Iraq Update

Good Morning from Iraq! We've been here for three days now and things are going so so well. We've been able to accomplish so much in so little time. Things have changed so much here in the past two years since I was here last. The church that I am connected with has grown from about 15 to about 100-120. With this new spiritual life, I have also noted a great shift and awakening in the environment around us. Things seem greener brighter and more alive. The city is calm and peaceful, not like the tenseness that I experienced last time. We have been ensured that if we can raise the money, we can start a school here. I've consulted with many of the authorities here and they agree that to best benefit the population here, we should aim not only to build an english school, but combining it with a school that teaches basic computer skills as well as a daycare. There are so many jobs that require an english/computer skills set but so few ways to gain access to that education. The daycare idea came from a woman leader in the church that brought to my attention that there are so many women who have lost their husbands to the war and to sickness and are trying to provide for their families but need affordable childcare to do so. This would also provide jobs for women to be able to run the daycare




I have been to 30 countries now but have never wanted to stay somewhere so bad. I feel like I have finally found my starting point. I love the people here so so much. I asked God for His heart for the Iraqis and He is faithfully teaching me to love them like He loves them. I am so amazed by the progress being made. I can't wait to see what is next!