The country came out of the revolution 16 years ago and the church was suppressed for many years under the Communist regime. Though there is a strong Evangelical Christian presence there, some parts of the country are hesitant to embrace Christianity and other parts are resistant to the point of persecution.

It has made a big impact on my perspective on life and on our culture. When you see a place like that -- Sudan isn't even a Third World country -- there is no power, no roads, no water. They've lived through cholera, malaria and AIDS is a big problem. Everybody who goes on a mission is changed is in some way. You think you go to help others, but we grow and God changes our own hearts.

What we're trying to do is mix an 18th century building with 21st century building technology.

Plant at least two apple trees. This provides cross pollination. The trees don't have to be the same variety. Written planting instructions will be provided when trees are purchased.

It was a huge, huge, huge relief. We were prepared for the worst, if we didn't make the team. We just wanted to be humble about it and thankful. Scott and Tessa are our friends.

It was a lot of money to fork out, but I think everyone in the long run is going to be better for it.