Simpson University

After many hours of flying the team arrived at the airport in Athens. Immediately we jumped into a van for about 4 and half hours driving. After some driving we took a little break and tasted some Greek souvlaki. And on the way again. Stephan, driver and working for Hellenic Ministries also took his daughter Rebecca and she blends in just perfect. We are all excited and getting to know eachother.

At 20:30 we arrived in Ioannina, where Zina waited for us with Persian food. She had help cooking from a family from the refugee camp that recently came to faith with their little 5 month old Immanuel Raphael. After food we talked about preparing for mission and soon it was late. This week we will support Zina in her work at the refugee camp

Our first day of serving! We started off with worship. It was a great day and Nataly led the worship

After breakfast, worship and devotion time, it was time for Zina to share story. How God, after being raised in Iran, pulled her to give her life to Jesus. And how she had to flee to Europe and God convinced het to start working with refugees in Ioannina. An amazing story.

How can we serve Zina and the ministry? Today we helped her to clean the ministry center called 'new life'

It gave us joy and it was fun to do. We cleaned the windows, washed curtains, cleaned kitchen and garden and more.

We started with breakfast at the new life center and after that we took some time for devotion and worship. Together we tried to connect in a group statement about our purpose in serving and what we commit ourselves to.

The last preparation before the refugees would come. The devotions we prepared were checked by Zina, to make sure we would not say things that these people that have suffered could not handle.

Everything was more than fine. We immediately connected with them in games and google

They heard our hearts and heard about Jesus. They had a good time and enjoyed our company. Some stayed really long.

To save time we had breakfast at the appartement of the men. They served a special breakfast and all enjoyed it. 

Instead of the women's day today, we decided to change it to Tuesday because Rebecca will be leaving early in the morning. Today is our fun day. A boat trip to the little island in the lake.

On the island we did our devotion and drank Greek cold coffee or Greek mountain tea. And after that we enjoyed a relaxing walk over the island.

In the evening there was time for exploring the town and fellowship.

Today we started with worship and devotion after breakfast. After that we prepared for women's day. Some women from the refugee camp and children. The team was ready and dressed.

Talking in the aftermath we are confronted with some of the stories of the refugees. And we realised how the little things we did can be so big. It greatly touched us and we will carry this with us forever.

The kids had a great time. And the mothers relaxed and listened to powerful testimonies. Greatful to be serving our God

After we packed the car we drove up the mountain on the opposite side of the lake to pray. For the city. And after coffee or tea and devotion we prayed for each person individually. Beautiful words were spoken as everyone asked for prayer to obey the call of God.

Today was a day to walk where Paul was. On the way to Corinth we had a quick stop at the canal before we went to Corinth. 

Today our last day before flying back. We walked through Athens and enjoyed the view and architecture of some buildings. Others were completely covered with graffiti. 

Looking back, we had a great time. Engaging in so many different things and culture. It was a really amazing time. The team left this morning to the airport with memories and new treasures. They were a real blessing and worked as a team together giving a great example and bringing hope and love and Jesus.