Our First Days in Milan
Summary of Language School Studies (October 7, 2009)
It is now our third week of Italian. We are able to express and interpret time; make appointments; give greetings; use about 35 common verbs, regular and irregular; read transportation schedules; discuss personal interests with others. We are now drilling daily to utilize all of our progress so far. We can ask all of the six interrogatives (questions).
Church (Chiesa di Christo) Observations
The church in Milan has an illustrious history.   We are fortunate to be able to contribute to this very special work. We are beginning to understand the dynamics of the current situation in Milano. The church is composed of native Italians, about a third; the remainder Internationals ranging from England, the Philippines, Ghana, America, and Albania. The Italian language is the common denominator with all of the above groups. It is a situation held together by a common language and belief system.   We worship very near to the famous Duomo of Milano. Photos of this edifice are quite inadequate to describe its splendor. Mary is atop of this vast structure, portrayed in gold. The pinnacle obviously belongs to Mary in this theology (consult Colossians 1:18).
Recent Participation
On  October 4, 2009, I delivered the morning sermon in Milan. This was my first in Europe. I spoke from the Gospel of John (Giovanni 8:23). The last several Sunday afternoons, following the morning service, have been spent in the home of an American family in Milan (Mike and Angie). He works for a major bank. During these times, we sing hymns, pray, and discuss a devotional.
We have also participated in several fellowships on Friday evenings at the church building. Three ladies from the States were also in Milan to conduct a “Let’s Start Talking†campaign. Numerous Milanese contacts have been made of late through these efforts.
A Monday/Tuesday night home Bible study is also underway. This an Italian study, in an Italian home. I have been asked to lead this discussion (my first in Italy).