First Sunday

Today I went to visit the Foursquare Church here in Chiang Mai pastored by Allan and his wife Sariton or Tuu(spelling??)  I met a few other English speaking members as well.  The church is primarily a college age crowd most likely due to the proximity of 2 universities; Chiang Mai University and Payap University.  Worship reminded me a lot of home as I recognized at least 4 of the songs even though they were sung in Thai.  The heart behind it all was clear though.  The sermon was translated at least most of the time ie: during the prayers at the beginning and the sermon.  More on that later.  The prayers were many and its cool that they have no problem taking time to pray for whatever was on the speaker's heart.  The sermon itself was translated as there was a Canadian speaker and 2 Canadian guests.  I appreciated the translation as well.  All 3 were here in Chiang Mai for a conference and were friends of the pastor's.  They also do missionary work.  Leann-the speaker, spoke on running to God as our fortress and not being afraid of things that Satan might send our way.  It was a good and timely reminder for me.  I spent lunch and the afternoon hanging out with all of them.  We went to one of 3 of the orphan homes that the church runs.  The House of Hope has 9 children who range from around 6 or 7 to 16 years old.  Ron, one of my new Canadian friends, led us in singing and games with the children.  The children were clearly having a lot of fun and laughing a lot.  Ron, his wife Sharon and Leann all have experience as missionaries and it was wonderful spending time with them.  We will be staying in touch via facebook. Yeah!
Today I am experiencing my first Thai rain.  It looks like everybody else's rain and its coming down in buckets.  It did stop long enough for church and hanging out with the kids.
3 more days til orientation.  I'm looking forward to it and developing a routine.