Life update…
So far, since month 3… Philippines happened, team changes happened, Zimbabwe happened and we weren’t a full team due to my Costa Rican team mate note being able to get into the country, Zambia was manistry month (meaning all 10 guys on my squad became a team that month), and Malawi was prison ministry/living in tropical paradise. Yeah, God is good. He’s been working a storm throughout Asia and Africa, and is continuing surprising me throughout Europe.
Ok. I’ve taught English before; in fact, month 1, Cambodia we taught English to the youngsters, but it just didn’t feel the same and the attention spans were difficult. Although it was a blast AND was my first month.
So, what’s different about Ukraine. Ukraine is a country that has been affected (and is still fighting) from Russia. It’s independence from Russia is as old as I am by 1 day. The culture there is both a warm and cold culture. Meaning, at first glance they seem distance and reserved, but once invited inside you see a vibrant and welcoming sense of incredible hospitality. Their sense of family and love for even someone they just met is impeccable and such a testament to the love of God.
My ministry hosts were both named Tania. One being from Ukraine and the other from the US. They were so accustomed to World Racers, having hosted several times before, so they knew the drill. They love having Racers come for the energy and the ability to hold English classes with American teachers, allowing people to come for free lessons after work/school and practice/learn English with native speakers. (Why Americans, apparently our accent is the clearest and easiest to speak and understand).
The first 2 weeks, from Wednesday to Friday, we taught classes for an hour. We worshiped and shared testimonies and just had fellowship and got to know each other. We were also helping to get people to sign up for a weekend getaway English camp; for people to come to and have fun, learn about Christ’s love, and practice English and just do life with us. (This was the second weekend we were in Ukraine).
It was my element! I loved every moment of it and I got to share the crazy, fun, outgoing self and camp counsellor side of me. I got to talk to people and encourage people and hear their stories: the struggle, passions, and praises. (I got to lead a improv session that ended with me being in the funniest scene that I think I have EVER been in. Had to do with a doctor… 
. Ukrainians sure know how to make me get out of my shell and get uncomfortable (in the good way).)
They taught me how to be myself, even when it’s hard.
The last week was a weeklong of goodbyes. It was hard, because we had made “appointments” to hang out. These appointments taking place after we went to the school in the mornings to talk in different classes about why we are traveling the world, talking about America and just answering any questions they have about America; and learning more about Ukraine.
Leaving was hard, and as I said, the week long goodbye was even hard (and a little awkward for the team). But, I know God had even greater plans and a reason for me to go into month 8. Well rested from Budapest debrief, into Romania. Month 9.
So, what’s so special about Ukraine? I am actually praying about going back. Back to Rivne. Back to the Tania’s that my team was with. Getting my TESOL certificate (at home) and earning/raising enough money to move to Ukraine and be a full time missionary. I am also praying about partnering with the church we were with, Salvation Church, and working with the Youth Group there. I have never been as certain of anything (apart from the Race) that this is what God is pointing towards for the next season. I do know, from experience, that God can change those plans.
I know I haven’t been keeping this blog well. God has done so many things and each month comes with unexpected hardships, trials, and joys. Each month God furthers in making me more like His son. Each month I have a choice to die to self or live in the flesh. Each month it’s hard and I have moments where I want to go home. But, I am on this journey. I’ve been on a journey for the past 14 months without being “home”. I am in the middle of month 9, Pitesti, Romania. It’s my PVT (Parent Vision Trip) month and my mom is coming out for 5 days to do ministry along side of me. I am excited to get a hug from my mom.
More blogs to come. I promise. (I need to do some creative things for a blog contest that is going on and I want my team to win).
Love,
Conner
Jeremiah 29:11 “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.’”
