Today’s theme emerged the moment we stepped into the Prague Metro: connections. The city’s underground lines weave together like a living map — green, yellow, red — carrying thousands of people from one place to another. As we moved through the tunnels and platforms, I kept thinking about how many different kinds of connections God has woven into this trip.

Our morning began with our final official meeting with Josiah Venture — a short but meaningful debrief. It gave us space to reflect on what we learned, what we experienced, and how to reintegrate well when we return home. That conversation reminded me of our connections with Josiah Venture: partners who have welcomed us into their mission, invested in our interns, and shared their passion for reaching young people in Czechia.

After the debrief, our team split into three groups. Jamie stayed at the hotel to rest. Aidan led a group to meet with Tomáš, who oversees Edge Sports — the ministry Aidan has been blessed to serve with during his extended internship. I took another group to meet with Josh and Anežka Dietz, missionaries serving here in Prague. Josh is originally from Arizona, and today we had the joy of meeting their newborn son, Oliver, who arrived during our stay. Meeting a new baby in the middle of a ministry trip felt like a quiet reminder of God’s ongoing work — a new connection beginning even as our trip nears its end.

As we explored Prague, we made another kind of connection — one with history itself. We walked past buildings far older than our nation, each carrying centuries of stories. The cathedrals especially stood out. Their towering spires and intricate stonework felt like testimonies carved in stone, witnesses to generations of Christians who built them, prayed in them, and passed their faith forward long before any of us were born. It’s impossible not to feel humbled walking among them.

But the deepest connections of this trip were formed earlier — in Český Těšín and at camp. Connections with students who opened their hearts. Connections with leaders who welcomed us as partners. Connections with a church fellowship who treated us like family. These relationships are the reason goodbyes were tearful and the hope of return trips feel meaningful.

By evening, Jamie felt well enough to join us for a short sightseeing walk, and the whole team gathered for a final dinner at a railroad‑themed restaurant (thank you, Quincy and Andrew). We laughed, shared memories, and enjoyed one last meal together. It was another connection — this time within our team — strengthened through shared ministry, shared challenges, and shared joy.

Tomorrow we go separate ways. Aidan and Annika will continue traveling in the Czech Republic and Germany. Andrew, Quincy, Jacob, Robyn, Jamie, and Sophia will begin their journey back to the United States. And Levi, Anna, and I will return to Český Těšín for continued ministry.

Please pray for safe travels, and for health — especially for Jamie, who is recovering, and Levi, who seems to have caught the same bug.

From Prague, with gratitude — Caio for now,
Pastor Doug