Mission to the Czech Republic

Two weekends ago I headed down to Brno, the Czech Republic's second largest city next to Prague. All the ESI-ers met for the first time since August for a wonderful Thanksgiving retreat! It was very refreshing to see everyone. I didn't get to see as much of the town as I'd have like, but I know I'll probably have many chances to go back! (photo: me, Jen, and Karin enjoying a meal, Brno castle).

That same Sunday night I sang in my second Revelation concert (and I stand corrected: we are actually a rock gospel choir, not just a gospel choir). It was quite cold since the stage was outside, but we got to see the lighting of the Christmas tree for this section of town. (photo: with Eva and Ana before the show).

Last night the "Fishnet Singers," the other teachers and myself, held an advent concert at our church. It was a traditional anglican service with twelve scripture readings and probably about 10 or 11 songs sung in four part harmony. For practicing so little I thought we pulled it together beautifully! It was great to be able to share something like that with our students and congregation.

It has been unusually warm here the last few weeks. And when I say "unusually warm" I mean that there's just no snow on the ground yet. But the wind is getting stronger and colder and I'm breaking out my warmer jackets and sweaters. Christmas season is in full swing, with lights all around the city and an outdoor ice-skating rink in the center. It's so strange not to be at home for all the festivities! It's really hard not to miss home at this time of year, but I'm trying to take in the Czech Christmas experience as much as I can. My roommate and I plan on getting a tree as soon as they're available, and I've downloaded a bunch of Christmas music to my ipod (so out of character for me, but when you don't get any at all you really start to miss it).

Tomorrow the Czech's celebrate St. Nicholas day, which from what I understand comes from the stories of St. Nick who use to sneak into poor people's houses and leave gifts. Except their celebration somehow also involves the devil asking parents if their children have been good or bad. Bad children get taken by the devil and parents must give him something (usually money or beer?) to get them back. Seems a little more intense than coal in your stocking! So apparently tomorrow there will be a lot of drunk devils walking around the center, with the occasional angel or St. Nick to give out candy ("why are there people giving out chocolate satans?!' -my roommate). I should probably write this update after tomorrow but I never know when I'll have time to post updates. So I hope you enjoy it for now and I'll be sure to continue to inform you about Christmas festivities. I pray you are enjoying the season as well!