Hello dear blog readers!
So sorry for the lack of updates – we have had a crazy busy wonderful schedule, but sadly that means extremely little internet access. However, once training is finished that might change. Speaking of training ending, it is time to announce which team I have been placed on. I was chosen for team leader of the Road Team – meaning me and a co-leader will be traveling with 8 other missionaries around Ireland until May 2012. For those of you reading who know even the tiniest bit about me, you know this is a dream come true. I get to travel around my favorite country while ministering to youth. It truly is a perfect combination and I thank God daily for granting me this opportunity.
While on the road, I hope to update more frequently both here and on Facebook. I do believe that pictures and a blog can viewed on the NET Ministries website www.netministries.ie. There is also a calendar that will have the names of the town and places we are going. Please check it out and following along on my journey for the Lord.
On a sadder note, Ireland is currently experiencing the worst economy of any country in the world of all time. It is every evident here, but the people have not lost their spirit. What they have lost is the ability to contribute to the mission and vision of NET Ministries. The reality is that ministry is expensive to simply cover the basics. Rest assured that the NET staff and team members are surely making the best of what God has provided, but it is going to be a rough couple of years. This is where you can help to further the Kingdom of God and spread the good news of Jesus.
I know so many of you have already contributed financially and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. It has been a source of encouragement for me personally and I love you all. If you feel that you want to make a tax deductible donation to NET Ministries, please make a check out to NET USA and mail to:
Andrea Lechleitner
18571 Glen Road
Gambier, OH 43022
I am serving in Ireland, but NET USA handles the processing, so please make the check out to NET USA.
Aside from finances, another great way you can help me and my teammates is through prayer. We will be on the road constantly in a mini-bus/van type of vehicle for 9 months. I can only imagine what things we will come across and need prayer for: mental/physical/emotions/spiritual strength; team bonding; travel mercies, etc. Please also prayer for our host families who will be generously opening their house and their lives to me and my team. More than my team and our host families, please pray for the youth of Ireland. We will minister to over 8,000 students in 9 months and I am so excited about that fact. However, there are many issues that are impacting the youth here making them apathetic towards the Church and towards Jesus. Pray they will have open hearts to our ministry and that they will allow themselves to experiences Jesus through our ministry.
On a happier note – some updates about the fun parts of training! We have done laundry twice in Dublin, so that is always a fun day to use the Internet and explore the city a bit while visiting a Laundromat (or launderette in Ireland!). I love getting out into the city, seeing the sites, and meeting the people. For me, that is the best part. The people all have stories to tell and we must have open ears and hearts to learn. We also visit the Hill of Tara one afternoon. It is a beautiful little hill where St. Patrick defeated people back in the day and converted tons of pagans. We also spend time in the nearest city of Navan. I have only bought one purse and one pair of shoes….so far! They have a store called Penneys that is a more organized, less random Forever 21 type store – cheaper too J
