Shortly after Pete taking the position as Interim Childrens' Ministry Director at CBC, we visited another church near Mechanicsburg with a vibrant childrens' ministry. The day we visited happened to be the Sunday that a missions team was being commissioned to go a country in Central America. The uniqueness of this missions trip, though, was that it was composed of upper elementary children who had worked hard at studying Scripture and serving in their church in order to earn the privilege to serve on a missions trip. Most of the children had a parent that was also going along, but the idea of introducing serving in missions to this age group hit Pete and I as incredibly valuable. In our daughter Kacie's case, she has grown up knowing of orphans and orphanages simply because of Ivan's life story as an orphan before he became Kacie's brother. But she has taken a significant interest in orphans and has stated often that she would like to be an orphanage director when she grows up. Kacie's heart is tender towards the things God would have her do, and as a mom, I would like to be intentional in encouraging her in her spiritual walk.
So, when the opportunity to take a mother-daughter trip which included visiting a real orphanage came up, it was not difficult to make the decision. Pete and I had already felt God placing a burden on our hearts to do this type of thing with Kacie, it was just a matter of what time and where. And, apparently, this is the time, and Ecuador is the where that God had planned for us!
Julie,
you are amazing!! Thank you for sharing your heart with all of us for your Ecuador trip with Kacie. What an exciting adventure for you and your daughter, a bonding experience and a wonderful chance to see all that God has for you through this trip. You have a very precious daughter with a servants heart and a heart of compassion. I can only imagine how God will use this trip in her life. How are you feeling?? Praying for a healthy trip for you! Thank you so much for putting together this blog. wow!! What a wonderful chance for all of us at home to share in your trip. (Pete and the kids seem to be doing well. He came Saturday night to the FFF at our house and he does wonderful with the kids!) Have a great day and you all are in our thoughts and prayers.. I love you Julie!! hugs! marilyn
Hi Kacie! I am having a great time following your trip blog and thinking about all of you and praying for you. It sounds like your having a great time!! It also sounds like God is teaching everyone patience with all the changes and delays that have come your way. But that's OK, it seems like you are still having a great time. You are so dear and special, Kacie.. and I can only imagine how God will use this trip in your life in the years to come. Have a wonderful time!! and enjoy this special time with your mom and all your friends!! big hugs!! Marilyn Gerhart