Loading up went smoothly, as smoothly as getting 96 people and their stuff onto a bus. Kids rallied, did what was asked, and we were on our way by 8:40 and to the airport early. We immediately begin the process in reverse, separating into the travel groups, getting all the people and their gear together and then to the check-in. The first two groups filled with Auburn seniors who are veterans of prior mission trips were out on the first flight. The bus driver had to make an immediate return trip to pick up the last three groups.

 

While we were checking in the second batch of kids (five travel groups with about 50 people), we discovered that our flight was rescheduled for an hour later, and the third group's flight had been cancelled and they were all to be with us at 2 pm.

 

This presented a difficulty for one student who was taking the ACT/SAT scheduled to end at 12:30. We had made, arrangements for this, but with her flight leaving an hour earlier, I had to call our Vice Principal to pull the student out of the test and get her to the airport. One of our chaperones waited for her at the check-in, I was waiting just past security, and we got her through with 15 minutes to spare.

 

That final group also couldn't get their luggage sent all the way to Fiji, so we were told that we would have to check the luggage back in. (At the time, seemed like a bad thing, but once we realized we were not traveling on to Fiji due to the cyclone, it meant that some of the people had their clothes.)

 

The airline company provided me with a list of possible places to stay. I chose the least expensive option, but even within that choice, God was watching out for us.

 

We had some food that we could access for breakfast. We were right across the street from a grocery store. Our food service director took $200 dollars to get fruit, juice, and other items. His wife had $31.16 with her. When they got to the check stand, it was about $400. The checker asked if Chuck and Kathy were club members, they explained that they were not, and were getting food for a group heading off on a mission project, so the lady gave them the store discount. The total? $231.16. They had the exact change!

 

There was a large central courtyard where we could meet for breakfast and have the chance to give updates, announcements and have worship this morning. After breakfast, we began our "adventure."

 

There was a local pastor, a Pastor John, who came to meet with us last night offering ideas and suggestions. We set up a schedule, and his church offered to provide lunch for us. Wow. The generosity of these people is amazing. We decided to walk down to the beach, and have lunch in a park. The walk was a two mile journey through El Segundo. The kids enjoyed the sun and the sand, but the only bad part was all the tar in the sand. Right off the beach is a petroleum plant, so that explains all the unseen junk that sticks to your feet and only comes off with baby oil. After the beach, we went back to the park for a lunch of hot dogs, chips, juice, fruit, and salad. Then we headed back to the hotel to check out and get off to the airport.

As soon as we exited the plane we were greeted by something we are not used to . . . HUMIDITY!! We landed about 7:00 am, and it was already so incredibly drippy. The lenses on our cameras fogged over from the humidity and we couldn’t take photographs easily.

 

The only difficulties we had were with agricultural items getting through customs. We lost all of our cheese (we can get more, but seeing packages of havarti disappear caused me incredible grief.) The customs agents started opening every bin, but once we could show them our master list, and that what we said was in each bin was what was actually there when they opened it, they began letting some of the bins through and only flagging the banned items. So, cheese, and one container of honey, oh well.

 

Once we exited the airport, many of the local church members were there to greet us. They had made lei’s for each person. The colors, the smells, and the warmth of the people all made for a special day. This is a very beautiful place and the people are incredible.

 

Once we arrived at the school, the process of organizing and instructing and settling in began. Sometimes it can be a little challenging with everyone wanting and needing info as quickly as possible, but my adult help really do a masterful job of walking into the unknown and quickly bringing direction and order out of the unknown and not always understood.

 

When arrived at the school, the local people had a breakfast prepared for us. Cereal, juice (even some outstanding chocolate soy milk that made my morning), eggs, hot cereal, toast. The kids quickly settled into their rooms. All the classrooms at the existing school have been turned into “group rooms.” There are about 10-12 kids in each room plus at least one adult. One room has been turned into a kitchen where we have stoves, ovens, refrigerator, freezer, and work space. After settling in, the kid work crews began as well.

 

On the job site our Construction Coordinator went out to assess exactly what was happening. He created a space for our water crew to operate, because if we do not push fluids, we will be in BIG trouble. This included pouring a concrete slab for us to work on, covering areas with tarps for the water crew and our group physician.

 

The dorm we had hoped to be staying in will be a challenge. First, we have never seen plans for it and all the panels we are supposed to be working with, well, not many of them have been made. Many of the walls are up, so we need to put in doors and windows, but the biggest challenge will be the roof. The metal trusses are here and ready to be installed. Once that happens, the roof itself will go on. After that, we will work on flooring, maybe plumbing and electrical. We are also planning to start digging the footings for a new classroom addition. By hand. With shovels. The old-fashioned way.

Our laundry crew had one machine to work with, with a tub that would hold two pairs of jeans. Maybe. There is a separate tub to rinse and spin, but that tub wouldn’t work, so…off I go to buy another machine. If there is one legacy that I can leave behind, one consistent action that I can be know for, it is buying a washing machine everywhere we go! I cannot remember how many places have gotten a new machine.

 

At various places we have stayed through the years, a new machine has been a negotiating ploy. Can we share or use your equipment if I also buy a new machine that I will leave for you? The laundry crew worked until about 8 pm getting all caught up. Dry clothes, now that is another issue, especially with the humidity being what it is. Of course, it might feel good to wear stuff that is still a bit damp.

 

Our outreach activities include four Vacation Bible School groups and four kids (Jesse, Marissa, Sean and Marissa) speaking at four different sites. They all immediately began to sort through materials, practice sermons, organize songs and activities for the kids. By the end of the afternoon, everyone was ready and by 6:30 they were dressed and ready to head off to their various destinations. Continue to pray for these kids. They are undertaking an amazing amount of responsibility. Some of the Fijian people were hesitant to think that teenagers could do this, but the reports have all been positive.

 

Wake up call came at 5:30 so that breakfast could be ready at 6:30 so that worship could be at 7:15 so that we load at 7:30. Get to Natadola Beach by 9:30, leave there by 10:45 so that we can be at the Kula Eco Park by 11:30. Tour the place, eat lunch and head off to Sigatoka for some power shopping from 1:30 to 3:00. Get to the Cultural Center by 3:30 and on the road back to the school by 5:30 and eat supper when we arrive. (Got all that?) Whoa. I am part circus master and slave driver, but everyone had the chance to enjoy several different things. So, let’s explain.

 

Natadola Beach is this incredibly picturesque horseshoe-shaped beach with lots of wave action. Kids enjoyed getting buried by the waves, and if you did not watch carefully, rogue waves would come way up the beach and get you wet. There were also people who had horses you could ride up and down the beach.

 

We only had one minor snafu: the second bus did not see where we turned in, and thought we were going to another location. Fortunately, we were able to contact them and turn them around, but that second bus got a little less beach time. I know most everyone would have stayed longer, but an hour in the sun is probably enough for us until we build up our endurance. These lily white bodies that experience so little REAL sunshine for so many months of the year need to be handled gently. Several kids already are very red, and we just got here. Besides, we have an entire day at the beach next week. They will get their fill.

 

The Kula Eco Park is a preserve that you can walk through and see birds and fish from the islands, hold a snake or several different lizards. They also have a sea turtle breeding program and a tank with some of the turtles in it growing big enough to release.

 

After that: Shopping. We are loaded with war clubs and cannibal forks and scads of miscellaneous Fijian treasures. Some of the war clubs are massive, and very intimidating. When we drove into town, one of the ladies who I had met before and told that we would be coming came running out to meet our bus waving her arms inviting us into the store.

 

In order to finance this feeding frenzy, I carry Fijian currency to exchange, since the rates in the stores are much to the advantage of the shop keepers. But I cannot keep enough small bills to satisfy the demand. I spent most of my time in a bank exchanging 100 dollar Fijian bills for 20’s, 10’s and 5’s. I am now ready for the next onslaught.

 

After shopping we journeyed to a Cultural Center that has recreated a village as it would have been in the 1800s. The guides showed how bark was turned into a type of cloth, how pottery was made, etc. The most fascinating part was the temple rituals and the cannibal heritage.

 

When a new temple was built, people were placed alive in the holes containing the four corner posts, and then the post would be dropped on them. The belief was that they would help hold the posts and make them strong. Warring tribes regularly ate their enemies, and if you were a young man, you did not get a man’s name until you killed an enemy. Brutality was the way of life.

 

One of the guides told me how grateful he was for the influence of Christianity. The respect for our fellow man, the way to resolve disputes, the value of education and opportunity, these have transformed the culture. Now, we all benefit from the wonderful aspects of the culture, the sense of family and community, the warmth and friendliness and generosity, those are things that all of us could use more of.

 

After the tour, the kids were just waiting and someone issued a challenge. All over the grounds were these tiny frogs. Kids had been catching them and somehow Elliot, for $30, was supposed to swallow one. Elliot spent all of his money, so he needed more so this seemed like a great idea. I didn’t know what was happening, only walked in on the roar as it happened. These kids. You gotta love ‘em. There are never dull moments.

 

I am riding in a car bouncing along heading off to make arrangements for a Sabbath afternoon activity. Raymond Burr of Perry Mason and Ironside fame has a world famous orchid farm a short distance away. I will soon know if this is a good idea to go there.

 

Today, all of our systems are up and rolling. Our dentist is checking teeth. She and her husband brought a small compressor to run the equipment, along with all the corresponding connections and power converters. As soon as they plugged the compressor in, ZAP! The power supply destroyed it. All that could be seen was a lonely puff of smoke. Others medical personnel are doing other types of exams and giving health information.

 

The construction process is starting to roll. Having enough of the panels to work with is going to be a problem. We will make them as fast as we can, but they take several days to cure and dry. There are only thirteen forms, so having enough to work with will slow us down. This panel system is a great idea as long as you have them, otherwise, you wait.

 

Shortly after we began our day, I was informed that all of our water was gone. This really becomes a life and death matter. Without fluids, we will get very sick very fast. So off we go to the water company so they can bring water to us.

 

In Seattle, we really don’t understand running out of water, so let me try and explain. For all the houses, city water is on from about 4 until 8 both AM and PM. So, we can only flush toilets during those times, and only take showers during those times. Now you understand.

 

The water for the school comes from a different source. Near the house that several couples are staying in are two huge water tanks. These two are designed to feed the school using gravity to supply. But we ran the tanks dry. So, off to the water company I go, and with just a simple request, two water trucks were sent to solve our problem.

 

While in town, I had a laundry list of items needed to keep us functioning: garbage cans, basins, sheets to divide up the dental area. By the time I got back, the heat had taken its toll. One student was vomiting and others were feeling nauseous. The heat and humidity seem to be getting worse and we are not acclimating fast enough. ANIMAL ALERT: a mongoose just ran across the road. Way cool. Where was I, oh yes, the heat.

 

My wife Judy told me this morning that it is so hot at night that if any part of her body touches another part it wakes her up. None of the rooms where the adults are staying have fans, so I have gotten some today. I also had to get a second washing machine. They are so small that it takes a LONG TIME, and laundry for 104 is mountainous.

 

The last thing on my to-do list today is to prepare for Sabbath. When we arrived on Wednesday, I was informed that we were to divide and go to seven different churches. I am still a bit concerned about this idea. Even though there are adults at each site, I wished I could have arranged the groups. But each of those church groups has been assigned the names and they want to get to know a specific set of individuals. I am told that there is something special planned for next Sabbath from these same church families for each one of us.

 

I was also asked to have someone preach at each location. That is proving very challenging. I have a lot of great people, but not a lot of people who feel confident to preach. Now today I am told that they would like for us to DO the entire church service at each of the sites. So I will be trying to put together 7 church services tonight. The kids know we are going to different places, but they have no idea that GOING means DOING. But they are very resilient and very cooperative.

 

We are driving to the orchid farm. We must be on our best behavior. They do not allow school groups in because of the lack of care and respect for the very delicate flowers. We have the chance again to demonstrate that our kids are a cut above, and I believe they will step up to the challenge.

 

I pray that this great adventure begins to instill into every heart and life the importance of service and the understanding that individuals can make a huge difference. Can we solve all of the problems we face? No, but we definitely can tackle a bunch of them, and that understanding, that obstacles are opportunities to test what we are made of, to test the depth of our Christian commitment and to test or faith in the wonder-working God we serve. I will not return your kids to you perfect, and that’s okay because they weren’t perfect when you sent them!! But I believe that seeds will be planted that one day will yield an incredible return.

 

Hello to all. We are back at the school after a very good day. Last night when I informed the kids that they were heading different directions for church today, they were a bit skeptical, but they went along. Originally, the churches wanted us to be there by 9:00 am, but I had to put a stop to that. If we are DOING church services, we need some time to prepare, so our Sabbath School time consisted of dividing up the people into seven groups and having the groups plan and practice for the service.

 

We spread around the four guitars we have, kids chose songs, practiced special music, decided who would do scripture readings and prayers, and off we went. The staff individuals that agreed to speak on such short notice (Matt, Cheri, Lon, Duane, Russell, Jeff and Dennis) are a living example of the commitment level we operate by. A quick note about Jeff: today was the first time he has ever given a sermon in his life.

 

The truck that took my group had no seats in it. I told the driver that since the girls were in dresses, and five of us guys were wearing sulus (these are Fijian man skirts, and I am so proud of these guys for going native), seats would be appreciated. Some benches were found and placed in the back and we were off for another adventure with careening corners, wind flying through, kids laughing, and girls’ wonderful hair-do’s all askew.

 

Once we arrived and began to share, the kids did a great job. Missy told a children’s story, kids sang songs for song service, sisters April and Kacie sang together for a special music, and all the kids with me were involved in some capacity. And it was that way at the other churches as well. The kids came back feeling very good about what they had done. They also came back stuffed. The people all had prepared food for us, and it was amazing. Fruits and vegetables, gluten steaks, even some fish and chicken for the carnivores.

 

After lunch, everyone gathered again at the school for an afternoon at the Garden of the Sleeping Giant. This is a world famous orchid preserve. (I just remember I mentioned this in my last update.) Moving on.

 

We had to divide into two groups of 50 each with an adult “watching” every three kids. And the groups of 50 would then be divided in half for two different tour guides. Cheri, Shirley and I worked on this last night, and kept missing one name. I finally left it with Cheri so I could spend a few minutes on my sermon. By this morning, she still couldn’t find who we were missing. We are all need more sleep. I finally found the missing person. It was Chelsea. We were both looking for a student, and Chelsea was on the staff list. All is good.

 

Supper was a first. Chuck had Rueben sandwiches to go along with his Minestrone soup. It was an excellent meal, topped off with brownies for dessert. Right as the kids were finishing, it began to rain—no, it began to pour. The kids went outside, acting as if they had never seen rain before.

 

When they were called in for worship, all were in good spirits, and the good feelings continued into the evening with kids playing all kind of games: Rook, Sequence, Dutch Blitz, Taboo, Scatergories, Uno (I don’t know why I have not thought to bring a bin full of games before, slow learner, I guess), and something called Big Booty. This is a memory game where you call out a different number based on the seat you are in, 1,2,3 etc, with the Big Booty being the guy at the top. You have to clap and stay in rhythm, or you go to the end of the line. I will be hearing this in my mind all night!

 

Tomorrow we are back at it. We are also half-way through this Mission Trip. Where does the time go? Continue to pray for us. We have a lot to do in these next few days, but all the hard work leaves a sense of fulfillment and purpose that is pretty special.

 

Weather is not our friend. Torrential. Noahic. So much rain that it drove everyone off the job site. The only good part: we are gathering the rain water to use for our laundry needs, and some of the kids actually got soap and took a commando shower (with a swim suit). It is so loud on the metal roof I can hardly hear.

 

Some of our kids are out playing rugby in the rain with some of the local kids. They are enjoying the weather, but if this continues, we will be in trouble. Clothes will not dry. Nearly dry stuff gets soaked on the line before we can get it all off. The kids also need a lesson in community. I am hearing rumors that some are taking 3 showers a day. That is eating our water supply, and killing our laundry crew. I am going to have to talk about that one. We are also reaching a tension point, hot, close quarters, out of our element, nerves on edge. Snapping a bit at each other. Time to talk about attitude and purpose. Overall, considering all the challenges and difficulties, we are functioning pretty good.

 

The outreach groups are feeling more confident in what they are doing and the time they have to work with. Each of our speakers is spending hours in preparation each day. Not only learning the info each day, but then practicing delivery and practicing using the PowerPoint presentations that they use each evening.

 

One of the things that is vital to the success of our trip is the attitudes we carry. Last night, after hearing talk from both the kids and some adults, I needed to address everyone regarding respect and authority. Respect is an issue all have to conscious of, but authority is more tricky. Adults don’t know all the kids, and the kids don’t know the adults and sometimes some of the kids don’t think they have to do what they are asked.

 

I heard from a couple of kids that if they don’t like how they are spoken to they don’t feel they have to listen. Huge problem. While we as adults need to be respectful, regardless of how things are said, what is asked needs to be done. We are all hot, tired, out of our element, but trying to do our best.

 

So, the adventures continue.

 

Several kids are having some health issues. Ashley got jabbed with a piece of rebar in the hand, Jinny has several bug bites on the same eyelid and it is swelling shut, Matthew has something on his leg and Sarah has something on her hand.

 

So, to take care of all of this, we had a lot of stops to make. But we were without a driver. So, I was drafted. Not too many things faze me. I mean, I take these huge groups around the world, so what’s the big deal with driving? Only that it is on the wrong side of the road, the car is a stick, so I have to use my left hand, and every rear-view sight line seems so distorted. But we were successful with three different trips: Tyler to get glasses, Matthew to the doctor, Dustin to get plumbing parts, and me to the bank to exchange another $10,000.

 

Tomorrow, we are heading off for an excursion to Beachcomber Island. The sun is out drying our clothes, work crews are going. Life is good. And soon we will be heading home. Continue to pray for us that we can be an example in all that we say and do.

 

We have all returned from a wonderful day at Beachcomber Island. Sun. Sand. Snorkeling. Scrumptious food. More sun. Sunburn. Fruit Smoothies. Parasailing for those who wanted to pay extra. Sea kayaking. Jet Ski Rides. Banana Boat rides. Fish feeding (they come right up and nibble on your fingers). Oh, did I say sun?

 

The morning began with a 5:15 wake up call, breakfast from 5:45 to 6:15, worship at 6:30, load the buses by 7:00. We arrived about 7:40, got on the boat by 8:30 and were on our way. We arrived at Beachcomber Island by 9:40, and the fun began. Muffins and tea at 10, lunch at 1. We had 30 sets of snorkel gear reserved for our group to use. You could either stay right by the beach, or take a boat out away from the island and see lots of fish. Throughout the day, kids saw moray eels, parrot fish, damsel fish, trigger fish, barracuda, and Matt even swam with five-foot long sharks.

 

Lunch was amazing. Fresh fruits, several vegetarian dishes (there was this one shredded carrot one that tasted incredible), salads, pizza. We ate well.

 

At 5:00 we were back on the boat heading back to port. I gave kids plenty of money for supper (the reason for this was that the price quoted last fall actually went down several dollars when usually thing go up, so I passed it on to the kids). There were lots of food options: Hard Rock Café, Pizza, Italian, Indian, Oriental, a chicken place, a falafel place (my choice for the evening), an ice cream shop (white chocolate raspberry with real raspberries, anyone?), and a pastry shop. In addition, there were two different souvenir shops, clothing, even a DVD store. We definitely helped the local economy.

 

By 7:45 I had to take my wife to the airport. She was unable to stay the entire time and I will miss having her here with me. All the kids were loading up by 8:30 and no one was wanting to stay up when they arrived back at the school.

 

We are a bit beaten up. Sunburns and heat exhaustion are already taking their toll. Kids have burns in places that never see the sun, until yesterday snorkeling. They are plugging away, but this is going to be a tough day. Pray for us.

 

I am sitting in my third internet café this afternoon. The first told me I had to wait an hour. While walking to find another one I went by an Indian Restaurant that was all vegetarian food. I choose a couple of things, and was then asked if I want something that sounded like riasa. I said okay, took my food sat down to eat.

 

Then a voice calls over my shoulder, “Sir, can I help you?” It was Brenda, a staff member from our group. She and several others had seen me and walked right up behind me. I never heard them coming. Good thing they were there because just a couple of moments later the waitress brings me this monster burrito looking thing, filled with potatoes and onions and something hot with a kick. I cut it into about 10 pieces for everyone to have some.

 

After lunch, walked back to my second internet café, but no luck there. I am now on number three and am waiting for this one to connect. Communication is very challenging. Oh, there it goes. To be continued…

 

Halfway through printing e-mails off for students and staff, the connection at the third site stopped working so I walked to a fourth one. I was able to take the rest of my messages off, but could not connect with my e-mail account to see if Update #6 went through. So, I just stopped, went outside to find a taxi to take me back to the school so that as many kids as possible could read the messages. In addition to limited e-mail connection, now I cannot find the cell phone that was given to me so that we could make phone calls. I will go through everything I have one more time.

 

Once I got back to the school, I began finding kids to let them read their messages. I had 60 of them. I left Brenda doing that because I was informed that a guitar string had broken so I raced back into town to get another set. We are using four guitars each evening and the kids at each of the Vacation Bible School sites SING. But all the stores closed at 5:00. By the time I got back, Jesse needed my computer to finalize his sermon prep for the evening, so I don’t have the chance to write very often, and neither do the kids. We are doing our best.

 

Yesterday was a very difficult day. The sun from our excursion has taken its toll. Several kids are experiencing heat exhaustion, and five guys, Raven, Anthony, Jordan, Michael, and Jeremiah, were digging footings in the heat. These holes had to be 18 inches square and 42 inches deep. Tough work. Everything on the job site is tough.

 

We keep making more concrete panels, some of which we will use, but mostly for someone else in the future. The process to make these panels involves the following steps. First, cleaning off the concrete molds so that the brickwork pattern is very sharp. Then there is some kind of oil to help keep the concrete from sticking. Then the two halves of the molds are fitted together.

 

Then this eight-foot long contraption is carried to where the concrete mixer is. Concrete is slowly poured into the opening, along with a rebar grid, which we have to make by cutting the rebar to size both vertical and horizontal and then tying them together. The form through all of this is sitting on a vibrating table which is turned off and on to get all the air out of the formed concrete. Once no more concrete will go inside the form, the excess concrete is troweled off the form and it is set aside to dry.

 

This is no easy process because this whole thing weighs over 120 pounds. Once the newly made panel is dry, you reverse the process. You take the form off, set the concrete panel aside to cure for a couple of days and clean off the form. It is all so very much work.

 

We did have an amazing answer to prayer. Our dentist is able to practice again. She has to work out of the hospital, but at least we are able to help again. God is good.

 

We decided to operate siesta style today. Start a little early, break for lunch, have our group worship time after lunch, and then break until 2:15. That allows for some breeze to pick up and miss most of the hottest part of the day. We have a lot of work to do today. We have begun in earnest digging holes. I bought five more shovels and handles to replace three that we had already broken. The ground is so hard and the holes are three and a half feet deep.

 

On the dorm, we are hauling concrete one bucket at a time up the scaffolding to fill one section. We are supposed to have a concrete truck tomorrow so that we can do the top bond beam and maybe pour some of the floors.

 

In spite of the heat and the tired achy bodies, kids are plugging along. They are a great bunch, and you should be very proud of them. I know that I am.

 

Thursday was an outstanding work day. The kids had clearly defined lists of things to do, and they were at it. We will do as much as we can on the dorm building, but there has to be an inspection before we can pour the floor, so that is out.

 

But one new task that kept many busy was digging holes for the support posts for the new classroom wing. When I returned from sending off Update #7, the kids were boasting about finishing 14 holes. We only did two on Wednesday. That sense of accomplishment is so good for us.

 

The dental team also had an excellent day, seeing 12 people and pulling 14 teeth. But the best part of the day for me had to be going around to the different sites and seeing our outreach teams in action for the first time. There have been other adults going, but my evenings have been as busy as my days.

 

I still have to finish my sermon for this Sabbath, finish prepping for the Sabbath School that we are putting on for the Fijian adults, prepping for our own Sabbath School, prepping for a special activity with our kids on Sabbath Afternoon, finalize what we are doing on Sunday and finishing arranging our travel groups and times for Sunday, and I am running out of time. No complaints—only that finding uninterrupted time can be a challenge.

 

I was able to watch and listen at three of the four evangelism sites on Thursday night. I began at the Lagilagi Church where Marissa is speaking. The Vacation Bible School (VBS) crew was singing songs and the little Fijian kids were belting out the tunes.

 

Marissa was speaking about baptism and asked me if it would be okay to tell about her baptism. I encouraged her to do so. She shared why this subject is so important, this personal choice to publicly declare the direction of your life. Then she referenced my involvement, because I had the privilege to study with her and to baptize her two years ago (very humbling).

 

Then I was off to the Central Church in Lautoka where Sean was speaking. He was about halfway through the presentation, and there were some details in the materials we are using that I had never heard before. Several of the church elders told me that he has been preaching with great power and that they were very pleased.

 

After that I came back to the school where Jesse was finishing up. He did a very good job of calling people to decision. There is a baptism scheduled for this Sabbath afternoon. In addition to listening to our preachers, I could see three of the VBS teams in action. They are energetic, enthusiastic, active and connecting with the kids at each of the locations.

 

When we arrived, the mood towards students standing the pulpit and preaching was not very good. I have stated all along that students would be speaking, but somehow it didn’t register with all of the church members. And to have young women speak, that is unheard of. But both Marissa and Marissa have won the people over with their sweetness, gentleness, commitment and conviction.

 

This has been a wake-up call for many people here. There is a tribal/clan mentality. The older men in the group, they are the wise ones. Young men are to defer to them, and women fall in line after that. Some of the cultural ideas and practices are valuable, but sometimes culture can also limit opportunity.

 

My driver last night teaches at the school we are working at. He was so glad students were speaking because it helps other young people here to realize that while they still need to respect their elders, there is no reason they cannot be more involved and active and lead out in the activities of the church.

 

When I think back on the founding of our church, those early Adventists were mostly people in their twenties. There were a few that were older for sure, and some who were teenagers. But everyone had the opportunity to serve and share. If the young people of Fiji come away with that dawning awareness, we have done a tremendous thing.

 

This will probably be my last update. Today will be very busy with all of our Sabbath preparation. Sabbath will be a FULL day and Sunday we load up and return.

 

When I look across the room each time we have worship and see their faces, I become a bit possessive. They are your sons and daughters, but I see them as my kids. Kids God has given me the chance to interact with, to see grow and bloom and develop and mature right before my eyes.

 

I have had many of them as students and to see them shoulder responsibility and lead out in so many different places and work through so many different challenges makes me so very proud of them. Three of these kids—Jessika, Lauren and Anna—have gone on mission trips all four years and I do believe that God is working in them and through them. These kids will be living dynamos for Jesus Christ as they continue to be aware of how to impact the world around them and to understand the power of kids working together for Jesus.

 

 

It’s Sunday afternoon on our flight to Seattle. We are back in familiar surroundings with another trip completed. I wanted to write this final update so that you would have a taste of our last few days in Fiji. After I sent my last e-mail, many more wonderful things happened to our group, and leaving is bittersweet.

 

There were several tears shed when we loaded up for the last time, and the local people want to know when we are coming again. In spite of the heat, humidity, housing challenges and just incredibly hard work, the people were amazing. They are so kind, considerate and genuinely caring. We have received more than we have given.

 

Friday night arrived with an amazing conclusion to the day. The kids dug 25 more holes for the concrete posts that will be needed for the new building. Dennis, our construction coordinator, began to design a crane system to help lift the concrete poles and panels into place. His invention, the MORGAN, will be quite useful. More on this later.

 

That Friday evening, all the outreach groups journeyed out for the last time. Since I had been to the other three sites the night before, I wanted to go to the furthest site where Marissa was speaking. Before the evening was over, there were about 100 kids for the VBS program and about 50 adults inside.

 

The local people have been so impressed by our kids, and that is not only on the job site, but overall. One of the leaders in Fiji, the man who has been trying to get the work done, is named Dave. He told me on Friday afternoon that there have been other groups come to Lautoka but none of those groups were, and I quote, “as disciplined, cooperative and well behaved.” I shared that with the kids. They are not perfect, but they are awesome, and this is the second time someone has made that observation about our group this year.

 

Driving back that evening, everyone in the van was really grateful and genuinely touched by the opportunity. The little kids were so adorable, the adults so appreciated. People wanted e-mail addresses and souvenirs. Several kids took their trip shirts to have people sign their names and write messages on them. We are part of the fabric of the place and they are a part of our lives as well.

 

Sabbath morning dawned clear, and HOT. I had been asked to give a presentation for the adult Sabbath School. I asked Emily to grab some kids and lead some songs and then I asked our four speakers, Seah, Jesse, Marissa and Marissa to help me along with Anna, Lauren and Hall, who have gone the last three years to help me. I also included Chelsea. Chelsea went three times as a student, and now this is the second time since she graduated that she has gone as a staff member. That is 5 of the 10 trips I have taken. I simply asked them some questions about their memories through the years.

 

After we finished we joined our group for the conclusion of our Sabbath School program. Matt had asked several people to share their experiences with the group since not all of us were at the same places each day. I was very touching to hear again regarding God’s leading.

 

The church service was a gathering of all the churches in the area. Many people were under the tent on the school grounds where Jesse had been preaching each evening, but even more were outside. I spoke for the church service, but what I find most impressive is how our kids stepped up one more time. Friday morning the local pastor asked if we would do a children’s church for Sabbath. I asked at lunch on Friday who would be willing to help and many of the VBS team leaders stepped forward, plus a number of other kids. They sat down and planned what they would do, and did it. Short notice and all, these kids deliver.

 

After the church service we joined together for a baptism. About 50 people were baptized, including our own Lauren. I joined two of the local pastors we had been working with for a very special ceremony. Young people, old people, couples and one former church member who had been so very involved years ago, all were baptized as a declaration of the commitment to Jesus Christ.

 

Another Fijian feast awaited us following the baptism and then the kids again showed their level of commitment. In Fiji, Sabbath is an all day experience. Meetings and activities and singing and talking, but NO CHANGING. I had explained this and asked the kids to remain in their Sabbath clothes all day in respect for the people we are worshipping with. For me, it was much easier, because I had been in a baptistery for about an hour and wet up to my chest.

 

(During the baptism, Mishel leaned over to tell me that she covets my place! Several people told me later they thought of being re-baptized just so they could get wet. It was a very hot day.) After I finished, I just let the sun slowly dry me off and since I was wearing a sulu (those are the man skirts that many in our group were wearing), I was very comfortable for hours!

 

At 4:00 our group gathered for a ceremony I began doing several years ago. It is a chance for kids to share with one another what they have appreciated. I brought several different candies from home and kids were to go and get certain ones that represented different things. In one bowl there was an assortment of taffy and kids were to pick up five of these and give one to each person who has made the trip fun for them. They were to pick up a butterscotch for each person they got to know much better on the trip. They picked up two Starbursts for the individuals they were thankful for and one frozen chocolate for the individual who helped them see Jesus better. Seeing the kids share with one another, learn about and from one another, was very special.

 

Immediately following this appreciation ceremony, we gathered for a communion service. These reminders of a life of service, a life of sacrifice, a life of sharing, this is what it means to be a Christian. All ten of the senior guys help to serve. My prayer is that the seeds we are sowing will develop and grow and bloom.

 

5:30 was supper and then we waited.

 

When we first arrived every person was measured. Each of the seven local churches where we went to worship last week made outfits for the people who went to those churches. And the church members were coming to dress us. By 7:30, the kids were turning in Fijians in a kaleidoscope of colors.

Each of the different churches made their garments in the same color. Twenty of us went to the Lagilagi church and their color was lime green. Others were in red or blue. One person had requested purple. After we were all in our finery, we were escorted by six warriors to our good-bye ceremony. And what a ceremony. There were songs and greetings, even an offering for the local school! They had a fire dancer but the most amazing thing was the presentation of the tooth.

 

In Fijian culture, the tooth of a sperm whale has incredible significance. It is used to settle disputes. It is used to acquire a wife. It is also given to very important dignitaries. And one was given to us. The tooth is a protected item and only so many can leave the country. The people had applied for permission to allow us to take it, but due to quota limits we are having to wait, but they have assured me they will not stop until official permission is given.

 

At the end of the ceremony, we were all pretty amazed at the overwhelming love being poured out on us. At every turn, we have been the ones who have been receiving.

 

Sunday morning was scheduled to be a late morning, group picture at 9:30, breakfast at 10:00, start packing up and cleaning up, each lunch about 4:00, load at 4:30, head to the airport by 5:00. Well, daylight savings time kicked in so everything was an hour earlier. This gave us more free time than I wanted.

 

Some of the kids wanted to hit the beach one final time, but then we have salt and sand, and more sunburn. So, we played volleyball and rugby with the locals, sat around and talked, just relaxed. Not a bad idea since our flight was to leave at 10:00 pm on Sunday and arrive at 1:30pm on that same Sunday.

 

Dennis finished his gizmo, and he wanted to set on corner post in the new building so he could show the local people how it worked. This gizmo, which I am calling The Morgan, is a braced tripod with a pulley system that allows you to lash a post and much more easily lift it into place. You can also much more easily true up the post so that it is level vertically and lined up with our strings horizontally.

 

They were most impressed, and here is why. Dennis estimated that the weight of one of the corner posts that would go into each of the holes these kids had dug weighed about 600 pounds! How they got as far as they did is amazing. After the post was in place, we braced it, mixed some concrete and set it. This gizmo alone, The Morgan, will help tremendously.

 

After the posts are set, it can be used to place the concrete panels. Instead of 4-5 muscling them up scaffolding and trying to slide them in place down the tracks that are in the pole, one guy can be on the rope holding the panel and the other can guide it. No more back breaking and finger crunching work. This is a good gift that will make the construction process much easier.

 

At 4:00 we loaded up and headed off for the airport. By 5:30 we were unloaded, sorted into travel groups and into the line to check in. At 6:00, the airline company began to check our group in. And the fun began.

 

The system in Fiji could not talk with anything dealing with Alaska Airlines. They wanted to just send our stuff to LA, and let us deal with the connecting flight. Problem is that we could be facing baggage charges once we are viewed as a domestic flight. And since our first three travel groups had only two hours to clear customs and get boarding passes and get to their plane, time was an important consideration.

 

The Fijian airline personnel found a way to manually override each ticket so that luggage would go to Seattle, but it took so much time. When they began working with the people on the later flight I was told that our flight that arrived in Seattle at 8:15 had been cancelled. Everyone would have to take a different flight later in the day. The last person to check in finished at 9:10. Our flight was scheduled to leave at 10:00. I walked with those final two individuals through security, and there were still dozens of people waving and saying goodbye.

 

Finally, I presented my boarding pass, ready to get on the plane at 9:50, and there stood Brenda and her daughter Sophia. Sophia had a boarding pass in her name, but at the gate there was no record of her being on the plane. They had her sister Sarah listed twice. Their family offered to stay and catch the next flight. Especially since the next plane didn’t leave until Tuesday night late. By 10:20 everything was sorted and we were on our way to Los Angeles, and then home to Seattle.

 

This trip is coming to an end, but there are several things that will last. First, the memories. Second, the connections. But mostly, the realization that we are a part of a world family and that we can make a difference in the lives of others.

 

I do not know where we will be going next year. God will have to open that door. But wherever it is, we will do all we can to help as much as we can for as long as we can, and one day, there will be a great reunion. I plan to be there, a place where there is no more separation or good-byes. Even so Lord Jesus, come quickly.