I am thrilled to finally be able to update my friends and family. Each time I enter a new country, I will write a general information blog to tell you more about where I am and what I am doing…

This is it!

After five planes, two shuttle rides, and a three-hour van ride through jungle villages, my team and I finally made it to our location, an island off the coast of North Sumatra in Indonesia. Here we will serve at a facility that trains missionaries.

Upon our arrival, the young men and women who are students at the centre performed traditional welcome dances and songs, and they gave us each a beetle nut, a special food for guests. (You should Google it – it turns your mouth red)!

 

 

We have an awesome shelter near the jungle, well equipped with beds, mosquito nets, and our own toilet.  The chirps and cries of the jungle animals and insects fill the cool (but humid) night air, and I have rather enjoyed listening to God’s unique symphony.

 

 

The location is truly remote, and I am loving it. I haven’t had any access to WiFi at all, which is why I have not contacted anyone (I sent this blog on a jump drive with someone who was leaving the island, so that they could post it for me).  There is a traditional market within walking distance, which is quite lovely.

 

 

While my team is here, we will be teaching English both to the students at a missions training facility, and to people in the broader community. We will also be helping with some healthcare clinics and other needs of the center.

 

 

The man who spearheaded this mission training facility is truly remarkable. He felt called by God to come to this remote island, and he faithfully obeyed, not knowing exactly what God had in mind. He and his wife had to work to make ends meet, making donuts and fried chicken to sell in the community. Eventually, God revealed his plans and provided both the funding and accreditation for him to start this training centre for missionaries. He is currently training over 30 students to rise up into their callings to further the kingdom of God.

 

What a blessing it is to serve alongside these men and women. I can’t wait to share more with you about their daily lives and the joy in their hearts. But for now, I’m off!

 

Until the Whole World Hears,

 

Mia

 

PS – Please note that I still do not have access to WiFi, so it may be next month before I can respond to your comments. Love y’all!