Gosia & Kelly
Hi all! We are back in the states and finally finding some time (and internet connection) to catch you up on our final weeks in Poland.
Our third and final English camp of the summer took place in a port city called Szczein (stetch-een). Our team was assigned to this camp as extra support for the Polish and American teams, as it was the first English camp for both groups. As interns, we are there to fill in the gaps and ensure that all aspects of the camp go smoothly. At this camp, Chris had the added responsibility of being the camp director, overseeing the entire camp. He did an amazing job of being a leader to our intern team, the Polish leadership, as well as helping the American team. Heading into the camp, we knew of a few issues, and once there we encountered several more. Chris really stepped up in guiding, counseling, and encouraging the young Polish leaders. The position was a natural fit for him, and it was a joy for me to observe and support him throughout the week.
After a long and tiring summer, it was not easy for our team to jump right in to another camp at full speed. As we struggled to find energy and focus at the beginning of the week, I was reminded of the story of Jonah. Jonah was sent to Nineveh to preach the Lord’s word, and he would have rather been anywhere else in the world. He begrudgingly spoke to the evil Ninevites, and they repented wholeheartedly and devoted themselves to God. After being a part of this great revival, Jonah has a pity party. Although our team wasn’t quite so hardened of heart, we were tired and didn’t really feel like being at camp at first. We served God despite our feelings and attitudes, and God used us in great ways. Throughout the week I heard the American team comment on how glad they were to have us at camp, and I saw campers appreciate the presence of the interns. It’s just amazing how a holy God can use such fragmented people to make an eternal impact for His kingdom. And, as we are used in these ways, we become less fragmented and more complete in Him.
Agata & Aneta
By the end of the week, Polish students had come to know God better (a Polish youth group girl, Agata, was simply on fire sharing the gospel), and we understood ourselves better. After yet another train ride through the night (I believe our total overnight train hours throughout the summer came to about 32 hours) we had some time to rest, debrief, and enjoy our team before departing for the USA.
My next post will include highlights from our summer; how God moved, changed us, taught us, and what’s next for the Lillpops!
1. I like you.
2. I’m SUPER happy we got to kick it old school in Krakow if only for an hour.
3. I’m happy to have come across your blog so that I may cyberstalk you. (weird?)
4. I’m still in Krakow; officially alone. Interns left today. Sad but not but am…quite the paradox.
5. Check out my blog. You’re on it.
6. October + Colorado + Ya’ll + Me = Goodtimes had by all
7. One should always have a number 7.
8. My stomach hurts from the WAY too sweet coffee I just drank.
9. Yay for your summer in Poland!
10. Done and done!