Change of Plans

Sorry it's been a while since we've blogged about our mission trip. There have been some developments with our trip to Kyrgyzstan and we've been in a bit of a whirlwind of decisions and plans changing and trying to contact our sponsors and the like. As we were getting close to having to book our tickets, we got word that the team in Kyrgyzstan that was going to be our main point of contact (who would be coordinating our trip and hosting us while we were there) got news that there were concerns on their ultrasound with their fourth child. The scans showed fluid on their baby's spine and brain and it was recommended they go somewhere w/ better equipment to get more ultrasounds and tests made.

After they packed up and flew immediately to Istanbul for more testing, they got confirmation that their developing baby has spinal bifida and some brain development problems. It was obvious that this was no time for us to be planning a mission trip with this couple in the midst of this heartache. Paul and I agreed that we should not pursue physically going to Kyrgyzstan right now but perhaps seeing what we could work on and plan to help with computer training this fall over skype or over video conferencing of some sort.

Pretty much as soon as we decided that we would not be going to Kyrgyzstan, we were cleared to attend a trip to Guatemala this summer (July 9-17) with the team who will be doing construction projects and Vacation Bible School for our church plant down there. The team leader told us that his worship leader who would normally be in charge of setting up the technology and sound for worship during the trip had found out she cannot attend, leaving him to coordinate the trip/people as well as teach the pastors down there and try to set up and lead worship. He asked if we'd be willing to take the responsibility of heading up the technological portion of the trip and helping to train how to incorporate technology into worship. :) So Paul and I will be going to Guatemala this summer instead of Kyrgyzstan. However, we are still planning to partner with Kyrgyzstan as soon as we are able (and as soon as the host couple is able).

Please pray for them and the rest of their pregnancy. Their baby (they've picked out the name Jonathan) is not eligible for in-utero surgery, but they have been told he will have to have surgery as soon as he's born to close up the skin around his spine. They are not yet sure the extent of his brain damage or how severe his handicap will be. They are obviously devastated at the news, but trusting God through it. They would appreciate your prayers as they move forward and try to find the best treatment they can for mom and baby.

To all of you who have given toward our trip, THANK YOU so much! We are only $1500 away (total - $750 each) from reaching the amount we need for Guatemala. We love and appreciate all of you for your giving and your prayer support! :)