All the luggage is packed (I think), the materials sent (thanks to Melissa!), and what didn't get done at the office will be handled by my co-workers or simply wait with the other stuff that will pile up in the meantime. It's time to begin this journey.
But as I think on what may not be done, I have no worries. God promises that He will be with us and never leave us or forsake us. Life under the cross is always a journey, whether or not we are traveling across the globe.
I am sitting in the Denver International Airport, between my first and second flight, on my way to Australia. From here, I change planes at Los Angeles, then meet Francis in Sydney (God-willing), and then together we fly to Adelaide to being the adventure.
Bruce and Kathy will join us in a couple of weeks in Sydney, as well as Francis' wife Angela.
The pre-course materials and printed handouts from the Ambassadors of Reconciliation office have all been sent and received. That includes the newest AoR book, CULTIVATING LIFESTYLES OF RECONCILIATION. The finished book was delivered to our AoR office at the end of April as planned, and Melissa shipped 400 copies to various locations in Australia. We thank God for those who provided financial support to help make this goal a reality. Thanks to all of our supporters (financial, encouragement, and prayer!).
Two more handouts will be sent from our mates at the PeaceWise office near Brisbane, Australia to our various training sites. Kaye at the South Wales District Office (Sydney) has prepared the handouts that were to be printed in Australia and arranged for many of the on-site details. She has been absolutely awesome to work with!
On the Australia side, some 400 pastors and lay workers have been sent pre-course materials to study before they attend the training. The District Offices received all the shipments and sent them to their participants.
In all, our team will present at 10 different events over the five-week period. About 375 will attend one of the 3-day training events. 28 will attend the 5-day training. There will be three half-day or full day seminars that additional laity and teachers will attend (perhaps 200 to 350). And then I will join the Queensland District for their synod convention and address the delegates there (around 250, I am guessing).
Pray that our instructors will be clear in their teaching and receptive to learn from our Australian sisters and brothers. Pray also that those attending will be prepared and see how to apply some new learning to the skills and opportunities that God has blessed them with. Pray also that travel will be safe for everyone, including those who travel long distances to attend the training. Join our team in praying for our family back home as they await our homecoming.
Certainly, keep the entire Lutheran Church of Australia in prayer that God will use this training to bless His church there and reach out with the healing Good News of Reconciliation to those around them.
Oh, and perhaps one more prayer request... For those of us doing the training, pray that God gives us good rest and health to keep up with the intense schedule.
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