Monsoon Autumn Term 2011 Here We Come!!

Youth is a time of life when doubts are prevalent, self-worth is fragile and passions are plentiful. But we traverse this odyssey together, sometimes grasping hands, supporting elbows, or with our arms across each others' shoulders - and we age together, scraped and battered, maybe stronger and hopefully more full of grace, but we grow older and wiser together in Christ.

When young people are given the chance to experience life in someone else’s shoes, the potential for learning and growth is momentous. Often, by reaching out to others, they find purpose for their passions, self-worth in Christ, and can rest their doubts upon that which is sure and true.

At 6am this Thursday, 20th of October, I will leave for two months of cross-cultural education with two great young people: Melissa and Meagan. Melanie, a recent High School grad, may also join us in a few weeks time - pray for her decision. And Nathan, a recent University grad, plans to come down for a week at the end of November for a specific time of ministry in the bateys (with a great vision for sustainable industry he's hoping link into some already on-going efforts by awesome local groups).

The group will learn about culture and be coached one-on-one by Dominican youth in Spanish. They will engage in Bible and spiritual leadership studies, and participate in a number of local community projects/ministries (visit the Leper Colony, make friends with street kids, help in community development, spend time with friends in the urban streets). Before they return to Canada, they will spend a few days learning how they can integrate these experiences into their lives at home.

Some of you are still living a youthful adulthood with doubts, self-consciousness and deep-rooted unleashed passions - but maybe still a few steps ahead in life. Or maybe you are stretching back to assist others along the difficult-delightful road. No matter your age, all have experiences that are valuable to the younger travelers in our midst. Share your life, experiences, blessings, insight - and sometimes your shoulder. As they step out to spread God’s love across the globe’s streets, be one of the hands that lifts an elbow, a smile that lifts the day or a prayer that lifts their spirit as they press on...

Love,

Shannon

PS: for specific information on finances or our in-country schedule, please email monsoongde@gmail.com and make your request known, thanks.