I’m looking forward to meeting two children that Julie, Tabs and I sponsor through Compassion International. Godfrey and Bakari live in Tanzania, Africa. Over Labor Day weekend I’ll be traveling with my good friend and Jesus-following partner, Tom Patton, to walk the dusty trails of the Dark Continent. We’ll visit villages devastated by the AIDS virus . . . villages that are alive with hope because of the love of Jesus Christ.
On our journey we will be joining six other leaders for what promises to be quite an adventure. We’re going to climb Mount Kilimanjaro together. 18,500 feet above sea level. Yesterday I sent in my deposit for the climb. That made it real! I can already feel the exhilaration.
Two mountains. One to help children out of poverty. One to see Africa from its rooftop.
Greg,
This is where my heart is and I would be interested to know how this trip goes for you. I am wanting to make some contacts in country for a trip like this. I do have a friend who lives in Kenya, but the situation there right now is a bit tenious. So.., pls share or drop me a line about this or call me about it upon your return. Thanks.
IHL,
Richie
Great adventure to look forward to. I guess my big climb was just a mear hill, I have hiked up Half Dome in Yosemite 4400 feet above sea level. The only thing I have ever done and felt like quiting serveral times during the climb. Lunch at the top was grand and memorable. Enjoy both mountains.
Hi Greg,
Our newly sponsered child lives in Tanzania….her name is “Happiness”! If you meet someone by that name, give her a hug for us. It sounds like an awesome trip for sure. My husband and I have done a bit of climbing, mostly in the Tetons…we’ve done the Grand 2 times and lots of hiking and bouldering. The Grand is just at 14,000…it’s a rush, I lost vision in one eye for the last 1000 ft. YIKES!! Kilimanjaro will demand much of your physical stamina, and meeting Godfrey and Bakari will demand much of your “heart” stamina. The mountain will be your victory, but meeting Godfrey and Bakari will be God’s victory through you. Our hearts go with you.
LINDY
Hey Richie,
We’re going to be visiting five cottages for orphans and vulnerable children that RiverTree is heavily involved in. I’ll let you know how it goes.
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Awesome! I went to South Africa for about 10 days last summer and am planning on returning to the community of Mamelodi. If anyone is interested, a church in Cincinnati (the church I went with last year) takes about 400 people on the trip…best of all, it’s open to everyone. You don’t have to be a member of their church (I’m not) or even be a Christian to go serve. It’s an amazing time. If anyone is anxious to hear more, feel free to contact me at [email protected].
Hi April,
What church is it? I’m guessing Crossroads?
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Yep! Crossroads Church – here’s their website: http://www.crossroads.net
They’re taking two groups over again this year, but instead of the summer, it’s going to be in November this year. Not sure if that’s saving costs or why they decided to push it back, but hey, I’m sure it’d be a great break from winter weather in Ohio!
Greg, I have friends that have recently been attending your church and I’m very interested to check it out next time I’m in town. Most likely it’ll be around Easter – maybe I’ll force you to meet me when I come! :)
Hey April,
Brian at Crossroads is a good friend of mine. Great church!
Hope to meet you at Easter.
g