I have been reminded in recent weeks how much I enjoy seasons; specifically, spring. At least, spring in Europe. The rolling field of green with blossoming cherry trees and tulips in every color; it is a feast for the eyes.
This month we are welcoming in the change in season from Moravia, the eastern part of the Czech Republic. We are based out the third largest city in Czech, Ostrava due to our partnership with Josiah Venture missionaries, Matt and Amy Hartman.
Some of you may be know Matt and Amy as they recently moved their family of six from Colorado to Czech. I am pleased to report that they are doing well and they are spoiling our team at every turn!
Our charge this month will be to help promote two key initiatives: 1) summer English Camps and 2) the Fusion music ministry held in various churches in and around Ostrava.
I have great hopes for this month as it has only happened a handful of times that a contact will cast the vision for a ministry and my immediate response has been chills combined with an increased heart rate.
Five Sense Show Down for Czech:
1) Sight – I am most impressed with the people, young and old alike. There are bike paths everywhere that all the people actively use. The lakes are host to many a fishermen and rollerblading is an activity of choice. Makes me wish I had mine!
2) Sound – American music rules here like it did in Serbia and it will be a big part of our ministry this month. Too bad, if I ever did, I no longer know what is hip or cool — I guess I too will have to learn.
3) Smell – I think it is more a product of the season because Ostrava has a historic reputation of being one of the more polluted cities in Eastern Europe but it smells fresh here. Crisp spring fresh!
4) Taste – Lunch is the main affair here. Breakfast and dinner are typically bread, butter, jelly, cucumber, cheese and deli meat. Lunch on the other hand may consist of soup, schnitzel, risotto looking stuff, sausage, potatoes, etc. So far everything has been more than satisfactory.
5) Touch – While not overly demonstrative with strangers, the Czechs I’ve encountered are warm and kind. I have received a few good grandma hugs that are like gold on the Race.
