am so thankful we have a God who truly is our Provider, who is bigger than anything else in the world... that when the world says the economy is down, or the bank is broken... our God is Still there to take care of us. Ugh, I LOVE IT!!
The next day (this past Saturday), I bought my plane ticket! It's really happening!! The last thing I need is my VISA. I probably should've gotten this before the ticket, but for some reason I thought we had to show a purchased plane ticket.. I know, silly thinking. But, it's okay because I'm trusting God will take care of it... look what He's done so far! I love how my YWAM Leader put it, "I love the suprises God has for us and can't wait to see what else he surprises you with!" God DOES have surprises for ALL of us!!
This week my dad has been letting me borrow his car. Yesterday (Monday) I got all of my vaccinations. There's really only a few since most of them were completed when I was young. I had to get a Tetanus shot, Hepatitis A, typhoid, and an Xray (to show that I do not have TB).. the Xray was cool, I took a picture with my iPhone lol.
So now, I have a plane ticket, shots, and am just waiting on my Visa. I will be sending all of my Visa papers this Thursday. PRAY PRAY PRAY!
Thank you ALL for supporting, encouraging, donating, and praying. I can't thank you enough. Please continue to pray! ..and if you have any prayer requests don't hesitate to email or comment.
LOVE and BLESSINGS!!
Kelly
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
He Provides... everything!
Sooo.... I have now had 2 garage sales and made a total of $780! It would not have been possible without the help of some amazing friends and family. I had so many people donate items to the garage sales, people praying for me and the day of the sale, and encouraging me. Thank you all so much, you have no idea how much it means to me!! Besides garage sales, I have some furniture items I am trying to sell on craigslist.. I KNOW God will provide. It's hard because I have to constantly remind myself of this sometimes... I know that God would not decide to send me on a trip and then not provide.. but it can be very scary sometimes, stepping out in faith and all that. :)
Right now I have about $2,300... and I figured out in order to go on my trip, I only need a total of $6,000... I originally over budgeted! So, I am about halfway there...
A big thing happening this week is that I am selling my CAR! ACK!!! Carmax has given me an offer which would be just about enough for me to go on the trip!!.... I also have an offer from someone on craigslist. By Friday, a decision will be made. I really, honestly, can't wait for this week to be over. Patience is something I am not very good at... but God has helped me in this area big time.. Soo... I'm praying that He gives me wisdom to make the right decision and strength to go through with everything...
It's all becoming real finally!! It felt like going to South Africa was impossible at one point. Now here I am, filling out Visa papers, preparing to buy a ticket, making a list of everything I will need. It's such a great feeling! Once I have a ticket and Visa in hand, it will feel a million times more real. I'm just praying for favor in every area. Well that is the update for now... Once I'm (possibly) carless I will update more!
South Africa, here I come!!
<3 Kelly
Right now I have about $2,300... and I figured out in order to go on my trip, I only need a total of $6,000... I originally over budgeted! So, I am about halfway there...
A big thing happening this week is that I am selling my CAR! ACK!!! Carmax has given me an offer which would be just about enough for me to go on the trip!!.... I also have an offer from someone on craigslist. By Friday, a decision will be made. I really, honestly, can't wait for this week to be over. Patience is something I am not very good at... but God has helped me in this area big time.. Soo... I'm praying that He gives me wisdom to make the right decision and strength to go through with everything...
It's all becoming real finally!! It felt like going to South Africa was impossible at one point. Now here I am, filling out Visa papers, preparing to buy a ticket, making a list of everything I will need. It's such a great feeling! Once I have a ticket and Visa in hand, it will feel a million times more real. I'm just praying for favor in every area. Well that is the update for now... Once I'm (possibly) carless I will update more!
South Africa, here I come!!
<3 Kelly
Monday, February 7, 2011
Garage sales and sales...
Hello hello!
The garage sale this past Saturday was a great success! I didn't sell everything which is ok because we will be having another garage sale this coming Saturday! People have donated more things for this Saturday plus we will be selling food and water/soda...
I also sold my Africa shirts at church this past Sunday morning, thank you everyone for your support and donations...it means sooo much to me! I love you all :)
So, all I can do is continue to try! I have a little over $2,000 for my trip and I need $6,000 more.. I am still trying to sell my car (2008 Scion tC) ... so here we go!
I've learned a lot in this whole process... I've learned that I need to wait IN God and not ON God. I just need to be obedient and trust that He will come through... because He always does! However, it's hard when all I want is to leave NOW! But, it's not about me, it's about Him and His plan. This "Lesson Plan" he has come up with for me is pretty tough... but I'm learning so much from it all. It's funny to look at where He has taken me within the past year. I'm so thankful I'm back in His arms. :)
Well, that's the little update for now :) Thank you everyone for your support, prayers, donations, etc. Lots of Love!!
Kelly
The garage sale this past Saturday was a great success! I didn't sell everything which is ok because we will be having another garage sale this coming Saturday! People have donated more things for this Saturday plus we will be selling food and water/soda...
I also sold my Africa shirts at church this past Sunday morning, thank you everyone for your support and donations...it means sooo much to me! I love you all :)
So, all I can do is continue to try! I have a little over $2,000 for my trip and I need $6,000 more.. I am still trying to sell my car (2008 Scion tC) ... so here we go!
I've learned a lot in this whole process... I've learned that I need to wait IN God and not ON God. I just need to be obedient and trust that He will come through... because He always does! However, it's hard when all I want is to leave NOW! But, it's not about me, it's about Him and His plan. This "Lesson Plan" he has come up with for me is pretty tough... but I'm learning so much from it all. It's funny to look at where He has taken me within the past year. I'm so thankful I'm back in His arms. :)
Well, that's the little update for now :) Thank you everyone for your support, prayers, donations, etc. Lots of Love!!
Kelly
Monday, January 24, 2011
It's gonna happen...
So I'm good at blogging... Not. Lol, it's been since NOVEMBER!? That's okay. When I look back at the diary's I have from when I was a little girl most of them have months and/or years in between the pages... Well, December was insane for me. I had to work literally every day at Universal and sometimes at Universal and Sea World. At Universal I had the Macy's Parade, it was so much fun and of course the glitter made everything even more fun! At SeaWorld I had fun as a Snowflake on stilts, yay!
Anyway, January is now here and I couldn't be more thankful for what this month has brought already. December was fun but because it was so busy I kind of fell off track. Normally my weeks are filled with 3 church services, hanging out on the east side of town with friends, and some sort of organization. Well, December was lacking all of that because of my work schedule as well as the holiday break. I'm glad the regular schedule is back!
The month of January has blessed me with many things but two events in particular have helped me get back on track: The Leaders Summit and Tidal Wave: Awakening. I feel so refreshed! I have been reminded that my God can do anything and everything! I am continuing my goal which of course is to make it to South Africa.
Right now... I am in the process of selling my car. Some people think I'm crazy but others agree with the fact that it's just a car. Ever since I began this whole process of going to South Africa, I have wanted to just sell my car. As it says in Matthew 19:21 -
Jesus told him, “If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
I have a few offers and I'm just waiting to see what happens. If I sell my car I will be set to go with enough for South Africa. How will I get around until then? Well I only have a month and a half left in America if this does work out! I know God will make everything happen, I've placed all of this in His hands so I'm not worried. We have an old car that's been sitting at my house that needs a little fixing up.. so that's an option. But right now I'm focused on the mission God has given me, scary but exciting at the same time!!
Funny Story!!:
So this past Saturday I went to an audition at Universal... It was open call for actors. I would love to play Fiona at Universal and so I was like... "God, if I get Fiona then I will sell my car" (I do if/thens with God sometimes, probably not the best thing) ANYWAY... Well I didn't get a callback BUT the day after I put my car on craigslist I got an email from someone named "FIONA" asking about my car!!! LOL what!? I don't care what anyone says, that's God and he does have a sense of humor! haha... So... now I'm just seeing what happens with this whole car thing... pray for me!
If everything works out with selling the car, I will be leaving at the end of March. Amen! It's in Gods hands and I know he will work everything out in His timing. Here we go!!
Thank you all for your love and support!!!
Oh yeah! I'm also having a garage sale this Saturday (1/29) so I am praying that this will help my mission trip fund immensely! :)
AND of course I am still selling my Africa shirts...I'll be selling them at the garage sale too!
La!!
Love you guys!
Anyway, January is now here and I couldn't be more thankful for what this month has brought already. December was fun but because it was so busy I kind of fell off track. Normally my weeks are filled with 3 church services, hanging out on the east side of town with friends, and some sort of organization. Well, December was lacking all of that because of my work schedule as well as the holiday break. I'm glad the regular schedule is back!
The month of January has blessed me with many things but two events in particular have helped me get back on track: The Leaders Summit and Tidal Wave: Awakening. I feel so refreshed! I have been reminded that my God can do anything and everything! I am continuing my goal which of course is to make it to South Africa.
Right now... I am in the process of selling my car. Some people think I'm crazy but others agree with the fact that it's just a car. Ever since I began this whole process of going to South Africa, I have wanted to just sell my car. As it says in Matthew 19:21 -
Jesus told him, “If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
I have a few offers and I'm just waiting to see what happens. If I sell my car I will be set to go with enough for South Africa. How will I get around until then? Well I only have a month and a half left in America if this does work out! I know God will make everything happen, I've placed all of this in His hands so I'm not worried. We have an old car that's been sitting at my house that needs a little fixing up.. so that's an option. But right now I'm focused on the mission God has given me, scary but exciting at the same time!!
Funny Story!!:
So this past Saturday I went to an audition at Universal... It was open call for actors. I would love to play Fiona at Universal and so I was like... "God, if I get Fiona then I will sell my car" (I do if/thens with God sometimes, probably not the best thing) ANYWAY... Well I didn't get a callback BUT the day after I put my car on craigslist I got an email from someone named "FIONA" asking about my car!!! LOL what!? I don't care what anyone says, that's God and he does have a sense of humor! haha... So... now I'm just seeing what happens with this whole car thing... pray for me!
If everything works out with selling the car, I will be leaving at the end of March. Amen! It's in Gods hands and I know he will work everything out in His timing. Here we go!!
Thank you all for your love and support!!!
Oh yeah! I'm also having a garage sale this Saturday (1/29) so I am praying that this will help my mission trip fund immensely! :)
AND of course I am still selling my Africa shirts...I'll be selling them at the garage sale too!
La!!
Love you guys!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Shirts galore and more...
Soooo...shirts have been selling like crazy but I still have a lot more to deliver and a long ways to go. Thank you all so much for your support and donations.
A lot of people have been asking how my progress has been, so far so good.. Right now is just the waiting phase. Waiting to hear back from a number of different people/places. I know God will provide...this is the area where I really need to trust Him.. but it's scary!! However, I know He will provide... because why would God lay something on your heart and then not come through? Here we go!! La!!
<3 KS
A lot of people have been asking how my progress has been, so far so good.. Right now is just the waiting phase. Waiting to hear back from a number of different people/places. I know God will provide...this is the area where I really need to trust Him.. but it's scary!! However, I know He will provide... because why would God lay something on your heart and then not come through? Here we go!! La!!
<3 KS
Thursday, November 18, 2010
And it begins...
Hi Everyone!
As most of you know, I am in the process of raising money to go to South Africa! My journey is supposed to begin in January but if I do not raise enough money, I will have to leave in April. I believe that God will provide and either way it will be in His timing.
I decided to go on this trip a few months ago. I will be in Muizenberg, South Africa for the first three months. The last 2 1/2 months we will be traveling throughout South Africa and possibly parts of Asia. I'm so excited for everything that I'm going to learn there, the things I'm going to be challenged by, and just seeing God move.
I went to Nicaragua with our youth group this past May and it was unforgettable. I knew missions was something that I loved doing. Now I'm just trying to follow whatever it is God has for me.
Creating a blog is something that God has challenged me to do. This way if people would like to stay updated on my progress, it's just a click away.
I want to say thank you all sooo much for your support and encouragement, it means A LOT!
As of right now... I have sold a ton of shirts but I still have a Lot more to sell! They come in this Friday and I can't wait to see them and to hand them out :) My brother David made the design, isn't he awesome? Other then that, I have sent out letters and contacted a few places... I am in need of lots of support, prayerfully as well as financially.
Here we go!! Let's do this!!
Love you all,
Kelly
As most of you know, I am in the process of raising money to go to South Africa! My journey is supposed to begin in January but if I do not raise enough money, I will have to leave in April. I believe that God will provide and either way it will be in His timing.
I decided to go on this trip a few months ago. I will be in Muizenberg, South Africa for the first three months. The last 2 1/2 months we will be traveling throughout South Africa and possibly parts of Asia. I'm so excited for everything that I'm going to learn there, the things I'm going to be challenged by, and just seeing God move.
I went to Nicaragua with our youth group this past May and it was unforgettable. I knew missions was something that I loved doing. Now I'm just trying to follow whatever it is God has for me.
Creating a blog is something that God has challenged me to do. This way if people would like to stay updated on my progress, it's just a click away.
I want to say thank you all sooo much for your support and encouragement, it means A LOT!
As of right now... I have sold a ton of shirts but I still have a Lot more to sell! They come in this Friday and I can't wait to see them and to hand them out :) My brother David made the design, isn't he awesome? Other then that, I have sent out letters and contacted a few places... I am in need of lots of support, prayerfully as well as financially.
Here we go!! Let's do this!!
Love you all,
Kelly
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