MAF Orientation Begins

We just finished day one of the two week Facts 'N Friction course and it was a full day (like every day will be for the next two weeks.

First off was an introduction and "ice breaker" led by Annie, MAF's Learning & Development Manager, along with Gillian, MAF's Recruitment Administrator with help from Kathryn, the Office Administrator. From left to right in the photo: Gillian, Annie, and Kathryn.

Following sessions were led by current joint Chief Executive and Regional Director for the Africa Region of MAF International by Chris Lukkien. Chris helped everyone understand the vision and purpose of MAF as well as the basic organizational structure through lecture as well as practical exercises. Here we are critiquing one group's attempt to recreate MAF's somewhat complex organizational structure from memory.

Another practical and fun exercise was recreating the structure and composition of the nine specific flight programs within the Africa region. Here are Andy and Mark & Jenny working together to match the ten elements within each flight program to each of the nine respective countries. Andy and Mark & Jenny are in the pipeline for service with MMS. We expect Andy to start at MMS this Fall. Mark & Jenny could start late in 2009.

Here I am with Mark, who has recently joined MAF in the new role of Youth Manager. Mark is responsible for developing a vision for mission in the upcoming generations and planting the seeds which will result in financial fruit to carry MAF into the future described with MAF as developing "people, prayer, and pounds." I've greatly enjoyed talking with Mark as his full-time position is directly related to the seminar I just led at MMS...connecting with the younger generations.

Later sessions were led by Julie, the MAF HR Manager (my opposite number). It was so refreshing to hear Julie address similar topics in MAF's orientation that I regularly address in our own orientations at MMS. I look forward to working closer with Julie and Annie, Gillian, and Kathryn as members of her department. It's really fun to finally put faces with the people with whom I've been emailing for several years.

Karen and I are doing well, no vertigo, no migraines and we're now scheduled to go eat, so we'll catch you tomorrow. Thanks for your prayers!