Bangladesh Day 2

Not so long ago, Creekside held a Commissioning Celebration where our single purpose was to glorfiy God for the great work He had done on behalf of our church family. And it was our desire that anyone and everyone who knew of our history and our ministry would be there to celebrate with us. The Grand Opening of the BYFC National Headquarters in Bangladesh held similar significance for Peter Halder, who has labored long with this dream in his heart and now stands joyfully worshipping God, who has made it a reality.

After 20 years of supporting BYFC, Creekside has a share in his joy, and I cannot express what a privilege it was for us to represent all of you as we stood with him on that day. Even greater was the privilege of seeing first-hand the great fruit of his ministry when we visited the nearby Dhaka Forgotten Children's Home. Their beaming faces and welcoming smiles far outshone the beauty and regalia of the well-planned ceremony.

We all received special outfits to wear to the ceremony; ladies in purple, guys in blue.

Candice and Dale smile in their very colorful (and very warm!) outfits.

Here stand three generations of men who have sold their lives for the mission of Christ: Neil of New Zealand; Ron Harder, United States; David Wraight, Australia. They eagerly await the honor of welcoming the various national and local elected officials who have come to support Peter's work in the community.

Our own police officer Steve Dowling shakes hands with the local authorities who have come to provide security for the local government officials.

The arrival of the Advocate Sahara Khutan, Minister of Home Affairs, brought even heavier security. We were all acutely aware of the high number of automatic weapons surrounding us!

Minister Sahara Khatun cuts the ribbon. When later asked by the media what she was going to do about the drug problem in Bangladesh, she was reported to say, "This! This is what I am doing. I am partnering with BYFC, who has committed itself to reaching the youth of this country with education and hope." Let us pray that one day the government will allow the BYFC to openly share not only the hope of a drug-free lifestyle, but also the hope of Christ.

The older children from the Dhaka Forgotten Children's Home presented flowers to the guests of honor.

All of our spirits lifted upon meeting the children of the orphanage. Here Candice poses with her new friends.

Scot with a new buddy.

The BFYC director explains how the Forgotten Children's Home ministry began with reluctance in his heart ("I do youth, Lord, not noisy, little children"), an overwhelming need, and nearly non-existent resources.

Kelly gives a high-five to the daughter of Boppi, whose dedication to the Lord made possible the opening of the first orphanage. His is a story of amazing sacrifice; ask Kelly to tell it to you!

The night ended with church followed by a lavish dinner at a local Chinese (!) restaurant. By the time we returned to the guest house (after a harrowing car ride for some), all of us were completely exhausted!