Chinese students say: Farewell, it's been great!

[Rev. Elizabeth]

Today the 30 Chinese exchange students and their teachers have left Fairfax and BFA for the next leg of their journey through America.  I watched the farewell gathering today in the elementary gym and the young people==all wearing the tie dye shirts they had made under the guidance of Julie Filiberti--were both excited and sad to leave.  Host families provided a wonderful home and many fine experiences. Student mentors supported and befriended their Chinese peers.  The teachers created a community and discovered that, 'kids are kids' regardless of where they come from.  Mike Clark and Arik Mortenson were instrumental in getting the program up and running.  It was a marvelous experience for all involved. 
Spiral International was the sponsoring organization that connected Fairfax with the schools in China.

[Rev. Elizabeth]

Today's "Messenger" has a nicely done article on the entire exchange experience.

[Julie & 6pt Dave]

It was a truly rewarding experience for our family to host such wonderful young ladies. If Fairfax is lucky enough to participate in the program next year, I would encourage all to be part of the experience and welcome students into your home. It was great fun comparing cultures and teaching them all about ours. I had no idea that after 12 days of being parents to these girls that it would be so difficult to say goodbye.

[CindyG]

What a wonderful Job by all!
Nice Job all!!
Hope it comes back around next time!