Monday outdoor performance

From Rod: "How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity…for there the Lord has commanded the blessing…"(Psalm 133:1-3, AMP) 
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This evening we had another opportunity to play outdoors. We performed in an area that was appropriately named, "Muzik Plaza." Apparently, many of the businesses were closed today here so there was not much in the way of foot traffic. We played to a modest crowd of passersby and shop/pub owners and staff. From what we heard from the Igelsia Evangelica team, they passed out information pamphlets to approximately 200 people.

The biggest obstacle tonight was the cold temperature. We did manage to get through all of the songs in our set with minimal musical interruptions.

Our host, Manny, provided translations for testimonials and preaching the Gospel. Overall, it was a unique experience and provided an opportunity for the local church to be seen in the community and make in-roads with the people.

Tomorrow we have two radio interviews. More to come.
- RE

Monday trip into France

Our gracious host, Manny Fernandez, provided an opportunity to cross over into France earlier today.

San Sebastian is about 30 minutes away from the coastal city of Biarritz, France (pictured here). The team was treated to a quick trip to see a few scenic views and have a quiet lunch in a quaint pizzeria. (Yes we had pizza and lasagna in France. But we did have French bread to keep the cultural balance in check.)

In all seriousness, the short drive and picturesque scenes provided what are sure to be great photos as we all snapped our cameras.

This evening we are back outdoors at a different pavilion (hopefully not as exciting as last night's short performance.)
- RE

An interesting day in San Sebastian

Today was an interesting day in San Sebastian. After the church service we were informed we would play at an outdoor pavilion.

The first issue that came to mind was the cool evening temperatures and its effect on voices and instrumentation. What we didn't anticipate was the relatively common political march and subsequent speech that was also scheduled…for the same pavilion.

We arrived and set-up with the understanding that the organizers of the political march and speech would need the stage at a specific time. The team prepared to play and was ready to perform just as the group staged their peaceful demonstration.

The intriguing thing about this performance was that in essence it was for approximately four to five thousand before they marched. When we finally were able to play a few songs, it was for a modest crowd who stayed behind while the protesters marched.

While it would have been great from a musician's standpoint to play for thousands, we understood the need for our brevity. We provided a brief example for our host church to demonstrate to the local municipal government that the Evangelical church can and will cooperate for the people here. It was more important to play a small roll in helping secure the church's standing in the city. For that, we are proud to have witnessed the protest, from a safe distance.

Tomorrow we travel to France.
- RE

Sunday Service

After a restful night, it was time for our first scheduled performance. We played during the Sunday church service at Iglesia Evangelica de Gros for approx 110 worshipers. (Gros is the name of the neighborhood.)

This was an interesting experience as we had a limited amount of rehearsal before the service began. Thankfully our hosts were patient with us and seemed to truly enjoy the songs and explanations.

We also learned that later this evening we will play outdoors in a pavilion. The weather and temperature is a concern so please pray for the instrumentation and voices as well as good health.

More information coming soon. Please feel free to leave any comments or prayers you may have and they will be shared with the team.

Muchisimas gracias!
- RE

Hola San Sebastian

Group picture at the Monte Igueldo lookout with a picturesque view of San Sebastian. This was an breathtaking scene. God was showing off again because it was amazing.
- RE

Another travel day and blessing

The team slept hard last night. (I think all of those hours from DFW to Madrid had something to do with it.)

Today we travel to our week's home, San Sebastián. We have perfected our Tetris-like loading skills for the vehicles. Please pray for our road trip.

From an e-mail from my wife Kristen:

"Reading the Bible tonight and God led me to these passages.  I thought I would share them with you for your first full day of ministry.

Proverbs 21:31 - The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord.
Kristen's translation - The band is rehearsed for the performances, with or without a keyboard player, but the ministry - no He had it right - the victory belongs to the Lord.

Psalm 33:20-22 We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in you.

And all God's people said (let me hear you) Amen!"

Amen from the team.
- RE

Sefovan Seminary

Here's a picture of the Sefovan seminary in Madrid. Students gather daily during the week for studies and fellowship.
- RE