Above: Today we held our first ever Church retreat. We set out in a caravan of seven cars and headed out to Pipis Mountain in Gyöngyös (half an hour drive)



Above: Yesterday, Gabi and Zoli helped us prepare the facilities for our time together today.



Above: After the traditional breakfast of rolls, butter and salami, we gathered together for our worship service.



Above: Julika and her daughter Moni helped out today by holding Sunday school for the kids. Andi and Feri (above center) were permitted by their parents to spend the day with us. Andi took me by surprise today when she approached me by our book table. She asked, "Is it ok if I buy a Bible." I would have gladly given it to her for free, but we believe their is honor in purchasing the Bible (we offer them at cost). Please pray that God would begin to take her on a life-long journey through His living word. Pray that she may know God deeply through His word.



Above: We were thankful for Peti's message on the importance of fellowship with God. He highlighted that this fellowship is the foundation of all obedience that pleases God. He warned of the danger of simply commanding God in prayer, and not asking within the context of a relationship in which we are submitted to His will. He raised the question, "Are we constraining God according to our expectations, or allowing Him to speak to us according to His will?" Dezső told me after the preaching, "I was convicted today that it is good to wait for things in prayer. It is good to trust in God for an answer. Waiting is good for our faith."



Above: After worship service, we spent some time playing family games together. Our desire today was for the members to get to know each other deeper than surface level. God opened up opportunity throughout the day for one-on-one conversations and joyful interaction.



Above: We were thankful for Dezső's oldest daughter Regina attending our retreat. Regina currently attends school in Budapest and our teammate Heidi has developed a friendship with her. Regina said that she enjoyed spending the day with us and was more open about God in conversation. Please pray for Regina who has seen both the lives of Christians and those of the world in contrast. She has also seen her father transformed, knowing him before and after his conversion. Pray that she may be drawn to His light, and come to know Him as her personal Savior and Lord.



Above: Going beyond 'smile'.