We are home. We are safe. The journey went well with no real problems but one crazy sprint in Miami. Praise God for all He has done in and through us. I look forward to sharing a bit more later as we all begin to process the experience we had. Please continue to pray for the team as we deal with adjusting back to life here. For some it is a very difficult process. Most are back to work Tuesday and Hannah is off to camp for a month starting tomorrow. I get a bit of R&R for a week and then head off to Camp IAWAH for a week. Thank you for following. It has been a pleasure to share with all of you.
Blessings,
Jeremy (a.k.a. Rue_Meridian)
Adventure
A Pic from our Trip in 2009
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Homeward Bound
Well we are sitting here in the Quito airport waiting for our flight to Miami. What an experience we have all had. We are tired and weary but so thankful for the opportunity we have all had to be here in Ecuador. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey with us. I think it will take us some time to process everything that we have seen, felt and experienced but it will be time well spent.
Yesterday we had an awesome day of relaxation at the Papallacta Hot Springs. It was a much needed rest after an extremely packed schedule. These springs are fed directly from a nearby volcano and they did wonders to relax our muscles and ease the tension. Saying goodbye to the kids and workers was difficult but I am glad we are on our way home.
It's a short one today because I am really tired and we are going to be boarding soon. Pray for our return flights. I have NEVER travelled home from Ecuador without a problem. The first time we were delayed 16 hours in the airport and the second time we we held over night but thankfully in a hotel. Our transfer time in Miami is extremely tight and I am a little concerned but God is in control and will see us through.
Oh...I forgot to mention one last thing that we did last night. Everyone, except the bald youth pastor (even Alicia...ha ha), got lice from the kids at the home. Most of yesterday was spent shampooing and picking and combing. I am glad, for once, that I was NOT part of the group. I think we got all of the little critters out.
Blessings everyone!
Jeremy
Yesterday we had an awesome day of relaxation at the Papallacta Hot Springs. It was a much needed rest after an extremely packed schedule. These springs are fed directly from a nearby volcano and they did wonders to relax our muscles and ease the tension. Saying goodbye to the kids and workers was difficult but I am glad we are on our way home.
It's a short one today because I am really tired and we are going to be boarding soon. Pray for our return flights. I have NEVER travelled home from Ecuador without a problem. The first time we were delayed 16 hours in the airport and the second time we we held over night but thankfully in a hotel. Our transfer time in Miami is extremely tight and I am a little concerned but God is in control and will see us through.
Oh...I forgot to mention one last thing that we did last night. Everyone, except the bald youth pastor (even Alicia...ha ha), got lice from the kids at the home. Most of yesterday was spent shampooing and picking and combing. I am glad, for once, that I was NOT part of the group. I think we got all of the little critters out.
Blessings everyone!
Jeremy
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Get Comfy - - this is a long one
Only a few more of these left before we begin our journey back to Canada. What a trip this has been. It seems that God is constantly doing things that just leaves me standing still thinking upon his greatness. Here is an example.
Last night we headed into San Lorenzo for our final kids program. While the games were going on a group of us wandered around the community and handed out maple syrup candies to everyone that we saw. It was a neat opportunity to just meet the people briefly and share a little of Canada with them. When we got back to the main square where everything was happening there were more kids than ever before. It was amazing to stand back and see the team engaged with this community in so many ways. The success of this program was certainly a surprise to most of us but also a huge lesson in trust. Trust that God can use us to change the world one life at a time even when we don’t think it is possible or do not feel prepared. After the games we headed up to the church for the songs and message. I had the privilege of sharing that evening and I talked a little bit about God’s love and how he demonstrated his love for us by sending his son.
Here’s the really cool part. After the chaos that is snack time I was approached by one of the local teenagers, Diego, and he began to ask me about God and faith and Christianity. Huge questions. Life changing questions. He explained, through Lili acting as translator, that he felt like he was at a junction in his life where he could turn one way, to evil, or the other way, to good. At the same time David was speaking with another young man who had approached him with tears in his eyes. His name was Jonathan and he told David that he could see that we were all beautiful people and we made him want to love God more. He was really upset that we were going to have to leave and that he would miss us tremendously. We talked a bit more with the guys and then decided that it would be good to talk some more. Most of the group went back to La Cueva to spend some time praying for us while Lili, David and I went in the church and spent the next 2 hours discussing God and his love for us and tackling some of the big questions that they had. Six teenage guys in total went upstairs to talk.
Afterwards we gave them hugs and wrote down their names. We have planned to meet them at La Cueva tonight to continue talking with them. As Lili, David and I walked back at 10:00 p.m. we were simply amazed at the opportunity that God has given us to share his love with those around us. We ask you once again for your prayers as we continue to talk with them. Pray that there eyes would be opened to see how much God loves them and how he desires a relationship with the. It is a challenge to share these things with them especially when we don’t have all of the answers but gratefully we know someone who does. Just so you know there names are: Diego, Jonathan, Joan, Klever, Flavio, and Pedro. We will be sad when it is time to say goodbye but are thankful for even this brief opportunity to share with them.
Today we spent the day at Pacoche finishing up the brick walls and other projects around the church. We are just getting set up for the kids club before heading back to La Cueva for dinner. It has been a blessing to do this physical work for the church here and help as they strive to reach out the the community around them. Only one more day until we head back to Quito for a little R&R and then we jump on a plane for Canada. We look forward to sharing with you our experiences here and some of the 5000 pictures that have been taken.
Oh and by the way. Today is sunny. What a blessing. Ocean waves...here we come!
It is Wednesday, July 28th, 2010 at 6:00 a.m. and I sit here at La Cueva watching the sun rise and hearing the ocean surf pound the cliffs in the background. I have been awake for an hour. There is too much going on in my mind to allow me to sleep. Too many emotions that flood my heart on this, our last day, here in San Lorenzo. That may sound dramatic to some of you and maybe it is but I do know that each of us are leaving this place changed. How can you not be when you see the things we have seen or experienced the things we have experienced? I know many of us face our return with a mixture of happiness, fear and sadness. Happiness because we are tired. It has been a long road full of twists and turns with plenty of emotional days thrown in for good measure. Happy because of the family and friends we will once again be able to see. Happy because we will be able to share the amazing things that God has done on this trip with each of you. Fear because we are unsure of what is to come. How will we deal with being back? How will we cope with the mixture of abundance and dissatisfaction in Canada when we have seen those with so little smile? How will we be able to truly explain what God has done with us here? Sadness because we will miss so many that we have grown to love. Those beautiful children and teenagers that have touched our lives. Through hugs, kisses and smiles they have torn down the barriers that we often put in our heart and have so completely changed us as a result. Sadness because we will miss being together as a team. Of daily encouraging each other as we take each step in this life for our God. We desire, I know, to bring this intimacy home and somehow effect a change in those around us. Sadness because we will say goodbye to the missionaries and leaders that have so deeply impacted us as they serve the Lord here in Ecuador.
I am excited for what the future will hold for each person that has been a part of this. I am also excited to see the impact this trip has on the many, many people that have journeyed with us through this blog and in their thoughts and prayers. I don’t know who has been reading this. I don’t know where you stand with your belief in God. I trust that some of the things written here has caused you to think about the deeper things. Do not allow yourself to be distracted by those fleeting things that are like vapor. We have seen God work mightily on this trip and that would be our prayer for each one of you. That you would allow God to work in you.
I know this post is a long one but please bear with me. I have one further thing to share and it brings me such incredible joy to do so.
In Luke 15:8-10 Jesus says, “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Does she not light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Last night there was a lot of rejoicing in Heaven.
Three of the teenagers we had spoken with the night before, Diego, Klever and Jonathan and one new one (I forget his name) arrived at La Cueva last night at 7:00 p.m. to continue the discussion that was started the night before. We had also invited the Pastor from the church in Pacoche to meet the guys and share with them. Long story short. The Pastor open the Bible and walked them through a few verses (Romans 3:23; 6:23, John 14:6 and Acts 4:12) that talk about our condition and God’s provision. He asked them tough questions and was open and honest with them about his life and faith. He had them read the bible and share what they thought and if they had questions. In the end three of these guys received the gift of salvation that God offers to all who will accept. Last night we embraced Diego, Jonathan and Klever as brothers. Please pray for them. Please also pray for Jinjo. He left with more questions. Pray that he continues to search out the truth.
We started the San Lorenzo program two weeks ago with a step of faith. We didn’t know what we were doing and what kind of impact we would have. We trusted that God would allow us, in some way, to make a difference. We leave this place knowing that God is at work and that he delights in using people like us. We are in awe of this. There is so much more that can be done here in San Lorenzo. Pray for this town. Pray for these people. Pray, pray, pray.
Last night we headed into San Lorenzo for our final kids program. While the games were going on a group of us wandered around the community and handed out maple syrup candies to everyone that we saw. It was a neat opportunity to just meet the people briefly and share a little of Canada with them. When we got back to the main square where everything was happening there were more kids than ever before. It was amazing to stand back and see the team engaged with this community in so many ways. The success of this program was certainly a surprise to most of us but also a huge lesson in trust. Trust that God can use us to change the world one life at a time even when we don’t think it is possible or do not feel prepared. After the games we headed up to the church for the songs and message. I had the privilege of sharing that evening and I talked a little bit about God’s love and how he demonstrated his love for us by sending his son.
Here’s the really cool part. After the chaos that is snack time I was approached by one of the local teenagers, Diego, and he began to ask me about God and faith and Christianity. Huge questions. Life changing questions. He explained, through Lili acting as translator, that he felt like he was at a junction in his life where he could turn one way, to evil, or the other way, to good. At the same time David was speaking with another young man who had approached him with tears in his eyes. His name was Jonathan and he told David that he could see that we were all beautiful people and we made him want to love God more. He was really upset that we were going to have to leave and that he would miss us tremendously. We talked a bit more with the guys and then decided that it would be good to talk some more. Most of the group went back to La Cueva to spend some time praying for us while Lili, David and I went in the church and spent the next 2 hours discussing God and his love for us and tackling some of the big questions that they had. Six teenage guys in total went upstairs to talk.
Afterwards we gave them hugs and wrote down their names. We have planned to meet them at La Cueva tonight to continue talking with them. As Lili, David and I walked back at 10:00 p.m. we were simply amazed at the opportunity that God has given us to share his love with those around us. We ask you once again for your prayers as we continue to talk with them. Pray that there eyes would be opened to see how much God loves them and how he desires a relationship with the. It is a challenge to share these things with them especially when we don’t have all of the answers but gratefully we know someone who does. Just so you know there names are: Diego, Jonathan, Joan, Klever, Flavio, and Pedro. We will be sad when it is time to say goodbye but are thankful for even this brief opportunity to share with them.
Today we spent the day at Pacoche finishing up the brick walls and other projects around the church. We are just getting set up for the kids club before heading back to La Cueva for dinner. It has been a blessing to do this physical work for the church here and help as they strive to reach out the the community around them. Only one more day until we head back to Quito for a little R&R and then we jump on a plane for Canada. We look forward to sharing with you our experiences here and some of the 5000 pictures that have been taken.
Oh and by the way. Today is sunny. What a blessing. Ocean waves...here we come!
It is Wednesday, July 28th, 2010 at 6:00 a.m. and I sit here at La Cueva watching the sun rise and hearing the ocean surf pound the cliffs in the background. I have been awake for an hour. There is too much going on in my mind to allow me to sleep. Too many emotions that flood my heart on this, our last day, here in San Lorenzo. That may sound dramatic to some of you and maybe it is but I do know that each of us are leaving this place changed. How can you not be when you see the things we have seen or experienced the things we have experienced? I know many of us face our return with a mixture of happiness, fear and sadness. Happiness because we are tired. It has been a long road full of twists and turns with plenty of emotional days thrown in for good measure. Happy because of the family and friends we will once again be able to see. Happy because we will be able to share the amazing things that God has done on this trip with each of you. Fear because we are unsure of what is to come. How will we deal with being back? How will we cope with the mixture of abundance and dissatisfaction in Canada when we have seen those with so little smile? How will we be able to truly explain what God has done with us here? Sadness because we will miss so many that we have grown to love. Those beautiful children and teenagers that have touched our lives. Through hugs, kisses and smiles they have torn down the barriers that we often put in our heart and have so completely changed us as a result. Sadness because we will miss being together as a team. Of daily encouraging each other as we take each step in this life for our God. We desire, I know, to bring this intimacy home and somehow effect a change in those around us. Sadness because we will say goodbye to the missionaries and leaders that have so deeply impacted us as they serve the Lord here in Ecuador.
I am excited for what the future will hold for each person that has been a part of this. I am also excited to see the impact this trip has on the many, many people that have journeyed with us through this blog and in their thoughts and prayers. I don’t know who has been reading this. I don’t know where you stand with your belief in God. I trust that some of the things written here has caused you to think about the deeper things. Do not allow yourself to be distracted by those fleeting things that are like vapor. We have seen God work mightily on this trip and that would be our prayer for each one of you. That you would allow God to work in you.
I know this post is a long one but please bear with me. I have one further thing to share and it brings me such incredible joy to do so.
In Luke 15:8-10 Jesus says, “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Does she not light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
Last night there was a lot of rejoicing in Heaven.
Three of the teenagers we had spoken with the night before, Diego, Klever and Jonathan and one new one (I forget his name) arrived at La Cueva last night at 7:00 p.m. to continue the discussion that was started the night before. We had also invited the Pastor from the church in Pacoche to meet the guys and share with them. Long story short. The Pastor open the Bible and walked them through a few verses (Romans 3:23; 6:23, John 14:6 and Acts 4:12) that talk about our condition and God’s provision. He asked them tough questions and was open and honest with them about his life and faith. He had them read the bible and share what they thought and if they had questions. In the end three of these guys received the gift of salvation that God offers to all who will accept. Last night we embraced Diego, Jonathan and Klever as brothers. Please pray for them. Please also pray for Jinjo. He left with more questions. Pray that he continues to search out the truth.
We started the San Lorenzo program two weeks ago with a step of faith. We didn’t know what we were doing and what kind of impact we would have. We trusted that God would allow us, in some way, to make a difference. We leave this place knowing that God is at work and that he delights in using people like us. We are in awe of this. There is so much more that can be done here in San Lorenzo. Pray for this town. Pray for these people. Pray, pray, pray.
Monday, July 26, 2010
A Challenging Day
You know when you experience something so outside your comfort zone that you cannot begin to describe the experience? When you see something so profoundly moving that it leaves you breathless? That is how, in a few words, to describe what we saw and experienced today. How can I begin to describe it? I have barely begun to process it (and I know this is felt throughout the team). We are back at La Cueva enjoying some soup...tired...physically and emotionally. And we are just preparing to head to San Lorenzo for one last time. We appreciate your prayers. While these days and experiences are tough it is amazing to see God moving...to see him provide in even small ways for those who are his children. I am sure there will be a time when we will all be able to describe today's experiences but for now I will just share some pictures with you. A few of them are images of lighter times in the day and a few display the conditions some of "the least of these" work in. I will not comment on the photos as we have to get going. Thank you for your prayers and thank you for being an integral part of this journey.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
La Playa
Hello everyone! Thanks for following the blog and for your words of encouragement. This has been an amazing trip for all of us and while we will be glad to get home and once again see the sun I know it is going to be difficult these next few days as we start to say our goodbyes. Before I share a bunch of photos from today's festivities I thought I would share with you what a normal days schedule looks like. I know it's bit late in the game but I figured some of you might like to hear what our days have been like time wise. I'll be brief.
7:30 a.m. - Devotions: This has been a particularly encouraging time for all of us as we begin each day listening to what God has for us. Each member of the team has taken a turn leading devotions. After that we split off into pairs and spend about 45 minutes just sharing and praying for each other. We are with different pairs every day and, I believe, this has been a crucial element in maintaining team unity and building deep, encouraging relationships.
8:30 a.m. - Breakfast: Jorge, the owner of 'La Cueva' (www.la-cueva.com), and his wife prepare breakfast for us everyday. We have been treated to fresh juice and fruit every morning along with special treats like French Toast with Real Maple Syrup! Soe of the food in the morning has been...interesting...buns with Ecuadorian cheese. You either like it or hate it. Personally I think it is nasty. Jeff's favourite was the scrambled eggs with hot dogs! All in all, however, the food has been great.
9:30 a.m. - Work Projects and Time with the kids: Pretty self explanatory.
12:00 p.m. - Lunch: We eat lunch up at Montanita Verde. We have split up into two groups of five and switch back and forth between the houses. This is a really special time for us as we get to share meals with the kids and the house parents. The funds we provide lunch also goes to help feeding the kids and the families. The food has been really good and has always included rice and plantains!
4:30 p.m. - Home & Dinner: Back to 'La Cueva' for supper. From this point we either stay here and do devotions or we head into San Lorenzo to do the kids club.
(Here are the alternative schedules)
6:00 p.m. - San Lorenzo: The nights we do the club we try and get into town for 6:00 p.m.
9:00 p.m. - Devotions: A crucial time for the group to spend time in God's Word and to talk with each other about the day and debrief.
10:00 p.m. - Bed: Need I say more?
With no San Lorenzo we are usually done around 8:30 p.m. This is just a general schedule. Some days are completely different but that at least gives you an idea of what our days are like.
Today was different. We went to church and then hung out with the kids the beach until around 3:00 p.m. This is an awesome time for us to be able to hang out with these beautiful children and just have fun. Waves, sand and soccer (the sun made a brief appearance although it's affects were felt even through the clouds).
I'm not going to say much about our time there but here are a bunch of pictures of our time there.
Blessings.
Our team leader Paul Fernane keeping a careful watch over the kids, most of whom cannot swim, playing in the ocean. Little Jose is grabbing some much needed warmth. I thought this was a beautiful picture.
We can hardly call this young man little anymore. Many of us were quite shocked at how much Luisito (who now prefers Luis) has grown over the past two years. Here he is enjoying some time on the body board.
The kids being driven back to the orphanage at the end of the day. I would like everyone to know that we have a strict no standing rule in our truck (although there are times when we drive slowly through town to get pictures and only one at a time). Just thought I would inform you all in case some get worried that's how we travel.
Jose enjoying the feeling of being buried. Some of us think his smile looks like the Cheshire cat from 'Alice in Wonderland'.
Hannah playing around with Brenda at the beach. Hannah played with the kids in the ocean for an epic hour and a half...she will sleep well tonight.
Not the beach. This was taken in San Lorenzo on Friday during the kids club. Amanda has grown very close to this little girl, Analise, who now comes running through the streets when we get there to give Amanda a hug. Amanda has shared with us that it will be hard to say good bye. Amazing that you can become so attached in such a short time. We are all so thankful we stepped out in faith and began the San Lorenzo kids club. It has blessed us immeasurably to be involved with the people there.
The ladies enjoying the day (Alicia, Amanda and Hannah).
Alicia keeps careful watch over two girls. These two cannot swim but LOVE the ocean. I think Alicia is part fish because every opportunity we have to be in the ocean she is there playing in the waves with a big smile on her face.
We have some good lifeguards watching over us. Here we see Miller keeping a careful eye on those playing in the surf.
Another pic of the fine group of lifeguards we take with us! ;)
What would a day at a South American beach be without a friendly game of football. Good times.
That's it! I hope you enjoyed the schedule and the photos. Please be praying for us as we finish our time here and wrestle with the emotions of saying goodbye to both the wonderful people here and to the team. We have all grown quite fond of each other and have been so thankful for the unity and friendship that we have enjoyed. Monday is going to be especially challenging as we head into Manta for a work project at the project in the dump. I think it will be difficult for us to see and experience this but also a blessing to bring, even a little, to people who have almost nothing.
Thanks for taking this journey with us. Your thoughts and prayers are a huge reason things have been going so well. We continue to be challenged and are excited to see what the future will hold for the people here and for us as God daily works to transform us into the kind of people that will change this world through His love.
J
7:30 a.m. - Devotions: This has been a particularly encouraging time for all of us as we begin each day listening to what God has for us. Each member of the team has taken a turn leading devotions. After that we split off into pairs and spend about 45 minutes just sharing and praying for each other. We are with different pairs every day and, I believe, this has been a crucial element in maintaining team unity and building deep, encouraging relationships.
8:30 a.m. - Breakfast: Jorge, the owner of 'La Cueva' (www.la-cueva.com), and his wife prepare breakfast for us everyday. We have been treated to fresh juice and fruit every morning along with special treats like French Toast with Real Maple Syrup! Soe of the food in the morning has been...interesting...buns with Ecuadorian cheese. You either like it or hate it. Personally I think it is nasty. Jeff's favourite was the scrambled eggs with hot dogs! All in all, however, the food has been great.
9:30 a.m. - Work Projects and Time with the kids: Pretty self explanatory.
12:00 p.m. - Lunch: We eat lunch up at Montanita Verde. We have split up into two groups of five and switch back and forth between the houses. This is a really special time for us as we get to share meals with the kids and the house parents. The funds we provide lunch also goes to help feeding the kids and the families. The food has been really good and has always included rice and plantains!
4:30 p.m. - Home & Dinner: Back to 'La Cueva' for supper. From this point we either stay here and do devotions or we head into San Lorenzo to do the kids club.
(Here are the alternative schedules)
6:00 p.m. - San Lorenzo: The nights we do the club we try and get into town for 6:00 p.m.
9:00 p.m. - Devotions: A crucial time for the group to spend time in God's Word and to talk with each other about the day and debrief.
10:00 p.m. - Bed: Need I say more?
With no San Lorenzo we are usually done around 8:30 p.m. This is just a general schedule. Some days are completely different but that at least gives you an idea of what our days are like.
Today was different. We went to church and then hung out with the kids the beach until around 3:00 p.m. This is an awesome time for us to be able to hang out with these beautiful children and just have fun. Waves, sand and soccer (the sun made a brief appearance although it's affects were felt even through the clouds).
I'm not going to say much about our time there but here are a bunch of pictures of our time there.
Blessings.
Our team leader Paul Fernane keeping a careful watch over the kids, most of whom cannot swim, playing in the ocean. Little Jose is grabbing some much needed warmth. I thought this was a beautiful picture.
We can hardly call this young man little anymore. Many of us were quite shocked at how much Luisito (who now prefers Luis) has grown over the past two years. Here he is enjoying some time on the body board.
The kids being driven back to the orphanage at the end of the day. I would like everyone to know that we have a strict no standing rule in our truck (although there are times when we drive slowly through town to get pictures and only one at a time). Just thought I would inform you all in case some get worried that's how we travel.
Jose enjoying the feeling of being buried. Some of us think his smile looks like the Cheshire cat from 'Alice in Wonderland'.
Hannah playing around with Brenda at the beach. Hannah played with the kids in the ocean for an epic hour and a half...she will sleep well tonight.
Not the beach. This was taken in San Lorenzo on Friday during the kids club. Amanda has grown very close to this little girl, Analise, who now comes running through the streets when we get there to give Amanda a hug. Amanda has shared with us that it will be hard to say good bye. Amazing that you can become so attached in such a short time. We are all so thankful we stepped out in faith and began the San Lorenzo kids club. It has blessed us immeasurably to be involved with the people there.
The ladies enjoying the day (Alicia, Amanda and Hannah).
Alicia keeps careful watch over two girls. These two cannot swim but LOVE the ocean. I think Alicia is part fish because every opportunity we have to be in the ocean she is there playing in the waves with a big smile on her face.
We have some good lifeguards watching over us. Here we see Miller keeping a careful eye on those playing in the surf.
Another pic of the fine group of lifeguards we take with us! ;)
What would a day at a South American beach be without a friendly game of football. Good times.
That's it! I hope you enjoyed the schedule and the photos. Please be praying for us as we finish our time here and wrestle with the emotions of saying goodbye to both the wonderful people here and to the team. We have all grown quite fond of each other and have been so thankful for the unity and friendship that we have enjoyed. Monday is going to be especially challenging as we head into Manta for a work project at the project in the dump. I think it will be difficult for us to see and experience this but also a blessing to bring, even a little, to people who have almost nothing.
Thanks for taking this journey with us. Your thoughts and prayers are a huge reason things have been going so well. We continue to be challenged and are excited to see what the future will hold for the people here and for us as God daily works to transform us into the kind of people that will change this world through His love.
J
Friday, July 23, 2010
Opportunities
Hello Everyone!
Time plods on and as we begin to look towards the end of our trip approaching we reflect on all of the opportunities that we have had to serve God and have our eyes opened to the needs of those around us. We are all, each in our own way, so thankful for this opportunity to participate in this trip. I am not going to try and write a lot today but instead let some of the photos from these past few days share with you our experiences. We hope all of you continue to enjoy journeying with us and we thank you all so much for your thoughts and prayers. Everyone is safe, albeit really wet, and relatively healthy (only a few sniffles and coughs here and there).
Work Projects
Alicia’s Interesting Technique
Alicia demonstrates how to creatively paint the ceiling of the boys room.
The Man
What more can I say? Christian demonstrates how to look tough and rugged with a kitten hanging off his shirt. These pictures are a result of a much needed ‘laughter break’ while moving dirt on a rainy day.
The Men
Christian and Joshua filling a hole to prepare to pour concrete next week.
The Team
Alicia, Dawna and José working hard (well José has taken up more of a supervisory role but they have really enjoyed hanging out with the beautiful and energetic little boy. José has been here for almost a year and a half and has come from a really difficult situation. His mom died when he was young and then several years ago his Father dies of aids and then a year and a half he was at the hospital with his aunt, his only remaining caretaker, when she died. He lived in the hospital for 6 days before people realized that there was no one looking after him. He was then brought to the Foundation by the police and has been here since. Those who have been working with him have said that it has been amazing to see the love of God break down barriers and give this little guy hope).
The Boy
David painting the ceiling in the kitchen.
San Lorenzo Project
Here are a few more pictures of the amazing opportunity we have had to work with the kids of San Lorenzo. I think out of everything that we have done this has been the most unique and challenging experience for the team.
Beauty and Poverty
Three children pose for their photo with the town of San Lorenzo in the background.
4 Square
Jeff playing 4 Square with a bunch of the guys in the streets of San Lorenzo. This has become a popular favorite with the kids.
Love
Hannah and a bunch of the kids sharing hugs for a photo opportunity.
Worship
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The team leading worship at the local church
Food...a universal language
After the message we provide some snacks for the kids. It usually consists of a couple of bottles of pop and some cookies. We have the kids line up and we hand them out. We are still getting upwards of 60 kids each night and have had some amazing opportunities to share the love of God with them.
Undivided Attention
Alicia listening to Lili share her testimony n Spanish with the kids.
Hanging with the Kids
Yesterday we were surprised by Paul when he came to pick us up in the morning. I guess all of the high schooler youth had the day off of school so he brought them down with him and we were able to spend the morning hanging out. We decided to hike up to the lighthouse overlooking the town of San Lorenzo and then spent the rest of the morning playing soccer on the beach and swimming in the ocean. It gave an awesome opportunity for us to connect with them and a few, that speak spanish, had some amazing chances to listen to the deep issues that these precious ones harbor within their hearts. In the afternoon we also had the opportunity to travel into Manta to visit kids from two families that used to live at the home but were subsequently placed with their families. It was a blessing to take a brief moment to reconnect and to tell them that we love them.
The Journey
Football
We decided to even out the teams to make it fair. 8 of us versus 4 of them. We lost.
Muy Guapo
David hanging out with Sirlendy and Jessenia during our walk up the tower.
San Lorenzo - a bird’s eye view
A picture of the town we have called home for the past 2 weeks and have grown to love.
Jorge Luis
One of the young men that has touched my heart deeply enjoying the surf.
Manta
Walking through Manta with Carlos and Eugenio two guys from a family of four that used to call Montanita Verde Home. It was good for us to reconnect with these kids and I know it meant a lot to them. We walked down the street and bought them all some ice cream. Continue to pray for them, and for their sisters Tanya and Tuti, that daily adjust to being back home.
Thanks everyone. There isn’t much to say about today. We are up at the home completing various work projects and hanging out with the kids. The ‘mist of death’ is crazy bad today so we are limited in what we can get done but we do what we are able. Tonight we will head back into San Lorenzo before supper and put on the kids club. Only one more after this on Monday. Thanks again for your prayers. A week left until we begin our journey home! Peace.
Time plods on and as we begin to look towards the end of our trip approaching we reflect on all of the opportunities that we have had to serve God and have our eyes opened to the needs of those around us. We are all, each in our own way, so thankful for this opportunity to participate in this trip. I am not going to try and write a lot today but instead let some of the photos from these past few days share with you our experiences. We hope all of you continue to enjoy journeying with us and we thank you all so much for your thoughts and prayers. Everyone is safe, albeit really wet, and relatively healthy (only a few sniffles and coughs here and there).
Work Projects
Alicia’s Interesting Technique
Alicia demonstrates how to creatively paint the ceiling of the boys room.
The Man
What more can I say? Christian demonstrates how to look tough and rugged with a kitten hanging off his shirt. These pictures are a result of a much needed ‘laughter break’ while moving dirt on a rainy day.
The Men
Christian and Joshua filling a hole to prepare to pour concrete next week.
The Team
Alicia, Dawna and José working hard (well José has taken up more of a supervisory role but they have really enjoyed hanging out with the beautiful and energetic little boy. José has been here for almost a year and a half and has come from a really difficult situation. His mom died when he was young and then several years ago his Father dies of aids and then a year and a half he was at the hospital with his aunt, his only remaining caretaker, when she died. He lived in the hospital for 6 days before people realized that there was no one looking after him. He was then brought to the Foundation by the police and has been here since. Those who have been working with him have said that it has been amazing to see the love of God break down barriers and give this little guy hope).
The Boy
David painting the ceiling in the kitchen.
San Lorenzo Project
Here are a few more pictures of the amazing opportunity we have had to work with the kids of San Lorenzo. I think out of everything that we have done this has been the most unique and challenging experience for the team.
Beauty and Poverty
Three children pose for their photo with the town of San Lorenzo in the background.
4 Square
Jeff playing 4 Square with a bunch of the guys in the streets of San Lorenzo. This has become a popular favorite with the kids.
Love
Hannah and a bunch of the kids sharing hugs for a photo opportunity.
Worship
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The team leading worship at the local church
Food...a universal language
After the message we provide some snacks for the kids. It usually consists of a couple of bottles of pop and some cookies. We have the kids line up and we hand them out. We are still getting upwards of 60 kids each night and have had some amazing opportunities to share the love of God with them.
Undivided Attention
Alicia listening to Lili share her testimony n Spanish with the kids.
Hanging with the Kids
Yesterday we were surprised by Paul when he came to pick us up in the morning. I guess all of the high schooler youth had the day off of school so he brought them down with him and we were able to spend the morning hanging out. We decided to hike up to the lighthouse overlooking the town of San Lorenzo and then spent the rest of the morning playing soccer on the beach and swimming in the ocean. It gave an awesome opportunity for us to connect with them and a few, that speak spanish, had some amazing chances to listen to the deep issues that these precious ones harbor within their hearts. In the afternoon we also had the opportunity to travel into Manta to visit kids from two families that used to live at the home but were subsequently placed with their families. It was a blessing to take a brief moment to reconnect and to tell them that we love them.
The Journey
Football
We decided to even out the teams to make it fair. 8 of us versus 4 of them. We lost.
Muy Guapo
David hanging out with Sirlendy and Jessenia during our walk up the tower.
San Lorenzo - a bird’s eye view
A picture of the town we have called home for the past 2 weeks and have grown to love.
Jorge Luis
One of the young men that has touched my heart deeply enjoying the surf.
Manta
Walking through Manta with Carlos and Eugenio two guys from a family of four that used to call Montanita Verde Home. It was good for us to reconnect with these kids and I know it meant a lot to them. We walked down the street and bought them all some ice cream. Continue to pray for them, and for their sisters Tanya and Tuti, that daily adjust to being back home.
Thanks everyone. There isn’t much to say about today. We are up at the home completing various work projects and hanging out with the kids. The ‘mist of death’ is crazy bad today so we are limited in what we can get done but we do what we are able. Tonight we will head back into San Lorenzo before supper and put on the kids club. Only one more after this on Monday. Thanks again for your prayers. A week left until we begin our journey home! Peace.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Exploration of Purpose
So here I sit in Paul and Susan’s house watching the ‘mist of death’ roll through the property of the children’s home thinking about how I can best explain the work that we are doing here. Sure I can share more pictures (which, I assure you, I will be doing right after this entry) but that doesn’t really demonstrate the impact that this trip is having on our lives and on the lives of those we are working with. Sometimes seeds of self doubt creep in and we can begin to ask ourselves if this journey was really worth it. It is a blessing, I think, to have God gently remind us that it is, indeed, worth it. Yesterday Hannah, Alicia and I sat with Susan and we started talking about the impact the teams have on the ministry here. One thing stuck out and I thought I would share it with you. One of the ways that the funds we raise are used is to employ two local workers to labor alongside us and complete the various tasks that need to be done around San Lorenzo, Pacoche and the children’s home. The money that is given provides steady employment for these two men, Pablo and Flores, while the teams are here and for some time afterwards. Last year there was only two months that there was a lack of finances to employ them. These men work to provide for their families which, all together, number ten people. So in just this one small but profound way we are able to impact these families who would otherwise struggle to find employment. Thank you to everyone for their love, prayers and support. It is awesome for us to find out the ways in which God uses teams like ours to provide for the physical needs of the people we have come to serve. In meeting their physical needs there is then the opportunity for those here to provide for the spiritual needs. There are so many other stories like that one, so many ways, seen and unseen, that God has been using us and other teams. It is exciting to be a part of something like this even when, at times, we feel as if we are not accomplishing much. In times like these we must trust that God has a plan for us even when we can’t see it. There is comfort in that.
So with that said let me share some of the pictures from the last few days. There are not that many but the ones that I have chosen should hopefully demonstrate to you why we have labeled the weather here at the home, “the mist of death”. I have heard that many of you in Canada have been enjoying quite nice, sunny days. It is...ummm...less than that here. So far we have seen the sun three times. It is cold, wet and muddy. But you know, weather like this makes for some good pictures and, as my parent’s would say, it builds character. We will have lots when we come home. And in the end, though there are difficult days, we are having a blast here.
Let me Introduce you to the Mist of Death
Here we see Jeff and Joshua working hard laying bricks for the retaining walls. A necessary project in order to stop erosion from washing away the hills that the Childrens Home is sitting on. As you can see it is very wet and very muddy. These guys were troopers working out in this all day. Out here the mist hangs over the home for around 3 months. This is part of the reason the jungle that surrounds us is so vibrant and lush.
The Aftermath
The boys at the end of the day joined by Pablo. As you can see they were less than dry. I believe, when we returned home to San Lorenzo, they all just ran into the ocean fully clothed humming the Star Wars theme song. Good times.
Michelangelo has Nothing on this Guy
Some of us worked inside and were, for the most part, able to avoid “the mist of death”. Here David, along with me behind the camera, spent the day painting one of the boys rooms as well as the kitchen.
The Day After
The next day, after finishing up at the home, we traveled to Pacoche to complete some more work projects and prepare for the kids club. Here David demonstrates his incredible skill at cutting bricks with his trowel. Six of us spent the day building three separate walls in the church. Some may disagree but Hannah and I were very efficient and effective wall builders.
The Chain
Unloading bricks at the church in Pacoche in preparation for the wall building epicness.
Team Work
Everybody getting involved in building the first wall. In the foreground Alica sits soaking the bricks in water. This helps the cement adhere to them when we lay the lines of the wall.
Christian and Luis
My brother and Luis, one of the kids we met two years ago, sitting listening to the story presentation at the kids club.
The Kids Club
The awesome ministry to the children at Pacoche. This club was started just over a year ago and there have been some incredible things come out of it at the church strives to reach out to the local community. It has been a blessing to be able to help out where we can with this ministry.
Music Team
David, Lili, Joshua, Jeff and Hannah have been a real blessing as we have sought to minister in different areas providing musical ministry sometimes with little or no preparation or warning. Here they lead the singing time, in Spanish, at the kids club.
God Bless Everyone...
So with that said let me share some of the pictures from the last few days. There are not that many but the ones that I have chosen should hopefully demonstrate to you why we have labeled the weather here at the home, “the mist of death”. I have heard that many of you in Canada have been enjoying quite nice, sunny days. It is...ummm...less than that here. So far we have seen the sun three times. It is cold, wet and muddy. But you know, weather like this makes for some good pictures and, as my parent’s would say, it builds character. We will have lots when we come home. And in the end, though there are difficult days, we are having a blast here.
Let me Introduce you to the Mist of Death
Here we see Jeff and Joshua working hard laying bricks for the retaining walls. A necessary project in order to stop erosion from washing away the hills that the Childrens Home is sitting on. As you can see it is very wet and very muddy. These guys were troopers working out in this all day. Out here the mist hangs over the home for around 3 months. This is part of the reason the jungle that surrounds us is so vibrant and lush.
The Aftermath
The boys at the end of the day joined by Pablo. As you can see they were less than dry. I believe, when we returned home to San Lorenzo, they all just ran into the ocean fully clothed humming the Star Wars theme song. Good times.
Michelangelo has Nothing on this Guy
Some of us worked inside and were, for the most part, able to avoid “the mist of death”. Here David, along with me behind the camera, spent the day painting one of the boys rooms as well as the kitchen.
The Day After
The next day, after finishing up at the home, we traveled to Pacoche to complete some more work projects and prepare for the kids club. Here David demonstrates his incredible skill at cutting bricks with his trowel. Six of us spent the day building three separate walls in the church. Some may disagree but Hannah and I were very efficient and effective wall builders.
The Chain
Unloading bricks at the church in Pacoche in preparation for the wall building epicness.
Team Work
Everybody getting involved in building the first wall. In the foreground Alica sits soaking the bricks in water. This helps the cement adhere to them when we lay the lines of the wall.
Christian and Luis
My brother and Luis, one of the kids we met two years ago, sitting listening to the story presentation at the kids club.
The Kids Club
The awesome ministry to the children at Pacoche. This club was started just over a year ago and there have been some incredible things come out of it at the church strives to reach out to the local community. It has been a blessing to be able to help out where we can with this ministry.
Music Team
David, Lili, Joshua, Jeff and Hannah have been a real blessing as we have sought to minister in different areas providing musical ministry sometimes with little or no preparation or warning. Here they lead the singing time, in Spanish, at the kids club.
God Bless Everyone...
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Rain and Shine (Monday and Tuesday)
This post was difficult. Move along, there is nothing to see here.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Pool Side Ministry
We had an awesome day with the kids today at a local pool in Manta. After church we packed up the whole children's home into three separate vehicles and headed into town. It's a really special time for the kids as they don't get that many chances to swim in a pool. It's funny, something we take completely for granted becomes something so special when the normal becomes the special. So that's what we did...played and played and played. Oh, and we also ate some cow hoof soup for lunch. The broth was awesome but the giant chunk of cow hoof was less than yummy (the skin and hair did NOT look appetizing). So here's some pictures of the day. I am a big believer in using the photos because it means less typing for me. Enjoy.
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