Namasté ~ Greetings

Well we left Calgary on a very snowy, Monday evening (Nov. 30th), and after spending 2 long days in travel we arrived safely to a very hot/humid Mumbai, India. It was definitely an answer to prayer that our flights went smoothly and all our luggage arrived safely. We were even able to spend a bit of time in London during our 9hr layover, seeing some sights, such as Big Ben, Westminster Abby, the London eye, and numerous double decker buses, which was quite exciting!
Anyway back to Mumbai, after a warm welcome from our host RJ, we all piled into vehicles for the very squishy/sticky, eye opening drive to our apartments. Our first glimpse of India...and our first experience with the Indian way of driving...all I can call it is organized kaos! :p

We were quickly caught up in the sights, sounds, and mass of people. Mumbai is home to approximately 25 million people so there is always something happening.

The couple days were spent resting up, learning about the culture, and exploring nearby. Us girls were able to by Indian clothing. Women's clothing here is beautiful and very colourful!

Saturday(Dec. 5), we helped RJ with a program he does promoting character development at a college here in Mumbai (school goes from gr. 1-10 and college = gr. 11-12+). Although we weren't able to preach God's word from the stage, we were able to share a bit about our faith during the discussion time as well as get to know the youth, who welcomed us warmly. Following the program we smiled for many a camera aka cell phone. We are hoping to stay in contact with as many of the youth via. facebook.

Sunday we did a small children's program at a nearby church. The children loved learning the songs we sang and even sang a couple songs for us in their own language. During the program a number of the children responded to our invitation. The afternoon was spent in fellowship with friends of RJ's, who graciously took us out for an authentic Indian meal. The food was delicious and plentiful! In the evening we hosted a bible study at our apartment. Good fellowship.

Monday, the guys were able to do a program at a nearby orphanage. The guys have a great opportunity to play soccer with a number of neighborhood guys on a regular basis. It is an awesome way for them to connect with the youth here.

We got a brief chance to spend some time at the beach playing soccer and dipping our feet into the water.


Prayer Requests:
For the guys as they build relationships with the neighborhood guys.
Also that God would give us gals good connections with neighborhood ladies, who tend to be withdrawn (building relationships...etc)
That each of us would handle the culture shock in Godly ways
Continued health and for good night sleep
Internet connections with the youth we have met (wisdom in talking/counseling them)
Praise:
We have got the Ok to do programs in numerous schools across Mumbai, even being able to share our faith
For God's provision of very generous hosts as well as for good accommodations.
That none of us have been seriously ill and have been adjusting to the food fairly well
For safe travels both to India and around Mumbai