David and Kris were a true blessing. I had the honour of attending a Women's Bible study. Carol Wimber, who passed away whilst this book was being written, and her sister Penny Fulton led it. I also attended their Sunday service at the Anaheim Vineyard. The size of the congregation overwhelmed me.

 

After the Bible study, I joined Kris and a few other ladies for burgers at a local joint. I found myself seated in front of Carol Wimber. The moment was memorable, as I noticed a sudden silence around me. When I looked up, I could see the shock on their faces as they watched me eat a burger with a knife and fork. I also later learned of the American "cut-and-switch" way of eating. It differs from the British "cut-and-eat" method. I realised there were many more cultural differences to find in this country. We were strangers to them in the same way they were to us. It certainly makes life interesting.

 

Later in the week, I arrived at the Ranch, where I met my room-mate, Carol, whom an English family had dropped off. I spoke only a few words with them, and amidst meeting so many new faces, the memory of that couple quickly faded. But, they would play an important role later at the end of my time at the Ranch. Read on.

On my bed was a little welcome card from the School of Ministry, featuring a scripture:

 

 

Tears welled up in my eyes, as this scripture held profound significance for me. The pain and hurt I went through over the last 7 years of my divorce, felt like being destroyed by locusts.

 

We were thirteen students from different countries and denominations: Australia, Canada, Japan, Germany, Holland, England, America, and, of course, South Africa. Each morning, we gathered in the classroom for worship. A variety of anointed speakers taught us, prayed for us, and spoke into our lives. It was such a blessing. I could write a book on my Vineyard School experience alone.