Author: David Grisanti

It is Monday morning here in Kathmandu. Yesterday evening, I was able to visit the orphanage. In talking with Dev and Maya, the married couple who run the orphanage, it sounds as if things are going well for them. The goat farm, which they established last year, is producing more goats all the time, which they will sell, using the profits for the orphanage. The farm is well outside of Kathmandu, about a 4-hour drive. They have a building and property. The Nepalese government visited them recently and they may be eligible for a grant to improve the farm. They also raise turkeys there which will  be a source of additional income. They have 6 dogs there which protect the goats and turkeys from leopards and other predators and “bad people”. They are really happy with the goat farm and thankful for how it is working.

In visiting the orphanage, it was great to see the building that they had constructed since the earthquake in 2015. There are 18 kids there and they are all doing well in school and are happy at the orphanage. I have included a photo and a short video of the “biscuit party” we enjoyed with the kids.IMG_5984  Click on the link to see the video.

Again, thanks for the prayers. One week to go!

David

Today, Tuesday, the HMU conference began. I took an Uber from the hotel to the site, a drive of about 30 minutes over some bumpy roads and through some dicey “intersections”. Made it safely. Cost of the Uber ride? $4.80. I tell you, in India, Uber is the way to travel.

Anyway, upon arriving, I was immediately warmly greeted by so many familiar faces. I’ve known some of these folks for 12 years now! When things finally began, first on the schedule was a 30-minute time of praise and worship, led by Biju, who has been the HMU go-to worship leader since I first began attending, back in 2007. He is gifted and energetic, a real joy. Then Pastor Cherian Oman, the National Director, welcomed everyone and had some opening remarks. I was then introduced, invited to the stage, and given a flower bouquet, as is the custom here.

I presented a 45-minute teaching and everyone seemed engaged in what I was saying. This was followed by lunch (Indian food, go figure!). It was a very good day.

I have included a photo of some of the guys arriving and one of me on the stage.

Thanks for all the prayers! By the way, you may not be able to leave a comment. The website is being updated. But, if you want to comment, just email or message me.

This morning I was picked up at the hotel and transported to the church service by Pastor Jose via motorbike! It was fun riding through the streets of Mumbai in the early morning. Anyway, there was a lot going on at his church on this day, including a baby dedication. A couple from Nigeria were visiting a friend and arranged to have their baby dedicated today. To my surprise, Jose asked me to officiate the dedication. So, I was glad to do so. The baby, just a few months old, was named Amy. So beautiful, and sleeping through the whole event! I’ve included a photo of the family, including the auntie. I love the colorful clothing, as it reminds me of our friends in Uganda.

So, I am now at the Mumbai airport, about to board the plane for Delhi. Having a great time! All went very well in Mumbai.