That time we nearly lost Sam...

Today was our last day of teaching in school, in a different school today - the children at this school were a little bit more rowdy than we have experienced so far, but they were all really enthusiastic and willing to take part, which was good. We had lunch at the school, with the principal, which was nice, although he did suggest that Sam might like to stay in Thailand a bit longer (which our Thai friends thought was very funny). She did turn him down though, and is still with us!

In the afternoon we went to Ang Sila, a small fishing community a near the church. We did a bit of shopping, and walked down to the sea, but it was very interesting to see this side of Thai life - with some of the not-so-attractive bits (an old man drunk in the middle of the day and a snooker hall that we have heard has girls as young as 11 or 12 working as prostitutes). It really made me think about the struggles and problems this country faces, even though much of it is hidden behind welcoming smiles and superficial fun.

In the evening we went to the church prayer meeting, with worship, fun and friendship, and then went to the market with some people from the church - it was great just to enjoy being with people and have fun with them. One thing that really struck me tonight was how everyone in the church was engaged with what was going on - from six-year olds to elderly people. Everyone joined in with the worship in different ways - some sitting quietly and reflecting, some singing, some playing instruments, children making up actions to the songs and adults joining in with them. When it was time to pray for each other, everyone was involved, with children praying for each other and for adults. When it was time to share testimonies or ask for prayer, children were speaking at the front without being seen as "cute" - what they had to say was just as valid as anyone else. The church also has leadership weekends for the children, mixing fun with Bible studies and training, to prepare them to be the future leaders of the church. It really made me think about church being a family and what that really looks like...

Hannah