buon natale!

Merry Christmas, friends!

My family has arrived and we've all been bustling around--I just finished my last week of work so we actually haven't spent a ton of time together yet! My parents spoke at the Marriage Conference my church hosted (reaching out to the Castelli region--read previous posts for info) and my dad will preach today and next Sunday. My two families (birth and adopted Congolese-Italian) will celebrate Christmas together at my apartment... you can be sure I am counting my blessings and thankful for the precious gift of JESUS and His love that makes familial love all the sweeter.

Thanks to all of you who have reached out and sent packages or Christmas cards or kept in touch on facebook/skype etc. Missing you this Christmas! Frascati is bustling with Christmas spirit this month. The town is covered with lights and there's a literal red carpet covering the cobblestone streets with music resounding from speakers on every corner... the Christmas stalls with artisan products are out each evening. Tania and I have set up our (fake) tree and I am trying to decide whether 4 months seems like a lot or a little... time is a funny thing. Thankful for a God who does not measure time and that I find my home and peace in HIM. Thankful to be loved and used by Him. Thankful for you!

Below is a summary of some things you can be continuing to pray for.
May the God who came as a piccolo bambino bless you richly this Christmas!
Lots of love, Allie

*Marriage Conference...that people now process & apply the things they heard
*Christmas Sunday outreach and dinner at church Dec 23
*Praise God for my family here with me!
*Praise God for my job, students, coworkers--a great semester
*Praise for an amazing weekend in the north at an Italian women's retreat :)
*Prayer for loving friends new and old that they might know Jesus (F, A, M, L, S, R--by initials)
*Blessing on our House Party Dec 29--meaningful conversations (we are throwing a party to connect our Christian-Non-Christian friends...includes live music from my siblings!)

Pics top->bottom: Austen & I, my brothers getting ready to play music at the conference, parents getting ready to speak, Christmas bus downtown Rome, my xmas pic with the Diamubeni fam :)

 

 

 

 

date change

DEC 8 EVENT POSTPONED

First thing: our event on Dec. 8 has been postponed. It really doesn't have to do with the holiday. We weren't ready. It has to do with strategy (and lack of prayer on our end). After talking and praying together and with our friend Alessandro, we realized since, for most of our non-Christian friends the idea of God and church is so misconstrued and foreign, it would be better to start with more natural approaches. Our desire to randomly connect all of our different friends in one place to have an intense spiritual discussion is a great thing, but it was out of order. That's maybe the best way to put it: it should be event 3 or 4, not number 1. That said, the next step is to pray pray pray through this month in a very particular way for our non-Christian friends. Then the last Saturday of December, Tania and I will host a holiday/new house warming party (haven't had time yet!). Here we will be strategic about inviting non-Christians and Christians to mix and pray the Lord helps us establish a good foundation for a January event. My siblings will be here to give us some live music! If you want more details or have advice in reaching European, urban young adults (not people off the street--but actual friends), send me an email! I don't mean to sterilize ministry into simplified strategies. I know God is working in ways beyond what our human minds can fathom. May His Spirit move!

My pastor shared on Philippians 4 recently. "I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles." (vv. 13-14) It is true that the God who created the universe and is love Himself cannot fail in providing all things so that we CAN do all the things He gives us strength to do. BUT I think we don't often read verse 14. It is good for you to share in my troubles nonetheless. God desires that for our Christian community. I am so immensely BLESSED by those of you who pray for me and write me and send me packages and support me financially... I cannot express it enough. Know that the Lord is pleased with us. I hope I can share in your troubles and pray for you as well! Thanks for keeping in touch and caring about what Jesus is doing here.

Lots of love, Allie

event december 8!

Hi!

I am in a rush. Just wanted to get this out so you all can be praying. I value your prayers and encouragement so much! I would appreciate prayer for productiveness and joy in the midst of work and ministry when I am often tired and missing my friends and the strength of my old communities....

That said: Last Saturday all the girls cancelled on us for the tea. So no update there, but I continue to see them Fridays and pray I get to know them better. Two of them in particular have alot of family problems etc.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 8 we are stepping out and doing something that hasn't been done here before. We're hosting an event at my apartment where we can share about the nature of God and basic Christian teachings and then create an intelligent dialogue. This is aimed to all of our non-Christian friends in the Castelli region and will be from 5-7pm Rome time if you are able to pray then! We are hoping people come and feel safe and loved and open their hearts to further dialogue and the possibility of surrendering their lives to this God. I just found out today that it is a holiday so we are hoping that doesn't hinder people from coming, but the Lord knows. 

Here's a quote from AW Tozer's 'Knowledge of the Holy' has been an inspiration: "All the problems of heaven and earth, were they to confront us together at once, would be nothing compared to the overwhelming problem of GOD: that he is, what he like, and what we as moral beings must do about him."

Please pray for me, Tania, Marco and Michelangelo as we host and for our friend Alessandro from CC Rome who we have asked to come speak.

I continue to ask for prayer with Italian. May God anoint my mind and tongue to speak here.

Lots of love to you from Frascati!
Allie

PS, Hope all of you Americans had a great Thanksgiving. We celebrated as well on this side of the world :)

novità

Hi friends!

Since I last wrote: I participated in a world-record breaking flashmob in Rome. I was gifted some fresh-picked olives and taught how to cure them. My friend found a 'Thai' restaurant and we tried it out. I paid my first bills successfully (a few bumps, but...done). I held my friend Lorenza's precious baby in my arms. I've had some good conversations with my room-mate, Tania. I've stayed healthy. I went to the bank by myself without a friend to help me. Let's just say God is good, and I am learning to breathe here. Trying to keep a record, to remember to be thankful. It's so so so important.

MINISTRY UPDATES

The Albano Bible study is going really well. Last week we had 4 new people!! I want to help Lorenza now that baby Giulia is born and she is exhausted raising two children alone. But she lives out in Albano and I don't have a car. Plus my schedule is very tight. Please pray for God to work something out according to his will. I am inviting the 4 young girls from that study to lunch next week. Not sure yet what kind of devotional God is putting on my heart--something about relationships and worship? Please pray for Tania and I as we seek to reach out to Valeria, Claudia, Sara and Veronica. We also have another unwed and pregnant friend (pictured with us below) in need of lots of love and truth. So much opportunity--so much room for the Lord to move!

Tuesday night Biblestudy is also going well. One of the members, Hilde (German-Italian) is in need of lots of prayer. Her husband died 3 years ago and she is currently astranged from her daughter in a very messy web of events. She leaves for America for 4 months, but her son (my age) and his girlfriend (who attended our study twice) are really on my heart to pray for. I don't want them to fall through the cracks just as we're starting to make a connection. Lots of confusion in this family. Another member Jenny has had a third robbery in her home this year. Her car just broke down today. Her sweet daughter has a rare Leukemia. Also, Chantal my pastor's wife and Italian mamma, continues to battle her own rare blood disease and pulmonary complications. Please pray for complete healing and wisdom and care from the doctors.

Just a lot of needs for love, truth, reconciliation, health and maturity in our church!

On a positive note we had a BLESSED and FUN sleepover event with our junior high/highschoolers last weekend!! We started the evening off with 30.000 other Romans in Piazza del Popolo and went home to cook, play, pray and eat together. May God continue to bless the kids here!! Click here to see the mob:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNvKe8BNRl4&feature=relmfu

 

Work has been a bit chaotic (not on my end, but major issues internally among staff and legal things...). Anyway, could always use prayer for grace and energy! Feel like I am gaining trust with parents which is huge. Here are some comments from my students when they saw my finger yesterday (major gash from kitchen knife while skyping with my dad!):
Mariarosa: Oh Allie, it's nothing! Just go to bed and snuggle up under the covers with a good film.
Alessandro: Blood!! Did you call the ambulance?!!
Giulio: Daddy...knife...cheese...blood!

Haha. I love them so much.

Hope you are well. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for praying for me and the people here in Italy. XO, Allie

*To donate to the Marriage Conference fund, click: http://www.chapelmissions.org/where-we-work/italy/location/frascati-calvary-chapel-frascati

let's talk about marriage.

No, not mine. Don't get excited ;)

SOME THOUGHTS ON MINISTRY

On Tuesday night I looked around the room at our weekly Bible study. We were going through a heavy text in Romans that addressed marriage. Of the 11 people represented, besides my pastor and his wife (and myself), everyone else either was previously divorced, or currently living with a partner or dating a non-Christian. And Tuesday night is our night with the more 'mature' Christians in the church. The rest of the church isn't any cleaner. There's the young single mom Lorenza who just had her baby girl last week. There are brand-new baby marriages and old tired-out marriages.

Let's look at my workplace. I have a colleague currently divorcing his wife. One who lives with a man she 'doesn't love,' one who was devastatedly scarred from a previous relationship, one whose husband left her 3 months ago for Romania (with 3 children...not a word of contact), one who fights with her husband every day, one whose husband travels more than he's home.... And there's only ten of us at the school!

Italy is a bleak, bleak landscape for all kinds of relationships. And sadly, you can't look to the church for a healthy model. I'd like to share two ministry plans coming up to address these needs. First, at the end of November I will host a lunch for some college-age girls from the Albano Bible study Friday nights. Last time we talked they opened up about this discouraging relationship aspect and the fact they've never had boyfriends before. We'll see how it goes and what God wants to start for the new year. Second, December 21-22 my church is hosting a free marriage conference with guest speakers and fabulous marriage counselors... MY PARENTS! We are really excited about this and have just booked the conference center in faith that the funds to rent it (900 €) will be provided. If you are interested in giving to this fund, see http://www.chapelmissions.org/where-we-work/italy/location/frascati-calvary-chapel-frascati (I wrote this blurb btw!) or contact me at alliecase@gmail.com.

Above all, please please pray for this culture, that the people of Italy would find love and transformation in arms of Jesus. Pray that those on the right path would stay strong, relying on God.

LEARNING TO LIVE

I'm learning to get around my neighborhood and settle into the routine of things. I am still getting requests to tutor or translate/research for people on top of my regular work and ministry and need wisdom on how much to take on. I still need lots of prayer to get a handle on the Italian language. But slowly, my apartment feels more like a home. Last night Tania and I invited the family for dinner. We made such a vegetarian feast (I found curry spices so I made thai curry)! It was fun to be able to bless everyone like that. I am eternally grateful to be adopted by such a beautiful family.
                                                       Haha I love this photo. Typical.

Making a mess nella cucina!

 

Thanks for all your love and prayers!
xo, Allie

6 saints & the two young girls

SALVE!

Sorry that I have been absent from this blog for a few weeks--a combination of moving, work, church, errands, being without internet, and other random duties that call for my time. Thanks to those of you who remember to pray for me anyway. Once I am more settled, I look forward to reporting more on certain ministry aspects. There is always a lot going on, and I currently need prayer about what to say 'yes' to because new relationships and opportunities are around every corner and I'm feeling a bit stretched-thin.

6 SAINTS ETC.

We moved into our new apartment last Saturday. We found 6 saints in the electric box. A reminder of the old, reluctant, rich and Catholic culture in which I live. This year the Pope himself visited Frascati, to urge a 're-awakening.' I pray that the Spirit of GOD and not MAN, reigns in this place.

We painted and cleaned and ran errands for days. Now Tania and are happily living here, and the whole neighborhood watches in strange curiosity at the two young girls in the big house. This kind of thing is NOT done in Italy. You live with your parents til you marry, stereotypically. Even we admit it doesn't feel quite homey yet, but we look forward to getting fully organized and unpacked and filling it with people and love! THANK YOU to all who donated for furniture. God blessed us with some good deals at IKEA. Pics to come.... We are hosting our first 'event' next Saturday--a sleepover with the church youthgroup!

ROMA

This Tuesday I went to Rome to see my cousin's grandma who was visiting from LA. I met two people who would be interesting to keep in touch with. I'm headed back tomorrow to see my friend Livia who now lives in Brescia but is visiting her parents this weekend. I've also been put in touch with an Italian-American family (friends of a friend) in Rome. None of these people are Christians, and adore Rome, so pray with me about the kinds of investments I should make.

WORK

Work is going really well and I am coming into my own. My teaching is getting better and so are my students. I am finding a rythm. I've begun teaching Saturday mornings as well (tried to avoid but there was no one else...). Since this is the place where I spend 80% of my time, I need prayer to love God, my co-workers and my students well, even when I'm tired.

I also need to finish publication on my book this month or it will never get done. Please pray I have time and wisdom for the last stretch.

Hey, my local gelato-man assured me that my Italian has improved since I first moved here. I'll take that! And my local coffee-man put a smiley face design on my cappuccino this morning because I am 'always joyful' apparently (my boss got a sad face, haha). Oh God help me to be thankful for the little things....

xo, Allie

marker-cap monster

Just a glimpse at the CRAZY kids I get to serve every day.

For those of you who have expressed interest in praying for my students by name, here's the list:
1. Giulio ('the earthquake'...infamous nickname at school)
2. Alessandro (hardest one to separate from mom)
3. Moise (adopted from Congo)
4. Liam (half Irish-- never sits still)
5. Niccolò (anything is a sword!)
6. Mariarosa (best cheeks for kissing)
7. Chiara (the oldest)
8. Azzurra (smoker voice-says the cutest things)
9. Ludovica (dimples!)

new home and king nebuchadnezzar

NEW HOME

An ENORMOUS thank you to everyone who prayed and supported my first Italian home! I made an offer and downpayment last Saturday. The offer was accepted the following Tuesday and we plan on moving in the first week of October. A little cleaning, painting, and a few IKEA runs, but otherwise we are ready to move in! Once again, I am blown away at God's provision, and thankful for Robert who has helped me in every step with agents and paperwork etc., as my Italian father. More pics to come, but here's a peak at 47 Via Cavour  :)

KING NEB PRAISES GOD

I've been reading Daniel. I think he is an incredibley insightful model of intercultural relationship, and spiritual responsibility against-the-stream. He never acquiesced to his circumstances, but was looking for opportunity from the moment he was taken captive to Babylon. And God blessed that. I've just been smiling and smiling reading over the life of King Nebuchadnezzar. There's a headline in Chapter 4 that says, 'Nebuchadnezzar praises God.' Just thinking of the earthly majesty of his kingdom and how he was humbled and restored shows the immense reach of God's gracious hand. Because of Daniel's faithfulness in a foreign land, at the end of his life King Neb was able to say, 'Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of Heaven, for all his works are right and his ways are just; and those who walk in pride he is able to humble.'

It is a challenge to me. To look for opportunity. To know with the same confidence of Daniel, that I can offer an interpretation to a dream because I have access to the Most High and Living GOD. There is no limit to how He can use me in this foreign land. This week was incredibley pesante at work--children destroying things, running out of the classroom; my boss correcting me; two mothers crying. Then I got sick. Then more residency problems. Then people wanting my time. But my residency went through. And I am feeling better. And I got to pray with two young girls who are new believers. And I am going to work tomorrow with the power of Heaven inside me.

'what i think' ... 'what i say' (in italian)

A bit suffocating at times. Language learning is rough. But God knows.

APPARTAMENTO!

Ok, we think we have found a place.

By some divine chances, on our way to 'make an appointment' with the housing agency, we ended up being shown an apartment. The agent (who smothered me with Italian kisses and gave my pastor Robert lots of advice on producing beer) was eager to show us this place. Like most homes in Italy, the outside is worn and unimpressive. The inside shines. Maybe that's a clue to the culture in general.

Anyway, we walked in and were immediately taken with the GIANT (Americans: keep in mind this is Europe) living room. The kitchen is minascule but there are TWO bedrooms and TWO bathrooms. This is a very rare find for the price of... (drum roll) €750.00/month. My exact limit. (I am not taking any money from Tania the first year for many reasons, so this will be my responsibility to pay...ask me if you want more details). We are already dreaming about how this grand living room can be used to host Bible studies and a load of other ministry opportunities and times of fellowship.

We have asked to block the market on this house and are expected to make an offer by this FRIDAY. The apartment originally was on the market for €850.00 but our agent thought we could get €750.00. Also, it comes with a few cabinet things and a kitchen, but otherwise no furniture. The sytem here works that I pay what equals 4 months of rent up-front (=deposit, security, two months rent). This, on top of having to buy some furniture (at least a bed, lamps and a couch to start), leaves you with a fabulous opportunity to give to the ministry here! The downpayment comes to €3000.00 or $3868.00.

Of course, we have a lot to pray about today. And if this house is not in God's will, then something else is. I will certainly keep you posted. If God is moving you in any way to give, please send tax-deductable contributions to Calvary Chapel Eastside:  5130 164th Ave. SE, Bellevue WA 98006 USA  (earmark 'Allison Case-Italy').

As my family in Christ, I wanted to share this opportunity with you. If all goes well, we could move in October 1. THANK YOU so much for your fervent prayers. (Side note- work is going really well and I only have one mother still hanging around for inserimento, praise God!).

Lots of love.
Allie

Summary
-€750.00 x4 initial housing cost
-Bed, couch, sheets, dishes (some initial items needed)
-Pray offer to be accepted at that price
-Pray God's blessing in this zone if He wants us there downtown
-Pray residence processes SOON and I can open a bank account tomorrow

l'inserimento etc.

Hi!

Thanks again everyone for praying for me (my transition, health, relationships, work, service...), and for the ministry here in Frascati. I sense the Lord's help and peace every day. As you call out to God by His Spirit, it effects change here in Italy. Thank you.

PAST WEEK

I was able to visit my friends the Balivas in Trastevere (Rome) on Saturday. We had a nice visit and they also took me to an outreach that feeds Afghan/Persian male refugees every week. The status of these refugees is too sensitive for me to write here, but please pray for these men that they find hope in Jesus, remain unpersecuted for turning to Christ, and can break the cycle of Italian welfare.

At church, we had a short-term team from Washington visit a few days last week. It was a blessing to have them bless US (weird to be on the OTHER side of this blessing!). It was fun for me to see friends Jan & Peter Stuart (above), and Jen Birkey. We've also started up our mid-week community groups again. I am still praying about how to approach the young adults group. Hoping to start that beginning October. We have a GREAT need among the members of our church to commit to applying the Word of God in thought, attitude, fellowship, and service. Please pray for spiritual maturity.

INSERIMENTO

I've made it through my second week of work. Tomorrow (Friday) is our 'Welcome Breakfast' for all parents and students. Parents have already been critical of me (I haven't taught yet), and much of my training has involved how to deal with parents who are extremely wealthy, image-centered, and anti-disciplinary with their children. Pastor Robert came to see my class yesterday and prayed over the room. Please pray that God gives me vision and confidence as I start teaching next week. The week is called 'Inserimento' because it's only half-day, and parents are in the class the ENTIRE time to help their child 'settle.' It's a lot of pressure for the teacher. Please pray I set a good foundation for relationships with the families in my class tomorrow. Thank the Lord for my boss (Ruhma), her husband (Christian), and all of my colleagues: Christine, Peter, Iram, Raffa, Gino, Foari, Annamaria and Maison (my aide). I really love going to work each day.

That's it for now! Residence is on its way (thanks to the sweetest girl who stayed 1.5 hours PAST closing time to finish my complicated case). Though I still have a looong way to go, my Italian gets better every day. I'm praying to get an apartment in the next few weeks.

Lots of love from Italia!
Allie

some days your bus doesn't come

...and the train is cancelled too, after you walk 20 minutes to get there. and all the shops are closed. but you found a way. sometimes it's good to be tired. like tonight on the train home, leaving the frenzy of rome. thankful to be here all the same :)

'allora, da los angeles...a valmontone?'

'So, from Los Angeles to Valmontone?'

This was the curious release of a guy I met this week while visiting friends in one of the small Castelli towns, Valmontone. Other curiosities: vegetarianism, my job, my silence (cuz I can't say a ton yet... though I'm getting a LOT better!!)... most times my mere presence (like on the 6.40am bus, for example) just SMELLS of 'foreigner'. The (nice) lady at the town hall laughed as she commented sarcastically, 'Ma sei sicura della scelta?' -- 'But are you sure about this choice [to live here]?' Well... Yeah. God is good.

SUNDAY

I am excited to announce that a young lady I've been praying for (who hasn't been to church since she became pregnant out of wedlock 6 months ago, but has met with Pastor Robert here off and on) CAME TO CHURCH ON SUNDAY! She is NOT going to be an easy one to get to know, and she speaks no English, but I believe God wants me to be her friend, so please pray for L. Pray also for me (and the other leaders in the church) as we define programs and roles. I will be prioritizing Children's Ministry and a new Young Adults home group as my areas of focus, as well as taking on some admin things. Pray that God leads us, instead of us just running around doing a lot of 'stuff.'

WORK

I LOVE my job. Albeit we've just been doing prep type work as a staff, and I do think this is going to be the hardest professional year of my life, BUT it's a really great fit. God knew :)  My fellow teachers include: a Swede, an Iraqi-Swede, an Italian, a Pakistani, a Maltese, a Canadian, and an English. Pretty fun! I am putting in 8 to 10 hour days at the school (depending on the day) and trying to work out what kind of load I can take on at the church. Obviously both are 'ministry,' but I want to be healthy. The Lord knows what I can handle, what the needs are, and how He wants to use me. So please pray for energy and joy in work and church. Apparently, Italian private-school parents are INCREDIBLY difficult to work with. So please pray that I can earn their respect, and show confidence in my teaching starting next Friday (7th). I want my students/class to be filled with peace.

 

Thanks for praying. I really need it!!! Please continue to pray and spread the word about my little bro and film school (see below). Above is a pic of my (unfinished) classroom and my pastor's wife Chantal & I (testing out the flip button on the camera of my Italian mobile).

XO, Allie

technology, mafia, translation & the devil

OK.

This week has been really wonderful. A singer I met in LA came through the church with her folk band, and it was fun to see some Americans! Yeah, I already miss you guys after 1 week ;) I am slowly absorbing more Italian, though it remains very difficult to speak. But I sense the Lord's grace.

Technology & the Devil

Virtually everything in my pastor's house is falling apart. First the kitchen faucet, then the laundry machine, then MY computer.... Yes, my computer died and (thanks to the Lord's provision) I was able to buy a new Italian laptop after a few days. Trying to get used to the strange keyboard! Anyway, I think there's just a lot of spiritual warfare. My pastor never rests and this is his one week of vacation--and he's spending it fixing things and taking me back and forth to the town hall! Speaking of which, Signora Pasquale (the NASTIEST lady) is slowly becoming my friend, over at the town hall where I'm having complications getting residence. PRAISE THE LORD today she finally started to fight for my case, and everything should be settled next week. Even got a smile out of her! God is good. Please pray that we can fix the house problems and that nothing else breaks. Pray also for Signora Pasquale and everything regarding my residence (can't get an apartment or bank account without it).

Mafia

Just a side note. We went to the beach as a 'family' yesterday and it turns out that one of the beaches we almost went to (but passed) witnessed 2 mafia gangs in a little battle for territory. One mafioso shot and killed the other. Beyond this extreme violence, there's just a lot of aggression and unrest among the people in general. People yelling at each other for this. Accusing people of that. Little grace. Little respect. Please pray for peace here. Pray also that I don't let this attitude influence me.

Translation

There have been quite a few funny moments getting lost in translation. My favorite so far has been a guy at church who insisted my name was a 'cognome' (surname). His thought process was this: JohnSON, AnderSON, RichardSON...AlliSON. Haha.

€5000.

One more thing. My 'little brother' here dreams of going to film school. But he can't afford it and is super discouraged. The family of 5 adults shares one computer. One car (which they can barely put gas in). All that to say, film school costs €5000/year. Nothing compared to American university! If you are at all able or interested in sponsoring him, please email me: alliecase@gmail.com.

Ok, if you made it to the end of this, GRAZIE! I know it's not that exciting, and I don't have any photos :(  I appreciate your prayers so much, and ask that you remember me Sunday night as I start work on Monday and am relying on public transport! God bless you richly, as you bless me.

XO, Allie

"ben tornata!"

Those were the words an older man spoke to me as he entered our house-church today: "Welcome back!" It's not a visitor's welcome. I kind of liked that.

Yes, I am here in Frascati! My Italian passport worked perfectly, and tomorrow begins the hard initiation to Italian systems. What, the post office is a bank?! Oh yeah, supermarkets close every day from 1-4pm. Wait, if I rent an "unfurnished" apartment that means it has NO kitchen (counters, stove, etc.)?

It comes as no surprise that LANGUAGE has been the most overwhelming aspect of living here. It always has been. It's hard enough being an introvert--and yet how I long to speak!! I understand sermons, casual conversation...but I'm completely lost at family dinner. I can't understand TV programs. Long road ahead.

Church was so sweet tonight. The sister of a church member here, came from Genova (they did a church plant--north) to share her testimony with us. She had a fatal, incurable heart disease. She battled it 6 years and was dying. This year she was healed and, I must say, is the most radiant beauty. A miracle. I was choking back tears the entire time. Her husband shared a message from Habbakuk: "Oh Lord, how long shall I cry for help and you will not hear? Or cry to you, 'Violence!' and you will not save?" It was so powerful to hear of what God brought them through.

Something in Habbakuk caught my attention: "So the law is paralyzed and justice never goes forth. For the wicked surround the righteous; so justice never goes forth." After a long talk tonight with my pastor, I really feel that this is what the young people in the church are struggling with. Really caught in the confusion of worldly friends and church life. There are virtually no Christian peers. But they've learned to compartmentalize so they almost don't like Christian peers. We're praying to start something really honest and inclusive, next month. A regular sort of Bible study of some kind. If you have any ideas as you pray, let me know!

I hope my next update includes a photo of my new apartment! Pray that my friend Tania has a successful time leaving her parents' home to live with me, and that she opens up, and we live peacefully to spur each other on.

Thank you!
Allie

PS, attached is a pic of the fridge when I arrived at my pastor's house. His sons had messages for me :) Spanish? Don't ask me why.... :)

thursday, august 16, 5.30pm

Hi Friends!

Wow, it's been a crazy few weeks, leaving California, Oregon, and now my home in Washington. I'm about at the  limit of my "goodbyes", and am ready to say some "hellos"!

THANK YOU to those who have encouraged me and supported me--from the time I was young, to recent months. I am so undone by the kindness of my friends and family, and the great love of God.

SO. I fly out this THURSDAY. Arrive in Rome on Friday. I have ten days before starting work on the 27th. In that time I must:
-Register in the city
-Register with a doctor
-Get a phone/number
-Get a local bank account
-Find an apartment
-Furnish my apartment/move in

I'd really appreciate your prayers for my emotional health, clear thinking on decisions, and anointing with the Italian language during this time. I want to be Spirit-filled and open to people and opportunities from the Lord.

Grazie! XO, Allie

virtual house-warming party!!!

So, since none of you can be with me when I move into my apartment, I thought I would get a little creative! No, honestly, it's strange being on the "other side" of the missionary world. Some of you know, I've had a part-time job the last 2 years as I finished graduate school and wrote my book (currently being self-published). I haven't had extra money lying around. I am very careful and respectful about money issues, so please do NOT feel pressured to contribute, but know that if you do, the money will be well-spent and appreciated!

Here are a list of some things you can help me purchase for my new home. Just the basics. I've priced them at IKEA in Rome. Prices are in EUROS. Convert here: http://fx-rate.net/EUR/USD/

MATTRESS: 99.83

BED: 99.83

COUCH-BED: 400.00 

TABLE & CHAIRS: 93.77

DRESSER: 69

GLASSES: 6

PLATES: 20

BOWLS: 20
PHONE: ~600

I'll probably need some lamps, silverware, pots, pans etc.... but haven't been able to price things yet. Hopefully I can find cheap things somewhere and will even look at flea markets etc.  If you are interested in joining my virtual house-warming party, send tax-deductable check to Calvary Chapel Eastside 5130 164th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA 98006. Write in the MEMO "Allison Case Italy-Mattress" (or whatever item you are sponsoring). 

Thanks SO much and lots of love to you. I'll be sure to post pictures of my new place, and hope that you can come and visit and use those bowls yourself one day!

xo, Allie

goodbye, hello!

Although I've been doing a poor job of spreading the news here, many of you know I AM MOVING!

Literally 2 weeks after my other job fell through, God plopped another, better, job in my lap! I will be working at the Little Genius International School, directly located in FRASCATI, the city of my church (12 miles southeast of Rome). It's crazy I get to work and fellowship in the same town--something I wasn't sure was possible. But with God all things are possible.

For now, everything is moving pretty fast-paced.

Leaving California: August 1.
Leaving Seattle: August 16.
Arrive in Rome: August 17.
Start new job: August 27.

I'd appreciate your prayers as I handle paperwork, pack boxes, decide what to keep and what to get ride of (already done a huge chunk of that, thankfully), and prepare my heart! I'm also saying goodbye to lots of family and friends that have become so precious to me during the last 5.5 years as a Californian. I really "grew up" here, and will miss it very much.

SO, I've decided to help myself say "goodbye" and "hello" with a little list. Cuz who doesn't love a good list?

GOODBYE
-Avocados. I'll figure out some way to live without you.
-Folk concerts. Electronics reign in Italia!
-Grandma's garden. With my grandparents in it ;)
-Reality LA. My wonderful church family.
-English. I love to express myself with words...
-Car. No more driving for this girl!
-Time consistency. I'll be 9 hours ahead of anyone on the West Coast, USA.
-Trader Joe's. That Vegan Japanese Fried Rice will lose a very big fan!

HELLO
-Gelato. Yum.
-Slowing down. Italian culture has a different time-orientation. Different values.
-Cobblestone streets. Not for heels or rain, but whatever they're cute.
-Public transport. Looking forward to letting someone else do the driving :) Plus people-watching!
-Italian. As hard as it is to use sometimes, I do love the language.
-Church. I'm excited to grow in Christ, and spur others in the faith.
-Home. Excited to have a new place with my pastor's daughter as flat-mate!
-Being Italian. I'm curious to use my new passport and Italian social security, etc.

I'm sure there's much to add to the list, but I hope you are feeling my loss and my excitement a bit better! God is good. Here's to continuing the adventure with Him.

XO, Allie

a step in the right direction!

Hello!

I am proud to announce, after a very long time, that I am an Italian citizen! God is very good. Here I am exiting the consulate, about to burst ;)

On another note, I did NOT get the job I applied for. I'm trusting that was not the Lord's will, and am praying that I DO get the next one I've applied for.

Thanks for you love and prayers. Will update again soon!
XO, Allie

job/passport/moving update #2

Quick update:

Friday meeting went really well! I was told to pick up my passport Monday. On Monday I was told that I wasn't told to pick it up Monday! It wasn't ready. Frustrating. Italian. Expected. I'm waiting for their phone call at which point I'll go pick the thing up!

Meanwhile, I was told by my potential job that the hiring decision will be made by Friday. I am praying that if I'm not to have this job, they don't hire me. If they offer, I'll take it. I don't know how else to make this decision. It's very hard knowing the school is so far away from my church. And I won't have a car. And I could be living alone. And... I'll save the worrying for now. It's a great opportunity. It's something to get me there. If it doesn't go through, I will look at teaching English jobs which may give me more flexibility.

The Lord knows!

Thanks so much for praying. I am finding myself sustained despite the changes and goodbyes already happening this month. So thanks. Pray that I would hear the Lord and that my heart would be soft.

Love, Allie

job/passport/moving update

Hi Friends!

This will be to-the-point. I have some praises and requests.

First, I've now had 2 interviews with the Rome International School. The principal is South African and the vice principal is Scottish. So fun. Basically, they want to hire me but must wait until my Italian passport comes through before they can do anything official. So this is a praise that things have gone so well.

Also, I've been able to communicate a lot of things about roles and expectations with my pastor in Italy, and feel much more confident, and on the same page. Another praise. He's so awesome and I feel honored to serve with him.

I'd like to request prayer for my Italian consulate meeting on June 8, 9.30am. This is when I order my Italian passport. The problem is that I've yet to receive the official letter I'm supposed to bring to this appointment and my lawyer is out of town until June 5. I need a miracle, now that I have a job on the line. As God wills!

Also, my poor church in Italy is going through a LOT. Specifically on my heart is spiritual maturity and strength in general, but also for my pastor's wife Chantal. She's been in hospital now about 5 weeks and there are still complications. Please ask God for healing. Also a sweet young woman, Lorenza, is pregnant out of wedlock with a man from a sister church. Pray for wisdom for the church leaders, grace & compassion (not gossip and rejection) from the church body, and repentance and courage for Lorenza and Valerio.

Finally, it's starting to kick-in.... I may have had a tear-headache last night. Starting to get a bit emotional about everything. I'm very desperate to be Spirit-led on all of these decisions. It just hurts to leave people I love. So you can pray for that.

Thank you so much for your love and support. I don't take it for granted that someone is interceding before the throne of the High King of Heaven on my behalf! I'm sure I don't even know what that means, but may my life show the impact of it! Amen.

XO, Allie

Benvenuti! Welcome :)

IN ITALIA

The real mafia are in Italy 
The most dangerous are in Italy 
The ladies on the street are in Italy 
Eat hand-made pasta in Italy 
Then a thief enters your house in Italy 
You can't find stable work in Italy 
But you kiss your crucifix in Italy 
There are the monuments in Italy 
The churches with their paintings in Italy 
The people with their sentiments in Italy 
The country and its rapes in Italy 


There are things no one will tell you... 
Things no one will give you 
You're born here and you die 
Born here and die here in the country of half-truths. 


Where will you flee?

The above excerpt is my translation of a rap by Roman rapper Fabri Fibra. It moved me years ago, and continues to do so today. I'm slowly cringing less when I tell people I'm relocating to Italy. "Oh I've always wanted to go there!" they squeal. But MY Italy? Rome? Rome has a growing influx of refugees, constant tourism, ancient ruins, good food, hopeless youth, beautiful fashions, jobless masses, religious exteriors, rebellious hearts. Such a land of contradictions.

It is my desire that God continues to build His Church in Italy, by whatever means He sees fit, and that I always remain open to how He wants to use me to that end. Italy is far from my identity. Life is an adventure, and my heart stretches to and from so many places on the globe that I sometimes feel it will burst. But recently reading "Kisses from Katie" has put me back in perspective. Christ is my identity. He is my beginning. My end. My goal and my prize.

If you are new to this journey, welcome! I am so honored and humbled by your participation. I thank you in advance for your patience in this time of transition!

Ok...drum roll...the Italian Consulate says I can receive my Italian passport by end of June. This is HUGE!!! Although I've been pressing forward to a January 2013 move, I was recently made aware of a dream job that would have me potentially moving this AUGUST! So: please pray that God would miraculously give me this job and help me move in August if that is His will.  Pray for my Pastor's wife, Chantal, who suffers from a rare blood disease and hasn't been well lately. Also for the church building (a new place with low rent that includes a room for Sunday School). Pray for maturity and depth of faith in the believers at Frascati! Thanks so much.

Love, Allie
Check out CC Roma's vid! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pYt7GIbYc0

a new year

Buon Anno Nuovo a Tutti Voi!

UPDATES:
I have decided NOT to take the Italian class this term. This way, I get to go to church. I am getting together a brunch invite so pray people from my class will come!! I am also trying to get another part-time job, audit a class at BIOLA, and finish my book (for which I am lacking in motivation!). I've discovered I am great at starting things, but loathe the finish-line. A big hug again to those of you I got to see while in Seattle (and Portland) for the holidays.

NEWS:
I started looking at teaching (primary school and TESOL/TEFL) jobs in Rome. I got SUPER overwhelmed. The thing I know: I want to be a support to my friends in Rome. The things I don't know: 1) WHERE to look for jobs (Rome is huge and people from my church are spread out), 2) Whether to pursue full-time or part-time positions because I am concerned about having enough time to serve the church, 3) When to move. I could move in the summer if I got a job. Otherwise I am waiting for my Italian passport. 4) Finally, I really have no idea how to get residence, etc. so I am just now needing to research all of this and ask my expat friends.

I don't want to rush leaving California. I LOVE my friends. My family is precious to me. But I don't want to stay when God wants me to go. I am trusting a lot of these things will fall into place as I pursue different options and doors open or close. The reality of living on my own, in a VERY FOREIGN country appears more and more vulnerable as the days pass. I'm so thankful to have the model of a few female friends who are off in their fields already. A visit from my dear friend Michelle (Japan) last week was a great blessing :)

Well, to close, I think I'm going to join an Italian choir because I can't totally abandon the Instituto all spring! Haha, I'll keep you posted if I do.

Lots of love and thank you ever so much for you prayers.