Wildfoote: A Leadership Journey

Even in Australia

Had a couple of hours to use for preparation for this weekend's training.  Reuben had a meeting, so I wandered around to find a little cafe where I could hang out and study.  I found this:

Not a great picture...but I felt right at home in one of my favorite places.  I also got a lot of work done.

Sydney Refugee Team

During my time in Sydney, I stayed with Reuben and Sarah Singleton.  Reuben and Sarah head up the Sydney Refugee Team for International Teams.  They are doing some incredible things in meeting the needs of refugees and in training the church to reach out and care for the refugee. 

Reuben and I had lunch at a little cafe in Blacktown and I was amazed at the number of people that stopped by to chat with Reuben...refugees that they have impacted.  We were also able to visit several families during my visit.  I am probably most excited about the impact they are having on churches, getting them to live out gospel in the context of refugees.

ITA Sydney

My days in Sydney were good.  First few days were spent around the International Teams Australia office.  My time included catching up with the staff and Board of ITA, meeting with Andrew Collins the ITA Director (pictured below), and having the opportunity to share with the ITA staff during their staff meeting.  Another neat opportunity was to meet with some members of the IT New Zealand Board, to discuss and provide input on how IT can be relaunched in that country.  It was a great discussion.

Here is Andrew standing in front of the ITA sign...good on ya, Andrew!

Blessings of an Empty Seat

I made it to Sydney without any difficulties.  United accommodated me fairly well and even provided an empty seat between myself and the other passenger.  What a difference that empty seat makes...allowing  me to stretch out and not feel as squished when someone is on my elbow. 

The first 7 seven hours went pretty fast and I actually had the chance to sleep for a few of those hours.  The second 7 hours always seem to drag and this trip was no exception.

Its good to be back in Australia, catching up with friends and colleagues, and having the chance to use my coaching skills in several arenas.  More updates to come

On The Road....er...In the Air

This has been a busy season at Richwoods CC, requiring lots of energy and focus.  But tonight I write this post from San Francisco, one of my favorite cities in the world.  In just a few hours I will be boarding a flight to Sydney, one of my other favorite cities.  I am spending the next 12 days coaching, consulting, and encouraging those who are involved with International Teams Australia and New Zealand.  And I have been challenged (thanks Chris) to use this as an opportunity to get back to some blogging.

It feels good to be traveling again....fuels my global perspective.  While I am very excited with what God is doing at Richwoods, I think this trip will help bring some renewed energy.  I will do my best to post some thoughts over the new few days.