Nearing The End Of The Year....

As 2007 draws closer to its end, we've been spending some time with Dan and Laura debriefing about everything so far this year. It's amazing to look back at the beginning of the year and remember how different everything was then. At that time, Reach wasn't something we really understood, and, essentially, none of us really had any idea what we were getting ourselved into. Because even the second years were more than a little surprised about how different this year is from last year and any other year before, because that's how Reach is. It's never the same. And it's always exciting! :D So, here's a summary of our year thus far. Enjoy!

August 26th- We all arrive (except those of us who were here early.... Matty and Phill :D). It was hard to say goodbye to family and friends, but we were all looking forward to what the year held for all of us.

August 27th- September - We're thrown into training with Dan Bartleson and Laura McCain. It's hard core spiritual bootcamp where everyone learns more than they thought they ever would. By the end of three weeks of sessions, retreat skills, drama practice, and team life we all had learned more new information than we thought possible. And we were ready for a break, which is why it was so amazingly nice to spend a weekend at King's Lake north of Spokane, WA. And this was our first official Reach photo.

Yes, we're all amazingly professional after a weekend of "camping" (there were cabins so it doesn't really count I suppose).

October- November - More reatreats. Our team was incredibly busy from the time training ended until the 1st of December. All together, we had 25 retreats, and it was amazing! :D From Wenatchee to Oak Harbor to Prince George

to Coeur d'Alene (twice!)
to Vancouver B.C. (five retreats in six days!) to Richland to Yakima, it's been a crazy trip all the way. Thank you again to all the retreatants- you were so much fun and we miss you all. You're always in our prayers. Thank you to all the contact people- you're help is much appreciated and we could not have done it without your aid.

December- And then we returned to our wonderful home in Yakima, WA. And we're thinking about all that we've done. I know I never expected to be in this place, especially after swearing never to come back to Yakima ever again after my interview weekend, but the more time I spend here the more it becomes my home. Because with a community of believers, it's impossible to feel like there's no hope for the future. It's not always easy, but there's peace in knowing that God will take care of what needs to happen. And with our team, that's been especially important. We truth in God, trust in each other, and pray for the best in the future. I know that these people that God has blessed me with will be with me the rest of my life. On Reach, your team becomes your family. And my family is AMAZING!!!!

And now the year is finishing up. This Friday we will all head home to spend Christmas with our families, but we wish you all the best during your holiday season. Please keep in mind the less fortunate and pray for all those alone during this season of joy. May God bless you abundantly and may the Peace of Christ be with you.

Our Lady of Guadalupe

Reach Team

2007