This morning we gathered in worship at Christ Church on Shamain Island, built by the British in 1865 when Canton was an important port in the British Empire. The church service was in both Mandarin and English. What a blessing it was to share in fellowship with these believers who are able to openly worship the Lord despite restrictions on worship in other parts of this country. For example, our guide is part of a house church which has several branches, no house being big enough to hold them all. Though they too worship rather freely they are pretty sure there is a spy in their midst. How blessed we are in America to worship with no fear of whom might be watching.
Inside God's big house in China
Shamian Christ Church
After Church our group had a nice lunch of 'normal Chinese' food then we went to the famous White Swan Hotel, a landmark on the island, where we had group photos taken of our travel group and of our three little china dolls all dressed in their red silks. This is the famous 'red couch' picture that is a symbol to many adoptive families that their dreams have come true! The gorgeous waterfall is also inside the hotel...Nashvillians, does it remind you of the Opryland Hotel?
But I want to go down there!
Forever Friends
Leila, Jin and Lily
2 yrs., 4 yrs. and 6 yrs. old
1, 2, 3 SMILE!
Look at me!
With the photo shoot under our belt we set off for a couple of hours of shopping around the island. We ordered a few things to be made which we will pick up tomorrow. Adele even tried her hand at bargaining and nearly came away with the whole store for under $50!
We treated ourselves to a Starbucks visit in the afternoon! Yes, there is a Starbucks on the island and one in our hotel. We had green tea lattes. Not sure they will make it in the American market? Returning to the hotel we spent Sunday afternoon at rest, for dinner I (Clint) walked across the street to McDonalds and got us Big Macs and a Happy Meal?!? Ah, the Golden Arches! What do you think about all this American influence on the east?
The next few days will be slow as we await the official paperwork to be completed and wait for the consulate appointments, etc. Thank you for your continued prayers; the pollution is getting to us again, as well as the drastic change in tempreatures (Snow last Sunday in Beijing, near 90 and high humidity this week in Guagzhou!). May you have a blessed Sunday!
Clint for the Holloways
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