Last weekend (Sept. 22-25) we were privileged to take part in a retreat for CHE (Community Health Evangelism) leaders in Bosnia. At a Christian campground near Lake Boracko, we spent time reflecting, praying, studying and learning alongside 25 brothers and sisters in Christ from across Central and Eastern Europe. These workers are doing challenging and... Continue Reading →
This week a team from Broadus Memorial Church in Charlottesville, Virginia, is here to help us put on a "Family Health Day" event in eight different locations. One of the stations is about how our bodies need exercise to be strong and healthy, and showing different exercises you can do without equipment. The kids love... Continue Reading →
Two signs we're always glad to see after the long, cold winters here in Slovakia - the bright yellow canola fields and the storks returning to their nests. We still have cold snaps from time to time these days, but spring is winning!!
Wednesday night at the Roma church we had a discussion group with some church members about what it means to live in God's kingdom. The lesson and the above illustration came from a lesson in CHE (Community Health Evangelism, see these posts for more information) and encourages participants to think about the parts of any... Continue Reading →
We had a fantastic time last week with a mission team of eight from First Baptist in Gretna, Virginia. We posted some photos to our Facebook page, so you can click on the images below to view them (you don't have to register for Facebook). https://www.facebook.com/jonandtanyaparks/posts/1236414856474534
We get so much joy from hosting teams - there are so many little wonderful things about having guests here serving and learning alongside us! But one of our favorite little joys is watching new friendships grow. The team of eight that's here from Gretna, Virginia, partnered with Devleskero Kher church several times this week,... Continue Reading →
Once every few weeks we get a "pick-me-up" in the mail from the U.S. - a card, a drawing, maybe a special treat that reminds us that someone is thinking of us and praying for what God's doing here. This week we got a batch of cards from a Sunday School class at Westhaven Baptist... Continue Reading →
Most students in Slovakia have a chance at least once during primary school to have a "ski week" - an opportunity to hit the slopes with their classmates and teachers. The Ministry of Education offers some financial assistance for this, making it possible for students of different economic backgrounds to take part. Because Slovakia is... Continue Reading →
Sorry it's a bit blurry, but it's blurry because these kids are so fast! One of our favorite English games is called "Board Rush," where teams compete to be first to identify or write a specific word on the board. This was our first day back with them after a long break, so we enjoyed... Continue Reading →
Today's snapshots will look familiar, no matter where you live. School has started here in Slovakia this week (summer break is always July 1 to August 31). For us, this means that many of our regular ministry activities will be starting up very soon... but it's also a personal event in our house, as our... Continue Reading →
