Saturday, September 4, 2010

First day in Choibalsan

It was very wet when we arrived here last night but Boldoo's greeting was extremely welcoming.  After checking into the hotel we went to his apartment for dinner and met the family (including his 10 day old son, grandma and others).  We came back to the "hotel" about 10pm.  I have to say the thought of staying here for 7 nights was not exciting me at all - the place is very basic, the bed is as hard as a brick with sheets so tiny they can't be tucked in and the bathroom had a putrid smell. We are kinda getting used to not being able to flush paper down the toilet anywhere we've stayed in the country. 

This morning things looked a little brighter.  We went off to Anna Home and met the 26 kids who are very friendly.  They showed us their impressive vegie garden, sun flowers and chooks.  Inside we had a tour of the place and it was very tidy and clean.  It's laid out pretty well and has a school room, sewing cum computer room, kitchen and bunk rooms.  Some of the girls have to sleep two to a bunk bed.

We gave the presents out and they were so appreciative of them. It was very touching as they stood to thank us.  Wish we'd brought more in some ways although we got stung at UB Airport and had to pay $45 to bring them down here.  We talked about NZ and they asked a few questions.  Craig went off with Boldoo to talk and I was left to teach some English.

Next we were off to the river for the baptisms.  Twelve us sat and had a time of worship before Craig and Boldoo taught about baptism.  Eight were baptised.  It was very moving and humbling to be a part of this 'New Testament like' experience.The sun was beating down (around 30 I'd say) and I felt like getting in the river myself although the colour of it was a strong deterrant!  Craig was greatly relieved that the water temp was very mild and his fears of being frozen to death proved to be totally unfounded.

However it wasn't without drama!  On our walk back to the picnic area Craig stood on a jagged piece of glass. It was a bleeding mess!  The wound was well examined and attended to in a rather unique way. An organic method of treatment was administered with thanks to a donation of urine from a small child.  Craig had no option but to go along with this and I have it all on film!  This along with a healthy dose of prayer stopped the bleeding and we continued with communion.  We would appreciate your prayers for healing as the cut is around 2 cm and happened in a bog area.

Tomorrow we are going to Anna Home for Children's Church where we may well be called on to participate and then we are off to Boldoo's church where Craig is preaching.

Sorry we can't put any photos up at present.  Heard about the earthquake in Christchurch thanks to Viv.

Be in touch.  

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