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.