In the news

I'm sure that you have all heard about the tragic plane crash that happened over the weekend killing the President of Poland, his wife and many other prominent Polish leaders and historians. The mood here in Poland is of shock and sadness at this huge loss. While Chris and I aren't involved in or very well educated about Polish politics, it is incredible to be here and to be able to witness such a moment in the history of the world. We live just a few minutes walk from the Presidential palace and were able to join with thousands of other people here in paying our respects outside the palace gate on Saturday. The devastation was evident on many of the faces of those that we passed by and many stood somberly looking on as hundreds of candles and flowers were piled in front of the palace. One of the Polish leaders who died in the crash was Secretary of State Handzlic who has been one of Chris' professors over the past two months teaching a course on International Negotiations and the Responsibility to Protect. He was very passionate about his work in Human Rights and Foreign Affairs and had a great impact on many across the world. The country of Poland observed two minutes of silence at noon today in remembrance of those that died, and our church leaders asked us to pray for the families that were left behind.