Wow, it’s been a long time since we’ve posted anything on here. Apologies for that. I seem to remember it was this time last year that we hadn’t put up anything in a while, so maybe this is just how the first month or so on the ground works – you know, getting settled, putting everything back together, renewing relationships. It’s hard to believe that it’s been a month since we’ve arrived, and we still find ourselves with not much time to write even now, as Christina and I are heading over to the team house (from our own apartment!!) and then going to Deo Doxa to watch the Springboks of South Africa take on the English national team in the Rugby World Cup final!!
Honestly, though, even this last month would have been REALLY tough had we not had our three additional leaders with us. Tag, Holly, and Heather have been in JBay since the end of September and it’s been such a great experience to work with them and see how the Lord has gifted each of us in different ways and molded us together to work as a team in JBay “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14).
Tag and Holly are from Tennessee and have been married for three and a half years. They have taken on the wonderful challenge (and pleasure) of living with the team this year, giving Christina and I the opportunity to work on getting the last year of “couple time” back that got lost last year. They are both passionate about college students and are beginning a long-term commitment to this community, but already beginning to call it home.
Heather Beard actually has worked with Christina in the past, co-leading a trip to Jamaica in the summer of ’06, as well as spending time in Philly. She has a great heart for mentoring young women and showing them how the powerful love of Jesus can heal their hurts. Indeed, the two words that the Lord has continued to give her as a theme for her time in Jeffreys this year are “deep” and “raw.” She’s really looking forward to charge in to those tough places and bringing girls out on the other side of healing.
Not surprisingly, we’re looking forward to some phenomenal things that God will do with our leadership team this year. Christina and I are excited about getting to spend more time in the communities that we’re passionate about, as well as being able to share responsibilities with more than just each other this year.
Our team has been here for about a week, and they’re doing great, but we’ll include more information, as well as some great pics later. Now, it’s on to rugby. Go Springboks!!!
Tag & Holly Thompson are all smiles * The leaders of the Jbay team enjoy a dinner out before the team arrives
Holly, Heather Beard, and myself
Its good to hear an update from you guys. I am glad that you are enjoying your new fellow leaders and team. I pray that this year you guys will be able to change many lives in JBay. Take care and say Hi to the team for me.
I am so glad to get your updates and more glad to get your photos. Hey what is on your plates? Interesting food. Looks like onion rings?? What is in the bowls? We pray for you and are so proud of what you are doing. Sorry we did not get to see you state side. dang …. Love to you.
Aunt Jane
look @ tags massive beard!
ahhh!