Portland Trip

We just got back to San Francisco after making a quick trip to Portland.  As with most of our traveling these days, we had multiple purposes for our trip.  Besides connecting with family, friends, and supporters, we hoped to get some work done on our van and visit Jen, Jonny, and their new daughter Maddie.  Though we didn't end up getting our van worked on, we were able to accomplish the rest of our goals more satisfactorily than we expected.

It seems like traveling will continue to become a more regular part of our ministry.  We live life among a nomadic people after all.  But beyond this fact, it seems like our team is going to play an increasing role in networking like minded Christians around the country that feel a call towards welcoming traveling youth.  This exciting new role for our team is still in its infancy, but stirs up all sorts of hopes for us.

Jimmy

One stop during our trip was to visit our friends in Eugene; Jimmy and Robin.  Jimmy is one of the founders and leaders of Christian Summer Camp, and has been inviting traveling youth into his family's home for a number of years.  While staying with them, we were able to throw around some ideas about more intentionally collaborating on hospitality and discipleship as traveling kids move between our two cities. Continuity, community, and accountability can be seriously lacking for kids on the road, and we hope to provide these by staying in touch with each other as we send kids from one city to the next.

Jacob and Maddie

Another highlight of our trip was getting to stay with Jen, Jonny, and Maddie for a few days in Portland. Though they are working hard to stay housed and employed, our time with them was a good reminder of  just how difficult it is to transition from a life on the street back into mainstream society.  We are really proud of them and encouraged by the love that they have for their new daughter.  It was fun to be able to  just spend time with them taking care of Maddie, catching up, and helping out however we could.  We felt like relatives visiting the newest member of the family.

We are always blessed by the hospitality that we receive from friends and family when we are on the road.  We were encouraged during our time with each one of you. Thanks!