Marc & Katy

Hey everyone... here are some pics from when Marc and Katy came to visit! Yosemite was amazing.

CCE 3

• we visited a gay, lesbian, transexual, bisexual, queer, intersexual (lgbtqi) church. We (the Church) have alot to do in order to break down the fear and hatred of the church to homosexuals.
• went to a Buddhist temple; it was interesting.
• met a Harvard grad who is "wasting" his life for Christ living in a crazy neigborhood in L.A. We are too bent on "successful ministry" in the Church. He reminded me of Jesus.
• Witnessed a drive-by shooting today where we were serving in the projects in Watts... scared the crap out of me.

CCE 2

Since it is impossible for me to unpack all of my reflections on my experiences so far, I'll give a few highlights.

• We visited an amazing African-American church on Sunday that was absolutely energizing. We struggled as a group with how the Church can overcome cultural divides, yet still value the cultural distinctives. Should there be cultural homogenous churches? Can true, authentic community be found in a culturally diverse setting?
• Today we spent much of the day in the USC/L.A. county hospital. This hospital is one of the nations largest, and it is very different (worse) than hospitals I have visited. It was incredible to be surrounded with so much pain and death. We visited the ICU, the burn unit, the morgue and the crematorium. Seeing God use people that are face to face with death everyday is amazing.
• The Union Rescue Mission on "skid row" in dountown L.A. was incredible. Here, thousands upon thousands are given shelter, counseling, grace, Jesus. Some people accept and are changed, some do not. But the Mission continues to live out the love of Christ to people who are completely without hope.

CCE 1

Hello from Pasadena everyone! I am on a Cross-Cultural Experience course for seminary. Over the next 9 days, I will be traveling throughout the L.A. area visiting various churches and other urban organizations. I'll keep you posted as I get a chance. Today we served in Fresno and traveled here to Pasadena, where we will stay. Tomorrow I am heading to two well known black churches in the morning, and will go to Mosaic (Irwin McManus' church) in the evening. I already miss my wife and kids, but I think I'll survive. Pray that God will open my heart to what He is doing in the lives of his people here in L.A.

The Woman that I Love

Becky, you are the most beautiful, funny, caring person in my life.

I can't wait to grow old with you. Happy Birthday!