Dear Friends,
I have never written anything like this so bear with me as I attempt to figure out "blogging."
This blog will center around my upcoming missions trip. It will include information on our preparation, purpose, and daily encounters. Hopefully, it will give you all at home a taste of what my trip is like. So with out further ado-
An Introduction-
My name is Julia and I am a freshman at Southwest Baptist University. This spring (May 23-June 10) I am taking part in a missions trip to the Pyrenees mountains in Spain. My team and I will walk a section (about 200 miles) of the pilgrimage trail known as "The Camino del Santiago" or "The Way of St. James." This is an ancient pilgrimage route tracing from southern France and across northern Spain to the coastal city of Santiago. Thousands of people from all over the world walk this route each year, on spiritual, physical, and emotional journeys. Our purpose in walking is to intentionally take part in spiritual conversations with fellow pilgrims and share the Good News with those who are lost.
Our team consists of ten "missionaries" and this larger group will split into two teams of five. This split will prevent logistical troubles and present a less intimidating front to those we come in contact with. As a team we will stay in hostels and carry everything we need in backpacks as we travel. Each day we will wake up and walk to our next destination; at night, we will be preparing community meals to share with our fellow pilgrims (because who doesn't like food?!). Our hours spent walking, eating, and living with them will allow us to share the Gospel in a relevant way.
An Update-
This whole thing started about eight months ago in mid-September when my school, Southwest Baptist University, rolled out their mission trip schedule for the following year. As I sat in chapel and flipped through the book containing information on each trip I came across one labeled Pyrenees. One look at the description and purpose for the trip and I knew it was the trip meant for me. I then began the application and interview process. After what felt like a failed interview, I waited for several weeks until I received the answer that I was accepted for the Pyrenees team. Following my acceptance, I went into "fundraising mode." I sent out letters to friends and family who graciously supported me. By the grace and provision of Christ, I was fully funded by early February.
After the team was put together we were given a fantastic book, God's Space, to read over Christmas break. If you know me and would like to borrow it I would be happy to share! God's Space is all about how to allow people to "wonder" their way into a spiritual conversation, and then preparing you for a relevant response. By taking a question centered approach we avoid being pushy, seemingly hypocritical Christians, without watering down the Gospel message or being unintentional. We began having weekly team meetings in early February in which we discussed the book, logistics of the trip, and prepared spiritually and physically. This included gathering supplies such as packs, boots, rain gear, even special socks.
As our trip drew nearer we took a jaunt down in Arkansas for a three day hiking adventure in preparation. It was definitely an eye opener for those of us who went, and gave us a better idea of what to expect (Hint: exhaustion and sore feet). The trip was also a great time to bond and get to know each other as a team.
A Request-
Today marks exactly 2 weeks from the day that we leave. We are all excited, anxious, and prayerful. I ask that you join my team and I in a prayerful attitude as we prepare for and take this trip. We would appreciate prayer for safety, health, spiritual discernment, and spirit-led conversations. Please also pray that the Spirit touches the hearts of those that we will come in contact and prepares them for the message that we bring.
So...How did I do? I hope you enjoyed this post (sorry it's a bit lengthy!) and that you will commit to coming along for what promises to be a life changing journey. Please feel free to contact me via comment if you have questions, suggestions, or encouragement. Thank you to all those who have already show love and support for this trip. Look for another post soon and God Bless!
In Him,
Julia
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