Hello friends and family, we apoligize for our lack of posts, we have been busy traveling the beautiful Balkan! Since we first stepped off the plane and hit Serbian ground, we have not fully un-packed our suitcases. We have been very fortunate enough to visit 6 countries in the duration of our stay.
Our first trip was an 8 hour train, to green and lively country of Montenegro. We were invited to partake in an English camp hosted by a team from the United Kingdom. The camp was took place on top of a mountain, called, “Vucje.” It is a magical little town, with scary mini-horses roaming the hills, cows running freely, and roosters that act as your personal alarm. Every. Single. Morning.
Our roles were both camper/leader, which really gave all of us a chance to develop personal relationships with the local students that attended. During the midst of the english lessons and fun activities, there were also short teachings about Jesus. Followed by small groups, which would last an hour or so, discussing what had been spoken that day. The camp was only a week long, and we were not ready to leave the end of it. In fact, Annie and myself (Sarah) decided to stay a few more days, with a lovely missionary family from California. They were so hospitable and even made us a home-cooked mexican meal! **We bring up Chipotle on a daily basis** Our missionary family also started the third and last church in their city, which was amazing to attend. We made new friends, gained a few pounds, and of course danced in the Kolo in Montenegro.
Our second trip, started off bright and early at the train station. We boarded at 5 am and were off for another 7 hour train ride to, Zagreb, Croatia. From Zagreb, we were whisked away to a small town, a few hours away called, Fuzine. On the way, Jaimee and Alexandra took a detour and were able to stop in Slovenia, where of course they received an additional stamp. Upon arrival to Fuzine, we were greeted by new friends from all over the world! Over 13 different countries were represented, all to attend the Renewing of Minds conference.
ROM-Renewing of Minds Conference,” which main purpose serves to teach future leaders how to reconcile problems and find inner peace. Through it all, we are building relationships and learning the love of Christ.ROM attendees include leaders from Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia, Macedonia, Albania, Zimbabwe, Romania, Ukraine, Russia, Australia, Norway, the Netherlands, and the U.S. (Seattle, Colorado, Texas, Virginia, and D.C.) In this small hostel, different cultures were put aside, we were able to join hands, renew our minds, and most importantly witness our lives change. Our friend from UPC and the Balkan Task force, Allen Belton attended as well, and hosted a few encouraging lectures. I think I can speak for the group when I say, we all learned so much during this time and developed friendships that will last a lifetime.
Now we are in our last week in Belgrade, before we head back to the coast of Croatia for EUS camp. 70 college aged students will be in attended, and yet again a lovely 11 hour journey on bus. During this last week, we’ve explored the century year old fortress, visited the zoo, cheered for the local Partizan football club, and took a day trip to Romania. Where again, we got another passport stamp and were able to visit a dear friend, whom we met at ROM.
We are all in disbelief as the 10 day countdown is near. At this point, no one wants to leave Belgrade and the new lifestyle we have adapted to. Saying, “Dovejena” (Goodbye forever) will be very difficult and something we are not looking forward to. Please keep us in your prayers, as we spend our last week in Croatia and grow deeper with one another and in Christ.
xoxo, Team Serbia