The later service was in the Sanctuary. The kids sang about five songs (beautifully!), and the congregation was very welcoming and appreciative. Kenneth Starr, the President of Baylor University, was the guest speaker. When he began to speak, we were able to see him clearly as they had a large projection of the platform so the congregation and choir could see. Several of our youth were on the screen as well since we were sitting right behind the speaker. One problem... the Sanctuary was much cooler and fatigue began to set in. We had several struggling to stay awake (myself included). But, we did have a moment of worry when one of the youth onscreen began to drift off. Fortunately, he didn't fall off his chair as the youth next to him kept him from falling... twice.
Next we had a great lunch at the Buckhorn Saloon (hamburgers and chips). When we went to take our group picture on the steps in the restaurant, the manager asked if we would sing a number... which, of course, we did.
We went on a walking tour of the Alamo, and then sang in the courtyard of the Alamo. Fortunately, the courtyard was shaded and a strong breeze was blowing. We actually had a great crowd watch us sing, many for the entire 30 minutes we were there! One really cool moment was when we sang "In Remembrance" outside the Alamo where so many perished defending Texas. Following that, we watched an IMAX movie on the Alamo.
We had dinner at Pizza Hut. The server was a little... overwhelmed. The pizza was waiting on us, but getting drinks out to that many people proved a challenge. Fortunately, our chaperones pitched in, and we got it taken care of.
Our 5th concert (if you count the impromptu one at lunch, which I am) was at SAMMinistries, a homeless shelter. We were unable to take pictures there due to privacy rules, but it was such a wonderful concert. The kids had the choice of singing in the air-conditioned chapel where a few would hear us, or outside where everyone walking by would hear. They kids immediately chose outside! Have I mentioned how HOT it is here??? Anyway, God provided shade and breeze again (God is good... all the time). Several in our audience cried... several in the choir cried. They touched us as much as we touched them. It's amazing how God can take what you mean as a blessing for others and bless you also. One of the residents sang for us also. What a voice!
Devotions went well lead by some of the Mount Holly choir officers. We are excited about our mission work tomorrow. I can't wait to see what the Lord has in store.
Enjoy the pictures!
