Day 1

Talofa From Samoa!

Well, the team made it here safely, with no problems. We did have a fun beginning to our trip, as being an old "Survivor" fan I noticed Jerry in the gift shop at the airport. It was soon after this, while sitting in my seat while waiting to load the plane, that I looked across and noticed Rupert (the big guy with the big beard and tie dye shirt). While boarding the plane I finally got the courage to ask Rupert if it was really him, and he gave me a quick "Shhhh!" along with the producer of the show. As our team sat in the plane we were surrounded by "all star survivors" headed to Samoa.

As I mentioned earlier everything went perfect. We arrived in Malua just as the Sun was rising at 6:30am, it was an awesome sight for all of us to see. We've hit the ground running pretty hard as we start the sports and kids camp tomorrow.

The team is now unloading the 13 boxes of gifts and supplies you and the church donated. We've been received with incredible hospitality by the president of the college where we are stationed and by all the people here. The food has been different but delicious, none of us will go hungry (if you know what I mean). We've been challenged to lead the entire Sunday service which is not something that normally happens but we are willingly accepting the challenge with great honor.

Here are some things we would appreciate you praying for:

1. The swine flu is here, so we have been asked to take precautions. Pray that none of us will be affected.
2. Pray for the kids camp and the sports camp which starts tomorrow (Thursday)
3. The planning and execution of the Sunday morning church service.
4. That the team will catch up on rest and be energized for the entire trip.

Joshua D. Phillips
Pastor