We said farewell to the Spring Arbor FMC Mission Team today, and parting was hard. During the past 9 days the team members made good connections with the people from the church and from the English class.
Today during the morning worship service the team leader, Kathy Cole, told how God sustained her through three times of great trial in her life -- the serious illness of a son, being without work for 15 months, and the tragic death of her daughter-in-law and unborn granddaughter in a terrible car accident. In all of these times God was faithful. Kathy's story touched the hearts of everyone present.
At the end of the service Larry thanked the team on behalf of the congregation and presented the team with small gifts of appreciation. Joyce Thompson presented a cash gift to the church from the Spring Arbor WMI to help with the furnishing of our new room when it is completed. Kathy presented flowers to Júlia, Katie, and Larry from the team.
Everyone then helped in preparing for the farewell grill party. Norbi, Ákos, Mike, and Keith were the principal grill masters. Everyone brought either a salad or dessert to share. There was plenty of food, and even more importantly, plenty of great conversation. Even more important than the physical work that was accomplished is the relationships that the team built with individuals in our fellowship.
Near the end of the afternoon some of the Hungarians were even brave enough to try S'mores! Some of them even liked it. And at the end of our time together, everyone helped with the cleanup as well! What a blessing!
Then the tears began to flow as the team said their goodbyes.
The day ended with a debriefing session between the American team and our Hungarian leadership team. We talked about the significant events of the week and shared stories of blessing and encouragement. We closed with prayer for Ildikó, prayer for the Hungarian leadership team, and prayer for the Spring Arbor FMC mission team. We are so thankful for the time that Dave and Joyce, Mike and Marcie, Keith and Jeanette, Jim and Kathy, and Tobin gave to our fellowship in service to the Lord.
Thank you, and farewell until we meet again.
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