Hey Everyone! We have created a new blog on a different site. We hope this doesn't cause confusion for anyone. Our desire is to post more frequently and keep you updated. Check out our new blog for a video update!
Peace,
Caleb, Britney & Ollie
NEW BLOG:
dossettsinvienna.wordpress.com
Sunday, September 27, 2015
Saturday, July 11, 2015
America 2015
Dear Friends!
When we wrote our last post, we were within Austrian borders. Today, we are on American soil. It's been an exhilarating past few weeks. We landed on June 14 and spent the first couple of days with Caleb's family. We focused on sleeping off jet lag; his family focused on smothering Oliver with hugs and kisses. Next, we spent two weeks in Granite City, visiting Britney's family. We focused on eating American cheeseburgers and melting-chocolate-lava-explosions. They focused on smothering Ollie with more hugs and more kisses.
Then, about a week ago, we came back to Bloomington and have settled into a familiar routine of cherised time with Caleb's family and . . . you guessed it, lots of hugs and kisses.
As always, we are in awe of God's grace and provision at every turn in our lives. The flight over the Atlantic was extremely comfortable and we have been protected throughout these several weeks of driving here, there, everywhere.
And, we are blessed beyond comparison with dear family and friends who support our ministry. Ever since the spring of 2013, when we first considered moving away from family, to go to Vienna, to teach at ICSV, the Lord has been building and sustaining a strong foundation of prayer, love, and financial support through all of you. This past year was, as we hope we have been able to adequately share with you, a fulfilling time. Caleb's first year of teaching 9th & 10th grade English was exactly what we feel God is calling us to in Vienna. He was able to share the love of Christ with students from more than 50 different nations, 60% of whom don't know that love personally. Furthermore, Britney was able to grow in relationship with moms from all over Vienna, through church, baby clubs, and more. She will be able to go back to those relationships when we return and water the seeds that have been planted in that ministry.
None of this could have been possible without you.
Now that we are back in the States we would LOVE to see you. We desire to nurture those friendships with all of you who are already on our team and we want to build new friendships with anybody who is interested in supporting our teaching ministry at ICSV in Vienna. Unfortunately, we won't get to see some of you because of distance and time. However, if you are anywhere near Bloomington, Illinois for the next month, then please let us know. We are excited to share, in person, our stories of Jesus and how he is touching lives in Vienna.
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver!
Friday, June 5, 2015
It's a Beautiful Day!
Hello Friends,
The sun has returned to its rightful place in the sky, the trees are exploding in green, white, and pink, and the air carries the sound of summer in every breeze. Our lungs cannot avoid shouting along with Bono every morning:
It's a beautiful day!
Just a week ago, we got all fancy and drove up to a converted palace on a hill that overlooks the city. The reason? PROM! Bowties and high heels, dancing and eating. So. Much. Good. Eating. The whole thing was organized by Britney, a fellow teacher, and a committee of students. It was a complete success; check out the pictures for evidence of the glee.
And it just keeps getting better. In one week we will be returning to the US for a summer furlough / vacation / mega-life-spa session. We will be spending time with family and working on raising more support for the upcoming school year. We are looking forward to seeing as many of you as we possibly can - hopefully, that can somehow be all of you!
The details: We will arrive in Chicago on the 13th of June. We'll be focusing on family down-time during the first few days, first with Caleb's family and then driving over to Granite to be there the 17th of June through the 3rd of July. Then, we'll be back in Bloomington until the 8th of August (when Caleb flies back and Britney / Ollie return to Granite before they come back to Vienna on the 22nd of August).
As we already said, we truly (and even desperately) want to see you. Please contact us and we will try to work it out to meet and fellowship together.
We are thankful for you and so blessed,
Caleb & Britney & Ollie
The sun has returned to its rightful place in the sky, the trees are exploding in green, white, and pink, and the air carries the sound of summer in every breeze. Our lungs cannot avoid shouting along with Bono every morning:
It's a beautiful day!
Just a week ago, we got all fancy and drove up to a converted palace on a hill that overlooks the city. The reason? PROM! Bowties and high heels, dancing and eating. So. Much. Good. Eating. The whole thing was organized by Britney, a fellow teacher, and a committee of students. It was a complete success; check out the pictures for evidence of the glee.
The junior class
Britney & other ICSV teachers
And it just keeps getting better. In one week we will be returning to the US for a summer furlough / vacation / mega-life-spa session. We will be spending time with family and working on raising more support for the upcoming school year. We are looking forward to seeing as many of you as we possibly can - hopefully, that can somehow be all of you!
The details: We will arrive in Chicago on the 13th of June. We'll be focusing on family down-time during the first few days, first with Caleb's family and then driving over to Granite to be there the 17th of June through the 3rd of July. Then, we'll be back in Bloomington until the 8th of August (when Caleb flies back and Britney / Ollie return to Granite before they come back to Vienna on the 22nd of August).
As we already said, we truly (and even desperately) want to see you. Please contact us and we will try to work it out to meet and fellowship together.
We are thankful for you and so blessed,
Caleb & Britney & Ollie
Monday, May 18, 2015
Full and Fulfilling
God has blessed us with overflowing opportunity. We have our hands and hearts full; it's been busy lately and so fulfilling. This past weekend was a long, four day vacation - thanks to the generosity of the authorities in charge of the Austrian holiday calendar - and it was very much needed.
As a family we drove to Bled, Slovenia and relished the hours spent in nature. We were able to wander around the pristine Lake Bled, take a boat ride to the cozy, island church in the middle of the water, and soak in the beauty of the Vintgar Gorge. God's provision was overwhelming: for starters, we weren't sure we could afford the trip until friends offered their car! Instead of spending hundreds of Euro on a rental, we were able to borrow their van for free. Then, while in Slovenia, we were healthy and safe while hiking and exploring; furthermore, we were able to witness his glory in nature.
We got back to Vienna on Sunday and have been easing back into The Swing of Things as smoothly as we can. Yet, despite the frantic busyness of the end of a school year, we are excited about what is to come. Not only do we still have a church retreat to rejoice in this upcoming weekend, but in two weekends we have prom and in a little less than a month we will be in the United States.
We really appreciate prayer for the retreat, that God would use it to rejuvenate the church and deepen friendships. Please also be praying for Britney because she is the prom coordinator this year and has a lot on her plate.
Finally, please think of us in prayer for our upcoming summer trip to the US. We will be flying back on June 13 and will be staying for about two months (Caleb will come back a little earlier to start the next school year, while Ollie and Britney will stay until August 22). Our goals are to spend most of our time with family and to connect with all of our supporting teammates. We hope to see all of you and will be in contact with you soon to work things out.
Thank you for your prayers and love,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver
As a family we drove to Bled, Slovenia and relished the hours spent in nature. We were able to wander around the pristine Lake Bled, take a boat ride to the cozy, island church in the middle of the water, and soak in the beauty of the Vintgar Gorge. God's provision was overwhelming: for starters, we weren't sure we could afford the trip until friends offered their car! Instead of spending hundreds of Euro on a rental, we were able to borrow their van for free. Then, while in Slovenia, we were healthy and safe while hiking and exploring; furthermore, we were able to witness his glory in nature.
We got back to Vienna on Sunday and have been easing back into The Swing of Things as smoothly as we can. Yet, despite the frantic busyness of the end of a school year, we are excited about what is to come. Not only do we still have a church retreat to rejoice in this upcoming weekend, but in two weekends we have prom and in a little less than a month we will be in the United States.
We really appreciate prayer for the retreat, that God would use it to rejuvenate the church and deepen friendships. Please also be praying for Britney because she is the prom coordinator this year and has a lot on her plate.
Finally, please think of us in prayer for our upcoming summer trip to the US. We will be flying back on June 13 and will be staying for about two months (Caleb will come back a little earlier to start the next school year, while Ollie and Britney will stay until August 22). Our goals are to spend most of our time with family and to connect with all of our supporting teammates. We hope to see all of you and will be in contact with you soon to work things out.
Thank you for your prayers and love,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
A Few New Things
Hello Friends!
It's time for updates - family, ministry, updates of all kinds.
Let's go with the most recent first: Today, Caleb turned in an application to pursue a Masters degree at the University of Vienna! Since graduating from college, he has anticipated going back to school, but hasn't been sure when to start. Now that Ollie is here, it feels like things need to get moving before anyone gets any older and any other kids start showing up (ps: this is not a pregnancy announcement in disguise). Please be praying that God will direct this new adventure. It isn't even certain yet whether or not Caleb will even be accepted, so prayers can start there!
In another realm, more prayers against sickness in our family would be a huge blessing. God is so good to us and we have experienced his provision day in and day out while living in Vienna. Still, the evil one is not lazy; for about six weeks we have dealt with illness in our family and it's been stressful. This week, Caleb was supposed to be on a missions trip to Romania with the students. However, Oliver has a bad cough, so Caleb decided to stay at home. It's been a good decision so far - Ollie is still coughing and, while he has beaten his fever and is growing healthier, his sleep has been hurting . . . which means our sleep has been hurting too.
Finally, as the summer draws closer and students begin begging to have class outside, more prayers for the Spirit of God to move in the classrooms at ICSV are coveted. It's incredible to learn later how much impact one can have on a student. Please be praying for positive, gospel-centered influence to move through Caleb and Britney to the students (by the way, yes, Britney is once again involved in the school: she is planning the prom dance with the junior class!)
Hopefully this post finds you well and at peace in God's goodness. We love you and are so thankful for your prayers and financial support.
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver!
Friday, March 6, 2015
Long Overdue...
*This post is coming to you about 5 1/2 months late. This past week has been rough for us. Oliver was in the hospital for a few days and then both of us got food poisoning later in the week. We decided to share this story, because it is so incredible, and a great reminder of God's protection. The first part is from my (Britney's) perspective and the second is from Caleb's. I'd also like to say that no matter how a baby comes in to this world, whether it be completely natural, a c-section, or any other number of ways, it is BEAUTIFUL. Also, this is a very detailed account of Oliver's birth, so if you don't want the gory details then don't read this post.
It was Monday morning, 5 days past our little guy's due date. I had been having contractions all night, but to me they were no different than the annoying Braxton Hicks I had been having for weeks. Our friend, Stacey, drove me to the hospital for a routine checkup. After about a half an hour of being hooked up to the contraction monitor (I have no idea if there's a real name for that thing), a midwife came in to check me. She said I was having contractions regularly and that I was 3 cm. She then told me to go home, get my things (and my husband), and come back to the hospital. I remember feeling so excited and nervous. I called Caleb during one of his classes and told him it was time.
After collecting the carseat, hospital bag, Caleb, and Stacey's husband, we headed to the hospital. Well, we tried. Brad & Stacey's car battery died while we were getting our things. It was pretty funny. I think Brad was more nervous than I was as he frantically searched for someone to jump his car.
We got back to the hospital some time shortly after noon. And then we waited. My contractions eased up a bit, and I didn't dilate any further. I was worried they would send me home, but to my relief they checked us in to a room and said I would be staying the night. Around 9 p.m. we went to sleep. I woke up at 11 p.m. feeling like I had peed the bed. Let me tell ya, the water breaking is so weird. And that's all I'll say about that.
The next few hours consisted of trying to ease the pain naturally. Showers, the birthing ball, bending over the bed, I tried it all. Throughout my whole pregnancy I knew I wanted to try a natural birth, BUT I was definitely not opposed to having an epidural. I mean, I had never given birth. I had never even broken a bone, so I had no idea how I would handle the pain. A few hours of contractions and I decided I wanted the epidural. This meant we would move to the birthing room. Once we got there the midwife checked me and said it was too late for me to get an epidural. Talk about disappointed!
Everything started to move pretty quickly, and before I knew it she was telling me I could push. I always thought that once they tell you to push you are only moments away from seeing your sweet baby. Boy was I wrong. 3 hours later and I was still pushing. Oliver just couldn't move through the birth canal very quickly, probably because of my small frame and how big he was. Things happened that I didn't even know were possible, like my body shaking uncontrollably so the midwife had to put warm blankets on me to make it stop. I kept my eyes closed basically the whole time. It was my way of dealing with the pain. The midwife started to worry and decided to call a doctor in. I wasn't aware of what was going on at the time. After being there to observe for what seemed like forever, the doctor came over to me. All he said was, "I'm going to help you." Then the REAL pain came. They had to use a vacuum extractor to get Ollie out. But it wasn't that simple. Once his head was out his body was still stuck. It took a lot of yanking and me screaming so loud that at one point the midwife looked at me and told me to stop it. But then he was here. Once I heard that ear-piercing cry everything was okay.
His little life is such a miracle. God was with us the entire time, and has been with us ever since. We don't need to worry, God is protecting him.
-----------------------------------------
When Britney woke me up around 11:00 p.m. that night, I reacted in the same way that I always do when she wakes me up. I quickly fell back asleep.
That lasted about four seconds - just long enough for Britney to realize and wake me up again: "MY WATER BROKE!"
Even I couldn't stay unconscious for this.
I remember three distinct stages. By the time her contractions really got going, we were already at the hospital and, as previously mentioned, asleep. The first stage was a spontaneous, impulsive road trip: at first, things are exciting and everybody feels adventurous. After a while . . . people start getting uneasy and that guy in the backseat keeps shouting, "Are we there yet?!?"
No way, Jose.
Stage Two: We moved from our private room to the Kreißsaal, emphasis on the "cry". This was the calm before the storm, if by "calm" one means "an excruciatingly unbearable and overwhelming tension". The time to push came and simply never left. For about three hours, Britney pushed as Oliver tried to make his way into the world and I . . .
It was Monday morning, 5 days past our little guy's due date. I had been having contractions all night, but to me they were no different than the annoying Braxton Hicks I had been having for weeks. Our friend, Stacey, drove me to the hospital for a routine checkup. After about a half an hour of being hooked up to the contraction monitor (I have no idea if there's a real name for that thing), a midwife came in to check me. She said I was having contractions regularly and that I was 3 cm. She then told me to go home, get my things (and my husband), and come back to the hospital. I remember feeling so excited and nervous. I called Caleb during one of his classes and told him it was time.
After collecting the carseat, hospital bag, Caleb, and Stacey's husband, we headed to the hospital. Well, we tried. Brad & Stacey's car battery died while we were getting our things. It was pretty funny. I think Brad was more nervous than I was as he frantically searched for someone to jump his car.
We got back to the hospital some time shortly after noon. And then we waited. My contractions eased up a bit, and I didn't dilate any further. I was worried they would send me home, but to my relief they checked us in to a room and said I would be staying the night. Around 9 p.m. we went to sleep. I woke up at 11 p.m. feeling like I had peed the bed. Let me tell ya, the water breaking is so weird. And that's all I'll say about that.
The next few hours consisted of trying to ease the pain naturally. Showers, the birthing ball, bending over the bed, I tried it all. Throughout my whole pregnancy I knew I wanted to try a natural birth, BUT I was definitely not opposed to having an epidural. I mean, I had never given birth. I had never even broken a bone, so I had no idea how I would handle the pain. A few hours of contractions and I decided I wanted the epidural. This meant we would move to the birthing room. Once we got there the midwife checked me and said it was too late for me to get an epidural. Talk about disappointed!
Everything started to move pretty quickly, and before I knew it she was telling me I could push. I always thought that once they tell you to push you are only moments away from seeing your sweet baby. Boy was I wrong. 3 hours later and I was still pushing. Oliver just couldn't move through the birth canal very quickly, probably because of my small frame and how big he was. Things happened that I didn't even know were possible, like my body shaking uncontrollably so the midwife had to put warm blankets on me to make it stop. I kept my eyes closed basically the whole time. It was my way of dealing with the pain. The midwife started to worry and decided to call a doctor in. I wasn't aware of what was going on at the time. After being there to observe for what seemed like forever, the doctor came over to me. All he said was, "I'm going to help you." Then the REAL pain came. They had to use a vacuum extractor to get Ollie out. But it wasn't that simple. Once his head was out his body was still stuck. It took a lot of yanking and me screaming so loud that at one point the midwife looked at me and told me to stop it. But then he was here. Once I heard that ear-piercing cry everything was okay.
His little life is such a miracle. God was with us the entire time, and has been with us ever since. We don't need to worry, God is protecting him.
-----------------------------------------
When Britney woke me up around 11:00 p.m. that night, I reacted in the same way that I always do when she wakes me up. I quickly fell back asleep.
That lasted about four seconds - just long enough for Britney to realize and wake me up again: "MY WATER BROKE!"
Even I couldn't stay unconscious for this.
I remember three distinct stages. By the time her contractions really got going, we were already at the hospital and, as previously mentioned, asleep. The first stage was a spontaneous, impulsive road trip: at first, things are exciting and everybody feels adventurous. After a while . . . people start getting uneasy and that guy in the backseat keeps shouting, "Are we there yet?!?"
No way, Jose.
Stage Two: We moved from our private room to the Kreißsaal, emphasis on the "cry". This was the calm before the storm, if by "calm" one means "an excruciatingly unbearable and overwhelming tension". The time to push came and simply never left. For about three hours, Britney pushed as Oliver tried to make his way into the world and I . . .
Dude.
I kept my eyes open and watched my wife become my hero.
Stage Three: When I first saw Oliver, I was worried. After hours in the birth canal, he didn't look very good. I remember watching the doctors pull and twist and all I was thinking was, "What . . ."
It was surreal to see a person, my son, come out of a person, my wife, and slip gently onto the platform.
It was life-changing to hold Britney's hand, gaze into her eyes, and smile as he took his first breaths and screamed the most beautiful note I've ever heard.
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
Exhale.
Exhale.
In one breath, expel the fear and doubt. In one breath, a simple sigh of thanks. It's a small act, signifying a monumental moment: God is present in our lives.
Praise be to the Father, Ollie is home. It's almost impossible to relate the experience of yesterday morning in words…but that's never stopped a person before, so let's go.
Around 10:15 Britney was told that she would be staying yet another night. First of all, it's so important to mention that we are more than grateful for the medical care Ollie was given. Still, the situation in the hospital was less than ideal: Britney and Oliver were in a room with four other sick children and their parents. By yesterday, he was showing great signs of improvement, so sticking around seemed risky - wouldn't he just get sick again? Monday night, neither Britney or Oliver could sleep because of the crying, coughing, and snoring.
When, at 10:15, we were told he would need to stay, it was nearly too much.
However, this post is a testament to God's overwhelming goodness, not our own power. We had thoughts of wild arguments in German ensuing in desperate escapes through the corridors of the hospital. What could we possibly do to get out of Dodge?
Nothing. Close your eyes. Still your heart. Give it to God.
Sound familiar? It's a lesson we are learning over and over and we are desperate to share the good news. God loves us. He loves you.
At 12:15 yesterday, Caleb rode the Straßenbahn to the hospital, asking God for wisdom, patience, and the self control to keep from exploding. Specifically, he asked for a change in the protocol, a change in the hearts of the doctors and nurses.
Please design a way for Oliver to come home.
And now, here we are, another day, all together at home. There are still worries ahead (which parents don't face worry?) but we know now - and we pray that we will remember more easily and confidently - that the Lord will provide.
In one breath, expel the fear and doubt. In one breath, a simple sigh of thanks. It's a small act, signifying a monumental moment: God is present in our lives.
Praise be to the Father, Ollie is home. It's almost impossible to relate the experience of yesterday morning in words…but that's never stopped a person before, so let's go.
Around 10:15 Britney was told that she would be staying yet another night. First of all, it's so important to mention that we are more than grateful for the medical care Ollie was given. Still, the situation in the hospital was less than ideal: Britney and Oliver were in a room with four other sick children and their parents. By yesterday, he was showing great signs of improvement, so sticking around seemed risky - wouldn't he just get sick again? Monday night, neither Britney or Oliver could sleep because of the crying, coughing, and snoring.
When, at 10:15, we were told he would need to stay, it was nearly too much.
However, this post is a testament to God's overwhelming goodness, not our own power. We had thoughts of wild arguments in German ensuing in desperate escapes through the corridors of the hospital. What could we possibly do to get out of Dodge?
Nothing. Close your eyes. Still your heart. Give it to God.
Sound familiar? It's a lesson we are learning over and over and we are desperate to share the good news. God loves us. He loves you.
At 12:15 yesterday, Caleb rode the Straßenbahn to the hospital, asking God for wisdom, patience, and the self control to keep from exploding. Specifically, he asked for a change in the protocol, a change in the hearts of the doctors and nurses.
Please design a way for Oliver to come home.
And now, here we are, another day, all together at home. There are still worries ahead (which parents don't face worry?) but we know now - and we pray that we will remember more easily and confidently - that the Lord will provide.
Sunday, March 1, 2015
And Now, the Waiting Room
While it's nice to have a chance to sit still, pray, and write this post, it's not difficult to imagine dozens of other more enjoyable environments…
But Oliver has had a fever over the last couple of days and seems to be a bit dehydrated because he won't drink very much of his milk. So, we thought it best to take him and see what the doctors think.
As an Austrian SpongeBob SquarePants goes about his life on the TV above us and kids play with toys across the room, we sit and wait. It's not a comfortable experience; it's not relaxing. We feel helpless as Ollie sleeps on Mommy's chest. Waiting.
What are we supposed to do?
As frustrating and heartbreaking as it can be, we sense more and more, as we learn about being parents, that the answer to that question is surprisingly - almost disturbingly - simple.
Close your eyes. Still your heart. Give it to God.
Just give the worry and the frustration and the inability to fix the problem to God, the good and glorious Father.
It's harder than it sounds. Yet, a peace descends in the midst of the clamor of our hearts and it gets a little easier to breathe again. And when it's easier to breathe, it's easier to see what can be done, even if that's nothing more than sitting in a hospital waiting room.
We'll be updating as we find out more. In the meantime please be praying for Ollie and for us. Look for a post within the next few days that will have updates on our ministry!
Peace,
Caleb, Britney, and Oliver!
Sunday, January 18, 2015
Happy New Year!!
Okay, we know it's a little late for a genuine "Happy New Year!!" post.
Yet, if you're anything like us, '2015' still looks like an awkward distant cousin and you're probably still scratching out the 4's that you keep writing instead of 5's. Anybody?
Regardless, here we are, thinking about the future all over again. And we are extremely excited to share some big news with all of you . . .
After praying for months and listening to advice / encouragement from family and dear friends, we have decided to recommit to the ministry here in Vienna!
Here are the details: we plan on staying another two years, serving in the same capacities as we have been, while deepening relationships and possibly opening up to any other roles God might guide us into. This means that Caleb will continue teaching at the school, in the high school English department, and Britney will stay connected with the extracurricular activities she has been serving in (such as planning the school dance!).
Of course, we will be engaged in other ministry opportunities, as we have been, such as serving in our church.
A big part of this decision rested on many of you, our prayer & financial supporting team. Without your desire to continue in ministry with us, we wouldn't be able to choose to stay here in Vienna. We will be connecting with you with more specific details as we ease out of the holiday season (anybody's tree still up?) and we are determined to open up new, creative ways of communication, while continuing with the blog post and prayer letters.
Keep checking back here for pictures of Ollie and stories of God's goodness here in Vienna!
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver!!
Yet, if you're anything like us, '2015' still looks like an awkward distant cousin and you're probably still scratching out the 4's that you keep writing instead of 5's. Anybody?
Regardless, here we are, thinking about the future all over again. And we are extremely excited to share some big news with all of you . . .
After praying for months and listening to advice / encouragement from family and dear friends, we have decided to recommit to the ministry here in Vienna!
Here are the details: we plan on staying another two years, serving in the same capacities as we have been, while deepening relationships and possibly opening up to any other roles God might guide us into. This means that Caleb will continue teaching at the school, in the high school English department, and Britney will stay connected with the extracurricular activities she has been serving in (such as planning the school dance!).
Of course, we will be engaged in other ministry opportunities, as we have been, such as serving in our church.
A big part of this decision rested on many of you, our prayer & financial supporting team. Without your desire to continue in ministry with us, we wouldn't be able to choose to stay here in Vienna. We will be connecting with you with more specific details as we ease out of the holiday season (anybody's tree still up?) and we are determined to open up new, creative ways of communication, while continuing with the blog post and prayer letters.
Keep checking back here for pictures of Ollie and stories of God's goodness here in Vienna!
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver!!
Sunday, November 16, 2014
We Lift Up One Voice
The night started as all extra-curricular events do: late. Students were exploring the building, which was by now free of any academic aftertaste, and cookie crumbs were spilling all over the carpet. The place was ripe for music - but not just any kind of music. What was to come would be focused; all the voices in the room would soon join together in singing to and with and for and because of a person.
The Person.
Slowly, the nearly-all-student team of musicians gathered around the front of what we at ICSV like to call the AP Room. The All-Purpose Room is used for, you guessed it, anything and everything. Last Wednesday, it transformed, as it so often does, from an empty space into a holy place.
Students from all over the world settled in for an evening of worshiping God; there were teenagers from all over the spectrum: 13-year-olds and high school seniors, Koreans and Canadians, those close to their Father and those wandering and wondering. Muslim students were there and kids who don't know if God even cares . . .
. . . we were all awed and humbled by how much he really does care.
Throughout the night, students worshiped through song, prayer, and testimony. Two students shared from the depths of their experiences how good God is. It was glorious and beautiful to be a part of the fellowship. When we got back home, Ollie sleeping contentedly in his stroller, we looked at each other. It's nights like that which make ministry at ICSV so unique and fulfilling.
Hopefully, we could share a bit of what it was like that night with this post. Please pray that students would feel the impact of God's love throughout the coming days, even when the lights all turn back on and the homework starts piling.
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Ollie!
The Person.
Slowly, the nearly-all-student team of musicians gathered around the front of what we at ICSV like to call the AP Room. The All-Purpose Room is used for, you guessed it, anything and everything. Last Wednesday, it transformed, as it so often does, from an empty space into a holy place.
Students from all over the world settled in for an evening of worshiping God; there were teenagers from all over the spectrum: 13-year-olds and high school seniors, Koreans and Canadians, those close to their Father and those wandering and wondering. Muslim students were there and kids who don't know if God even cares . . .
. . . we were all awed and humbled by how much he really does care.
Throughout the night, students worshiped through song, prayer, and testimony. Two students shared from the depths of their experiences how good God is. It was glorious and beautiful to be a part of the fellowship. When we got back home, Ollie sleeping contentedly in his stroller, we looked at each other. It's nights like that which make ministry at ICSV so unique and fulfilling.
Hopefully, we could share a bit of what it was like that night with this post. Please pray that students would feel the impact of God's love throughout the coming days, even when the lights all turn back on and the homework starts piling.
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Ollie!
Friday, October 31, 2014
Looking Ahead
Hello Friends!
Since we last posted, life has become quite a bit busier as we have begun to learn what a responsibility it is to care for a child. The fullness of the calling to be a parent is exactly that: full. The things that we receive, the joy and awe, are complete; meanwhile, the things that we lack, little things like SLEEP . . . we lack entirely.
But this is the best tired we've ever felt.
Oliver is healthy and our family is becoming more and more united in Christ's love. We were even so blessed to have Caleb's mom and brother (Karen & Jason) come visit! It was a time of rejuvenation after our exhausting hospital experience and it couldn't have been more fun. Jason got to taste the city of his birth - yes, we ate several kebaps and made sure to buy gelato on every corner - and Karen was able to lavish her love on her first grandbaby!
Newness and wonder saturated our days as we toured the sights and laughed together in a completely unique context; two years ago, nobody could have guessed that we would be living in Vienna, raising our newborn son, and serving God in ministry to the international community here.
Still, when God began stirring our hearts and getting us ready to move here last year, we were certain he was guiding us. He has been and always will.
Therefore, we are praying earnestly and asking that all of you would too. The time is coming quickly for us to decide if we are going to stay in Vienna a few more years, or move back to the United States. Although we are certain that the Lord will soon start showing us his big ideas and direction for our life, we are, for now, in the dark.
So, we are praying for the light to make things clear. Specifically, we are praying for these things and we ask that you would too: that God might reveal his will through . . .
Since we last posted, life has become quite a bit busier as we have begun to learn what a responsibility it is to care for a child. The fullness of the calling to be a parent is exactly that: full. The things that we receive, the joy and awe, are complete; meanwhile, the things that we lack, little things like SLEEP . . . we lack entirely.
But this is the best tired we've ever felt.
Oliver is healthy and our family is becoming more and more united in Christ's love. We were even so blessed to have Caleb's mom and brother (Karen & Jason) come visit! It was a time of rejuvenation after our exhausting hospital experience and it couldn't have been more fun. Jason got to taste the city of his birth - yes, we ate several kebaps and made sure to buy gelato on every corner - and Karen was able to lavish her love on her first grandbaby!
Karen & Britney at Schönbrunn Palace
Jason showing off his new uncle skills!
The boys at Schönbrunn Palace
Oliver and his Omi
Newness and wonder saturated our days as we toured the sights and laughed together in a completely unique context; two years ago, nobody could have guessed that we would be living in Vienna, raising our newborn son, and serving God in ministry to the international community here.
Still, when God began stirring our hearts and getting us ready to move here last year, we were certain he was guiding us. He has been and always will.
Therefore, we are praying earnestly and asking that all of you would too. The time is coming quickly for us to decide if we are going to stay in Vienna a few more years, or move back to the United States. Although we are certain that the Lord will soon start showing us his big ideas and direction for our life, we are, for now, in the dark.
So, we are praying for the light to make things clear. Specifically, we are praying for these things and we ask that you would too: that God might reveal his will through . . .
- increasing or decreasing our support / finances
- the advice and support of our closest family and friends
- peace towards our current context of ministry, or towards a new one
- his distinct voice in our times of solitude and silence with him
We anticipate God's illuminating guidance and we will keep you in the loop as we are led by him.
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver!
Saturday, September 27, 2014
God Is Not Hiding
A couple of cool stories of God's glorious nearness in the lives of his children - to be told in order of occurrence . . .
. . . it costs money to take the train. Sad, but true. Hence, the dilemma: at the train station, sitting on a bench, pondering the likelihood of getting cornered by a Schaffner - a ticket inspector. They don't come by every time . . . will it be a burly, ferocious Austrian man with a frown for a face? Can I weasel my way out of a fine with the "American tourist" persona?
You don't know the true depths of your depravity until you find yourself gauging the cost/benefit of purchasing a train ticket.
Shamefully enough, that's exactly where Caleb found himself this afternoon, on the way home to Vienna from Tulln. After muddling through the ticket ATM (is that what we call those??) a few days back, Caleb purchased a week ticket . . . for the wrong week. So, he sat on the bench in Tulln earlier today. And he prayed.
And here's the reason we are sharing this story: in the midst of great fear over Oliver and great stress, God has not left us alone. He is present with us, even in the little things, like buying a train ticket. After praying, Caleb was reminded of what Jesus said once, "Give to the ÖBB what is the ÖBB's" (or something along those lines). Thus, with great reluctance, but certain of the Spirit's guiding hand, he bought yet another ticket to cover the trip home. At this point, he did this purely because he felt the Spirit saying it was the right thing to do.
When the Schaffner came by, Caleb realized that it was that and more. Paying fines for riding black is not part of the budget we have written up. God knows that, of course, as he is the Great Provider. He kept us from experiencing more stress than we need - he speaks to us and guides us.
. . . and here's the second story: Oliver is healed.
The doctors came to Britney only a short time after Caleb shared the story of the ticket with her. They told her that the blood results came back and the infection he had is now gone. He still needs to stay in the hospital and finish out the antibiotics, but he is healthy.
Our Lord is with us in the ordinary. He is with us in the unbearable struggle.
He is with you.
Thank you all for your prayers,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver
. . . it costs money to take the train. Sad, but true. Hence, the dilemma: at the train station, sitting on a bench, pondering the likelihood of getting cornered by a Schaffner - a ticket inspector. They don't come by every time . . . will it be a burly, ferocious Austrian man with a frown for a face? Can I weasel my way out of a fine with the "American tourist" persona?
You don't know the true depths of your depravity until you find yourself gauging the cost/benefit of purchasing a train ticket.
Shamefully enough, that's exactly where Caleb found himself this afternoon, on the way home to Vienna from Tulln. After muddling through the ticket ATM (is that what we call those??) a few days back, Caleb purchased a week ticket . . . for the wrong week. So, he sat on the bench in Tulln earlier today. And he prayed.
And here's the reason we are sharing this story: in the midst of great fear over Oliver and great stress, God has not left us alone. He is present with us, even in the little things, like buying a train ticket. After praying, Caleb was reminded of what Jesus said once, "Give to the ÖBB what is the ÖBB's" (or something along those lines). Thus, with great reluctance, but certain of the Spirit's guiding hand, he bought yet another ticket to cover the trip home. At this point, he did this purely because he felt the Spirit saying it was the right thing to do.
When the Schaffner came by, Caleb realized that it was that and more. Paying fines for riding black is not part of the budget we have written up. God knows that, of course, as he is the Great Provider. He kept us from experiencing more stress than we need - he speaks to us and guides us.
. . . and here's the second story: Oliver is healed.
The doctors came to Britney only a short time after Caleb shared the story of the ticket with her. They told her that the blood results came back and the infection he had is now gone. He still needs to stay in the hospital and finish out the antibiotics, but he is healthy.
Our Lord is with us in the ordinary. He is with us in the unbearable struggle.
He is with you.
Thank you all for your prayers,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Oliver
Dear Friends,
May you be blessed, as we have been, to hear that Oliver James Dossett was born on the 23rd of September. May you think back on the early days of your children, grandchildren, siblings, nephews, nieces, and all of the beautiful babies you have ever known. God, the Creator, the great Father, is good.
Indeed he is and glorifying his name seems to be the only way to begin this post. Since Monday - the day Britney went into labor - the Spirit has been a constant comforter and source of peace. There is so much to tell about Britney's confidence and her strength through the birth. There is so much more to share about Oliver, about his beautiful eyes and rascally hair.
Yet, the aim of this post is two-fold: to celebrate and to petition.
It's hard to go into full-party-mode right now because Oliver has an infection, which sprang upon us quite suddenly, but has been affecting him since the birth. In short, it's causing him to lose weight and it's exacerbating the little bit of jaundice that he has. Because of this, he was quickly transferred from the hospital in Klosterneuburg to a much larger hospital in Tulln. He is being treated there by a very caring and capable staff.
Everything about this is scary . . . and awe-inspiring. It's terrifying to watch your little boy be taken away from you in an incubator. It's humbling and relieving to realize that if we had left the hospital in Klosterneuburg any earlier, Oliver would be suffering much more now - we may not have even identified the infection if it hadn't been for the wonderful staff there. Instead, now he is being cared for in the best way possible.
And then again, it's still scary: Britney is in the hospital, sleeping a few floors above our wonderful miracle; however, Caleb is at home because the hospital wasn't able to accommodate him. So, all three of us are feeling incredibly alone right now.
And yet, it's something else as well and we leave you with this: On Tuesday, the 23rd of September 2014 at 5:23, God brought another person into the world. He shaped this person from a strange collection of DNA into a cuddly, soft baby that kicks and wiggles in his sleep. He took this person out of another person, which should bring each and every one of us to our knees.
God is good and we have seen his goodness because he has made it evident in our world, as well as in our lives. For now, we ask that you would all petition him in prayer that Oliver will recover in full health, that Britney will be at peace tonight and receive supernatural rest, and that Caleb will rest well & quickly in order to be back at the hospital in the morning.
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver!
May you be blessed, as we have been, to hear that Oliver James Dossett was born on the 23rd of September. May you think back on the early days of your children, grandchildren, siblings, nephews, nieces, and all of the beautiful babies you have ever known. God, the Creator, the great Father, is good.
Indeed he is and glorifying his name seems to be the only way to begin this post. Since Monday - the day Britney went into labor - the Spirit has been a constant comforter and source of peace. There is so much to tell about Britney's confidence and her strength through the birth. There is so much more to share about Oliver, about his beautiful eyes and rascally hair.
Yet, the aim of this post is two-fold: to celebrate and to petition.
It's hard to go into full-party-mode right now because Oliver has an infection, which sprang upon us quite suddenly, but has been affecting him since the birth. In short, it's causing him to lose weight and it's exacerbating the little bit of jaundice that he has. Because of this, he was quickly transferred from the hospital in Klosterneuburg to a much larger hospital in Tulln. He is being treated there by a very caring and capable staff.
Everything about this is scary . . . and awe-inspiring. It's terrifying to watch your little boy be taken away from you in an incubator. It's humbling and relieving to realize that if we had left the hospital in Klosterneuburg any earlier, Oliver would be suffering much more now - we may not have even identified the infection if it hadn't been for the wonderful staff there. Instead, now he is being cared for in the best way possible.
And then again, it's still scary: Britney is in the hospital, sleeping a few floors above our wonderful miracle; however, Caleb is at home because the hospital wasn't able to accommodate him. So, all three of us are feeling incredibly alone right now.
And yet, it's something else as well and we leave you with this: On Tuesday, the 23rd of September 2014 at 5:23, God brought another person into the world. He shaped this person from a strange collection of DNA into a cuddly, soft baby that kicks and wiggles in his sleep. He took this person out of another person, which should bring each and every one of us to our knees.
God is good and we have seen his goodness because he has made it evident in our world, as well as in our lives. For now, we ask that you would all petition him in prayer that Oliver will recover in full health, that Britney will be at peace tonight and receive supernatural rest, and that Caleb will rest well & quickly in order to be back at the hospital in the morning.
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver!
Friday, September 19, 2014
Our Little Headache
Dear Friends,
As some of you may know, this past Wednesday was Oliver's due date!!
. . . however, as some of you may know, our little boy is still chillin' in the womb. It's been a full three weeks or so since the last surprise hospital visit we took when Britney was having contractions. At the time, we thought we were going to meet the little guy sooner than anticipated; instead, we've learned, as they say, "the hard way".
We've learned that pregnancy doesn't necessarily rise to a water-breaking climax - at least, as in our case, not before multiple false starts. This kid can really cry wolf.
It started all over again last night when Britney started complaining of a headache. She rarely deals with headaches and has no history of migraines. So, after two and a half hours of brain-shattering pain, we started doing some research. According to the omniscient Google, headaches in the late stages of pregnancy can possibly indicate pre-eclampsia.
After praying and reading, we decided to call our dear friends, Brad and Stacey Hunter. Brad came by, picked us up (this was at midnight!) and took us to the hospital, where the staff took really good care of Britney (and Oliver).
We stayed overnight, against Britney's wishes, and she underwent several tests / blood-work to make sure there wasn't any danger of pre-eclampsia, or anything else.
The doctors and midwives at the BabyVilla in Klosterneuburg are so hospitable and joyful. Although we didn't want to be at the hospital for anything other than a birth, their care made the experience quite comfortable.
Now, we are back home, praying that the big headaches will stay away . . . and that our little headache will get here ASAP.
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver!
As some of you may know, this past Wednesday was Oliver's due date!!
. . . however, as some of you may know, our little boy is still chillin' in the womb. It's been a full three weeks or so since the last surprise hospital visit we took when Britney was having contractions. At the time, we thought we were going to meet the little guy sooner than anticipated; instead, we've learned, as they say, "the hard way".
We've learned that pregnancy doesn't necessarily rise to a water-breaking climax - at least, as in our case, not before multiple false starts. This kid can really cry wolf.
It started all over again last night when Britney started complaining of a headache. She rarely deals with headaches and has no history of migraines. So, after two and a half hours of brain-shattering pain, we started doing some research. According to the omniscient Google, headaches in the late stages of pregnancy can possibly indicate pre-eclampsia.
After praying and reading, we decided to call our dear friends, Brad and Stacey Hunter. Brad came by, picked us up (this was at midnight!) and took us to the hospital, where the staff took really good care of Britney (and Oliver).
We stayed overnight, against Britney's wishes, and she underwent several tests / blood-work to make sure there wasn't any danger of pre-eclampsia, or anything else.
The doctors and midwives at the BabyVilla in Klosterneuburg are so hospitable and joyful. Although we didn't want to be at the hospital for anything other than a birth, their care made the experience quite comfortable.
Now, we are back home, praying that the big headaches will stay away . . . and that our little headache will get here ASAP.
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver!
Saturday, August 30, 2014
Why Vienna?
We were inspired by some of our friends to write a post like this. Recently, they shared a bit on why they are in Vienna as missionaries. They have found, as we have too, that for some people there exists a certain image of what the mission field is - the wealthy, urban, European landscape doesn't fit.
Ironically, this very setting is in desperate need of spiritual restoration, yet some find it hard to believe. In fact, perhaps it is the missionaries who understand such skepticism best of all. From the time we began praying about moving to Vienna, we have been bombarded with fears and doubt; we have questioned our abilities, responsibilities, and motivations.
And here we are: because through prayer and encouragement and, yes, even miracles, God has revealed his desire for us to be a small part of his design in Vienna.
Our school, the International Christian School of Vienna (ICSV), opened its doors this August to a little over 200 students. About 50 different nations and various religions are represented by the students. This is our mission field right now. Here's a fantastic video about the school. We interact daily with students who are angry with God, or indifferent towards Christ. We listen to the students that love Jesus, but have questions; we pray with the students who are hurting. Many of them pray with us and others feel uncomfortable.
For that's what the devil has done in Europe: he has successfully associated the name of Jesus with that uncomfortable silence after a bad joke.
So, we are here to speak honestly of that name and to honor him.
We have been blessed to do this in another dynamic as well - at our church, New City Wien. Internationals from all over Vienna walk past the doors on any given Sunday afternoon and they often find their way in. Both our church and our school are beacons in the city, shining the light.
If you feel led to join us in our ministry, please click here. You can type in our name (Dossett) and click on the drop-down that shows up. If you would like to support the school, there is also an option to do that here.
Please email us if you have any questions, or if you would simply like to talk: calebdossett@gmail.com OR britneyndossett@gmail.com
We are so thankful if you support us already. Your love and generosity are the way that God is allowing us to serve in Vienna.
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver!
Ironically, this very setting is in desperate need of spiritual restoration, yet some find it hard to believe. In fact, perhaps it is the missionaries who understand such skepticism best of all. From the time we began praying about moving to Vienna, we have been bombarded with fears and doubt; we have questioned our abilities, responsibilities, and motivations.
And here we are: because through prayer and encouragement and, yes, even miracles, God has revealed his desire for us to be a small part of his design in Vienna.
Our school, the International Christian School of Vienna (ICSV), opened its doors this August to a little over 200 students. About 50 different nations and various religions are represented by the students. This is our mission field right now. Here's a fantastic video about the school. We interact daily with students who are angry with God, or indifferent towards Christ. We listen to the students that love Jesus, but have questions; we pray with the students who are hurting. Many of them pray with us and others feel uncomfortable.
For that's what the devil has done in Europe: he has successfully associated the name of Jesus with that uncomfortable silence after a bad joke.
So, we are here to speak honestly of that name and to honor him.
We have been blessed to do this in another dynamic as well - at our church, New City Wien. Internationals from all over Vienna walk past the doors on any given Sunday afternoon and they often find their way in. Both our church and our school are beacons in the city, shining the light.
If you feel led to join us in our ministry, please click here. You can type in our name (Dossett) and click on the drop-down that shows up. If you would like to support the school, there is also an option to do that here.
Please email us if you have any questions, or if you would simply like to talk: calebdossett@gmail.com OR britneyndossett@gmail.com
We are so thankful if you support us already. Your love and generosity are the way that God is allowing us to serve in Vienna.
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver!
Monday, August 18, 2014
A New Kind of Ministry
With Oliver due to arrive in about a month, we wanted to share what this year will look like for Britney. Last year Britney volunteered as an elementary assistant at ICSV. This meant doing anything from recess duty to computer class to working one-on-one with the students. It was such a great experience and the kids were so sweet. During the first trimester of the pregnancy, Britney had morning sickness pretty bad so she stopped volunteering at the school. This was a difficult decision because it meant she would no longer be in community with the other teachers. The rest was needed for Oliver to grow, and we are so thankful for how understanding the school was during that time.
Having Oliver will open many doors for Britney. For example, there is a "mommy group" at our church that she will join. This will be a great way for her to connect with other women at our church. There has also been talk of Britney possibly taking a German class because there is a class offered specifically to moms that provides childcare during the class and has a much cheaper fee than most other German courses in the city.
The biggest, and most exciting, new ministry opportunity is raising our son Oliver. Britney is looking forward to bonding with Oliver. More than anything, she is excited to tell him about Christ, teach him how to read and write and say his ABC's, and enjoy fun activities like going to the park. We are so thankful that we are in a place in our lives that allows Britney to stay home with Oliver, which is only possible because of the amazing financial support we have been given. We are looking forward to this next chapter, and appreciate your prayers as we prepare for the arrival of our sweet son.
Some specific things to be praying for are:
-comfort for Britney physically during the last 4 weeks (or so) of the pregnancy
-Oliver to continue growing and developing
-new opportunities for Britney to join in
-ways for Britney to stay connected with people at the school
-acceptance in to the German course for moms
Thank you all for your love and support!
Peace,
Caleb, Britney, & Oliver
Friday, August 8, 2014
Golf, Pacman, Ice Cream, Wedding...SUMMER
Dear Friends,
Language does not do the memory of this summer justice. It was fantastic . . . but it was more. It was shimmering fireworks, spellbound stories. We laughed and laughed, at all the funny jokes and all the lame ones too - we couldn’t care less about the broken humor, but the love of our family and friends filled us with joy, as it always has and always will. We are SO THANKFUL for the time we shared with you. Still, we know we didn’t get to see all of you and we definitely didn’t see anybody for as long as we wanted. So, we want to share some of the memories and spread ‘em around:
Golfing has become a summer obsession in the Dossett family, so we dug out the clubs once again and putted regularly. Minigolf, driving range, 9-hole, we dominated it all. And we won’t even get started on Pacman!
One of the most Christ-centered events of the summer was the wedding of our dear friends, Jon and Chelsea Bair. Jesus reminded us of the day we got married and he spent the week with us, strengthening old friendships as well as building new ones. The ocean was cool, refreshing, awesome.
Both of us had some specific cravings that were met and exceeded throughout the summer. Ice cream runs with Britney’s grandparents were frequent and dearly cherished.
But like we said, language can’t fully convey the FUN and PEACE we felt this summer. So check out the pictures!
So, we are back in Vienna, Austria and we are excited. We are longing, more than ever, to give our lives over to Christ. HE is to be the one that designs and guides our plans. Of course, we are ecstatic to receive Oliver into our home! As we wait for him to be born and as we go into this school year of new things, we ask for your prayers. Thank you for your love, your generosity in financial giving, your consistency in prayer, and your lives.
Peace, Caleb & Britney & Oliver
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| St. Louis Cardinals game for Dad's birthday! |
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| Caleb after his wisdom teeth removal (HAHA) |
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| Virginia Beach! |
Monday, August 4, 2014
Hello Again
Dear Friends,
We landed in Vienna yesterday afternoon to begin our second year of ministry here. With a new year, come new expectations, hopes, plans, and even a new design to the blog! We are excited to share all of these things with you as the months start coming.
After we get settled in we will share a more detailed post on how great our summer with friends and family was - however, right now, we've got to paint the walls of our dear baby boy's room to get ready for his arrival in Vienna.
A short prayer request: when you think of us, please pray against jet lag and the horrors it entails. Britney especially had a really hard time sleeping last night, so please pray for rest.
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver
We landed in Vienna yesterday afternoon to begin our second year of ministry here. With a new year, come new expectations, hopes, plans, and even a new design to the blog! We are excited to share all of these things with you as the months start coming.
After we get settled in we will share a more detailed post on how great our summer with friends and family was - however, right now, we've got to paint the walls of our dear baby boy's room to get ready for his arrival in Vienna.
A short prayer request: when you think of us, please pray against jet lag and the horrors it entails. Britney especially had a really hard time sleeping last night, so please pray for rest.
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Oliver
Monday, June 16, 2014
America, Sweet America
When we got off the plane on Saturday, Britney got a sweet tea from McDonald's, something she's been craving since last August.
On the way home from the airport, we stopped at Culver's and ate American burgers, our brains exploding magnificently from the sheer awe.
We've already eaten Froyo and cookie dough ice cream, played mini-golf, watched the NBA Finals, watched the Cardinals, and attended a Puerto Rican parade (yes, that's actually true).
Yet nothing, nothing at all, comes close to the joy of being with family.
They're waking up now - we've been awake for a while, jet-lagged - so it's about time to finish off this post.
One last thing: we hope to see as many of you as we can, especially those of you who have been supporting us this past year. We hold you dearly and hope to see you soon!
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Baby!!
Monday, May 19, 2014
Looking Back
Very soon, we will be standing on American soil. 25 days soon, to be exact!!!
We are so excited and so blessed to even be able to come back and see as many friends and family as we can. We wouldn't be able to make the trip if it weren't for all of our generous supporters. In fact, we wouldn't be able to do anything here if it weren't for God's goodness streaming to us, through you.
And it is God that is in control of our mission, our vision, our words. It's hard to remember that, even when typing up a tiny post. Yet, it's true that God is fantastically determined to touch each of our lives.
He has this vigorous yearning to love us. As we look back on these past months and look forward to sweet summertime, we can't help but recognize God's life-changing love in memory after memory.
2013
August - Unbelievably, we landed in Vienna after a flurry of a summer raising support and building our precious prayer team. This was not simple and did not develop as a result of our own strength. Our Father was just getting started.
September - During a month of stressful preparation and assimilation into the system of education, God didn't let go of us. Caleb was especially anxious about teaching well and we both were trying to keep calm about money. Then, we found a gift on Caleb's desk: €200.
October - Relationships with staff and students at the school were beginning to bloom. Caleb was able to build a strong base with many of the high school students and Britney with the elementary students / staff. Looking back, it's so cool to see how God has groomed those relationships.
November - After weeks of uncertainty, our Visas came in! It came right down to the wire and we weren't sure if we were going to be able to afford whatever costs the whole deal might incur. Yet, the Lord provided again, despite overwhelming obstacles.
December - Christmas in Vienna was gorgeous and Jesus showed us his love again through the hospitality of dear friends.
2014
January - We found out about our baby!!!
February - Because of generous friends here, there, everywhere, we were able to go to Florence, Italy! It was a fantastic trip; Jesus brought us closer together in our marriage and built up solid friendships with a family here.
March - Caleb turned 23 and celebrated life with Britney and friends here!
April - Our baby is a boy!!
Which brings us to May - which brings us to today. After school, we were riding home on the Ubahn together (Britney came in to work today, which was fun!) planning our dinner. This month we are lower financially than usual, mainly because of the cost of tickets back to the States.
Still, we've concentrated on praising God for the abundance that he has blessed us with in past months (through you!) and we've decided to trust him no matter what.
So, we bought our groceries, making sure everything was a necessary purchase, and made our way back to our apartment. At the elevator, we decided to check the mail - which usually translates into, "throw away pointless ads."
Instead of big pictures of greasy pizza, we found a simple, white envelope. Inside the envelope, was €300.
We couldn't contain our excitement or wipe the dazed smiles off our faces. God is so good; he is a gentle Father and a glorious King. Please keep joining us in praising him! Thank you for your prayers and support. Your financial gifts are humbling and comforting. Your prayers are powerful!
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Son
We are so excited and so blessed to even be able to come back and see as many friends and family as we can. We wouldn't be able to make the trip if it weren't for all of our generous supporters. In fact, we wouldn't be able to do anything here if it weren't for God's goodness streaming to us, through you.
And it is God that is in control of our mission, our vision, our words. It's hard to remember that, even when typing up a tiny post. Yet, it's true that God is fantastically determined to touch each of our lives.
He has this vigorous yearning to love us. As we look back on these past months and look forward to sweet summertime, we can't help but recognize God's life-changing love in memory after memory.
2013
August - Unbelievably, we landed in Vienna after a flurry of a summer raising support and building our precious prayer team. This was not simple and did not develop as a result of our own strength. Our Father was just getting started.
September - During a month of stressful preparation and assimilation into the system of education, God didn't let go of us. Caleb was especially anxious about teaching well and we both were trying to keep calm about money. Then, we found a gift on Caleb's desk: €200.
October - Relationships with staff and students at the school were beginning to bloom. Caleb was able to build a strong base with many of the high school students and Britney with the elementary students / staff. Looking back, it's so cool to see how God has groomed those relationships.
November - After weeks of uncertainty, our Visas came in! It came right down to the wire and we weren't sure if we were going to be able to afford whatever costs the whole deal might incur. Yet, the Lord provided again, despite overwhelming obstacles.
December - Christmas in Vienna was gorgeous and Jesus showed us his love again through the hospitality of dear friends.
2014
January - We found out about our baby!!!
February - Because of generous friends here, there, everywhere, we were able to go to Florence, Italy! It was a fantastic trip; Jesus brought us closer together in our marriage and built up solid friendships with a family here.
March - Caleb turned 23 and celebrated life with Britney and friends here!
April - Our baby is a boy!!
Which brings us to May - which brings us to today. After school, we were riding home on the Ubahn together (Britney came in to work today, which was fun!) planning our dinner. This month we are lower financially than usual, mainly because of the cost of tickets back to the States.
Still, we've concentrated on praising God for the abundance that he has blessed us with in past months (through you!) and we've decided to trust him no matter what.
So, we bought our groceries, making sure everything was a necessary purchase, and made our way back to our apartment. At the elevator, we decided to check the mail - which usually translates into, "throw away pointless ads."
Instead of big pictures of greasy pizza, we found a simple, white envelope. Inside the envelope, was €300.
We couldn't contain our excitement or wipe the dazed smiles off our faces. God is so good; he is a gentle Father and a glorious King. Please keep joining us in praising him! Thank you for your prayers and support. Your financial gifts are humbling and comforting. Your prayers are powerful!
Peace,
Caleb & Britney & Son
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