Vision Clinics in Central Asia
Hey Redemption!
It's been just over a month now since I arrived in Texas! I've eaten BBQ, attended my first rodeo, and experienced this phenomena called Texas summers (where it's 95 degrees out at 10pm). Fall is one of my favorite times of the year! Most, if not all of you receiving this, live north of the Mason-Dixon line. With September ending I imagine you're enjoying the leaves falling, fresh apple cider from the farmers market, and all the festivities fall brings! As I'm learning, fall in Texas looks a little different. Average high this week is 92 degrees!
I'll get to enjoy some cooler weather though as I leave for my first trip with GAiN next week. This trip is taking our team to a smaller country in Central Asia. For security reasons I can't disclose where exactly on an online platform. We will be working with our CRU partners in their local communities to fit apx. 1,000 people with prescription lenses; showing them compassion, love, and the kindness of Christ!
Why is there a security caution?
As foreigners, we do not feel at risk visiting. However, our local staff team and other Christians in this country can experience very high levels of persecution for their faith. To keep them safe, we can't say where we're going. Recently a new amendment was passed there allowing the government even greater control and oversight of all religious activity. One pastor was arrested and charged with," singing extremist songs in church and so inviting religious hatred" and sentenced to three years in prison. The country is predominantly Muslim and many locals avoid relationships with the Christians as that would expose them to persecution from their family and community. By providing our local staff with a tangible, practical way to care for their community, we help open doors and create a platform where relationships can be built.
Would you keep my team in your prayers these next few weeks?
On this trip in particular we are working with new field staff. We plan for several months in advance, but many things factor into the success of these trips: inter-lingual communication, customs agents, flight delays, transportation in country, and other factors that are ultimately out of our hands. We'd cherish your prayers for:
- For the ministries of our local partners and that they'd be able to develop many new relationships
- For the hearts of those we will have a chance to serve in our vision clinics
- Safe, uneventful travel for our whole team
- To clear customs with no hold ups or large fines
- That the people we serve would see and feel the hope of Christ emanate from our whole team and desire that for themselves
Thank you for your prayers and support!
Kimmie Taylor
