The Girls' Conference

The girls conference for the orphanage girls of Miskolcs was sucessful. Trudy, Russell's wife, planned and lead the weekend retreat in Mikepercs. The conference included a good mixture of local Hungarian Christians, our team from Biola, and the girls from Miskolc. Our conference focused on love - from dating to the love of God. In a large group, we heard stories from the Bible about Tamar, Leah, and Hagar. We were able to hear the ways that these figures handled issues of love and acceptance, even in the midst of hard situations and suffering. Small group discussions allowed us to get to know the girls on a more personal level. We were all able to share and pray with one another. In one session, we heard from a panel of guys to get the true story of "what guys want". Tyler and James were kind enough to participate in that part of the conference. Our team was also able to use our perform our skit which focused on our need for God. For fun, we also watched 13 Going on 30 as well as played some games that got
everyone laughing.

The girls from the orphanage in Miskolc were able to stay with Elyse, Malerie and I in the Panzio (hostel/hotel) so we were able to take time to interact with the girls and build relationships. We even were able to have a make-over night with lots of make-up, nailpolish and hair straighteners!

Reflecting back on the weekend, God revealed Himself in some great ways. The conference topic opened up the door for honest conversation with the girls from Miskolc about God and His love for us. Also, our team had a unique opportunity to encourage the local Hungarian women to continue their ministry with the girls in Miskolc. From this conference, there is going to be a weekly Bible study at the Miskolc orphanage for girls to parallel Russell's guys Bible study. God showed up and worked in a great way during this conference. It is our prayer that this conference and the follow up that our sisters in Hungary are able to continue will lead to the girls being drawn to their loving Father. May God's name being glorified in the Miskolc orphanage!