The World Race has officially started and our first stop is Belgrade, Serbia. Surprisingly, It was only about 24 hours before launch that this information became available to me… As far as I knew Albania was our 1st stop. Therefore, I didn’t have much time to read up on Serbian culturehistory. However, since I’ve been here I been reading about, asking about and living the culture, and can honestly say Serbia is quite beautiful in it’s own unique way! So sit back and let me tell you a little bit about the land of Serbia!
The City of Belgrade:
Belgrade means “White City” and is actually one of the oldest Capitols on the continent of Europe. It has various styles of architecture and art throughout, displaying the richness of Serbia’s authentic culture. When walking around the city you also notice many areas being restored or rebuilt. This is because in 1999 the United States led an attack on Serbia during the Kosovo War. During the war the NATO dropped bombs on Serbia for 3 months straight! Hence why Serbia and the U.S. aren’t exactly pals. The last point of history I want to mention is the prime jewel of Belgrade… KALAMEGDON! Kalamegdon is a massive battle fortress that was built by the Romans in 40 B.C.. This fortress has out lived many different rulers, dynasties, bombings and wars. However, The last people to use it for military purposes were the Turkish. In the 14th Century the Turks conquered Serbia at Kalamegdon in Belgrade and claimed it as a new addition to the Ottoman Empire. I thought about writing a whole blog on Serbian history; I mean I am a history teacher… but I figured that would put most to sleep, so I am keeping the “history paragraph” short and sweet!
The Food in Belgrade:
If you love to eat, eat and oh yeah EAT, then you will love Serbia! At first I thought the food was unbelievably cheap, then I came to understand that people make far less than Americans. That being said American money goes a long way when buying food and drink. In terms of types of food; you will find lots of beef, bread and ice cream. The meal portions here are very large and the food is incredible! I have never seen so many bakeries or ice cream shops in my life. Every 50 yards you will find another bakery with hot fresh bread/mouth watering pastries OR a Frikom ice cream stand filled with ice cold deliciousness! I definitely won’t be losing any weight in this country!
The People in Belgrade:
The national language in Serbia is Serbian and it’s a very difficult language to speak. It has a combination of Latin and Cryllic alphabets, making it 2 X harder to learn the language. However, I’m doing my best to learn common/useful phrases to get around and order food. The people though, are quite open in a sense that they don’t shy away from conversation. The majority of people 35 & under speak decent English from what I’ve experienced. As far as spiritual beliefs most of the people here don’t like the idea of Church or God and don’t like talking about them either. If you mention that you’re a missionary or a Christian; people will lose interest in you quickly! Therefore, building up relationships with people in the city has been difficult, yet wonderful at the same time. God is slowing things down and teaching us to expand our love for people we minister to in this city and have faith that He will change them… NOT US and our fancy evangelism skills. It’s all about being real with people, and being more than a missionary who preaches the name of Jesus… But a missionary who walks/lives the life of Jesus.
God is really using us overhere and I will be telling you more about what He is doing soon. The team definitely needs Prayers so I’m going to list a couple things below!
1. For the 6 of us (Team Iron Life) to invest 100% in each other and learn to love eachother with Christs unconditional love.
2. For our hearts to give thanks in ALL things, no matter what.
Thank you for all your love and support!
Blessings,
Ryan
