Half-Way through Training

Now at half-way point here in my training, I am reflecting on how things are going. There have been both positives and negatives. Positives would include learning to live in community, experiencing Chicago in a new way, having cross-cultural experiences, and working more on personal spiritual disciplines. Some things that have been bothering me--our teachings (which have been very well taught), have seemed sporatic, because our teachers only come to teach for a morning, and each teaches on a different topic. There isn't much connectedness between them. I think one of the major reasons for the sense of lack of structure in our days here is due to finanical concerns. RAD is at a pivotal point right now. Since changing it's focus to more Anabaptist theology (and being under new direction) this year, it lost some of its previous support from certain churches. This has resulted in financial strain--part of which is played out in the fact that there is no full-time staff person that lives with us here in Chicago. The Board of Directors for RAD have struggled over what the focus of RAD should be, and whether training or the outreach portion should take priority. Much of what happens this year for me and my group will determine the future structure of RAD, and if RAD continues at all. I feel like this program has so much potential, and although it is frustrating at times to be in the midst of transition, I know that God has a reason for me being here. God called me to this year of service, and I pray for the faith to trust in God and do God's work.

Some prayer requests:
- that I may be encouraged and feel secure in God's purpose for
me
-strength for the RAD staff as they guide us
-peace for this Chicago neighborhood, and for the work that God
is preparing for us in Argentina
-that the last portion of this training would be a fruitful time,
and prepare us for what lies ahead

I keep all my family, friends, and Brothers and Sisters at Prairie Street in my prayers. Hope you are all well, and would love to hear how things are going back home!