October 2010 - Upstate New York

We are halfway through our semester at Elim Bible Institute in Lima, New York. A considerable amount of our time is spent studying for our Bible and cross-cultural classes. The teachers have worked in local or overseas ministries, so along with theory they include real life stories. Our "Customs and Cultures" teacher told of bathing in Japan. It was an elaborate ritual comparable to two hours at a spa. We Americans take for granted our quick daily shower.

Thomas (blue shirt) at a "Customes and Cultures" dinner.

Most students are in their 20's, like our kids, so it is fun to get to know them. There is also a good number of international students (South Korea, Ghana, Brazil, and Iran) who widen the perspective in class discussions. Two other Helimission candidates, Jan Grindheim from Norway and Thomas Durrer from Switzerland, are also attending Elim this fall. The four of us meet together weekly with the Helimission staff for prayer, Bible study and food. The guys really like "Zweigles."

"Zweigles" hot dogs, a 130 year tradition in Upstate New York.

Upstate New York is very rural; corn and soy fields are everywhere. Lima has one stoplight and most places around are about a half hour drive away. We buy much of our fruits and vegetables from roadside produce stands. They leave the produce and a box to put your cash in unattended. It is all on the honor system.

View of Lower Falls at Letchworth State Park.

The rolling hills around Lima are a wonderful place to walk and bike. This fall we have seen huge flocks of geese and big White-tail deer in and around town. We had a long weekend early in October so the Canadians could go home for their Thanksgiving. That Friday afternoon we drove over to Letchworth State Park, the "Grand Canyon of the East." Then we took some international students for a day trip to Niagara Falls. It was the peak of the colorful fall foliage in the Northeast. We saw some spectacular scenery.

Bridget & Paul at Niagara Falls

Please pray we:

• Do well in our studies.


• For me (Paul) to find a job that would allow me to learn the specific aircraft type Helimission has in Indonesia and build some hours in it.


• Pay off debts.


• Raise funds.

You have been an encouragement to us. Thanks for your continued support.
In His service,
Paul & Bridget