Photo Galleries

There is a wonderful story about some travelers who were trekking in a far-off country, with local guides who skillfully led them up and down mountains, helped them set up camp each night and take it down each morning, and navigate the long and ambitious journey they had undertaken. After the first week, the travelers noted that due to the progress they had made they were ahead of schedule and could finish the journey early.   The next morning, they packed their gear and readied themselves to continue per usual, but were surprised to discover that their guides, usually the first ones up and ready, were still sleeping. They inquired of the guides as to why they were not ready, saying If we get on the way soon, we can finish our journey ahead of time!   "Yes," agreed the guide. "We have made strong progress. But today we rest, and let our souls catch up with our bodies."   Such wisdom.   I myself am identifying with this story, having returned Sunday from Sri Lanka. I traveled with fellow church members Lori Bruce and Alan Rose, representing the Trustees of Jaffna College Funds, an organization started by Congregational Christians to support education for students in Sri Lanka. Our trip was long and our agenda full as we traversed the country and visited schools that impact the lives of thousands of students. The schools were planted and the initial funds raised by Congregational Missionaries over 200 years ago. We now steward that legacy and join the story of making God's love real through providing education, nutrition and safe housing for students from a variety of faith traditions and cultures.   I returned both energized and tired, and entirely grateful for the opportunity to meet and be with so many beautiful children and talented teachers and administrators at these impactful schools.   Thank you for your prayers. Fellow travelers Lori Bruch and Alan Rose and I felt supported and upheld by your prayers and the presence of the Holy Spirit throughout our travels and encounters. Together with John Schneider, who visited in January, we look forward to offering a slide show and program this fall to more fully share the experience with you. ~Rev. Dr. Sarah Sarchet Butter, Senior Pastor