Transitions

After waiting what feels like ages, things are moving quickly! I'm set to leave for Tbilisi, Georgia in mid-March. Less than a month away!

A view of Tbilisi

Over the last few weeks, I've been enjoying sharing with several Nazarene churches on the Kentucky District. A very special thank you to all the churches that were able to rearrange their schedules to fit me in at such short notice! Between services, I have been spending time visiting with friends and family as I'm able. I am so blessed to have so many good friends in so many places. There are many more people and churches I wish I could see face to face before I go. As Paul says, “I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you— that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.” (Romans 1:11-12) While I won’t make it to see everyone, I want you to know how deeply I have been encouraged by you! Your prayers and generosity mean so much to me. Thank you!

The extent of my packing for three weeks in East Africa. I don't know I can match this for four months!

There are lots of loose ends to tie up before I leave, including figuring out how to pack for a four month trip. I've done my last few trips with just one or two small bags. I'm not sure if I'm up to the challenge of doing a four month trip with just a carry on, but we'll find out! There are stores in Georgia that carry just about everything I'll need anyway. So as long as I have my comfiest sweatshirt and a copy of The Blue Castle, I'll be set!

I have a meeting next week with Kelsey Hendrix to sort out details for travel, accommodations, and the schedule for the first few weeks. Kelsey and a friend of hers have already scouted some apartments for me. They've found some great options within walking distance of the center! It's been exciting to see pictures of apartments in the city where I'll be living for the next four months. 

In this meeting, we will also be planning ministry and counseling opportunities. For the first couple of weeks I'll be covering a few extra things - English group, children's activities, adult craft group, etc - while another staffer takes some needed time off. It will be a great way for me to jump in and make connections. Pray for wisdom for us as we plan programs to meet the needs in Tbilisi.

I've already received a few inquiries about counseling - play therapy in particular! A speech therapist in Tbilisi who is connected with the center has reached out about referring her speech clients for play therapy. I'm excited to see where this connection leads!

Please pray for me in these transitions that I'll have focus and energy to do what needs to be done. I'm excited and anticipating engaging in ministry in Tbilisi, but I also need the focus to finish things I have in front of me right now - super exciting things like cleaning out the fridge and putting my things in storage. I’m living with one foot at home and one stepping toward a new horizon and there’s some tension in knowing how to move forward and organize my time. 

I mean honestly, who wouldn't rather crochet this cute little guy instead of cleaning?

Plus whenever I have a long to-do list I just want to ignore the whole thing and craft all day. I want to work on a crochet project, bake something yummy, and pick up a new hobby like sewing out of the blue. So prayers for focus are very appreciated! 

I'd love to hear from you and keep up with what’s going on in your life! So find me on Instagram or Facebook or email me at abradley@eurasiaregion.org 

Grace and Peace,

Angelica