3 days until I begin my journey to 11 countries for 11 months
Yes, you read that correctly! I will be heading to Atlanta in 3 days where I will meet up with my team and hug my parents goodbye. My time at home has been very bittersweet, but I feel ready, and I know I am ready. I am very excited for the adventure that lies ahead, and I know God is going to change me in such a sweet way!
When it comes to training camp, I do not even know where to begin. I experienced a whirlwind of emotions and gained many experiences in just a short few days. If I tried to write it all, this blog would be 20+ pages long. (Training Camp was 10 days in Gainsville, GA where I met my team and learned more about my trip)
Instead, I will give you some highlights. I met my squad, who are the absolute best (Picture below). We lived in our tents, and we packed up all our gear almost every morning. We took bucket showers, meaning we filled a bucket with a water hose and used a measuring cup to dump water on ourselves. We also had a timed fitness hike, that I thankfully I passed with ease! Each day we were assigned a different country. This meant that we got the chance to eat food authentic to the country and dressed within their cultural dress code. We had worship sessions everyday, and this was a bone shaking experience. When you have 300+ people crammed into a room on fire for God you can REALLY feel Him move! I learned that being vulnerable isn’t a terrible thing. In fact, it is one of the stronger things you can do. There were moments I was uncomfortable, and I was pushed out of my comfort zone, but those moments taught me more about myself and God than I could have ever dreamed possible. My team bonded over team scenarios, sleeping scenarios, and late night chats in the dark while wearing headlamps.
(this is our campsite and a pretty sunset)
The past couple of days I have been reminded of having a “yes” in my spirit. The World Race always talks about having a “yes” spirit. “Yes” to doing whatever it takes to share the Gospel. A few weeks ago, my team ( called Strategically Placed) found out that we will be serving in Antofagasta, Chile alongside a church congregation of around 130 people who work with multiple ministries. We will also be helping with the English classes in the local school. My team and I are extremely excited to see how the Lord will move within us during our time there.
Meet my team, Strategically Placed
L-R: Me, Morgan, Rachel, Brannon, Rob, and Ashton
As of today, I am 95% funded for my trip. THAT IS INCREDIBLE!!! GO GOD. With that being said I have about $1,000 more to raise to be fully funded. God is showing up in bigger ways than I could ever imagine. He is using so many people to come alongside of me as I launch to this incredible journey in just 3 days!!! Through my story and telling people about The World Race, I have connected with all kinds of people, and I am so blessed for this opportunity.
(this is L-Squad, the best squad)
As always, thank you for your continual support through encouraging words, financial donations, and thoughtful prayers.
Blessings,
Catie Collins
