The Skype Connection

Greetings from Thailand! To give you some insight into how we communicate in our role as pastoral care facilitators, we'd like to share a bit about how technology is revolutionizing the member care field. We can remember when two phone calls a year to the states was extravagant. Today we can use voice over internet protocol (VOIP) that allows us to talk for pennies per minute. However, the program that has energized member care resources as no other is called Skype. By making calls between those who have the Skype program on their computers free, Skype has provided member care facilitators with a free networking communication tool. As an example, Alberta and I 'skyped' or connected last week with facilitators in Papua New Guinea, China, Australia and the US at the same time. By putting our heads together we can bring ideas from a broad range of education and experience to bear on the needs of the workers in the fields the Lord has called them to. This is just one of the ways we can provide member care for a worldwide constituency.

Unpacked Finally!

We are settled into our sixth floor condo in the northeast part of Chiangmai. The welcome mat is out and the guestroom is available. Just give us a bit of notice because our travel schedule is growing for late summer and fall. As you can see we only have a two burner stove top in our tiny kitchen but the small restaurant on the first floor makes wonderful Thai food to go!

Prayer Requests:

1. Steve's dad fell and hurt his back. He's going in for an MRI Monday June 18th. Pray the doctors to find the problem. We continue to search for the right resources for his care long term.
2. Language - we need to find the right balance between classes and practicing with people.
3. Travel preparations - next trips - Japan - August 5-15, Nepal / India - Aug. 28 - Sept. 15.

Serving Christ with You, Steve & Alberta