Bragg Family Life: Wayumi Experience - Jersey Shore Sept.2008

A few days ago we were blessed with a unique experience. Our little family of 3 had the pleasure of joining the NTBI Senior class for the Jersey Shore (PA) retreat. It was a real adventure in the very heart of missions - it's called the 'Wayumi Experience'!

We learned in a classroom setting, from experienced missionaries, what planting tribal churches is all about. We even got to explore a replica of an Amazonian tribal village and interact with pretend 'tribal people'. They really looked like authentic tribal men and women, believe me.

In addition to that we also had fun and fellowship with others interested in taking the Gospel to unreached tribal groups. The purpose at NTM Jersey Shore is to assist the Church in mobilizing believers to fulfill the Great Commission. The Wayumi Experience provides a unique opportunity for Christians.

NTM Jersey Shore is located in gorgeous, central Pennsylvania. The campus lies on 100 acres resting between two mountains.

Spencer and I both did things we really enjoy; he got to shoot targets and take part in the slaughtering of a pig (yuck! :) and I got to play Scrabble with some girls in his class and take scenic walks along beautiful autmn paths to the creek. 2 bonfires were held, one of which was spent opening our hearts about our experience at NTBI and future plans with the Lord. It was fun to hear Spencer telling the crowd about how we met!

Classes were just amazing! The subjects varied from Animism to Tribal Church Planting. I especially enjoyed the Language and Phonetics. It was so good to finally be able to sit close to Spencer and sit in a class focused entirely on missions. It got me excited all over again about our future plans.

While we were in class, Abi was taken care of by our lovely Jackson staff ladies - Shirley and Linda (a special thank you goes to them!). I know Abi sincerely enjoyed that, 'cause she's a social butterfly. It was a great week for her too. When we got there she was so filthy after the long 8 hour drive that I gave here a bath on the balcony of our facility. By the way the place is great. Our room was called 'Paraguay'. It had 2 bunk beds and one twin. We could all have our own bed and more! They also provided a 'pack and play' for Abi. We thought it was lots of fun, just like camping!!

Personally, the highlight of the whole trip was this wonderful walk we took in a close-by forest. Amazing! We hiked for 3.5 miles with the awesome Simon family (we love you guys) and Rex Schaffner (yes, we love you too). The Simon boys did great on the trail and Abi was carried in turns by Spencer, Rex and myself.

Well, that's it for now, and if you've read up to here, wow... you must really like us.... ha ha ha... so go a step further and add a little comment! Thank you, and don't forget to check out the pictures.

Love you All