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Outreach in Ropazi

Our second full day here in Latvia began with bacon, eggs, and our daily individual and group devotions. As the rain came down we headed out to Ropazi, a low income housing neighborhood, to do a community outreach, much like what we do with the Northgate community. On the way there, we stopped for lunch at a traditional Latvian eatery for potato and mushroom soup, potatoes, chicken, and an assortment of vegetables. While in this village, we also had the privilege to visit the remains of a medieval castle built in the 14th century. We then embarked on our journey down a nice, bumpy, dirt road to the community. We were also joined by a group from Grapevine United Methodist Church from Grapevine, Texas, and were greeted by members from the community and Riga First United Methodist. The activities began with some icebreaker games to allow us to get to know each, and then we started the competition. Consisting of various games such as a sack race, rock toss, and tug of war, the competition involved four teams, Alabama (also known as team "Roll Tide"), Texas, Riga, and Ropazi. The games were heated and competitive, but were cut short due to the rain that rolled in. We then had to gather under a tent, where we then went around the group and introduced ourselves and a few things about us so that we could better get to know each other. Once the rain ceased, we were able to start a game of volleyball, Latvians versus Americans, and I am happy to report that we able to snag the victory. The picnic dinner then commenced and consisted of various sausages, cheeses, and breads. There was also an interesting brown colored beverage that some would describe as "Baltic vinegar soda;" delicious. After eating, congregating, and petting the largest pug many of us have ever seen, the results of the competition were announced. As usual, Christ Harbor dominated the events and we will be bringing the victory back home to the states. However, much like the softball game Christ Harbor participated in earlier this week, at all costs the home team wins regardless. We then said our good byes and headed back to Riga. The evening activities mainly consisted of eating at the restaurant Street Burgers and picking up some groceries at the local Rimi located in a seven story galleria. Despite the promises Mr. Christian Wayne, no Risk was played this night. We then turned in for the night and got ready for the next day.

We are having an amazing time here in Latvia and cannot wait to see the great things that God will continue to do throughout our time here. Thank you for your continued prayers and support and Vilnis Velas!

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The rooftops of Riga

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Fellowship and outreach in Ropazi

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Fellowship and Games in Ropazi

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Huge pug from Ropazi