Saturday, July 13
Hey, my name is Jonathan Swartzentruber, I’m a junior studying business management and computer science. On Friday, after we said goodbye to all the kids, some multiple times, with some really amazing hugs, we road-tripped over to France. The route that we took was through some of the most amazing mountains that I’ve ever seen, the beauty of Gods creation was on display around every turn. We stopped at a McDonalds for some food and they had some great pastries, as well as a play set without a height limit. When we got to Eglise Biblique Baptiste du Comminges, pastor Dave Price met us and made sure we were all comfortable before we got some sleep. The next morning, we headed out to the Tour de France. We spent the whole morning passing out gospels of John and Romans, putting them in mailboxes, on cars, or handing them to anyone we met on the streets. Then in the afternoon, we drove about an hour into the countryside to watch the bicycles race by as they crossed the country. The view of the mountains from our standpoint was spectacular, as we were right next to a gorgeous mountain stream. All in all, it was an amazing day, and we pray that the seeds that were planted will grow and result in many people getting pointed to God.
Sunday, July 14
Hello from France! I’m Abby, a 2024 nursing graduate from Rhode Island. Today we were in France at David Price’s church. We woke up and had a delicious French breakfast of pain au chocolat (bread with chocolate) and croissants along with strong coffee. Service started around 10:30. Two of the group members shared their salvation testimonies while a church member translated. I really enjoyed getting to experience worshiping through song in French although I know I didn’t pronounce everything correctly. After the testimonies, songs, and a time of prayer, one of the guys in our group preached. He used Acts 3:1-10 and broke it down into three characteristics of a person who can be greatly used of God. The message was really encouraging. Afterwards, I had the opportunity to talk to a woman originally from England who had moved to France for retirement. We were able to connect and talk about many things. One of the most memorable parts of this trip to me is the ability to be able to connect with other believers even through a language or cultural barrier because of our unity in Christ. We enjoyed a great meal of paella that included shrimp, mussels, chorizo, chicken, and squid. Afterwards we had dessert and coffee and more fellowship with the church. Later on in the evening the team went to the Price’s house for s’mores, hotdogs, and a campfire. We played some games and ate too many marshmallows! I loved hearing the Price’s talk about their experiences ministering in France and how the Lord has used them. We ended the night with testimonies and singing hymns around the campfire with David accompanying on the guitar. There was something extra special singing about “lofty mountain grandeur” while overlooking the mountain range from the Price’s backyard. Tomorrow we leave early to head back to Spain. Although we’re coming to the end of the trip, I’m excited to see how God will use these last couple days for His glory.
