Our Spring Retreat was a brief get-away from the daily routine that our volunteers face every day. Some are in inner-city ministries and enjoyed the fresh air at the Liebenzell Centre. Others are in remote camp locations and appreciated getting a few days to hang out with their German compatriots. The mood was relaxed and the food was good! On Tuesday afternoon, we walked next door to help a neighbor, Ross, collect sap from his maple trees. Later, he had us help him in the process of boiling it down to maple syrup, filtering it, and bottling it. Along the way we got to sample it right from the pan and as "maple ice", dripped onto snow for a super, snowball treat! All of us went home with a sample of pure, Canadian maple syrup, made fresh from our own hand. Take a look at the video below.
On Wednesday morning, we gathered around one last time as a group to discuss some of the challenges that will be faced during the last few months of ministry and the inevitable return home. "Culture shock" is a very real challenge, not just when going to a new culture, but also returning to your own. Being away for a whole year introduces changes to life style, thought processes, and habits. It can be quite distressing to return home and wonder why everything seems so "different". We introduced some tools and tips to help these young people adapt to their life back in Germany when they return in July.
We also taught about building a R-A-F-T to ease the transition of saying good-bye. These were tips that were very helpful to us after experiencing many moves during our time serving in Spain. In short, the R-A-F-T is four words to help guide our transition:
- R-Reconcile. Any disagreements with co-workers and friends must be reconciled before leaving. Distance is an enemy when it comes to trying to rebuild friendships.
- A- Affirmation. Good closure involves affirming the relationships built during the time together.
- F- Farewell. It is important to find time to say good-bye to each person before leaving.
- T- Think Destination. Avoid the depression of leaving by thinking of the future and the many new activities you will have at your new destination.
Donna prepared wonderful meals and Gregg did much of the driving to pick up the volunteers from their ministry sites then return them afterwards.
There are still several months remaining before the volunteers finish their service here in Canada. However, this was the last opportunity we had to bring all of them together at the same time before holidays and vacation travels fill their calendars.
Thanks for your continued prayers for these young people. They have done an awesome job representing Christ in the places of ministry throughout Ontario, Canada!
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