Day 2

(Peter and Dan get busy with the face paints)

The team's first surprise of the trip was that for the week we are all getting back on our bikes! In Holland, everyone uses bikes to get everywhere. So when we went to our host families last night, it was on 2 wheels. Our saddles and seat heights have been for various adjustments today so that everyone isn't walking with a limp when we get home.

After varying amounts of sleep, we arrived back at Heelal (our base) this morning and spent a bit of time receiving some practical information for our week. Our schedule is busy and varied and there won't be much time for anyone to feel bored or homesick; though people may need a long rest or holiday when they get home.

This morning the team had their first experience of 'The Big Adventure'; the name OM give to their daily team bible study. This was done in small groups and gave everyone the opportunity to contribute and spend some time alone with God and His Word.

After a light lunch we received some training in evangelism which should stand everyone in good stead tomorrow when we go the Summermarket and use newly acquired skills in Face painting [see example above] and balloon modelling as a means to gain an opportunity to share the gospel.

The team are going into Amsterdam on Saturday for our day off which is coming earlier in the week than we expected, but will provide everyone with an opportunity to sightsee and spend some of their money on gifts etc.

The Bethany team has enjoyed meeting the others we will be working with this week: Josh from Cardiff, Laura from Birmingham, Priscilla from Croydon and Tobias from Germany, Andrew from Paris, as well as our Dutch hosts, Marijke, Hannika, Judit, Peter and Jana and others.

This (and every) evening, we will have a time of team worship which will be good. Please pray for us tomorrow as we spend time witnessing at the Summermarket from 11am to 9pm (with breaks for lunch and dinner). It promises to be a busy, tiring and exciting day.

Sentences I never thought I'd hear: "Tomorrow at the Summermarket" we will be selling chicken poop." Mmmm...another day, another OM gospel opportunity...