One Last Time

Well for those of you who don't know. I arrived home on Saturday. I had to keep it top secret because I surprised everyone. (except my family of course) So I did tell you some of the details regarding last week, but not all of them. First of all I graduated Tuesday night and the rest of the week was getting packed and saying goodbye to everyone. Jill left Thursday, which was really sad, but Amanda, Jim, Barb, and myself all flew out on the same plane. I really wanted to have the opportunity to thank all of you for reading my blog, and keeping up with my life while in Ottawa. Now that I am home I will not be writing anymore, so consider this my last entry. Once again, thank you all for your prayers and interest in me!!! I hope you all have a wonderful summer. Blessings, Erica

Too Long

So I know by now, that most of you have ceased to read my blog, or lost all hope of me coming back. I am so sorry it has been a week and a half since my last entry, but things have been so crazy here. (and to be completely honest, I lost my motivation to continue writing in my blog, believe it or not, I hate writing) So lets see, where do I begin?
Monday morning (April 30) I went to Parliament Hill to say goodbye to Lynn and the rest of the office, and to thank them for allowing me to work with them. I was so shocked because when I got there, they had a gift waiting for me, as well as lunch, and a tour. So I went to the House of Commons and met up with Lynn and she took me through all the rooms and halls I am not allowed to go in. I met different MP's, but I forget all their names. She also gave me a special pass and I was able to sit in the speakers section where all the important people sit, I felt so special! After Question Period was over Lynn came and got me and took me back into the lounge, and everyone was there. I was able to meet Jim Flaherty (Finance Minister) Stockwell Day (Minister of Public Safety) not the Prime Minister, BUT... Mr. Harper was in the room and he walked right by me, if I wouldn't have moved, HE WOULD HAVE HIT ME!!! haha So that was exciting. (People told me I should have let him hit me or at least said 'hi', I will just pray for another opportunity) Needless to say I was really blessed and had an amazing experience. Tuesday was a normal day, with classes, but towards the evening we started receiving students that were going to be attending the National Prayer Breakfast. Now how this works is, 60 students from across Canada get nominated and accepted to come to Ottawa to be apart of a student forum. (we were apart of that group) So Wednesday morning we all registered for the day and grabbed seats for our first session. They brought in Serge LeClerc, from Saskatoon, to give his testimony.(he is involved with Teen Challenge) He has one of the most amazing testimonies I have ever heard. He was a major gang leader, drug addict for 20 years, and in prison, then radically changed his life around; he has a book out I recommend you all read. After he spoke we had a chance for a panel discussion, which is basically where they bring in guests to share on Christianity in the work place, and allow us to blast them with questions. We also attended Question Period, where immediately afterward we had another discussion with 4 Christian MP's- Kevin Sorenson, James Lunney, John MacKay, and Joe Comartin. This was an amazing experience and because they were all from different parties, they were asked to give their favorite psalms to avoid controversy. After they spoke they sat down with us and discussed how each Psalm ministered to us personally. It was and incredible opportunity. That evening we had dinner on Parliament Hill where we listened to Canadian artists, as well as Terry Leblanc (director of My People Canada) share his testimony. He was First Nations and I found it very interesting that once again, God opened the door for the First People to lead the way and bless the rest of us. They also sang two songs which seemed to shatter and break things, with each drum beat and cry...it was so beautiful. So that was our very busy Wednesday. Thursday morning was the prayer breakfast and there must have been 600 people! Serge shared again, his theme being- Reconciliation through the Personhood of Christ. It again proved to be an incredible testimony and message and I know many people walked away really encouraged in their walk with Christ, or the pursuit of a walk with Him. We had another session where more MP's were able to share on their relationship with Christ, but the man that really impressed me was Steven Fletcher. He is an MP from B.C. and he is a quadriplegic. He hit a moose and became completely paralysed and as he was telling his story you could have heard a pin drop. The reason I really liked him, was because he said that he wasn't as strong a Christian as some of the other members, but he knew God. He was also very transparent and simply stated that, "my accident was considered an act of God according to Parliamentary legislation and the question I keep asking is, why do bad things happen to good people? And I still haven't found a good answer." (paraphrased) Then he proceeded to read a very sad passage from the book of Job and then leave the stage. His story was heart wrenching, but everyone in the room was so impressed with his perseverance, that he left with a standing ovation. So after the session we had lunch and I decided that I was going to meet Serge. I had been looking for a good opportunity but he was always busy and had a flock of people around him, so I decided I would hope for another opportunity because the task was virtually impossible. So, as I was waiting in line for lunch I ended standing beside a man who was a good friend of Serge. We introduced ourselves and began talking about...well everything. During the conversation I mentioned how much I had wanted to meet Serge and he laughed and told me that it would be no problem and he would introduce me. So we left the line he brought me to Serge and I was able to have a good 15 minute conversation. I am just so amazed at how God positions me. I never meet the top man, but always meet there friends and am able to have incredible opportunities from that point on!! So I once again was so blessed. So that concluded the hectic two days but we came back to NHOP to prepare for a dinner with a couple of MP's wives and Christian leaders. (it went very well) Now Friday, Saturday, and Sunday were all normal boring days, but Monday we went to Montreal to tour old Montreal. We walked around all day, and though I looked, I didn't actually buy anything!!! Can you believe it! It was a very nice break however, and a wonderful day to get out of the house, so we had a blast. Wow! I think I have now caught everyone up to date, because today is Tuesday....and we didn't do too much, we did go to Question Period, and out for dinner in the Byward Market. (kind of like a flee market, except higher class) Whew...that was a tonne of typing, serves me right for getting lazy...haha. Well I will try to do my next entry a little later this week. Once again I am so sorry to all of you who thought I was dead, I am alive and kicking. I hope you have an awesome night.

Erica

The End of the Week

Hello Everyone. I had the most amazing day Thursday. We started off with class and we discussed prayer, which is a really good topic for the National House of Prayer. In the afternoon we made sandwiches for the mission and then we were able to take them over and hand them out that night. (first time we have had the opportunity to do that) Now being honest with everyone, at first I found it really difficult to be in the mission. I was nervous to touch things because of the germs, and I was scared to talk to people for fear of what they would say. So the night began with this lady who brought in her guitar and played golden oldies gospel tunes. She had such a way of working with the ground that soon we were all singing and clapping away. I was amazed at the end of the night how comfortable and how much fun I had. I even danced and sang up at the front. The real amazing part was how harshly God reprimanded me for my attitude. He brought to mind the verses that say, if you don't help the poor-whatever you do for the least of my brothers you do for me...etc. I really had to repent and was blessed by the people and the worship. On Friday we had civics class and discussed homosexuality; that was a very interesting topic. We brought up the provincial human rights groups, and how they look for people who discriminate against homosexuals and then fine them. (a lot of them being christian organizations) One thing that has changed this year, is that the government has cut funding to these groups, which helps those who take their fine to court, not having to fight government money. Another thing that will work in our favor is that our law system is based on Common Law, which is a system that follows previous examples of similar cases. So, if a christian suffers a similar scenario with a homosexual group, they can take them to court and most likely win. Friday afternoon instead of going to the East Block Chapel, we stayed here and worshiped and prayed together to end the week. We also went to a movie that night for a chance to get out of the house. (it has been a full house all week 35 ppl!) So that was this week, and I hope everyone has a great weekend and I will write an new entry towards the beginning of next week. Goodnight.

Erica

Week after Toronto

Don't worry! I am still alive! This week has been so crazy, where do I begin? Okay, well I went to Toronto and attended the Airport Church, it was really cool to be in a congregation with that many people. Unfortunately I got sick with a head cold, and found it really difficult to participate in the 2 different church services. On Monday we made beds an went to Question Period in the afternoon. The House is once again hammering Gordon O'Connor and demanding his resignation, he is really becoming worn out, so really pray for him these next few weeks. Monday evening the teams all arrived and we had 9 from Toronto and 16 from the Masters Commission in B.C. (really full house) I was quite happy to have some kids my age here, as well as to find out that they are apart the same denomination that I am. Tuesday morning we had class and discussed how we are to interpret the Song of Songs. Many preachers negate ever speaking on this book and if they do, they refer to it as an allegory representing Jesus and the Bride. (Church) Richard told us that when the book was written there was no concept of the Church or Jesus coming to earth, so to make it an allegory is taking it out of the context of its original purpose. He has a way of making things so understandable! Tuesday afternoon was my last day working for my MP but I may see her Monday and have the opportunity to meet some of the other MP's, possibly even Mr. Harper!!!YAY! (we will see) In the evening we had the Master Commission do a skit for us and then settled down to hear Rob speak on prophetic intercession, also a very interesting class. This is the definition he gave us:

prophetic intercession is an urging to pray given by the Holy Spirit for situations and circumstances about which you have very little knowledge in the natural. You receive a prayer request from God which can be received as a burden, an impression, dream or vision.

Today we had Ken Hall's class, and I don't know if it is because I am not feeling well, but I found it very hard to concentrate. Question Period this afternoon once again attacked the Defense Minister, but also took a few rounds out of Peter McKay (foreign affairs) and John Baird (Environment) regarding Afghanistan detainees and the Kyoto Accord. I went to a movie tonight with Jill and Amanda and now I am looking forward to a really good sleep so that I wake up feeling good tomorrow. I hope you all had an amazing weekend and I will let you know what happens in the next 2 days.

Erica

The Rest of the Week

So Tuesday night, I didn't end up going to class, because I still wasn't feeling to great. So Instead I put on my pj's made hot chocolate, watched t.v., and went to bed early. Wednesday was an amazing day. The morning was theology, but Ken was away so Rob taught it. We discussed the after-life, all things known about Heaven and Hell. It was a really good class, and although we were all very familiar with the topic, there were many things I saw from a different perspective. The afternoon was spent in Q.P. Except one major difference, BRIAN MULRONEY SHOWED UP!! So we were waiting to get in when he came walking through the hall, so everyone of course got out their cameras to take pictures. I didn't have one so I waited until he looked over at us and then I threw my hand up in the air and started waving frantically with the dumbest smile on my face. He frowned as if he thought maybe he knew us, and CAME OVER. So we all got to shake his hand, it was awesome. Then we all headed out to Kannada to do a concert of prayer. The night went well the only problem was that we had a synth to play, not a piano, and the sustain pedal did not really work so it sounded like....plunk, plunk, plunk. God managed to bless the people regardless of the terrible sound. Thursday morning was class and we looked at dream interpretation again, as well as church structure. All of us came with dreams and once they were interpreted we all felt very encouraged by their messages. As far as the Church structure went, we discussed the differences between big churches and smaller ones, and what produces an effective church. In the afternoon we made sandwiches for the mission, and then Amanda and I headed outside to play basketball. It was such a warm day out that we stayed outside and sun-tanned. That night one of the staff members came into do the fireside and she shared with us her heart for China and how many times she has been there etc. It was amazing to hear her. Friday morning we had civics class and we discussed Prime Minister Laurier life, as well as, how to be affective in changing the government. We looked at issues like abortion, and homosexuality, and discussed how the church seemed to give up once they were in place. We looked at William Wilberforce's life and how he had a long term plan (20yrs) and he was able to abolish slavery. If the church could think that way, in a few years, we would begin to see change. It was a very interesting topic. Friday afternoon we went to the East-block chapel and prayed with the Newfoundland team, and then us girls shopped and stayed outside all day again. (it was +22, and major tanning weather, everyone here is sunburned) Tomorrow we leave for Toronto to speak, and we get home late Sunday night, so I will talk to everyone Monday, and I hope you all have an amazing weekend.

Erica

Parliament is Back

So It has been a really long time since I made an entry. It was hard the last two weeks because Parliament Hill has been out of session. So last weekend my dad came and visited me, it was really good he came because I was beginning to get too homesick and ready to go home. So I was able to take him through Parliament Hill and tour Ottawa with him, it was such good timing that he came, I know Jesus was keeping an eye out on me. Monday we went to QP (question period) it was funny to see how many of the MP's had sunburns, including Mr. Harper. Although there is still the rumor of an election, the government has managed to keep it all under wraps. Some of the topics they brought up, was Canada's involvment in Afghanistan, and if the Defense Minister would keep the promise of pulling out in Feb. 2009. I think where O'Connor sits, is that come time they will reavalue the time-line, but he just keeps telling the House that he said 2009. The opposition is really against him right now, and continue to bring things against him, in effort to break him and convince the Prime Minister of his imcompetance. Many of us here having been keeping him in our prayers especially this term because it has been so rough. Another huge issue in the House, is the agreement the Liberals made with the leader of the Green Party. Dion promised that they wouldn't run against her in her riding, all of this being a method to boot Peter McKay out of power because her riding is his area. Monday night our team arrived from Hallifax, 5 of them, and we were able to meet them as well as practice for the prayer concert out in Kanada. (we are doing the worship) Today we had class, and we looked at how to read the Psalms and how many different types there are. After class we were suppose to go to our MP's but I wasn't feeling so great so I had prayed all morning that the office would call and say they didn't need me, and God answered my prayer. So this afternoon I slept for two hours and I am feeling much better. Tonight is Rob's class and I will add a little blurb on what he teaches tonight.

Erica

Easter Weekend

Wow! It has been a little while since I wrote in my blog. I hope everyone had an amazing Easter weekend. Now let me see, I didn't talk about Friday. Okay so Friday morning we attended a good Friday service, then went out for lunch with Terry and Richard. Saturday morning we got up early and hit the road to go shopping in Montreal!!! I love it there, all the stores, the nice clothes, the shoes, and the French accents. I bought a skirt and tank-top for summer time. (if it ever comes) Sunday we went to an Easter service called, O Happy Day, it was at this huge church and the music was phenomenal. They had a full choir and two black men who had amazing vocals. It was such a fun service. We then went over to the Long's house for Easter lunch, so that we didn't have to be alone, it was really sweet of them. Monday was a day off, so we played some basketball (us three girls) and ate, yet another, Easter dinner! We will all have to go running after that weekend. For 4 days of not blogging, that seems like a whole lot of nothing, but the weekend seemed so full....it must look shorter on paper. Today got us back into the swing of things real fast, we went to class, MP's office, and then class again. So this morning we discussed how to interpret the books of the Prophets. Richard told us that they are very difficult to read because we need to look at them as oracles, unfortunately it doesn't always show you what is the beginning and the end. Working this afternoon went really well, and I was able to discuss abortion and gay rights with the secretaries working in Lynn's office. I love when you find out people's views on certain issues. Tonight Rob spoke on fasting, here is a little excerpt from his class:
- Matt. 4- Satan tempts Jesus with bread after 40 days of fasting- It is interesting to note that after the Holy Spirit descends on Jesus, he leads him into the desert to be tested (that is how he began his ministry)
- Our 'appetites' are powerful, when we fast we allow for our spirit to control our 'appetite' (appetite being- our desire for anything)- Fasting prepared Jesus to meet with the enemy; was used as a weapon that showed His absolute commitment to the Father

So that was the last couple of days, but before I say goodnight....Remember when I blogged about our interviews on 100 Huntley Street? Well it aired last Friday and this is the website you can watch the 10 minute segment. (Just remember, they are quick little blurbs) http://www.crossroads.ca/broadcas/program.htm scroll down to April 6, and you will see in the description column, a series on prayer part 4. That is the one you click on. Goodnight everyone.
Erica

Easter Week

Hello everyone! This week has been really nice with Parliament out, I have had opportunities to nap, and go many different places. On Wednesday, we had Ken Hall's class and we discussed rebirth, the funny thing is, that is not what I remember about the class. Ken was trying to teach me what "cause and effect" is, by flicking his empty coffee cup, the problem was, it wasn't empty. I had coffee all over my notes, my Bible, and my pictures....it was very funny, and I won't forget that lesson. In the afternoon we went to see the movie Amazing Grace. It was an unbelievable film, and I would recommend that all of you see it; especially if you have political goals, or are desiring to change something that seems impossible. (a forerunner) Most of us left in tears and with a flame re-ignited in our lives to see things change. After that we had a free night so I decided not to play basketball. (I was so sore from playing football the day before) It was a good night anyways and I am sure the boys were glad not to have to worry about me messing up their game. Thursday we had our spiritual directions class, and we finished up the topic (Prophetic) with an exercise where we prayed for a person and asked for a color, why that color, a song, and a verse. It was really meant to encourage everyone and I think we all left uplifted. Thursday afternoon we made burgers for the mission, and Thursday night we went to a dramatization of the crucifixion, it was good, and it was a musical so there were some amazing voices. Tomorrow we are going to a good Friday service, but I will let you know how that goes. Have a great night. Goodnight.

Erica

Tuesday- Passover/Repentance

Last night I celebrated my very first Passover meal...I know, I am not very cultured. It was a lot of fun, we had a lady who has a heart for Israel come and lead us in the ceremony. I had always thought that the passover feast was strictly meant for those who were Jewish, but I was really impressed with the idea of partaking in the feast, although different, it has close similarities to communion. Today in class we discussed the topic of the Old Covenant versus the New Covenant. I really enjoyed Richard's thoughts on the whole subject and we were able to look at scriptures that support the idea of the New Covenant replacing the Old. We looked at Jesus' ministry, as well as Paul's teaching, and came to the conclusion that- we should not ignore the Old Testament because it is God's Word. However, Jesus' ministry confirms the 10 commandments, and the 2 great commandments (love the Lord your God, and love your neighbor) not all 613 laws of Moses. Did you know, that in our present day, it is impossible for Jewish people to follow the Law, and even in Moses' time, the Israelites could not obey all the laws. Anyways, that is just a little tid-bit from this morning. This afternoon I went to my MP's office, it was really good today, I had lots of work to do and didn't have time to sit around, I love that! Tonight Fran taught our intercession class and we looked at repentance. This is a small excerpt from her teaching that really impressed me:

Biblical Examples of people who Interceded for a Generation's Sin
- Ezra had been approached concerning the intermarriage with the people

- Nehemiah had received a report of the state of Jerusalem and of the remnant which was left behind.

- Daniel had been pondering the words of Jeremiah and was convicted to interceded for his people

- Moses was crying out that God would not destroy the Israelites for worshiping the golden calf.

- Paul cries out for his kinsmen.

- Jesus identified with the sin of all mankind.

Until we have come to the place where we cry out for our corporate sins, we cannot intercede for our nation.
Requirements of the Intercessor

- you must be willing to see the true condition without trying to justify a persons actions

- you must be willing to allow the Lord to break/burden you heart with His heart

- You need to have the grace of God working within you to begin to carry their burden.

- You must be willing to release the burden upon the Lord. Note, God may burden us about a situation so that we may cast that burden upon Him.

I hope these blurbs will help for those of you leading a life of intercession. They really impress me when I am taught them. I believe that to be an intercessor is an incredible calling, I also believe we are all called to intercession. I hope those of you who are ahead of the game, spur on that passion in people like me, who are a lot slower in this area. Anyways, I will put my soap box away now and say goodnight.
Erica

Niagara and the Weekend

So it has been a really long time since I put in an entry, sorry about that, but Friday we were in such a hurry to get on the road I didn't have time to write. So, I could tell you about classes Thursday and Friday, but I just don't think it would be as interesting as my weekend was, so instead I will tell you about Niagara. We arrived 9:00 Friday night and we all decided to go out on the town. (If any of you have been to Niagara Falls, it is really cheesy tourism, with lots of lights and expensive games and rides) Although we didn't participate in anything, we decided to come again in the morning. So Saturday morning we went to the falls, and it was so cold and windy out, that it felt like the mist was actual rain...we were drenched. We did however, decide to go under the falls, and walk around in all the tunnels, I was a little disappointed, but it was worth the sound of the fall on top of you. We then drove to Niagara on the lake, which is about and hour away, and is the nice tourism section. It is set up like a little western town with a small street and little stores on each side. So for the afternoon we shopped, and I bought a caramel apple!!(I love them) Then we were on our way to a little town where Terry and Richard lived, we spent the night there, then drove to Toronto. We woke up early Sunday morning, hit the road, and drove to Richard's old church to minister there. We answered questions regarding the internship, as well as perform the song we wrote, everyone loved it. Once lunch with the pastor was over we started home, and got home last night at10:30pm. So tomorrow Richard is letting us sleep in because we are soo tired. Parliament Hill is on Easter holidays so we will have to find alternate activities this week. I will post picture of our adventure as soon as I can. Have a great night, and sorry you had to wait so long for an update.
Erica

p.s. I am not a real detailed person so for more info, check out Amanda's blog- http://worldtravellingpants.blogspot.com/

Equalization!!

So I managed to get through Tuesday in one piece. Tuesday is our busiest day of the week, we start off with class, then go to our MP's office, and then have Rob's class in the evening. Our morning class taught on how to interpret Parables correctly, and how not to. Richard taught us that the closest thing we have to a parable is a joke, for both of them have a punch line or point. The afternoon I went to Lynn's office and was finally able to meet her. She is a very busy woman and is straight to the point, I also found out that she is Parliamentary Secretary for Human Resources. (No wonder she is so busy!!!) Rob's class on intercession touched the topic of warfare in intercession. His three main points were: Our Authority, Keeping Alert, A Protective Barrier. I took lots of notes, but to extensive to include in one blog entry. Another interesting thing I wanted to tell you all about is that the Justice committee held a meeting to look a raising the sexual consent age, back up to 16. (it is at 14 currently) The team that has been staying here, went to the meeting to pray and one of the key leaders here in Ottawa was able to share for 10 minutes. It's not to be voted on yet, but in Parliament everything is a process. So today (Wednesday) Ken came in, and if I had to pick one of my favorite points that he said it would be this..."With the fall came curses, but also blessings." For example, death was a curse, but to live in sin for eternity would be worse, childbearing was a curse- but most women will agree that it is also a blessing. That statement seemed so profound to me and will be one I remember. (We were discussing the heart of mankind) I also went to Question Period today, everyone seemed very obnoxious, and were yelling almost steady. The opposition accuses the government of breaking its promise to Newfoundland, Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Saskatchewan by putting a cap on equalization payments. (I cannot explain all of this in depth in one entry but I do have information to email you if you are interested...especially those from home) Even Saskatchewan's premier Lorne Calvert bashed the government's new budget. (email me at ricky_rayth_@hotmail.com) By the way the budget was passed, the Bloc sided with the Conservative government, it is rumored however, that threats of an election will be far greater once the House comes back from Easter holidays. (of course this is murmurings between different MP's) I went and played basketball tonight, but I played terrible so there is nothing to mention, other than the fact that I feel so sore now. I hope you have an amazing night and talk to you all tomorrow.

Erica

p.s. Robin L. you are the rockin'est personI know and now I am cooler than Amanda cuz I mentioned you in my blog!!!!

Song writing

Unfortunately, today I have nothing to write about. We made beds this morning and the team from Manitoba arrived this afternoon. We went to the House of Commons, but it was soo full we weren't able to get in. (Luckily Jill and Mark were able to) So Amanda and I came home and wrote a song that we will sing at the church in Toronto. We tried to write from the perspective of Ruth, Esther, and Mary, as well as include our feeling in it. These are the words:

For months I've prayed
I'd find favor in your eyes
As I struggled to prepare
For a life time of love with you
I lay at your feet the fragrance of my purity
I lay at your feet all I am and all that I will be

I don't understand
why you brought me here
I'm scared and want to run
But wherever you go I will go
I lay at your feet the fragrance of my destiny
I lay at your feet all I am and all that I will be

I ran to the room
your forgiveness brings me to my knees
unbridled tears at you feet
I dry them with my hair
I lay at your feet the fragrance of my worship
I lay at your feet all I am and all that I will be
Chorus:
I pour out my life as a perfume to you
Cuz I'm bringing all I am
To my Jesus......the one I love
my Jesus......the one I follow
my Jesus.....my Saviour and Friend

So we spent the night practicing the song and getting ready for Toronto. That was my Monday. Nothing to spectacular today. Have a great night everyone and I will talk to you all tomorrow.


Erica

Thursday and Friday!

Hello Everyone! Once again I apologize for not leaving an entry for Thursday. With the teams coming in now, it will be very hard to write everyday, so it may become every second day. So on Thursday we had class, and we discussed the prophetic gift in the church, and the difference between being a prophet and prophesying. In the Bible God calls us all to prophesy, but that does not mean that we were all called to be prophets. We also talked about how to hear the voice of God, in order to know when he is speaking to us. Although this is a topic everyone teaches and quite often we are all suppose to "know" how to improve, I was really struck once again. I know pastors, and teachers tell us this all the time but it really hit home this time, if we want to be able to hear God's voice more in our life, it requires the sacrifice of our time. Just like we can't know each other without time, God is no different. Then in the afternoon we made hamburgers for the mission, and I was officially taught how to barbecue. (I know embarrassing) For supper we had pizza and cake to celebrate Amanda's birthday, then they took us to the art museum. That was so amazing, we didn't have time to look at all the art, but it is a real art museum. You see, those of you who read this and aren't from Saskatchewan, we only have local artists in our art museums, not famous people. As you can all imagine, I was in total shock and excitement when I saw 2 MONET PAINTINGS!!! Real ones, not prints, it was a highlight for my LIFE! ahhaha Anyways it was a blast. Friday started with our Civics class, and we looked at each other's papers (we wrote on Prime Ministers in history) it was really neat, if you like history, to learn about the different men. (for curiosity sake, McKenzie, is a really interesting man, spiritually. Take time to read about him and the seances he had) Then we went to the East Block Chapel to pray and when we got home, Mark showed up!!!(Jill's friend) So that was exciting and a new face to torment with our jokes! This weekend will be a homework weekend because next weekend we are heading off to Toronto. So I hope you all have an amazing weekend and I will talk to you all Monday. Blessings.
Erica

Tuesday/Wednesday-sorry its late

So once again, my Internet has been having problems and I wasn't able to post an entry for last night. So Tuesday we went to our MP's offices, this afternoon was better than the last one, but I still found very little work to do. I did however get to sit with a man who was watching Question period, and he was able to explain a lot of the things that were going on. The opposition has really been using Ralph Goodale, to attack the government for its budget ideas for Saskatchewan. The thing that is really disappointing is that most people from Saskatchewan don't like Ralph, yet he is doing a lot of the speaking for the Liberal side. If you are curious what is said in the House of Commons, there is a really good sight that types up all the notes, it is the http://www.parliament.the-stationery-office.co.uk/pa/cm/cmhansrd.htm it record everything. So after the House of Commons we came home and got ready for Rob's class. He taught on Fear versus Faith based Intercession. His main point was that in order to combat fear based intercession we need to be in the Word and know the Word, because it shows us the character of God. "Without faith it is impossible to please God." So that was Tuesday. Wednesday, we had Ken's class and he really challenged me in a particular area. He stated that, we always picture God as someone who has unconditionally love for everyone. Although He loves everyone, if He were to love everyone unconditionally we would all go to Heaven. It's an confusing topic and one that will probably offend a few people, and I am probably not explaining it very well, but if it makes you think then that is good. (another thing to chew on is, in the Bible it says God loved Jacob and hated Esau.) Yes, God is love but he is first of all light. Even in 1 John where it says that God is love, it first says that He is light and in him there is no darkness. Anyways that was a neat topic to process. We went to Question period again this afternoon and they were still debating the budget, and asking the Prime Minister to fire his Defense Minister (Gordon O'Conner) for the inaccurate comments he made. (I explained this on Monday) In the end the Prime Minister stood up and sad that Gordon had apologized and had told the House that he made the statement in good faith with the previous information he had received, so he said that he was a great minister and doing an amazing job as the Defense Minister. Then Wednesday night I went and played basketball again, except this time I scored twice!!! I hope it just keeps going up. I also got fouled and all the boys started booing the guy that fouled me, it was really funny. At least they are all really nice and keep an eye out for me. All in all, it was a great game, and a great two days. Once again I am sorry this entry is so late. Goodnight.
Erica

Monday/Lundi

Well we are back in the swing of things this week! A team just arrived from Calgary and they will be with us till Thursday morning, so this week will be a full one. The weekend went really well but I did not attend the conference, which turned out to be a total intervention. Yuanita got pneumonia while she was here and wasn't able to speak on Friday or Saturday, so the organizers were rushed in trying to come up with a back-up plan; so had I attended I think I would have been disappointed in not having the opportunity to hear her speak. We went to Parliament Hill for the first time in 2 weeks, and boy was it good to be back! I made sure I greeted all the guards that I knew (Claude is always there, he's my favorite) and we settled in to hear the debates. Today questions really targeted Gordon O'Connor (the defense minister) because he had presented information in the House of Commons that was not accurate and he apologized to the House for those comments, but they did not let up on drilling him about the mistake. As most of you know, the budget was released today and we were not able to get in unless we had special invitations. By the sounds of things, it was a good budget. There was funding available for minority groups, childcare, and newly weds. (married couples have to pay the same amount of taxes as a single person, because the government would like to honor the marriage commitment Canadians take) There was only 10 minutes for debate and it sounds like the opposition is not happy with the lack of aboriginal funding, but it won't be until Wednesday that we really get to see what has the different parties upset, so I will keep you all posted. As far as tonight was concerned, we had the opportunity to meet the team, tell them a little about ourselves and then head off to bed early for our busy day tomorrow. I hope that you all had an amazing week, and I can't wait to see you all at home again.
Erica

thursday and friday a blurr

Sorry this entry is sooo late, but last night we had a youth group spending the night and then this morning the Internet was down. Yesterday was really good, we made sandwiches in the morning, toured the Governor General's house in the afternoon, and worship with the youth at night. The group was from B.C. and they are on a missions trip with their Christian school. It was really nice to have them here because a lot of them are close to my age, and because I was raised in a small christian school too, we all really clicked and had a blast. We jammed together (worship music) and then talked about life, they also had the opportunity to ask us questions about NHOP. So that was Thursday. Today we had class this morning, Christian Ethics, and we learned that working is a way of expressing creativity and how God desires us to work. We also said goodbye to the team and got ready for the lunch with Yuanita Bynum. The good news is that many ambassadors came (Jamaica, Malaysia, etc) the bad news is that Yuanita wasn't able to make it dew to a miscommunication. So it was really hard that the guest of honor wasn't there, but God still showed up in a powerful way and blessed everyone that was there. Tonight I am going to stay home and go to bed early because I feel soo tired after this week and need to get ready for next weeks team. So I hope you all have an amazing weekend, tomorrow I am going to the conference but I will write about it on Monday. Bless ya'll!
Erica

Wednesday-BBALL!!!

Ken is back so we had another wonderful class time. He really challenged me on some of my own doctrines, and although it sucks because you have to rethink them, he really causes you to develop a strong theology to why you believe what you do. (He challenged me on the subject of healing, and how we claim that healing) I am still confused partly, you see Ken uses such majestic words that I sometimes get lost, but he has made me think, and I will have it figured out soon. So this afternoon we were suppose to go for a prayer walk but it is raining. YES I SAID RAINING!!! It is soooo beautiful out today, it's really cloudy but the humidity is like....Florida, if you have been to Florida its that real think musty, warm air. I loved it! Light jackets and almost all the snow is gone and it has only been 2 days. (For those of you who don't know, Saskatchewan stays super cold for a long time, and is always really really dry, we never have humidity, thus my excitement) So instead of a walk we did databases for NHOP. Then tonight I played basketball again. This game I played so much better, and I actually scored!!! I even scored over a big tall black guy and when the ball went in all 30 guys stopped talking, cheered, clapped, and then laughed in total unbelief. They were such good sports, they all shook my hand and congratulated me. Who knows, by the end of the 3 months, I could be running, jumping, and shooting like a black guy. That would be soo amazing if I could learn that. There is this one guy there, he's got to be 6'6" and when he lifts his arms he can touch the rim, anyways I am always on his team. (I think its because I am the shortest) So I believe his name is Abu, or something like that, and he can't speak English, but he is sooo sweet. I think he communicates to me more that all the rest. He is always motioning at me, giving me a high-five, or catching my eye when he wants me to do something. The only word he seems to know is SHOOT!! he is always yelling at me to shoot. So it was a really fun night, I just love basketball, and every week will get better. You all have a good night, and for those of you back home, wear lots of blankies because I know how cold it is there. hahaha

Erica

Long weekend, sorry

Well after this weekend I totally forgot to write an entry for Monday, sorry about that. So I guess toady's will include a lot of things that happened the last couple of days. So this weekend I went to a concert, Saturday night, done by the band Leeland, who is led by an 18 year old who is still in high school. I was so impressed with him, he led worship on his knees, with tears, from the guitar, and the piano, God is so apparent in his life even at his young age. So that night was really amazing to be apart of. On Sunday we went to a French church that has a lot of youth that are involved at a city level as well as nationally. I love the french churches, they are a lot more blunt than the English about how they are feeling or what they are struggling with. It was almost awkward at some points to be sitting there, yet it was also very refreshing to see their complete honesty. So I was able to meet some of the youth and we all went out for lunch and are planning on hanging out whenever we have some free time. They will also be at the conference this weekend, (Yuanita Bynum) so we will see them a lot of different places. On Monday we did office work all day, and then had fireside in the evening, so it wasn't to crazy. Today I had class with Richard and we learned about Narratives again and how to read them properly, for example, how to use Acts and how not to use it. Then this afternoon I went to work for my M.P. it was challenging today because the secretary was so busy that she didn't have time to explain things. I know it will get better though. Rob's class on intercession taught us how to wrestle with God in prayer. Rob encouraged us, that when we are asking or believing for something, we need to bug God constantly, never leaving him alone. Like Jacob held on for his blessing, so will we fight for ours. He also taught us how to argue with God, like Abraham did for Sodom and Gomorrah.

We have to search our motives- God's will

We have to speak God's word back to him- as David did, reminding Him of His promises

Calling on God's compassion- like Abraham asked for God's mercy instead of judgement on Sodom and Gomorrah

We have to honor the name of the Lord

And Plead the blood of Jesus- His blood covers all

I found this lesson really enlightening, especially if you are believing God for something in your life. Well I am off to bed but I will make sure I write an article tomorrow, and I wont forget this time. Goodnight everyone.

Erica

Spiritual Giftings

Well this morning classes were cut in half because we were trying to get in yesterday mornings class in as well. So for the first part of the morning we discussed the Supreme Court and then the second part of the class was a spiritual gifting test. It was really neat to learn what strengths and weaknesses each other had. If you are interested in doing the quiz the address is www.buildingchurch.net then click on the gifted 2 serve on the left hand side and scroll to the bottom of the page, the quiz is the first link. While we were discussing gifts, the topic of churches came up. We talked about how some churches are really gifted in teaching, or evangelism and that if we weren't so insecure about loosing sheep or sheep stealing the church as a body could be really complete. For example, churches who are gifted in evangelism will be great for getting members but not necessarily keeping them, they will need to point their members to a church who is more gifted in teaching or intercession. If we could circulate members from church to church we would have an amazing 5 fold ministry. So after this discussion we ate lunch, then went to the East Block Chapel to pray. All of us felt pretty heavy today but apparently that happens when you are praying at a government level, and it doesn't help that the sun hasn't been out lately. So with heavy hearts we prayed but I know tomorrow we will feel better. Tonight we are watching my favorite movie and just laying low, so that will be nice. Saturday night we are going to the Leeland concert, so a great weekend is planned. I hope the same for all of you . Talk to you Monday.
Erica

Tours

This morning was spent making sandwiches for Capital City Mission, so that this afternoon could be spent at the supreme court. Not many people are aware of the supreme court, or have ever taken a tour. It is a very majestic looking building, and looks as if it was taken right from London. We were able to meet the only christian lawyer working in the supreme court, and she was able to tell us about her job. She works for the judges on recommendations, reasons as to why a case should be seen, or why it should be overlooked. The really neat thing about her job, is that if case contradicts her morals, all she has to do is give reasonable facts that support why the case should not enter the supreme court. (She can't say anything about it morally being wrong, she has to have real hard material) I thought that would be a much better job than being a lawyer, because you don't have to support something you don't agree with. So after our tour we went the the Museum of Civilization. While we were there we came to the coolest exhibit. It was our Canadian history from the explorers time and it was set up with little houses and cars. When we first entered the display the sky was blue and there was a breeze so that it felt and looked like you were outside on a summer evening. It was a blast. We took many pictures and I will try to post some for you over the next couple of days. We also went to the Imax to see a film about sky diving, and base jumping. It was so real, sometimes we got dizzy, and sometimes we were falling, it was a riot, except I don't think Richard liked it because when I looked at him he had his eyes closed. Well after a long day I am off to bed. Tomorrow is Friday!!!
Erica