One Down, Fifty-One To Go!

So here I am, just about done with the first week here with Encounter. It's been amazing so far! I'm  looking forward to what else is in store. =]

The classes that we are taking so far are fantastic. The first book we are taking a look at is, "The Pursuit of Holiness" by Jerry Bridges.  We've only finished the first two chapters, but it's an easy read and well worth your time. The second class we've been introduced to is called "The Message and Ministry of Christ". This is a class about some of Christ's commands and callings that was developed by one of the staff members here. Our director, Ardy, is teaching a class on Biblical Life Foundations, Life Management and Life Application. The newest class we started is on Biblical Apologetics through Answers Academy, an Answers in Genesis curriculum. I'm so excited about each class because I can tell our instructors have taken the time to make them worth the while.

The music is amazing!! We have learned 8-9 songs already and next week we have an instructor for learning sign language to go with some of the songs! I can't wait till we can start performing some of these songs. Tonight we had a preliminary drama rehearsal. First year team members didn't really do much, but we got to watch the returning team run over one of the skits from last year and it was a blast.

I'm surprised how quickly I've gotten to know everyone. I really thought it would take a lot longer to warm up to 24 other new people. But already I consider them all my brothers and sisters. I've never had brothers comparable in age to myself, so it's awesome to have 13 of them! =D And each of the girls have been so welcoming and ready to share everything they can.

Well, I'm not sure what tomorrow has in store, but I'm sure it will be awesome as the rest of the week has been. On Saturday we are taking the team to Gettysburg! I'm hoping we get to visit the museum and hike around Devil's Den. =]

As far as prayer requests go, I would just ask that the team stay like-minded and unified; that we would learn our lessons well and memorize the music. Also, on a slightly more comical note, pray that I don't become any more of a walking accident waiting to happen =P My first day going into chapel I tripped on my flip flop and just about all but fell flat on my face stepping up into the doorway. Then we had a team bonding/unity exercise on a ropes course in the woods and I caught myself from falling off but in the meantime bruised my ankle muscle pretty bad; I've had it wrapped the last two days but today it's just funny looking is all. I could use all the grace I can get ;-)

God Bless!