I have long imagined that I would go back to Poland. I've asked for that opportunity many times over the years. But I never dreamed that I would be invited by Betania Church, who I have worked with before. I couldn't imagine that I would be offered a free apartment in the building with the families I know and love, in the city I am so comfortable in. That I would be able to live and work there for a whole year. I couldn't imagine that God would give me so much at such a lonely and confusing time in my life. But here it is; laid out before me like a wonderful gift.
Since I first visited with Ryszard Wolkiewicz in September and began to pray about this journey, every single detail has fallen into place, many times before I even asked. I'm so thankful for the friends who have prayed for me and have so generously given toward my support for the year. I'm going to Poland!
I am overwhelmed with the possibilities of the coming year. My plans are to leave in May. For now, my first focus will be teaching English classes for those in the church. Eventually, we will expand those classes as an outreach to the city. But I think I have no idea the opportunities God will present to me while I'm there. I am open to His leading, and confident that whatever task He gives me, He has already equipped me to do.
This blog will be a way for me to share my life in Poland with all my friends, especially for those who have partnered with me in this mission. I have to give credit to my friend Dana for coming up with the name 'Home Is Where Your Heart Is'. I get teary eyed every time I think of it. I'm a Texas girl and I've got the accent to prove it! But since 1993, a part of my heart has been in Poland, and that makes it a joy to make it my home for a year. Please visit the website for Betania Church - it's in Polish, but you can get an idea of the people and the ministries there. If you check out the 'Contact' page, and zoom in on the satellite image of the church, you can even see the apartment building where I'll be living. I look at it often, and get excited every time I see it! Here is the link:
I would also like to share prayer requests with you in this blog. For now, will you please pray for the following:
My physical, emotional, and spiritual health; that I'll be the best I can
be before I leave.
God will continue to work out all the details of leaving here for a
year.
Continued progress in Rosetta Stone Polish.
I will raise all the support money needed for the year.
God will even now prepare the hearts of the people of Katowice for
the gospel.
Only three months to go - I can't wait!
