Category: Field Notes

My name's Luke and I recently got back from a trip to Nicaragua. This was my first trip with FX so going into it, I didn't really know what to expect. There were many things that I learned on the trip that dealt directly with the people we met and the ministry we took part in at the retreat, but I'd like to touch on something that I learned on a more personal level.

What struck me at the beginning of our team meetings, was the openness and transparency that was cultivated between the team members from the very first team meeting. We openly shared our concerns and thoughts that ranged from excitement and readiness, to uneasiness and feelings of personal condemnation. At one point, I shared about some anxiety I was having about leading a session in a completely different culture with a language barrier. At once, some of the team members offered encouragement and wisdom toward my concerns. Afterward, I felt much more at peace with what was to come and empowered to embrace the challenge. Continue reading “Nica2014 Trip Report – Luke Anspach”

Nicaragua….  what can be said?  It’s about the people, right?  Or is it the place?  There are many things that we can celebrate, but I’d like to take a moment to thank God.  The time was far beyond expectations.

I got in country first, a few days before most of the others…  Good times, as Jairo, Ulise and Joe met me upon arrival. We struck out into the ambient humidity toward Jairo’s house in Dario (1.5 hours north of the capital city of Managua), stopping by to see friends as we were in route.  Somehow the stop extended into a nice dinner.  Spontaneity… my favorite.

Next morning, next town and meetings of a just a few people, complete with adventures in acquiring a SIM card.  Dinner with a friend from the area, after a long and colorful parade of coffee, and a torrential greeting from the Central American rainy season! Continue reading “Nica2014 McClelland”