SIMO (Summer Insititute for Missionary Orientation)

The last week or so has been really exciting. I just started traveling with Maria Humsaker. This is her first time out on deputation. She will be going with me to the Guatemala with EFM. She has been great to travel with though she has been a little nervous getting up to speak. I think she has done great. Its me that been a little nervous as well. We are only supossed to speak about 15 mins each. I have been speaking about 20-30 mins. Well, I guess I need to learn not to be so long winded. I am now here at SIMO and have completed the first week of the two week training. Most people don't know what SIMO is. SIMO stands for the Summer Institute for Missionary Orientation. It is held in Penns Creek, PA on the campus of Penn View Bible Institute. Its a two week training session for missionaries. We have classes that teach us about culture, bible basis for missions, anthropology, culture shock, security and so many different subjects that relate to us as Missionaries. We have also done other culture activities such as visiting a Ukrainian church on Wednesday and this Sunday, visiting a Hindu temple. There are 6 of us here right now. Four from EFM and two from another organization. We have a lot fun, not only in the training but also playing Rook, ping-pong, etc.
I have learned so much already in this first week. This training has really challenged many of my pre-conceived notions of the mission field and redefined my understanding as a missionary. As a missionary, you have to come in as a learner or you will never get anywhere. I know I will learn so much more on the field but it has been interesting getting a little more prepared.
I'm sitting here in my car (sitting at the only place where I can hook my laptop up to the Internet) and looking at the beautiful surroundings. I hope to load up pictures soon that I have taken. There are rolling hills and farm land for as far as you can see. The quaint, picturesque towns are small but yet so cute. I really have enjoyed being out here in PA. All I can say is, Its absolutely gorgeous out here.