Heading home from Florida

We are on the bus heading home, with bitter sweet emotions for many ...not wanting the deeply meaningful time at Blue Horizon Christian Retreat center to yet end. We had a fabulous and very late evening of worship, message, songs, and beach time. Then up at dawn for a Sunrise Beach worship followed by a walk to the local donut shop, and final worship.

Bible passage this morning: Ephesians 4:16-19...st Paul's prayer of growing deep in the love of God in Christ.

Heading for dinner at Nashville Buca de Pepo.

See you tomorrow.
-Pastor Randy Brandt

Updates from Beach Camp

Tuesday

Today's theme: lost but not alone in the wilderness.

Exodus 14:13. Do not be afraid, stand firm, and see the deliverance that the Lord will accomplish for you today...

So far, a great morning run for 18 youth which ended with a cooling rain shower from the clouds; a huge southern breakfast; 30 minute quiet devotional time; worship with Grace Nelson sharing a story of personal challenge and faith; and small group discussion time; and Ben W. shared his favorite bible verse from Psalm 118:6. Thanks, Ben. And it's only 11am!  Later a boat trip to Shell Island state park.

Wednesday

GPS is today's theme "God's Positioning System"... God's gives us the gift of knowing our identity, purpose, and direction in life through God's presence most intensely experienced in community and relationships with others in Christ's family.

Bible verse today is. Proverbs 3:5-6

Water balloon volleyball was a laughter- filled time today, Erin spoke at our morning worship, beach time included shelling and sightings of two dolphins and two sting rays. We're now at our one visit at the tourist shopping area called "Pier Park" with sprinkles of rain coming down.

Tonight we again worship and listen to inspiring life stories of faith from our group. Now if I could just find time for a nap!

Thursday

Today's theme is "Lost but Never Alone" meaning that no matter where in life you are, no matter the high or low, the faith or doubts...We are never alone. We are promised and assured God's trustworthy presence...and God's presence is most often experienced in relationships off caring support in the Christian family...

Today is a busy last day, we will spend time at the waterpark and already we've had drenching rains, it will be a great evening of worship and closing.

- Pastor Randy Brandt

The Journey to Florida is Underway!

Hello families,

Getting ready to leave SOTV on Sunday

The bus ride was smooth and uneventful. When we hit Alabama this morning the humidity exploded with the temperature! We've had some time settling in, in the gulf water waves, swimming pool, sand pit volleyball, plus small group time, and singing or first worship songs of many.We still have quite a few experiences yet planned tonight with worship and an evening beach walk and mixer games. 

In Alabama on Monday

The message today is about the good shepherd who seeks the lost ones. Everyone is meant to belong. Good arms of love wrap around us all!

Peace

Randy Brandt

About this mission trip:

FLORIDA BEACH CAMP
GRADES 9-12
JULY 28-AUGUST 3
39 youth and 8 adults will travel by coach bus to a retreat center in Panama City, Florida. Mornings and evenings will be spent in large and small group worship, Bible Study, and personal reflection. In the afternoon participants will enjoy the beach and local attractions. Wherever SOTV travels, participants will look for good in others, affirm and brighten people’s day, learn and listen to others’ stories, and deepen relational faith skills. Participants will intentionally practice the SOTV culture of caring, welcoming, and affirming.