Laying the ground work...

Today was the Sabbath; a time for worshiping, relaxing and

spending time with our Indian family.

But in addition to all that we had the privilege of setting the "Corner Stone"

for the future "Landowgals Fashion Technology Institute".

For those of you who don't know, my daughters have been financially committed

to helping the women and children of Madhavapatnam since the beginning of this ministry 

11 years ago. Through the years they have purchased over 20 sewing machines to help the local women learn a trade.  These gifts of hope, among other things, were purchased  thanks to sales from their "made with love" business; and we give thanks for all who supported their endeavors!!  For this reason Novahu chose to name the new Cutting and Tailoring Center, which will begin construction within this upcoming year, after them.  What a joy it was to be here now and have the opportunity to lay these first bricks of the foundation.  

Special oil was poured in the name of The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

As we placed each brick in the hole and set it with cement, 

our prayer was that this ministry would continue to be a solid foundation

 in which the less fortunate may find hope for a brighter future.

Now it was time for church.  We gathered at the Joyful Journeys Church in the lower level of the hostel to worship with the orphans, locals, and some members of the school staff.

Members of the travelers team once again shared words of encouragement and love...

Emma, Kaitlin and Hunter helped serve Communion...

It's always so meaningful to come together and celebrate this ministry through worship with those who it is directly impacts...

The afternoon was filled with laughter and games with the orphans; 

even Big Bob and Russ got into the mix...

It was so nice to be able to sit and relax with some of the other woman and watch the fun from up top.  I held Siri's new baby and Rajini made treats...

And then the water fight broke out below...

 and surprise buckets of water came dumping down from above...

I do believe the laughter could be heard throughout the village;

what a wonderful sound!!

The next generation of Joyful Journey Leaders...

We ended our day at Dale's Worship Center with the final worship service.  At one point the electricity went out (which isn't uncommon here), and the only light within this dark church on the outskirts of town came from peoples cellphone flashlights. Kind of funny. :)

Everyday when I put these posts together it amazes me how much we can actually fit into one day; no wonder we're all so pooped by the time we turn in for the night!!

My cup runneth over with blessings of the day!!

Namaste'

~Jenny