Dinner with the Hartmans

Fushion Concert: Matt is at the top left.

Thursday morning we said 'goodbye' to our leader, Jonathan; don't worry, he's coming back tomorrow (Tuesday). He left for the American coast to fill his role as Best Man in his friend, Matt Wheeland's wedding.
Friday the four of us remaining were off to Ostrava to spend the weekend with the Hartman family - Matt and Amy, Hannah (10), Caden (8), Asher (7) and Hayes (4) (the family now includes Sarah, Esther, Ben and Chelsie).
Friday: Fushion Concert. Fushion is another branch of Josiah Venture which reaches out to the local youth through music. The group performed all their songs for friends and family, and since Matt Hartman helps lead the ministry here in Ostrava, we interns came along! It was a blast! All the songs were in English, and the students sang, danced and played instruments with so much heart and enthusiasm. It was exciting to see their joy through music. 
Saturday we traveled to Zlin to spend time with the youth group there. We got to know some of the leaders we will be coming alongside for English camp - playing games, eating, talking and discussing responsibilities. We will be doing our second camp with this group in July, and we are looking forward to serving with such a kind and loving group of people. 

Here we all are at the Zlin Zoo!

Sunday Matt shared a message, Sarah and Esther each testified to the power of Christ in our lives, and a group of us sang "Come Thou Fount" for the congregation. Then we went to the ZOO!! I LOVE the zoo and I was so happy to be there as a part of a family. 

Here we are on Monday, back at the Hartman home - invited to stay one more night. It has been such a blessing for all of us to share this time together in a family setting. My heart is most certainly encouraged. This very minute Hayes is chasing Asher who is doing his best to eat a rice cake while Caden is watching as he eats lunch. We are in good hands.

Thank you all for your prayers! We will continue to prepare for English camp, as we now have new responsibilities for Zlin camp!

Rejoice in the Lord always,
Esther.