I recently returned from the Shawnee Valley Vietnam Mission Trip. We visited Thien An Orphanage located in Ho Chi Minh City. Ten beautiful children reside there. The rental house is very clean and sparse. One small 13 inch TV was in the corner of the room and the children played quietly on the floor. I did not see many toys. I thought of American daycare centers and all of the toys, craft centers, gym areas, and story centers. I felt ashamed. I watched Paul Price play on the floor with the babies. He had them laughing and climbing all over him - to my right, Karen Edmondson was passing out dolls and stuffed animals she had lovingly made and carried in her suitcase across the ocean. Beth Rice was giving out jump ropes to the older children and Mark Bevilacqua had one little toddler holding on to him for dear life. Many churches brought gifts for the orphanage. One church brought a large monetary gift from a young couple that is preparing to get married this summer. I can't say that my mind was on orphans overseas while I was planning my wedding! I observed their caretaker, Than Thi, overwhelmed with gratitude. I didn't say much; I just continued to observe and think.

Some of my thoughts, "ok God, I am here in this gorgeous country, there are 50 children that need support, I've been talking about raising money for this orphanage since November, I am here now - it is more personal, I'm feeling guilty - my kids have so much - can I take one home with me God?, the older children seem so happy and content - do they get that from knowing that you are their Father and they are not alone? Back home people are going to challenge me that we should be doing more for local missions and not send money overseas? How do I answer that? You told us to take care of the orphans, feed the hungry and make disciples in the world - I think this mission meets all of the criteria -  I can't do this alone God - I'm not ready to leave here - I have experienced unconditional love from the Vietnamese pastors - we don't even speak the same language - but I can feel it and I know you, Dear God, are here in this country - protect these children and may they do mighty things for your kingdom in the future!"

Blessings and Gratitude, Ann Evory

District Youth & Next Generations Leadership Coordinator