Hey,

my name is Pete Gurney.  I led a team of six people to Poland from Northern Ireland and this was my third trip. 

Originally our plan was to help Henry and his charity to deliver food and take two discipleship weekends and two orphanages.  We expected to be hard at work most of the time, and we weren't disappointed!  The work involved picking up the food at the EU building, unloading at Henry's house, and then reloading in relation to how much food we needed for that day, organised by Henry using his list of dependants.  In total we moved over 8 tonnes of food in about 3 days. 

On our visit we were also involved in helping with some odd jobs as well, such as picking up and moving furniture.  The working experience was difficult, and hot since the temperature reached 32 degrees C at one point, but it was also incredibly rewarding and we could really see the need in Poland.  We helped with just a fraction of the annual food deliveries that are carried out by Henryk and I would urge anyone who wants to help with this to bring a team and help out, because it is heavy work, and difficult to do without a few extra people helping.

We also took part in two discipleship weekends, one in the far north of Poland and the chance to hang out, sing with, and learn from the kids there was amazing.  The whole team appreciated the time we spent at each orphanage and for our part, we contributed by helping with singing some songs, giving testimonies and just playing games with the kids.  The children there are just so happy to see that people actually want to spend time with them.  We also had some fun with the children when we took them to the zoo.  It was amazing to see how smiles grow at the mention of a day trip somewhere!! (both the kids and the team!!)

It was amazing to see how God used us in Poland, how we grew as a team, as people, and how we played a small part in the ongoing ministry in Poland.  Unfortunately, the work doesn't happen by itself, and that is why I would like to invite other teams to go and help Henryk with the work he has been called to.

There are many changes happening within the charity, including the loss of a key site for childrens' camps, and these changes require much support, both prayerfully and financially.

We as a team thoroughly enjoyed our time in Poland, both through work and relaxation.  I look forward to returning again and maybe I will meet some of you there.
Be fruitful in your personal lives, with your friends, family and people around you, but think of those who you have never met and how they need God's love and protection too.

 
God Bless,
Pete.