OM Italy Staff Training

My time in Italy was divided between two very different organizations.  The first, Operation Mobilization.  This was my fourth time working with OM, Italy.  OM is an excellent organization, established many years ago and is active in 100 nations.  In general they are organized, staffed and focused. However, like all organizations they have their strengths and weaknesses.  OM Italy was/is in an acutely critical season of transition and the word from the Italian director on down confirmed the timeliness of my visit.  Much of what I was involved

Giuseppe, the OM Sicilian Cook (along with Dawn Mann. I loved his smile and his cooking!

in is simply too sensitive for publication. I came prepared with a particular focus of teaching and ministry and  by the Lord’s grace it seems to be exactly what was needed.  Luke and Dawn Mann, our wonderful friends, coworkers and missionaries with ACCI were once again critical to what was achieved during my time in Italy.

The “young” team being trained at a farmhouse.

The second and very different organization truly captured my heart. It is a fledgling ministry that is reaching out to their community by serving the homeless, drug addicts, neighbors and friends. They are unique because they are primarily Italian.  The younger folks of the group are first generation Believers.  Their families are not Christians and they receive no support; financially, spiritually, emotionally or otherwise from family or churches.  They have simply banded together to share their love for the Lord in a practical demonstration.  And the Lord is blessing their work! The older folks of the group are also amazing.  Sadly,

The “Oldies” at their “Free Clothing Center”

the local church frowns on caring for the poor and needy (yes, you read correctly), but unsupported and undaunted these oldies pool their resources and reach out to the Gypsies, Muslims and the poor.  And lives are being changed! Their joy, energy and unity were absolutley infectious.  While I came to this group as teacher, encourager and trainer, I was the one encouraged!