During the conference we had time to visit the old city of Gdansk and what a surprise that was! The beautifully restored houses in the old center reminded us of Amsterdam and Copenhagen, same architecture, same atmosphere! It was such a joy to stroll around the old streets (no cars allowed!) with our group and sit down for a well deserved cup of coffee and homemade apple pie! It was also a time to get to know each other better. We got better acquainted with the directors of Teen Challenge Ukraine, Norway, Ireland and Scotland and many more. After the coffee break we visited the Solidaridad museum and learned more about the world famous movement that started right here at the docks. The monument is a tribute to those that lost their lives during the violence. The pillars are three crossed adorned with anchors of hope!
During the weekend we heard many personal stories. Testimonies of God's great power over sin and addiction. People being totally set free after years of drugs and alcohol abuse. Some centers in Western Europe are struggling as a result of liberal government regulations. The availability of free methadon and heroine, social security and good healthcare results in many addicted people becoming functional in their dis-function... and thus reluctant to radically change their lives. On the other hand; many centers are being opened in eastern and northern Europe and the Middle East! I will post more about this soon....