ICS Final Report - Debriefing

(from Bev)

If one must 'suffer for the Lord,' Hawaii is the place to do so!  For those who think that we did nothing but play you should have listened as we wrestled with tough questions and reentry issues with Pastor Scott Custer.  We spent 12 hours answering questions like "What did you learn about God this trip?  About yourself?"  We practiced short responses to the question '"How was your trip?" and learned why we need them.  The students had a closed session on conflict resolution.  Every session was based on scripture and even this veteran of many Impact trips was challenged. But oh did we play as well!  Many students tried surfing, enjoyed walks along the beach, climbed a mountain, spent a day at the Polynesian Culture Center and more.

(From Josh)

Although our trip has come to an end, our future has just begun. Please be praying for our process in transitioning back into our homes. Please be praying for our futures. Please be praying for the decisions we will be making in the future.  And please be praying for the countries we have been to and the people we've met.

(From Liz)

After two months of constant boarding planes and entering host homes, camps, and a variety of hotels our time of travel has come to an end. Thank you to each of the supporters who donated and helped during this trip; thank you to each of the hosts that helped in each different location the team visited. The blessing that has been attached to this once in a life time trip will remain in each member of the team throughout the time of our ministry.

(From Heidi)

I believe God called me on this trip to restore my love and relationship toward Asia. China was great because I saw the need and the Christians’ eagerness to serve the Lord no matter what, it was also very precious to me because I was able to visit the country of my mother’s roots. In Thailand, I was able to experience being an English teacher and building closer relationships with the locals. In Japan, where I grew up, I was able to see the need of true hope in the people, and how the churches are struggling due to very few congregations. I was also able to meet my dear father and brother! All these experiences are just a small portion of all.  I cannot put in words how much I learned about myself, my friends, and most importantly my wonderful Savior. I will always cherish this wonderful experience and use it to expand God’s Kingdom!

Hawaii was not only an awesome time to reflect on the past two-months of internship, but a much needed time of rest, relaxation and recreation! We had the chance to go on hikes, go swimming/surfing, play various games, have extended time to spend alone with God as well as simply enjoy the beautiful creation. I’m so grateful to be refreshed in the Lord through our time of debriefing. I am also grateful to be able to have time to reflect on the past two months spent in three different countries and to learn about al God did in us and through us. Thank you all so much for your thoughts and prayers.

(From Sarah)

Thank you all for your prayers and support.  The trip was challenging and wonderful all at the same time.  We were brought out of our comfort zone through serving in three different cultures.  We saw the Lord work through being our strength and joy when teaching English or visiting churches got tiring.  Overall the trip taught me so much about God and His deep love for His people.

(from Bev)

Thanks to all who covered us with prayer support these past 8 ½ weeks.  We’ve grown closer to our gracious God and to each other as we’ve served and investigated God’s work in Asia.  Each of us will be eager to share stories because we’ve learned so much.

(from Dr. E)

Every time I have taken a trip like this one, my first goal is to bring back the students as healthy as possible and with both changed hearts and a love for bringing the message of Jesus with others who have not yet heard.  After 27 trips, I am always amazed at God way of working through prayer in little and big things.  The undertaking to putting together a two-month internship with many details is amazing, yet God has been with us.  China was challenging - presenting a challenge to make a difference with future leaders by teaching English in various universities.  Thailand continued in this trend but the opportunities are limitless.  Japan included a stay in the Koriyama, Fukushima Prefecture where no one comes to visit.  The churches are small and struggling but powerful in prayerful dependence. Finally, the debriefing in Camp Homelani in Waialua, Oahu was perfect, especially with the leadership of Scot Custer, pastor of International Church in Honolulu.  Thank you for your prayers and support.