This morning, at 10:40, I found myself standing outside the gates of UCC (University College Cork) when a car drove up. A man stuck his head out the window and said, "are you American?" I said "Yes!" and then we all laughed and I got in the car for a ride to church. :) Really appreciating the community of believers today--I found these folks through a chain of connections to a family at my church in Greensboro. It was a Baptist church, and pretty small, but oh so friendly (I even got to hold a baby :) ). And boy do they love to pray! The service was about 2 hours (felt right at home, Christ Central), but it was like a drink of fresh water. So far this country seems to have very few evangelical Christians, and it was great to worship with these. Also met several students at UCC who gave me advice such as "don't carry a map on campus." And when I laughed, "No, really. They'll point you out as a fresher." She was dead serious. (don't you love the word "fresher", though?)
The other highlight of the day was a visit to the pub in the mid-afternoon to watch "The Match." That is, the Gaellic Football semi-finals match between Dublin and Cork. We (Cork) were down the whole game (or match), but came back at the end and won!! Much excitement. We'll play in the championships in September.
Here is what I can make out of the rules of Gaellic Football: You may kick the ball. You may carry the ball for three steps, then you must either dribble it or bounce it off your foot. You may bump it like a volleyball. You may throw it. You may run up to someone who has the ball and wrap your arms around them in order to hinder their movement. You may (or may not) get a foul called if the person you just tackled falls to the ground. Scoring is done either between the endposts, like US football, for one point, or in the soccer goal, for three points. Calvinball, anybody?
Ok, time for bed, as classes start tomorrow!! Just the early start program, so we're in class about 9.30 to 12.30.
Goodnight :)
Forgot to explain the "rebel" part...those in Cork are known as the "rebels"--can't remember why. But the way to cheer for a Cork football match is by yelling, "up the rebels!!" Heard a lot of that :)
ReplyDeleteBrilliant! Mary, I also love the word "fresher." Sounds like you're having a lovely time thus far.
ReplyDeleteMary love! I have enjoyed reading your blog! :) It's so awesome getting to read about everyone's different adventures and experiences! I am definitely praying for you from Argentina! I found this verse very comforting today
ReplyDelete"let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him" Hebrews 10:22. Don't worry God will provide for you and in wonderful ways! I love you!
I think it is really cool to see how God is providing for those of us abroad. Finding a Christian community to become a part of and other Christian friends is a HUGE blessing. Cool!
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