Restarting the Alpha Course

Alpha course is a place for asking the big questions about life and meaning.  Session one is entitled: "Is there more to life than this?" 

We started the 10 week course here in 2020, but got shut down from COVID after only 4 weeks.

Alpha starts with dinner, which Renee helped to cook and serve. Then we watch a 20 minute video and discuss a few questions for 30-45 minutes.  

Renee invited her friend who she met through her friend in Darhan.  She brought her husband too. Thursday night's icebreaker question was: "Who would you like to be stuck in an elevator with?" 

Our Mongolian pastor also invited his friend, whose wife showed up!  So we had a nice mix of 3 Mongolians and 3 Americans at our table.  The conversation was stimulating and switched back and forth between our countries' languages.  We are looking forward to next week.  

Franklin Graham Festival in Mongolia!

Son of Billy Graham preaches the gospel in Mongolia!

More than 6,000 people filled this 5,000 seat hockey and basketball arena.

We sat outside in overflow seating. 

Josiah found a fountain outside Steppe Arena.

Here is Franklin Graham preaching "God loves you" using the simple story of Zacheus. 

Jesus tells a sinner no matter what he's done, "I'm going to your house today."

Many people came forward inside and outside the arena to receive Jesus and his free gift of eternal life. 

 

Settling into School and Dorm Life

Johanna with her roommate at their dorm entry.

And here she is with her student council friend welcoming them back!

Clara having crafty fun with dorm family in the kitchen.

And with the rest of the freshman dorm students and dorm parents.

Clara and Johanna off to high school in Black Forest

Johanna with her mom and seniors during the flag parade.

Mom and Clara at the first day orientation.

Clara gets a fresh summer berry treat.

Johanna opts for the apple strudel. 

Josiah diverts missing them by playing his legos in Mongolia.

And keeping in touch with mom over a meal via video.

Here they are all together in front of school.

Clara's first year there as a 9th grader.  Thank God she will have Johanna this year.