Innsbruck Austria (Senior Missionary Conference)

 We went to Innsbruck on October 13th for a conference for missionary couples. There are about 10 couples serving in this mission and we have become very good friends with most of them.  The conference was planned so that we could have ample time to take in the sights and explore the area. What we were able to do with our extra time was hike to the Ambras Castle which was close to our hotel, walk around the Altstadt which is largely now a pedestrian area where we saw so many old buildings and the famous Goldenes Dach, a roof which has the appearance of gold and draws many curious tourists to it.  The highlight for sightseeing was taking the funicular to the top of Innsbruck and enjoying the spectacular view overlooking the city and the Inn river. (Innsbruck means the bridge over the river Inn!  Notice the photos with the river in the background. The water is a light aqua color and is so beautiful!  The river originates from glaciers high in the Alps!)

The conference treated such subjects as, effective scripture study, working effectively with church members, creating your own mission, showing God’s love through service, and practical things such as mission finances, medical issues, and technology questions.

Sharon was asked to put together music for the three days of the conference. We had vocal duets and solos, hymn singing, and Sharon and Judd played Melodie by Gluck and we also sang the Austrian National Hymn.  Violin piece was thoroughly an Austrian experience. It was written by Gluck, an Austrian composer, transcribed by Fritz Kreisler, an Austrian violinist, played on my Austrian violin made in 1777, and performed by missionaries in Austria.  

The spirit of God’s love was so strong in this conference.  We were moved by the words, music, scenery, fellowship, and hearing strong and vibrant testimonies of this important work among God’s people in the Alps.