In Italia: church retreat and july goals

CC FRASCATI CHURCH RETREAT

I wanted to give an update about our church retreat this weekend. We were at an agriturismo in Frascati that gave us an incredible, affordable deal. Pastor Craig Quam (founding pastor of Calvary Chapel Italy) came down from Veneto and didn't let the fact that he just started chemotherapy treatment stop him from sharing with our little church about life in the Holy Spirit from Acts 1:8. We had 40 people in attendance from our different home-groups. Actually, there were quite a lot of people missing, but we were still so encouraged by this number and those that came out (from Monte Porzio Catone, Genzano, Albano, Colleferro, Grottaferrata, Frascati and Rome--also a visiting family from Frosinone!). Raffaella did not come. Michelangelo did an excellent job with worship. Jenny (who will moving to London in 2 weeks with our sweet Giulia--please pray for them!!) organized the venue. I was in charge of children's ministry all day. We were blessed and encouraged. We had just the funds to cover everything with 5€ leftover. We pray that the impact of this event is deep and lasting.

One interesting thing happened: a lady visiting the Bed & Breakfast part of the venue heard us and sat in on the worship. She then talked to Barbara and Robert about offering us a meeting place for the church! We are meeting with her today at 6:30pm if you can pray. Our dream is to have a place in the community. A place where all of our groups can meet together more regularly.

JULY GOALS

I've got lots of people to see: Olga, Paolo, Iram, Raffaella (all different colleagues/ex-colleagues I want to get in touch with). Livia (my Roman friend). Going to the sea with the young girls from church (Sara, Veronica, Valeria and Claudia--who have returned from France). Spending time with Monica (needy lady from church). Spending time with Barbara (another needy lady from church). Connecting with Fation (he just told me he is reading the Gospel) and Roberto. Supporting Jenny and Giulia with whatever they need before they move to London.

I've got visitors: My dear friend Amanda and her mom visiting me this month! My uncle should also be passing by. July 23-26 I'll be hosting the New Zealand rock band "Red Rain" in my home for outreach with our church.

Please continue to pray for my work with Schiavitù Mai Più this month. My team leader Sarah needs miraculous prayer for her heart. She has just come home from the hospital.

Please pray for logistical things with the Red Rain concert coming up. We need: 400€ to put this on. We need a smoke machine, a bass amp and a drum kit. The band will be split into 3 homes. Pray that they are blessed. We are thankful for their servant hearts and flexibility.

OTHER UPDATES

I almost left my job last week. After lots of drama and prayer I am staying one more final year. Prayers for my future would be most appreciated.

Pray that Jesus pursues and reveals himself in supernatural ways to my friend Fation who just confessed he is reading the Gospel. "You know Jesus says a lot of really wise things. I really agree with it."

Tania most likely has a fixed job starting in September. This will help me economically, as well as give her life a bit more direction. Praise Jesus.

I am in LA and Seattle this August and hope to see you! Taking appointments now :)

Thanks for praying. Lots of love to all!
Allie