Songkran Festival

The 'sprinkling' of water during the Songkran Festival originated as a way to pay respect to, especially, elderly people. After water had been poured over Buddhist statues, as a rite of cleansing, this 'blessed water' was then used to pour over the shoulders of elders and family members. This was done with the desire of blessing them and wishing them good fortune.
What began as a custom of respect and blessing, has evolved into a three day gigantic water fight. Pick up trucks loaded with fun loving people and large barrels full of water roam the city streets looking for people to douse. Unfortunately, when alcohol is mixed with motorcycles, trucks and cars in search of excitement the recipe can be disastrous. We did venture out into the celebration but avoided the areas of greatest congestion.

We have just completed TEAM Regional Member Care Coordinator meetings and begin the Global Member Care Conference today (April 23). For the next 5 days we will be attending the conference along with 350 other member care providers from around the world.

Pray that:

1. We would make good networking connections during the conference.
2. We would gain insights which will help us provide relevant care for those we minister to here in Asia.
3. Pray for Steve's dad who was hospitalized with pneumonia just a few days ago. He is 85.

Serving Christ with You, Steve & Alberta