Grace Notes

Today was a day spent at one of the well known parks in Orlando. We boarded the busses early this morning to be at the park when it opened to take in the whole day. Our group had the choice to visit the “movie” side or the “amusement” side of Universal Studios, and it tended to be evenly split with the group meeting at the Hard Rock Cafe this evening for dinner. The youth are having an awesome time and are prime examples of Christians Chosen to Celebrate. On the “movie” side of Universal Studios the group had the opportunity to experience an 8.3 earthquake to an F5 tornado. They helped ET return to his home planet and found out the rest of the second Shrek movie (on the honeymoon). They felt tarantulas crawl over their feet, a donkey spit in their faces, and conversed with the “non-communicating” pharoah on stilts. On the “amusement” side it was one roller coaster after another. They stood in line for nearly 2 hours to ride the HULK but all seem to agree it was worth it. The spiderman ride was reported as ‘awesome’ by one, and they were enthused by the dualing dragons. Shopping was also a big hit with some; while others were thankful they didn’t have to participate in the shopping excursion.  We all ate together at Hard Rock Cafe with other churches from across the US. The hostess said they had served over 600 people today who are in town for the Gathering –  that was at 6pm and included only the ones they knew of. We have begun to network with churches and youth from all over, and the youth are building up excitement for the big event starting tomorrow. Thanks again for your continued prayers and support!