Fall Trip. . . number 1 . . . began in Singapore where John lectured to church leaders of Bethel Presbyterian Church on a Saturday afternoon, 5 September. Topic: Small groups and being effective. Over the past 10 years we've gotten to know many of these wonderful friends and we had a great time reconnecting and sharing. We always enjoy being in Singapore and worshiping and learning together.
The Philippines Well, we arrived in Manila on our wedding anniversary and had a wonderful dinner, served in elegant style by our friends in this excellent hotel. The staff had prepared a "zero-fat" cake for our celebration, and we enjoyed sharing it with friends on the hotel staff.
The main reason for being in the Philippines was the International Chrysalis Institute -- Asia, which was held in Subic Bay Free Zone. Over 45 people met for four days of interaction, sharing of ideas and learning from some outstanding Resource People on the subjects of The Leader as a Good Steward. It was a significant time of personal growth and development of younger leaders, and we were thrilled to see God at work in each life.
Home for a week(trying to deal with jet lag and catch up on mail!), and we headed on 4 October for Santa Barbara and the El Montecito Presbyterian Church where John preached in the two Sunday morning services. In the evening we enjoyed a fireside chat on the subject: "The Church in Eastern and Central Europe." What a great time to be with friends at this outstanding church, one of our partners in Chrysalis.
These times are difficult times financially for non-profits such as Chrysalis. However, we feel called to continue as long as funds are available and trust God for His provision. It's tough at times, but what an adventure!
NOTE: Chrysalis has been making our friends and supporters aware of the financial needs in the Philippines following the deadly floods (just 4 days after we left, water was waist deep around our hotel!). Please contact us if you would like to give (we will wire all donations by mid-October). Several of the Institute Participants had great losses and members of our hotel staff lost everything! The typhoon hit with 16 inches in 12 hours, a record amount of rainfall! I know they would appreciate your prayers as well.
blessings, carol