C O N N E C T I N G in the C O N G O

     We finally have internet connection!  It's been nine days since Chloe, Shiloh, and myself have been in Gemena and already God has opened a few windows of connection.  At first we struggled, and still we are trying to connect to the people, their culture, and those back home.  But even with the language barrier, there are some languages that are universal, which we've been using to connect with the kids at the Elikya center.
     Our first sight of Gemena was breathtaking.  From our plane window we saw nothing but red dirt, abundant trees, and mud huts.  When we landed, Rachel and her husband came in their white pickup truck (which we've come to enjoy) to greet us.  Soon, we were off for a bumpy ride!  Gemena matched perfectly how we pictured Africa (think: "The Lion King" movie).

     The Global Fingerprints staff welcomed us with introductions and speeches (you can't go anywhere here without a huge welcoming).  Then we were off to get settled into our house at the Elikya center.

     Our first real connection with the kids at the Elikya center came when Chloe and Shiloh brought out their soccer balls they had brought for the kids.  We started kicking the ball around and others joined in.  Then out came the cameras and everyone got excited.  They LOVE getting their picture taken!

     We also connected with some of the girls by letting them braid our hair and laughing together.  Once we let a few girls into our house in the evening, and now it has turned into a tradition.  Shiloh captivates them by teaching them English words, while they teach us Lingala.

     We went to our first village the other day.  They welcomed us with singing and introductions, and then started our job right away.  The kids lined up and each of us (with a translator) asked the sponsored kids a few questions and took their picture so that we could take it back to the office to update their profiles.  Some of these kids had walked 1 1/2 days just for this meeting!

     Finally, we were able to get to the office for internet connection and to upload photos and send messages on the Global Fingerprints website.  And just the other day we got our phones working so we could call home.

     We're excited to see what the Lord has in store for us in the next 4 weeks!

(The three of us in front of our house on the 4th of July)

Please PRAY for:
- Health: We've been battling rashes and stomach aches off and on.
- Energy: This heat and stickiness can be very draining.
- Patience: We are on "Congolese time" here which means lots of waiting.
- Connections:  We want to continue to connect with the kids on a spiritual level, even with the language barrier.
- Endurance: We have a 5-day trip away from Gemena starting tomorrow (Wednesday)!  We don't know exactly what to expect...just that we'll be traveling from one village to another, staying the night in these villages.