Hanging out the Orphanage Thursday and Friday

The last few days we have spent time at the orphanage playing with the kids and trying to finish the mural.  It has been such a great experience as our team and the orphans really kind of understand each other now.  We kind of know what each kid likes and doesn't and how to connect with them.  There is such a great comfort level now between them and us. 

We worked on some crafts with them as well as had a time where we sang worship songs together that were led by our team (Hudson, you are part of the team).  They too knew the songs and sang right along with us.  It was such a humbling experience to know that we were singing about and worshiping the same God, even as we are from such different places and circumstances.  It was a moment that I think cemented with our team what an awesome God we serve.

We were then treated to some amazing dance routines that the orphanage children performed for us to some great worship songs.  The director, Pak Jonedy, has taught the students to perform as a way of helping their self confidence in group situations.  He really wants them to be able to share the Word with others and to do this they must have self-confidence, especially here in this place.  They were such great performers!

Thanks to Lucy C. for all of the great bows we were able to give the girls!

Carter posing with his friend in front of the tree we painted with the orphans and our teams hand prints.

Looking good, Ty!

Our girls were making copious amounts of friendship bracelets for the children.

Face painting was a big hit.

The adults trying to put the finishing touches on the mural.

Singing as one people.

The mural almost finished.  This was all hand drawn by our friend Justine.  She is an amazing artist!  Thanks Justine!