Paris

This last week we had an opportunity to go to Paris, and spend some time with the program there. We were very excited going in because we've heard so many great things about the program, but haven't ever had the opportunity to meet them. The director is French and does not speak any English, but he has an Assembly of God missionary working with him, who is fluent in French. Her name is Summer. We met her at the train station and she took us back to the church and Masters Commission housing. We got to hear the miracles they've experienced with receiving the 3 houses to hold Masters Commission students. This will be there third year running and they have 41 students coming this fall! We found this program to be especially unique because they have a national who is running the program and the program was birthed in the heart of several churches around France before they even knew what Masters Commission was. When they learned of Masters Commission and found it was the same vision they had in their heart it was only natural to partner together with us. I wish you could hear the heart they have for France and the desire to see young people being trained in leadership. It was really a blessing for us to spend some time with them. The atmosphere they have created is very positive and welcoming.
While we were touring the facilities we were introduced to a former student and her family that was in town. They were also so friendly and spent some time encouraging Nolan and I, and praying for us. We were overwhelmed by the genuine spirit there. We did not know these people, but they cared for and loved us as though we were family.
After a tour of everything we headed into the city of Paris.

The city is absolutely beautiful. We had Starbucks and sat in one of the many artist squares. Around us were many artists painting, drawing, and selling artwork. Then we went to dinner at a Mexican place, which Brussels has very little of. While we were having dinner there was a cat wondering around, greeting all the customers. We asked if it was the restaurants cat, and found its a neighborhood cat that walks in and out of all the restaurants on the street. I've only something like that in the movies. After dinner Summer took us to a few of the main sights in Paris... The Louvre, The Arc of Triumph, and of course the Eiffel Tower. I definitely want to spend some more time in Paris. There is so much to see and enjoy there.
The entire trip was such an encouragement for Masters Commission, seeing the things God is doing there, and through Masters Commission. We're so thankful that we were able to get to know them better and start a deeper friendship.