Great Britain Final Report

We left the Bible College of Wales on Friday right after lunch. Eleven of us crammed into a bus with all of our luggage and set out for the trip. Along the way, Dion from Bulgaria kept us engaged with stories about Bulgaria going back to the days before the fall of the Soviet Union. It was amazing to hear about the revival that occurred in his country after communism. He became a Christian during this time along with thousands of others. His desire is to one day return to his country. We became great friends throughout the weekend. The conference was a wonderful time of teaching, fellowship, and encouragement. There were folks from the UK, America, Bulgaria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa and China. There were leaders who had been serving the Lord for many decades along with quite a few who were just beginning their service in the churches in England. The recent BCW graduates were prayed for by the older leaders. It was wonderful to be a part of this generational experience. We heard great messages and spent some time with old and new friends. James was asked to speak for the final session on Sunday, right before the time of communion. After lunch on Sunday (we ate like kings the whole weekend), Steve and Helen Watts gave us a ride to the Birmingham airport. We thoroughly enjoyed their company and after a coffee at the hotel, we retired to our room for the evening. We were up early on Monday for the very long plane ride back home. I think we both watched two movies!! As I end this report, I want to say a special thanks to Karyn Coward for being our taxi driver to and from the airport. Also, we're so grateful for Fil and Rebecca Schwartz for allowing Joel to stay with them. Oh, and Jennie Visscher blessed us by helping take care of Schatzi (the dog) all week. We had a great time, and although the trip was a bit tiring, we were encouraged and refreshed by the Lord the whole time. Thanks for everyone who prayed for us while we were away.