New Adventures

I haven't blogged in a while, but there's been some cool new developments in my life, so here's an update!

The last few years have been very eventful for me, full of music, school, performing, stress, and so many other things. Amidst all the busyness, though, as my undergraduate degree drew to a close I once again found myself facing the question of 'Whats Next?' 

I've been pursuing a career in music for the last few years, while at the same time pursuing education in the realm of apologetics and evangelism via Christian conferences, lots of reading, and a 1 year diploma program in theology.  

The answer to my 'What Next' question presented itself rather suddenly at a conference I was at last summer, where I was approached by an organization that works in the Middle East doing 'Creative Outreach', which basically means they share their faith via creative means like music, art, and drama!  Long story short, after some correspondence with them, I've signed on to join them in their work for 4 months, starting in August.

The preparation has been intense, I've been training with my sending organization, learning how to be culturally sensitive AND culturally relevant in an atmosphere I am totally unfamiliar with.  This has involved a lot of cultural training, as well as security training, and lots of research into the religious views of the areas that I'll be interacting with. I've also been doing some language training via podcasts and online forums, it's always good to know a little of the local language!

Part of the preparation of course is also monetary.  I've been doing lots of working, busking, playing for weddings, playing concerts, picking up shifts at other places...  My budget for the trip has been placed at around $13,425, which is a little overwhelming since my departure date is fast approaching!!  Luckily, my work over the last year and this summer should enable me to cover about 25-30% of that out of my savings, and my very generous sponsors have already come through with about 28% of what is needed!  So, by God's grace, I'm definitely getting there. 

So that's my life right now!  I'm very excited, and eager to see what God does with me in the next few months  

If you're interested in hearing more, or would like to be part of this work by sponsoring me, email me! I'd love to tell you all about it.  Unfortunately due to security concerns I can't put the sponsor link into here, but if you email me at rjsoenen@hotmail.com I can send you the link! :)

In Christ,
Rose Soenen