Message from JJ

I just wanted to tell everyone on the mission trip that I'm sorry I couldn't be there.  I miss all of you!  JJ

2010 Summer Trip Summary

The Lakota 2010 Mission trip was great in many, many ways.  We had zero injuries (aside from one repeat performance of a fall from a ladder, by Larry Schaeffer).  Team unity was amazing, especially in light of the fact that many people were on a Lakota trip for their first time ever! 

The weather was good.  We got the stage about 80% finished...completed enough for winter at least.  We had well over 150 people show up for dinner followed by a suicide prevention drama and movie "How To Save A Life".  We had about 20 people show up for dinner and the American Red Cross first aid training.  And, a personal highlight from Jill: we got to go swimming in Lake Angostora with about 10 kids late on Thursday night after the thunder and lightening storm subsided.  

VBS, Basketball, Bike Repair, Construction, Cooking and the special things mentioned above were all a part of the week.  We are also thanking God for a couple of people who came forward after the suicide prevention drama asking for prayer and help to come to know the Lord.

The work continues for the missionaries who live year-round in Oglala and for the native believers who live out their love and calling daily.  We continue in prayer with them as we process our trip to the Re*Creation Center and begin to cherish the memories made there. 

Thoughts for prayer . . .

We're grateful for the time we've had so far in Oglala, SD.  We're disappointed that our internet connections aren't working out well enough for us to post photos and stories for you the way we had hoped; however, we'd like to ask if you can continue to pray for us, and for the Lakota people and surrounding community. Whatever your practice is -- praying in the car, in your prayer closet, in your kitchen, in a quiet room with a lit candle, or outside in the summer sun, here are some specifics to guide you:

Please pray . . . 

• For the children here. As the sign at the Re*Creation Center reminds us:  Children are Sacred. 
• For fractured relationships to be healed -- between individuals and groups.
• That our team would love one another well as we serve those around us.
• For good rest when we settle down for the night.
• For those who come to basketball camp -- fun and safety and life-lessons to be learned.
• For open hearts to receive what God desires for us during this trip.
• For the missionaries who live here at Pine Ridge -- for their continued encouragement and growth in their relationship with God and with people.
• For parents at Pine Ridge -- for their own growth and wisdom in raising their children.
• For ongoing relationships to be nurtured.
• For those who suffer from addiction and hopelessness.
• However the Spirit leads  . . . 

Getting Acquainted - Meals, Construction, Gatherings

Construction, Worship & Horseshoes

So - Major computer problems keep us from posting our photos from the res; however, we've arrived safely!!  Most of the 51-member team got here on Saturday afternoon.  All the lumber and supplies to build the stage were unloaded, and the construction team was underway!

Sunday, the construction crew was up and at it until church began at 11:30.  It was a welcome time to gather together and worship.  Cole and Jill arrived in Chadron, NE at around 11am, which was perfect timing, because Wes was ringing them to see if they could find a specialized tool necessary to continue construction.  They were able to find the $300 tool and get back on their way to the Re*Creation Center.  In time to hear Eric's sermon, they joined up with team and were able to help serve Lasagna (thanks Alex!) to about 100 people.  

We had advertised a Horseshoe Tournament in advance, and we had about a dozen men show up!  They had a LOT of fun.  Eric & Leon were one of the teams!  Wes & Cameron were another team (they actually won first place).

Lakota Artifacts

From: The National Museum of the American Indian

Reality. Challenges. What the mission is & what it isn't...

Lakota Mission Team: Final Preparations for Summer 2010 Trip

Our Summer 2010 Team makes final preparations for our trip - Saturday, July 17th through Friday, July 23rd.  We look forward to the ways in which we can join God in the ministry already happening at Pine Ridge.

We appreciate your prayers and interest in the trip.  More updates to come!  

Lakota Mission Trip - Summer of 2009