Sushi and Saturday School

The very first Sunday that we arrived in our new city, a co-worker introduced us to a small storefront national clubhouse. Since our national language skills were still very limited, it was difficult to sit through several hours on Sundays of classes, services, and meal times with so little understanding. But, the local brothers and sisters were super, and we really wanted to spend time with them. They invited us to attend (and assist with) their Children's Saturday School, and we have been joining them every week since then. During the past seven months, we have become more and more involved. We can now understand about 1/3 of the national language used during the stories, songs, activities, etc. Jessie has started teaching the featured story each week in very simple English (a few sentences) and very simple Asianese. We have also memorized many of the songs and pr-yers in the national language. But, most of all we have fallen in love with these children and teachers. On a typical Saturday, about 10 to 15 children attend (over 60 are enrolled). The above photo is the multi-purpose room used for all clubhouse activities. If all 60 came on one day, we'd have to move out into the street. (Of course, friends from WV remember when we did that with youth group activities every Wednesday night....so it's definitely a possibility.)

Lately, lots of moms and dads have started joining us. We think it's a great idea. We can use the extra hands. Also, the parents can practice their English skills and hear HIStory along with their children. (Most of the folks from the Children's Saturday School have not joined in Sunday activities yet.) This past Saturday, we had a very unique experience. Have you ever made SUSHI during your children's clubhouse activities? Here's some additional photos in case you want to try it yourself. After spreading cooked rice onto a sheet of seaweed, just add other favorite ingredients like cucumber, mayo, pork floss, etc. (If you want to try this at home, there are actually recipes for pork floss sushi online. So enjoy!)

Then, roll it and cut it and eat it. Or, just roll it and chow down like "corn on the cob"!

On a recent drive through the countryside, we saw farmers preparing their rice fields. They, of course, are expecting a great harvest. We too are busy each day in the fields....preschoolers, children, teens, university students, workers, senior adults, etc. Would you join us? Please daily think about the nationals in our area, and consider coming to join us in these fields. They are literally white unto harvest.