Community.

Tonight we went to an American bible study at a missionary couple’s (Cody and Dannielle Wilbanks) apartment here in Florence. There were seven of us girls who walked over together, having no idea what this was going to be like, and not knowing if we would potentially be the only ones there. Danielle buzzed us in, and we walked up the stairs. We knew which door to knock on because we heard many voices inside and could smell popcorn. Before we even opened the door I knew it was going to be a great night.

                We walk into one of the cutest apartments I’ve ever seen.  We immediately felt at home [for my fellow Resonaters, it felt exactly like village!]. The couple told us that they moved here to Florence two years ago, intending to plant a church. They are currently going to Logos (the church I went to Sunday) and are getting more settled in and seeing what the church planting will really look like. Last spring there were about four Americans who were coming to Logos. Every week. The entire service is in Italian, so the Wilbanks asked them why they kept coming even though they couldn’t understand the service. They said they just loved being surrounded by other believers. In a new place where there aren’t many Christians, it was refreshing to go to church and know that these people love the same God as they do. THAT IS LITERALLY WHY I LOVED IT SO MUCH ON SUNDAY! After hearing that, the Wilbanks asked the church if they could start an American bible study for students like these four who are just looking to be spiritually fed and find community here in Florence. Of course they thought it was a great idea, so last spring was the first semester of Firenze Journey. They did it again last fall, and now we’re back to spring.

 I am so thankful for them and what they are doing! There were about 20 students there last night. Cody led the study by preaching for the first part, and then asking us questions and leading a discussion for the second half. Then we all just hung out! Tuesday nights are going to be the best.

For anyone in Florence reading this, come on Tuesday with us! It’s at 9pm and a group of us walk over together from the duomo. Anyone is welcome to come! Even if you’re just curious about who this Jesus is about, come find out!  Send me a message on fb :D

http://firenzejourney.com/