Palmer Becker, on a short-term mission assignment for MC Canada, in Vietnam, traveled into the jungle where some of the worst fighting of the Vietnam War took place. 'I went down into the Cu Chi Tunnels where local soldiers protected themselves but would secretly emerge to take the lives of American soldiers who were fighting in the war. I walked down the jungle paths that hid the guerrilla warriors and visited patients who are still suffering from Agent Orange. Soldiers must have felt terribly insecure in that setting! 17,000 Americans died in that area and even more Vietnamese. Attached are several photos.
Today was a much brighter day! I went to the church where two of my students assist. Don did a wonderful job of leading the worship service. I was so proud of him! Hai was busy making people feel welcome because his twin brother, Ho, would be getting married during the morning worship service. Ho tends their rubber trees while his new bride, Minh, serves as a nurse. The highlight of the service was when they dedicated themselves and their marriage to God before an open Bible with a soloist singing from the depth of her soul. There weren't too many dry eyes. During the reception, we enjoyed broiled squid, chicken, beef, lobster, pork, vegetables and fruits. They asked me how much it would cost in Canada. I said "At least $50 per person." The extended family was proud to tell me that they had made it themselves for $10 per table. There were about 20 tables of eight.
We stopped at a Cao Dai Temple where we watched worshippers go through rituals and hum their montras in unison. Pray with me that I might be able to better understand their quest for the spiritual and that they will experience the joys of fellowship in Christ. The class for pastors begins this morning.'
