Our first thing on the schedule today was the clean up the site, it was just our team so we split up the list and worked together as a team and got it done. After we were finished cleaning we had our devotions and talked about Job. Once we finished up devotions we packed up our stuff for the day and headed downtown with our host Alisha. Once we parked our van we were split into two groups, it was decided girls and boys. We were handed a sheet of paper of task that we had to accomplish, we had a 16 square blocks that we had to stay within and four hours to complete it. We split up and started checking the things off the list. Some of the things on the list were: finding out how much a loft apartment was, how much to stay at the Biltmore for two nights, how much to call El Salvador, where the red line metro goes and how much is cost to ride, interview a police officer, symbol of the city, find out about Bitty Mason and the park, interview a homeless person, tourist and resident of LA, feed someone lunch, fill up our water bottles and only spend $4 each on lunch…these were just some of the main tasks. This was a very challenging task and an eye opening task. Both groups finished most of the tasks and along the way had some interesting interactions and thoughts. The girls group at lunch at McDonalds when we realized that we were the only white people in the entire place. The guys experience with lunch was that the first person that they asked for lunch didn’t want to eat with them and had a few choice words to say. We met up and shared our experiences and thoughts and then prayed for the interactions that we had.
After leaving the downtown high rises we went to the Salvation Army Red Shield, we had a chance to play with lots of kids. It was hard to find exactly how to serve or what to do but once we all kind of found something that interested us and looking forward to serving there all week. Jordan ended up in the computer lab and helped a kid with his typing. Molly and Mindy listened to kids read books to them. Jesse had a great time playing basketball and soccer. Dan loved playing jump rope with a group of kids. Andrew played some sports and then played some games with the kids.
For dinner we got to go to a Caribbean restaurant, La Cha Cha Cha. We had Caribbean Jerk Chicken Pizza, it was good and we were hungry! We were able to hang out and catch up with each other during the dinner and learn more about our host. Following dinner we drove up the Griffith Observatory, we were able to walk around and see the city from a completely different view than earlier in the day.. It was amazing to take it all in and see the city from far away and the skyline. We then had our debrief for the day on the lawn. We shared our Pows and Wows (Highs and Lows) and spent time praying for each other.
On our way back to the site we stopped at Walgreens to restock on snacks, since the bag that I brought was gone…don’t worry we bought three bags of snacks plus a case of water! We also got prizes for Bingo tomorrow at the nursing home. When we got back to the site we were one of the first groups so it was nice and quiet, we played cards together and ate some of our snacks. But with more groups coming back the volume just getting higher. Tomorrow we have to be out the door at 6:45 am, there is a full day planned and then in the evening it is free night.
Thank you all for your prayers. None of the kids are homesick and they are all doing great!
~Jill
Monday, June 25, 2012
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Day 2
Today we started the day out by having devotions in the
hotel room and talked about what to expect with our mission trip after our
continental breakfast. From there we
went to the Getty Museum of Art and experienced more fine art than I have ever
seen. We saw art that was old, modern,
painted, sculpted, built, and grown (in the gardens). After the absolutely wonderful time seeing
some of the most beautiful things that God has given us, we spent some time
driving through some of the rich districts of LA, Bel Air, Beverly Hills, Rodeo
Drive. And sadly we saw no celebrities
(sorry Dan L). Once we got to the CSM Warehouse where we are
staying this week we unpacked, had orientation, and dinner. The cultural food of the night was Indian
food, tonight we ate at CSM. We then had
a few minutes to play a fun game of Catch Phrase before we left for our Prayer
Walk. Jordan even started to make some
new friends during a game of Clue. The
Prayer Walk was VERY informative and interesting and we all learned a lot about
LA and what life is like for all of the people that live here. We saw the very stark difference between Skid
Row and the wealthier districts. We stopped at one of the charter schools and
learned about the education system in LASD.
As we went through all of these places we prayed for all of the people
in the area. We also had a chance to go
lay on the ground and get into the mindset of having to sleep outside. Its
lights out at CSM, we are tired and excited to see what God has planned for us
this week.
~Molly
Saturday, June 23, 2012
day one
We met at church this afternoon to be sent off on our journey! Fred Ypma drove us to pick up Andrew from his work, this was the only Saturday out of the year that he had to work. We got dropped off at the airport, checked our bags, got through security, and then wheels were up! This was Jordan's first time flying so he was excited!! We arrived at the LA airport got our 15 passenger van that only has 8 seats and headed to In and Out Burger! The food was great! When we got to the hotel we did not fit in the parking space underground so we had to park it somewhere else. Now we are doing some bonding and then going to bed :D!!!
Jesse Plata
Thursday, June 14, 2012
L.A. Mission Trip Prayer Items:
Pray for safety of the group, pray that God will grant us all of the resources we need to be effective ministers and witnesses in L.A.
Pray for each member of the team (Dan, Molly, Jordan, Mindy, Andrew, Jesse, and Jill).
Pray that we would be flexible and able to adjust to changes during the mission trip.
Pray for the parents of the students attending the mission trip that they will have no anxiety or worries during our week of serving.
Pray for the families of the students and leaders serving that things would run smoothly at home while the participants are away.
Pray for Los Angeles, for the poor, the homeless, the downtrodden and the children.
Pray also for racial reconciliation in L.A. communities.
Pray that nothing (injury, sickness, unforeseen circumstances) would prevent our team from doing what God has called us to do.
Pray that God would arrange our schedule if it would lead our group toward greater growth.
Since we are taking our suburban/rural culture with us on the trip and will be watched more closely pray that we would not say or do anything that would damage our witness to the people around us.
Pray that we will serve humbly and that God would be exalted through us.
We desire your prayers and need them.
Pray for each member of the team (Dan, Molly, Jordan, Mindy, Andrew, Jesse, and Jill).
Pray that we would be flexible and able to adjust to changes during the mission trip.
Pray for the parents of the students attending the mission trip that they will have no anxiety or worries during our week of serving.
Pray for the families of the students and leaders serving that things would run smoothly at home while the participants are away.
Pray for Los Angeles, for the poor, the homeless, the downtrodden and the children.
Pray also for racial reconciliation in L.A. communities.
Pray that nothing (injury, sickness, unforeseen circumstances) would prevent our team from doing what God has called us to do.
Pray that God would arrange our schedule if it would lead our group toward greater growth.
Since we are taking our suburban/rural culture with us on the trip and will be watched more closely pray that we would not say or do anything that would damage our witness to the people around us.
Pray that we will serve humbly and that God would be exalted through us.
We desire your prayers and need them.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
The Last Supper
Ok, this is short notice but it's our last youth group of this season. Personally, I don't like thinking about these final youth group gatherings and find it hard to plan for them. This year we are going to have a celebration at Dickey's BBQ. Since it is dinner join us at 6:45 at Dickey's (near Starbucks). If you need a ride from church I (Dan) will be waiting in the church parking lot at 6:40. Bring $5.00---we will take care of the rest (if you can't afford $5.00 we will take care of that too). If you can't make it at 6:45 don't worry still come...it takes a while to order and get your food so come when you can. Again, I am sorry for the late notice, we (the leaders) hope you can make it.
Friday, April 20, 2012
Auction items for our Saturday, April 28th pancake breakfast
LA Mission Trip Silent Auction
Saturday, April 28
7:00- 11:00 AM
The following are the items that will be available to bid
on during our silent auction fundraiser for our high school Los Angeles mission trip this summer. You do not need to be present to win an auction item, but please make arrangements to pay for all items on Saturday
LA
1 Ready for adventure?
With this item, you get one afternoon of go-‐carting for 2 people at the Skagit Raceway in Sumas.
Retail value: $120.00
LA 2
Car care bucket with cleaner, lubricant, Preston de-‐icer, adhesive, and Chevy blanket donated by our friend Monte Likkel at Hinton's.
LA 3
Use of a 6 x 14ft. dump trailer great for hauling rocks, yard waste, furniture, or whatever you need hauled. You can pick up the trailer or the donor will drop it off and take it where you want it to go (locally). Thank you to Joel Hoekema.
LA 4
Got dust? This item is for you. One ton of lignin for your gravel roads and driveways delivered and applied locally.
LA 5
The sun is coming- how about a new pair of sunglasses, along with cleaning solution, repair eye care kit, and case for frames from our friend Dr. Mira Swiecicki O.D. at the Lynden Vision Clinic.
LA 6
Keep those pesky squirrels from bothering your birds with this item, a Squirrel-‐Be-‐Gone wild Bird Feeder.
LA 7
Don't waffle on this item. It's a rotary waffle maker that will help you make perfect waffles for your family.
LA 8
Your future chef will enjoy spending lots of time playing with this item, a "Play My Way Kitchen" toy set.
LA 9
Help your little one discover the stories of the Bible with this item. The "My First Bible Library" with DVD's and books that will help the child in your life learn about God.
LA 10
Wake up to some delicious coffee cake, pastries, cinnamon rolls, or almond rolls. Perlene Hoekema will make you a batch of one of these homemade goodies on one pre-‐arranged Saturday per month for 12 months.
LA 11
Pamper your vehicle with this final touch detailing by our friends at Louis Auto Glass. Valued at $300.00.
LA 12
Take a break and relax by the beach in Birch Bay. Enjoy 2 nights at this 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom house. Exclusions for summer and holidays. Valued at $325.00.
LA 13
Your parties will be buzzing with this 2 gallon bee hive beverage dispenser. Retail value: $60.
LA 14
Do you know someone who is getting married? Why not give them everything they need to outfit their kitchen or update your own kitchen with this Betty Crocker Kitchen basket, overflowing with towels, wash cloths, table runner, and kitchen utensils. Value: $40.
LA 15
Go Dutch! Learn about Lynden's Dutch heritage and enjoy a beautiful Dutch figurine. This item includes 4 passes to the Lynden Museum and a wonderful Dutch figurine/trinket box. From our friends at the Lynden Museum and Bumblebees.
LA 16
Shoot some hoops with your kids with this basketball from True Value.
LA 17
Get a jump on Christmas with a 1996 Happy Holidays Barbie, 4th in the collection series, along with matching Christmas ornament (never opened). Value $35-$40.
LA 18
Any little girl would love this item, a 1995 Happy Holidays Barbie, the 3rd in the collection series (never opened). Value: $20-‐$30.
LA 19
Mothers day is just around the corner, so treat the lady in your life to a spa baskets with a robe, candle, relaxing music, spa socks, bubble bath, bathroom spray, special soaps, back brush, and a 1 hr. massage from our friend Dr. Eddie Hansen at Natural Way Chiropractic!
LA 20
Have a spring fling in your garden with this basket of garden tools, hose, and gloves; thanks to our friend Dean at ACE Hardware. Included in this basket 4 tickets to Glen Echo Garden, which will give you plenty ideas for your yard.
LA 21
Finish that honeydew list with this item, a Rockwell 3 in 1 drill, screwdriver, impact driver (battery and case included). Retail value: $205.59
LA 22 Great spring gifts for anyone in the next 4 items:
LA 22 A Cedar Fence planter box filled with sedums
LA 22 B Cedar Fence planter boxes filled with sedums
LA 22 C Cedar Window frame planter box filled with zinnas
LA 22 D Tin can planter filled with Sedums
LA 23
Hop on this item before it hops away! One 6-‐month-‐old butterscotch rabbit! This items includes hutch, feeder and water bottle everything your new friend will need!
LA 24
Keep your heater working right with this item from our friends at Lynden Sheet Metal. They will service your furnace or heat pump to keep your heater ready for next winter. Valued between $100-‐$120
LA 25
Put a spring in your step with a new "do" Lori's Hair and Nail Design. Includes a cut and style.
LA 26
Father's Day is coming why not keep dad warm as he works in the garage or shop with this propane heater. Thanks to Steve Vander Yacht at Northwest Propane.
LA 27
Keep those pearly whites healthy with this new sonic toothbrush from our friends at Fairway drug.
LA 28
Big kids and little kids alike will enjoy these next items, die-‐cast collector Texaco airplanes:
LA 28 A Texaco Grumman G-‐210-‐A Amphibian
LA 28 B Lockheed Sirius 8A
LA 28 C Lockheed Sirius 8A
LA 28 D Lockheed 12A Electra Jr.
LA 29
Do you need an adjustment?
Visit Olson Family
Chiropractic for an initial
evaluation (including X-‐rays,
if necessary) and first
adjustment. Value: $300.00.
LA 30
Help your kids study by
giving them a great place to
do homework. This great
refurbished pine desk is
perfect for kids or adults,
thanks to Chris Geleynse.
LA 31
Cuddle up with one of these
bright teddy bears. A great
way to brighten their day:
LA 31 A Green teddy bear
LA 31 B Blue teddy bear
LA 31 C Orange teddy bear
LA 31 D Yellow teddy bear
LA 32
Do you like items from yesteryear? Here is an item that will send you back to the good old days ␣ a great steamer trunk.
LA 33
Keep the kids busy this summer with this big bucket-‐o-‐art and lap table. Included in the bucket are Crayola crayons, markers and other art supplies.
LA 34
Every girl is God's princes, why not let your little one dress like one with this princess dress up bucket. Includes tutu, crown, wand, and other royal items.
LA 35
Does the child in your life need a cozy place to read books? Your children, grandchildren, and great-‐ grandchildren will this kids cherry- red rocker.
LA 36
Need a vacation? Why not visit beautiful Whistler, BC with this item. Stay at this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom condo at Whistler Creekside for a week. Ski or hike down to the slopes in the winter or enjoy hiking, biking, or explore the other hundreds of activities that Whistler offers year round. The owners use the condo 3 weeks out of the year, so dates must be pre-‐approved by owners. Condo rental valued at $200-‐$600 a night, depending on the time of the year.
LA 37
Are you handy? Even if your not handy you still need tools and this item is all that you will need. This basket is filled with all kinds of tools to help you maintain your home.
LA 38
Enjoy a super delicious evening of homemade ice cream, fresh strawberries, and some great fellowship at the home of Robert & Phama Woodyard for 6 -8 people on any night that works you.
LA 39
For all you John Deere fans ␣ we have a 8295R die-‐cast metal replica tractor.
LA 40
Just like the real thing ␣ your kids will enjoy hours of playing in the sand with this toy tractor by Bruder from our friend Duane Scholten and Scholten's Equipment Inc.
LA 41
A hunting fanatic will thank you for this item, a Kodiak firearm/crossbow sling.
LA 42
Archery has been gaining more and more interest in the last couple of year. Join the bandwagon with this hand-‐crafted leather quiver.
LA 43
The kids will enjoy this summer fun bucket which includes 2 kites, a bucket, bubbles, and other items.
LA 44
Start your morning right with a cup of joe. This basket has biscotti, chocolates, a magazine, and locally roasted coffee from Katz's coffee.
LA 45
Gas prices got you down? Why not stay close to home for your summer vacation? Get one week of camping at Birchwood resort in Birch Bay. Don't have a trailer or camper? Don't worry Len and Bev got you covered. They will let you use theirs if you don't have one.
LA 46
Do your kids get bored in summer and complain there is nothing to do? How about getting this activity bucket to keep them busy! This bucket includes games, stickers, flash cards, and more for hours of entertainment.
LA 47
Got leaves? Get blown away with this Craftsman gas powered blower and vacuum. Thanks to our friends at Link's Optical.
LA 48
Keep your kids rolling at the Lynden Skateway. Enjoy 10 visits with this item, or have your kids bring their friends and enjoy one fun day of entertainment.
LA 49
Our friends at Northwest Washington Fair have given us not 1 but 2 family gate passes. Throw in Hot-‐n-‐ Ready Pizza from our friends as Little Caesars and you have a great family outing:
LA 49 A 2 adult and 2 youth Northwest Washington Fair gate passes and 2 Hot-‐n-‐ Ready Little Caesars pizzas
LA 49 B 2 adult and 2 youth Northwest Washington Fair gate passes and 2 Hot-‐n-‐ Ready Little Caesars pizzas
LA 50
Just relax with this spa package including things to pamper yourself or someone you love. This basket includes a one-‐hour relaxation massage from Heartfelt Message.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Youth Leader Assignments
Rotating Roles for Spring Training
Coach: runs the night, leads the discussion, adapts the content, and lets the others know what he/she needs
“Prepare like it all depends on you, lead as it all depends on God”
Umpire: arrives at the meeting place at 7:20 pm to open the building and greet students, picks and runs the opener game or craft (10-15 min)
Water boy/girl: picks up snacks and/or uses the food we have
Support staff: Supports the coach, umpire, concession stand operator, and closer.
Closer pitcher: makes sure the lights are off, things cleaned up, stays around chatting with students until everyone that needs a ride, and gently encourages when it’s time to go home.
“Reminder 90% of youth ministry happens outside of the youth group meeting time.”
April 18: Less/ Simplicity
Coach Jill
Ump Andrew
Water Girl Ria
Support Dan
Closer Stephanie
April 25th Alone/Solitude
Coach Ria
Ump Dan
Water boy Andrew
Support Jill
Closer Stephanie
May 2nd Less/ Submission
Coach Stephanie
Ump Andrew
Water boy Dan
Support Ria
Closer Jill
Coach Jill
Ump Andrew
Water Girl Ria
Support Dan
Closer Stephanie
April 25th Alone/Solitude
Coach Ria
Ump Dan
Water boy Andrew
Support Jill
Closer Stephanie
May 2nd Less/ Submission
Coach Stephanie
Ump Andrew
Water boy Dan
Support Ria
Closer Jill
May 9th Give/Service
Coach Andrew
Ump Dan
Water girl Jill
Support Stephanie
Closer Ria
May 16th Choose/Worship
Coach Jill
Ump Ria
Water boy Stephanie
Closer Andrew
May 23rd Party/Celebration
Coach Ria
Ump Dan/ Andrew
Water boys Jill/Stephanie
May 30th Something Special?
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