The first camp just ended yesterday. It was "as smooth as a camp can go," said the missionary and team leader over the ministry here in Serbia. We had about 8 Americans, 9 believing Serbians team members, 1 member from a church down South, 3 interns and about 16 students. Of those, two made statements of faith (as I understand as of now, we haven't had time as a team to discuss)!!! We are excited to welcome those students into The Family! Glory to God!
The dynamics of this camp were different than most. All but two spoke fluent English. This allowed great opportunity for conversation. As Americans our role is to create relationships with the students and partnering church so that students can be discipled through the year. The students were extremely open to listening and talking one on one.
Most students, if not a believer, are Serbian Orthodox. This is inherited a birth and now part of your heritage rather than a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. With this being said many don't even understand what we are talking about as we share the Gospel. At this camp many students said they were so loved and that the Americans were so different. They wanted what we had. One atheist and one anostic student both said after the Gospel was shared that they believe they are just confused on what they believe now. They just aren't sure. Seeds are being planted!
There was a student who hurt a ligament in her hand during camp and had to be taken to the doctors. It was not a big deal. However as she was returning back to camp she commented that the people and doctors were so rude. She said everyone at camp is so loving that it is hard to leave this environmwnt and face the rude people. This really opened her eyes and she really began to question what God is all about.
The unity of the Serbian and American team was a taste of heaven on earth. Though sometimes conversations were in another language, I felt the Spirit unite us. Our mission and heart were one. It was such a peaceful and assuring feeling. The same Spirit is in us all! We were one!
Your prayers were listened to! The energy and ebb and flow of this week was unreal. The team never let a student be alone. We were all constantly engaging one on one or in groups. I can't thank you enough for each and every prayer!
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