We enjoyed our time with those who passed through our doors. We are well.
We survived our first summer … yes!
We are excited Chad & Kensey have finally arrived! They arrived the end of September. They begin language school on October 1st. Chad has a desire to go to Catania when he completes his language study. Kensey plans on visiting the various churches to see where the Lord will lead her.
Each year the Florence Church hosts the Convegno (retreat.) This past August, “Listen” was our theme. In order to accommodate everyone - Avanti Italia folks- HUF folks - members of the church in Florence hosted the 70+ who came from near and far to attend. It was a huge undertaking! Many unsung heroes contribute to it all coming together so nicely. David led singing, set-up, played crazy wild games with the kids and adults, etc. (I know that is a surprise to many of you – ha!) I manned the registration table and “shuttled folks to & from.” It was a great gathering! The fellowship, revitalization, nourishment, encouragement, fun, relaxation, and spiritual renewal were evident!
This Fall, we hope to begin connecting with the churches here in Italy. Our hope is by getting to know them better & seeing the various needs of the churches requesting AI workers, we in turn can offer a better “match” as we strive to pair future AI workers with churches throughout Italy. Requests for AI workers have been issued!! And, as with English lessons, we currently have a “waiting list!!” We look forward to meeting our brothers and sisters in Christ as we fulfill this portion of our work. Please be mindful/prayerful as we need additional workers…
I wish every one of you could know Rosa Badassre-one feisty ball of energy! Rosa has worked with AI for the past 24 years. She is such an encourager and a wonderful blessing to us! Rosa’s husband, Felice, has had issues with his health this summer. His recuperation from recent surgery has been difficult, but he is slowly regaining ground. They are absolutely delightful. We have grown to love them dearly. Please remember them in your prayers.
Because several of you had difficulties opening the last AI Update, I hope this format with attachments addresses the problems…just let me know. Also, (FYI) the College Church in Searcy, Arkansas has previous AI updates on their website. In response to some of your inquires as to “how can I help Avanti Italia?
First and foremost, pray, pray, and…PRAY! That the AI program might see what is important, that we be open to necessary changes, for the hearts of the Italian people, and for willing hard workers ready to commit 2 years to a great work. Be mindful of possible candidates ready to join in the Lord’s work here in Italy and suggest it to them! (smile) There is so MUCH to be done!
Additionally, if you are looking for opportunities to join the Lord’s work monetarily -- AI may have a project or two that might be of interest to you.
Please read about our “works in progress.” (See attachment)
Also, keep in mind it is really very, very expensive here and the American dollar, as you know, is very weak. We have decided to break the projects down into manageable pieces.
Currently our projects are:
(1) Our Backyard,
(2) Plaster, Painting & repairs,
(3) Bedding,
(4) Chairs & Study tables (See attachment)
Soon, we will have been here a year, which seems absolutely impossible! As I look back, I am truly gratefully to see we have in fact learned some Italian…we h a v e progressed! Which is very encouraging. (smile)
I clearly see the Lord’s hand in our lives and that His hand is in our being here. If I did not see it so clearly, it would be difficult for me to remain. Each day I see how the sum of our past experiences and education struggle to be utilized and as they are being put to the test-daily. And believe me…it is stretching us!
From where I sit, this is David’s acme. He is very good at what he does [clearing of the throat-absolutely no bias] His love for people, his ability to take them just as they are, his approachability [if you’re not married to ‘im…big grin]
He is transparent. He has no pretense. He is a natural teacher and he is busy! The fact he is so handy is a bonus as he has repaired many things. Anyway, unlike me, he is not a complainer. He is having a ball, he is effective, he loves a challenge, and as I stated earlier, there is a waiting list for English lessons!!!
As for me, I do love being here! I just…I haven’t found my “nitch.” Oh, I suppose I am somewhat effective. I am very busy!! Don’t get me wrong. Its just never in my wildest dreams did I think at the age of 50, I’d be a missionary or a missionary’s wife, living in another country, speaking a new language [or rather try to], leave my sweet girls behind-very far away…but here I am. I am embarrassed to admit, but not once did I think or say, “Lord, send me, send me.” But here I am.
Let me be very clear, make no mistake, at times my attitude is not what it should be. Believe me, I can gripe & complain with the best of ‘em, [...mmmmm…I could probably go professional…] anyway, as I was saying…gripe and complain with the best of ‘em, and…here I am. There are days I struggle with what is important, what is necessary & what I want. And at times I am lonely.
Oh, there are people are all around me—I just can’t understand them! I miss meeting for coffee, talking on the phone, chatting, running into people who know me — I know that must sound petty…but it is the truth. And here I am….
I suppose I am a bit homesick…more likely it’s just simply difficult for me to be still and simply remember He says…e v e r y single day…here I am.
Thank you for all of your support and encouragement! We love you all & miss you, terribly!
Ciao` ciao`! Debbie
P.S. If you happen to see Elizabeth, Emily or Erica give them a hug, pat, or something, etc. Congratulate Erica, she and Justin are getting married, in Searcy, May 30th, 2009, hiphiphoouuurahhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
