ady access to the Internet in many parts of India, especially in rural areas like Shamshabad. Not only are there fewer computers available, but the monsoon season with its generous rains disrupts Internet service in places like MBCBC. Del and I did not have easy access to the Internet after we left Delhi so I have been able to post fewer posts than I had hoped to do. We are now back at Hillsboro, home of Tabor College, adjusting to the 10 1/2 hour difference between the two places.
The trip was inspiring and successful. We attended chapel at MBCBC on Thursday where Del gave a wonderful devotional on Jonah. In addition, we were given the traditional welcome with garlands.
Del and I sat in on classes where we heard lectures on worship and Hinduism.
In the afternoon we had a planning meeting with MBCBC leaders.
The model for the trip in January 2008 we came to settle on includes one week at MBCBC and one week in Jadcherla or Mahabubnagar, two cities about an hour south of Shamshabad.During the first week, Tabor students will sit in on classes at MBCBC in the morning and then go to villages to visit churches in the afternoon with MBCBC students. They will stay in the dormitories with MBCBC students.
During the second week, students will work with one of several churches in either Jadcherla or Mahabubnagar. They will work with the pastors during the week and stay with church members.
The church at Jadcherla is an impressive church with 500 members and a building under construction that will be one of the most beautiful churches one can imagine.
The church in Mahabubnagar is a growing church with about 2000 people who attend.
More about the rest of the trip in another posting. For now, I will close with this impression: anyone who goes on the trip in January will have a life-changing experience. One cannot help but be moved by the work of the church, the vibrancy of faith among the Mennonite Brethren Christians, the intriguing culture, and the warm friendships that will develop.
Lawrence
