Training Week

We are finally on our way!

I write this morning in the back of Sheila, our fantastic 15 passenger IWU van, with trailer in tow and our team stoked to finally be on the road. This past week of training was just what we needed to get the summer off to an excellent start! Our days have involved a healthy dose of Baldwin, TAWG (time alone with God), listening to Reverend Atkinson speak from 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 about standing firm in faith, team time and devos, random housekeeping chores like trailer, admissions and treasury training etc and many well spent hours of practice. We will be studying the book of John as a team this summer as well as going through a book called The Imitation of Christ by Thomas A’ Kempis.

Some of our favorite songs from the week include Christ is Risen (Matt Maher), Joyful (Brenton Brown), Salvation Is Here (Hillsong), Hosanna (Paul Baloche), The Lord Reigns (Gateway Worship), and Build me up Buttercup! We have really enjoyed putting the music together and are anticipating worshiping with the kids this summer as well as getting a chance to enjoy our new freedom to dance as IWU students.

Aside from nailing down 30 excellent songs this week we were able to also enjoy Circle K breadsticks, movie nights with the other ministry teams, a bowling night and a pool party with the teams. We have pictures from bowling - feel free to enjoy! Andrew surprised us earlier that day with not only our new and ridiculously awesome jerseys, but also headbands to match and further increase style points for the team. Kathy (Denny’s girlfriend) joined us and turned out to be one of our best players. Most of the pictures we have were courtesy of her as well. She was also awarded the “team’s favorite girlfriend of the week” award after baking Denny/us a box of fresh chocolate chip cookies. The bowling was a bit weak the first game and so after a very inspirational halftime speech (by me), we boosted our next game average by 4 points! Our team average after two games was a 107 – a pleasing score indubitably.

Long story short, good week of orientation, excellent instruction and Spiritual renewal and a fun way to get started! We are on our way to Cypress Wesleyan Church for the weekend and then on to the Greater Ohio Youth Camp for the week. Thank you all for your prayers, God is teaching us a lot and we are looking forward to an incredible summer!

Love you all!

Revolution