Hello! We have officially crossed the pond and are in Vlora, Albania for six weeks. We spent Christmas in a predominantly Muslim country. To say we stick out here is an understatement. 

Vlora is not a diverse city. Most people wear black and look Albanian.

Vlora is a city on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, across from Italy. It is gorgeous!

We left the city to visit a mountainous village in Kuc where our ministry host teaches English. He plans to slowly introduce the gospel after building relationships.

He says the only way that they know now that he is a Christ follower at the moments is the cross on his rearview mirror.

The view from the school is incredible.

The owners of the tiny store next to the school. The Turkish coffee this woman makes is most delicious!

The Albanian flag~

Children playing outside the school. I couldn't help feeling like I was in a snow globe.

We got to distribute Christmas presents to village children. My family has been packaging these boxed with Samaritans Purse's Operation Christmas Child for years. It was so cool to witness the receiving end.

Team Hope is the Irish version of Operation Christmas Child.

We also distributed gifts at a special needs school!

Introducing my new team for the next 4 months! We are called Selah, which is Hebrew for "to pause & reflect" in the Bible.

This is my team lead Aliseyah and our host Pastor Ylli on Christmas Day. They don't normally do too much for Christmas since it isn't highly celebrated in Albania. He said to be able to take that much time off work is a luxury. 

Tea & biscuits is a must when visiting someones home. 

We went to an Albanian church service and Christmas celebration. 

There was an incredible spread of food and message.

They dance and worship at the end and it is SO FUN - one of my favorite experiences on the race, ever!

Even the dogs get down! :-)

The joy in this village was infectious!

No language barrier or cultural difference could get in the way of a joy so pure - of a peace & freedom so rich.

We also caroled around the city on New Years Eve! That is the big holiday in Albania. It was said that the reason they decorate for Christmas is because they have seen other countries do that! 

Overall Vlora is gorgeous, but its people have a spirit of depression. They see the light that we carry, and it has allowed us to make numerous connections around the city with people who are curious to know more.

Please keep us in your prayers as we are obedient to the Lord and continue on with the Race. Surrender to God's plan is the only certain thing in our days. Our route is up in the air and ministry has been "Ask the Lord" for months. This has allowed for much growth and greater ability to see the Lord move. However, it's also very challenging. We're at the half way mark and I'm not the same Lindsey I was five month ago, nor am I the same Lindsey I will be six months from now. I also would appreciate prayers for my healing/ scarring process from the accident last month.

I appreciate and love you all so much! 

xo

Lindsey