CWM-TIM 2023

 Last week, we experienced a Holy Communion which is using coconut meat and coconut water. In Taiwan, because of many different cultures, we often use different culturally meaningful food for the Holy Communion.  Last year, in the National Youth Bible Study Camp, we used Mochi and Sugarcane Juice for the Holy Communion. Mochi is a dessert which made by sticky rice. Sugarcane is a plant which can make sugar. Both of these are specialties in Hualien, where the camp was located.

The first time when I saw Shark Rattle, I thought it served the same purpose as Bear Bell. In Taiwan, when we go mountain climbing,  especially some higher mountain, we were suggested to bring the bear bell. When it make noise, bears will know there are people here and won't come close. But when I searched for shark rattle, it serves a completely different purpose. A Shark Rattle made from eight coconut shell halves threaded on a stick loop. When we placed it in the water and shaken vigorously, the noise is said to sound like a shoal of fish. These will attracts sharks to come. So the fisherman can catch them.

 By Tai-Li (Taiwan) & Tamatoa (Māòhi Nui, French-occupied Polynesia) Tamatoa's personal perspective: Leaving home and coming to join TIM Program is both excited and sad for Tamatoa.  To participate in a whole new journey is excited, but it's also hard to leave from family for a long time. Especially the members who have a strong connection with Tamatoa. But when they keep encouraging and praying for Tamatoa, it can keep Tamatoa moving forward for God's Mission. His prayer:  God, thank you for having brought us safely in Fiji, in our new place and met all these people. May You God, guide us everyday during this journey. Tai-Li's personal thought: Having applied for TIM in 2020 but canceled because of Covid-19, Tai-Li felt very worried to attend the TIM 2023 because of changing plans, context and mentality. Thank God ! When he arrived in Fiji, everything is perfect.  Tai-Li wishes God can keep leading him during his whole program in TIM especially for his English.