Friday, October 31, 2014

Freezing in the Middle

Today, halfway through our work week, it was difficult to get out of bed. We were delayed in our awakening, breakfast, and devotionals and as soon as we stepped outside we knew why. Our bodies probably knew that it was only in the 40s today. The high was low 50s and the wind was constant and rough. Still, we pushed through the cold to continue the siding which we had started, the porch which is in great progress and the floors which continue to look better and better. For the second half of the day, crew one took their turn at Theresa's house (the native who's house crew two visited yesterday) and had shelter from the cold. We thoroughly enjoyed the quality time we spent with her as she taught us about the culture, language, religion, and politics of the native people. She shared with us the wisdom she has learned over the years and the interesting stories that have come from it. Now we are enjoying some free time before we spend some time with the kids, have dinner, and spend time in worship.
Picture 1: Crew 1 with Theresa
Picture 2: Kendall White playing with two dogs at the Rec Center


Thursday, October 30, 2014

Paint, Cement, and Nails

Today, October 30, was a bonding day. After our morning routine, we gathered and dispersed into our separate groups (including an extra group who did roofing today). After a morning of hard work we ate lunch and Crew Two traveled to visit with a Lakota Native who taught them some of the language. The other two groups had major quality time with the children and people in their homes. Crew One met another member of the family who is about our age and is planning to attend culinary school. We definitely had a great opportunity to be with each other and the locals today.

Sunset Over the Hills

This afternoon into evening, we enjoyed many sights of the land. One Lakota native showed us to the Wounded Knee grave/memorial. He explained to us the many colored ribbons and prayer ties around the camp, explaining to us the spirit-centered religion of the Lakota people. The view of this sacred place was beautifully surrounded by the rolling hills and setting sun. After this, we met several of the Lakota people who were selling jewelry as this is many of their only source of income. Each person had handmade necklaces, bracelets, and the like. They each had a unique story which we were very glad to hear. Another stop on our trip back to the re-creation center was the church in which we were previously arranged to stay. Here, another native explained in detail his life as a Lakota and the spirituality and customs of the people. It was a very enjoyable question-and-answer time where we learned first-hand the culture in which we are immersed.

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Good Morning from Pine Ridge, South Dakota!

Last night, we safely obtained our vans and drove 6 hours to the Re-creation Center at about 7:30pm (9:30 PA time). This morning we ate breakfast and are receiving training for our first day of work. Soon, at about 8:45 am (10:45 in PA) we will be departing for our two destinations. There are three work crews with various jobs: siding, building, concrete, etc. Thank you for your prayers for travel! Everyone arrived safe (although tired), and we are excited to begin working this week!
Note: The cell service here is limited and we will not always be readily available for text message or calling.

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Safely Arrived in Denver

While gazing at the beautiful Rocky Mountains, we safely landed in the Denver airport.
We retrieved our luggage and are currently enjoying the crisp 53 degree weather and waiting for our bus. 

At the Crack of Dawn

This morning at 3:45, the class met at Shalom to depart for Dulles Airport. After a send-off prayer from Mrs. Petersheim, we loaded the bus and began our trek.

Commissioning Service


Shalom seniors are on their way to Next Step Ministry at the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota.  On Monday we had a commissioning service at school as a send off for the Seniors.

Below are videos of the commissioning service.

Thursday, October 23, 2014

Anticipation

The 2015 Shalom seniors are eagerly awaiting the day of departure to Pine Ridge, South Dakota. Everything from group prayer to daily meetings to work out details are preparing the students for the spiritual, emotional, and physical situations they may face. 
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."