Exploring Ulaanbatar
June 19, 2011
   

Group pic outside a Mongolian
Bible shop, which we put out of
business for the day by purchasing
their cache of Mongolian Bibles 

   "Today was nice and relaxed. We went to Mongolian church and explored the town. Church was fascinating, it wasn't the first Mongolian Church I had been to, but as one would figure, with my lack of language skills I quickly became bored and distracted, but I realized that I couldn't rely on familiarity only, to worship God, but I was going to have to stretch myself and learn to praise God in unfamiliar situations. That was lesson #1. Afterwards we went out to lunch and went shopping. We had tese deep fried cakes with meat in them called hosher (Hoe-sure; it was similar to an empanada). It was really good but super greasy. A lot of us are having problems creating bowl movements and I kno what definitely didn't' help, lesson #2, eat more fruits and veggies and less greasy delicious crap. We then explored the nicer part of the city and I was surprised at all the new buildings and remodeling, but even then everything seemed to be very disorganized. It definitely broadened my perspective on Mongolian culture. It just makes me laugh to see a project that looks good and is being worked on, yet all the bricks and supplies littered across the streets and sidewalks. I am curious why they seem to be content with this way of life, but tonight Stefan made an interesting point regarding their culture. They went from being a world power with Chenggis Kaahn to servants under Manchurian and Soviet Rule and now since 1990 they are on their own. They've gone generations without any sense of identity besides that of a servant. They are so lost and confused right now, and its obvious. 

Sükhbaatar Square

   We met a man named Sasha today who is a Bible teacher from Germany and he said there are more Mongolians living outside their country than in; Mongolians are seeking, trying to find who they are because they can't find the answer in their own country. It's sad, but I see the light that is coming. We visited the one of the biggest Mongolian churches in the world and it was awesome to see how Christ has already begun to move and reform the identities of some Mongols. It may be a while before they inner warrior of Mongolia comes back out, but new growth and optimism is a rising sun in this country. 
   It was a long day of shopping... I bought a sweet hat, Mongolian Phrase book, and a pair of "Raybans." We visited the capital and the statue of Chinggis Khaan in 
Sükhbaatar Square. It was a fun day, but we found out we have to check into immigration tomorrow and we don't know what that entails. Constipation seems to be our teams biggest issue so far..."

-Blake

Chill'n in Baska's car as he runs a random errand as we wait to do our shopping!