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06/21/2002 Entry: "Continued observations of a 1/8 Welsh American in Swansea"

The past few days have been a mixture of experiences. We've visited another castle, have enjoyed some nice, sunny days between rain and mist and have had the pleasure of getting to know the people of the churches and community even better. Last night was "Blues Brothers" night at the University Chapel. It was the last night of movie nights for the summer, and several of the students came dressed as Elwood and Jake. Of course, we did discuss the theological merits of the movie since they were on a mission from God.

I have picked up in discussions that many of the issues for the church here in Wales are the same as in the US. Finding ways to be relevant to an ever increasingly secular, post-Christian society, balancing spending on upkeep of buildings with spending on ministries that reach people for Christ, reaching out beyond the walls of the church, etc.. Aging congregations are trying to find ways to attract young people. Questions about being an open, inviting church that is not only friendly to its own, but especially to those looking in from the outside are being asked if not addressed.

As I ramble, I did have the curious thought the other day as we were exploring a 13th century castle, of which there are many here, how ironic it is that the only castle Richard and family will see in Florida is Cinderella's Castle at Disney World. The oldest European structure in Florida is the Castillo De San Marcos in St. Augustine, and it was built in the late 1500's, just a baby by Welsh and English standards.

In an hour I am going to attempt to find a channel that carries the US-Germany football game. I know it's a long shot that the US might win, but they were appearantly a 33-1 long shot to make it to the quarterfinals. So, you never know. I watched the England-Brazil game this morning and won't give away the results for those who have yet to watch the replay or hear the score. I am impressed at the enthusiasm everywhere but the US for what we call soccer and the rest of the world calls football.

By the way, it's raining again, so we've had our two days of sunshine this week. We look forward to the next dose.

Ivan