Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Monday, December 17, 2007
Class Mission Trip
On Tuesday Dec. 11th I took my 3rd grade class on our school’s first elementary mission trip! We went to the Santos Pamba Alliance Church and did a Christmas program for the preschoolers. My students helped plan our day. They were each assigned a preschool “amigito” for the day (that was their favorite part!). We had a clown come (she is a secretary at my school and has a Christian clown ministry). The kids loved here! She presented the Christmas story to the kids in a fun way. We did an art project, had snack, and played some games with them. The time went by very fast! I couldn’t stop smiling the whole time we were there. My dream of connecting my two worlds (Alliance and Quichua churches) had come true! The eyes of my students were opened up. They smelled smells they are not used to, saw things they haven’t seen before, and experienced true poverty, however; they didn’t want to leave. They fell in love with their new little friends. When it was time to leave, they were all very sad and begged to stay longer. As we were leaving, my students noticed that the little preschoolers were walking home all by themselves. They asked me, “Miss Hughes, what if they fall down and get hurt, no one will be there to help them. Can I walk them home? Miss Hughes, what if they get robbed, no one will know…what if, what if…” The experience and time at Santos Pamba truly impacted them. I pray that they will never forget that day and that it won’t be the last, but the first of many more mission trips. My students are already begging to go back after Christmas! Not only were my students impacted, but the mothers who went with us also. They couldn’t stop crying the whole time we were there! They each want to support a preschool to be able to go to school! Praise God! Thank you for your prayers for us on Tuesday. I felt them!
Today I met with the preschool teachers (all day!) and we organized the supplies that have been donated from my school. It was a cultural experience! Let’s just say that my way of organizing things is much different than theirs. Tomorrow they are going to begin using the supplies that have been donated. I wish I could be there to see the look on the preschoolers faces when they see what God has blessed them with!
Please continue to pray for the ministry at Santos Pamba and that the Lord will continue to provide for the needs (finishing the construction of the cafeteria and kitchen for Compassion, and $1500 for the house). Thank you!
Last Wednesday I took the high school students to the children’s hospital and we brought Christmas to the kids there. We gave gifts to each child and homemade Christmas cookies. We also went around singing Christmas carols for them. When we arrived the nurses told me about a little 3 year old boy whose mother had abandoned him. They couldn’t get him to eat or stop crying. I immediately went to his room…he was there all by himself, just sitting on his bed staring out the window crying. I went in with a gift for him and a balloon. I started talking to him and playing with the balloon with him and he stopped crying. I then got him to eat by playing airplane with the spoon and he ate all of his food! The nurses came in and were very surprised! They begged me to take him home L I played with him for most of the evening. When it came time for me to leave, he grabbed on to my leg and would not let me leave. He started crying again and said don’t leave my like my mommy did. Oh my gosh, it broke my heart! I wish I could take all of the abandoned kids home with me, but I can’t. Maybe someday God will use me to open an orphanage? Please pray for little Anthony, that he will have a home for Christmas.
May we remember that Jesus is the reason we celebrate this season…blessings to you all and I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.
Today I met with the preschool teachers (all day!) and we organized the supplies that have been donated from my school. It was a cultural experience! Let’s just say that my way of organizing things is much different than theirs. Tomorrow they are going to begin using the supplies that have been donated. I wish I could be there to see the look on the preschoolers faces when they see what God has blessed them with!
Please continue to pray for the ministry at Santos Pamba and that the Lord will continue to provide for the needs (finishing the construction of the cafeteria and kitchen for Compassion, and $1500 for the house). Thank you!
Last Wednesday I took the high school students to the children’s hospital and we brought Christmas to the kids there. We gave gifts to each child and homemade Christmas cookies. We also went around singing Christmas carols for them. When we arrived the nurses told me about a little 3 year old boy whose mother had abandoned him. They couldn’t get him to eat or stop crying. I immediately went to his room…he was there all by himself, just sitting on his bed staring out the window crying. I went in with a gift for him and a balloon. I started talking to him and playing with the balloon with him and he stopped crying. I then got him to eat by playing airplane with the spoon and he ate all of his food! The nurses came in and were very surprised! They begged me to take him home L I played with him for most of the evening. When it came time for me to leave, he grabbed on to my leg and would not let me leave. He started crying again and said don’t leave my like my mommy did. Oh my gosh, it broke my heart! I wish I could take all of the abandoned kids home with me, but I can’t. Maybe someday God will use me to open an orphanage? Please pray for little Anthony, that he will have a home for Christmas.
May we remember that Jesus is the reason we celebrate this season…blessings to you all and I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Many things to be thankful for….
First of all, I’m thankful to God for bringing me here to this beautiful country and allowing me to serve Him here and be a part of what He is doing. I’m also thankful for each of you who are a constant encouragement and support to me. Thank you!
Santos Pamba Preschool Update:
Last Tuesday I invited Pastor Pedro Pablo to our Elementary chapel. I told him I wanted him to share with our kids about his ministries and the preschool…but, he had no idea what the real reason was! The kids presented to him a paper check with the final amount they had raised in the Nickel Drive. They raised almost $1,800! (see the pic below) Our 3rd grade class raised over $500! We are working on purchasing different supplies for the preschool such as small tables, whiteboards, books, and much more! Pastor Pedro Pablo was in shock. He almost started to cry. He thanked the children for giving to those in need and then prayed for them. My favorite part though was that after the chapel, he came to my classroom to spend some special time with my students. My students asked him all kinds of questions about Santos Pamba, how the kids live, their family life, how to say things in Quichua, etc. They were in shock when they heard things such as: the kids go home after school and are by themselves until late at night when their parents get home from work. They don’t have anyone to cook them dinner or snacks. Many kids don’t do their homework because there is no one at home to help them with it. Three or four people sleep in one bed. Many kids have to go work after school to help earn money for their families….these facts really impacted my students. We ended with a time of prayer together for Santos Pamba. It was very special. (see pic)
I was unable to meet with Amanda and Mari 2 weeks ago, but we are working on rescheduling a time as soon as possible.
Compassion International Update!
Compassion unexpectedly visited last week and examined the Santos Pamba site. We were under the impression that we had met the requirements, however they have added more. The said that the church needs to build a cafeteria space and a big kitchen. They have started, but are out of money to be able to finish. Please pray that God will provide the finances to be able to finish the construction and invite Compassion International back to examine the site.
Bible Study Group:
Last week, a new guy who has been coming to our small group at church accepted Christ! Please pray for Marco.
I had one of the girls over from my church for dinner the other night. She had called me and told me she needed to talk to me and wanted counsel. That night she told me that she was pregnant and that the father of the baby has disappeared. This broke my heart! She told me she is ashamed to tell her family and friends, and that she doesn’t even want the baby. I spent hours with her, listening to her, and giving her some advice. She has decided to keep the baby and is now in the process of telling her family. Please pray for Narda and this precious baby. I thank God for the opportunity to minister to my friends here and that they see me as someone they can come to.
School:
Things have been busy at school. We had our 3rd grade Thanksgiving Feast with the maintenance workers at our school. My class dressed up as Native Americans- (it’s a tradition…not my choice- so strange to do that in Ecuador!)
The next day my students put on a reader’s theater called “The ABC’s of Thanksgiving”. Our classroom was packed! All the parents came, as well as other classes.
The Beach:
After that busy week I was ready for a vacation! On Wednesday I went to the beach with my friend Cheryl. It was great to be out of the polluted, noisy, busy city of Quito. There was no one at the beach because it wasn’t an Ecuadorian vacation time. It was perfect, just what we wanted! We had the pool and sauna at our hostel all to ourselves! We laid on the beach, read, and relaxed. The weather was beautiful, as well as the beach. It was a wonderful time. We flew back to Quito on Sunday. Christmas is just around the corner now….I’m looking forward to coming home for a bit and seeing many of you.
Praises and Prayer Requests:
Praises:
1. Thank you God for all the people You have put in my life who are an encouragement and support to me.
2. For the money the students at my school donated to help buy supplies for the preschool!
3. Marco accepted Christ
Prayer Requests:
1. For my health- I’m really sick right now with a sinus infection/cold
2. That the Lord will continue to provide the finances needed at Santos Pamba for construction.
3. For my friend Narda and her baby
4. That I will continue to be in the Word daily! I am reading through the gospels now.
5. For my uncle Peter, who is in the hospital.
Thank you for your prayers and support! I hope to hear from you too! I miss you and love you all!
Santos Pamba Preschool Update:
Last Tuesday I invited Pastor Pedro Pablo to our Elementary chapel. I told him I wanted him to share with our kids about his ministries and the preschool…but, he had no idea what the real reason was! The kids presented to him a paper check with the final amount they had raised in the Nickel Drive. They raised almost $1,800! (see the pic below) Our 3rd grade class raised over $500! We are working on purchasing different supplies for the preschool such as small tables, whiteboards, books, and much more! Pastor Pedro Pablo was in shock. He almost started to cry. He thanked the children for giving to those in need and then prayed for them. My favorite part though was that after the chapel, he came to my classroom to spend some special time with my students. My students asked him all kinds of questions about Santos Pamba, how the kids live, their family life, how to say things in Quichua, etc. They were in shock when they heard things such as: the kids go home after school and are by themselves until late at night when their parents get home from work. They don’t have anyone to cook them dinner or snacks. Many kids don’t do their homework because there is no one at home to help them with it. Three or four people sleep in one bed. Many kids have to go work after school to help earn money for their families….these facts really impacted my students. We ended with a time of prayer together for Santos Pamba. It was very special. (see pic)
I was unable to meet with Amanda and Mari 2 weeks ago, but we are working on rescheduling a time as soon as possible.
Compassion International Update!
Compassion unexpectedly visited last week and examined the Santos Pamba site. We were under the impression that we had met the requirements, however they have added more. The said that the church needs to build a cafeteria space and a big kitchen. They have started, but are out of money to be able to finish. Please pray that God will provide the finances to be able to finish the construction and invite Compassion International back to examine the site.
Bible Study Group:
Last week, a new guy who has been coming to our small group at church accepted Christ! Please pray for Marco.
I had one of the girls over from my church for dinner the other night. She had called me and told me she needed to talk to me and wanted counsel. That night she told me that she was pregnant and that the father of the baby has disappeared. This broke my heart! She told me she is ashamed to tell her family and friends, and that she doesn’t even want the baby. I spent hours with her, listening to her, and giving her some advice. She has decided to keep the baby and is now in the process of telling her family. Please pray for Narda and this precious baby. I thank God for the opportunity to minister to my friends here and that they see me as someone they can come to.
School:
Things have been busy at school. We had our 3rd grade Thanksgiving Feast with the maintenance workers at our school. My class dressed up as Native Americans- (it’s a tradition…not my choice- so strange to do that in Ecuador!)
The next day my students put on a reader’s theater called “The ABC’s of Thanksgiving”. Our classroom was packed! All the parents came, as well as other classes.
The Beach:
After that busy week I was ready for a vacation! On Wednesday I went to the beach with my friend Cheryl. It was great to be out of the polluted, noisy, busy city of Quito. There was no one at the beach because it wasn’t an Ecuadorian vacation time. It was perfect, just what we wanted! We had the pool and sauna at our hostel all to ourselves! We laid on the beach, read, and relaxed. The weather was beautiful, as well as the beach. It was a wonderful time. We flew back to Quito on Sunday. Christmas is just around the corner now….I’m looking forward to coming home for a bit and seeing many of you.
Praises and Prayer Requests:
Praises:
1. Thank you God for all the people You have put in my life who are an encouragement and support to me.
2. For the money the students at my school donated to help buy supplies for the preschool!
3. Marco accepted Christ
Prayer Requests:
1. For my health- I’m really sick right now with a sinus infection/cold
2. That the Lord will continue to provide the finances needed at Santos Pamba for construction.
3. For my friend Narda and her baby
4. That I will continue to be in the Word daily! I am reading through the gospels now.
5. For my uncle Peter, who is in the hospital.
Thank you for your prayers and support! I hope to hear from you too! I miss you and love you all!
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Finally a long overdue update:
School: I have 2 new boys in my class now that got switched from the other class to mine. They have transitioned well to my class and are doing great. I now only have 11 students. Please continue to pray for me that God will help me be the best teacher for my students and be Jesus to them each day.
My class is getting ready for the 3rd grade tradition of putting on a Thanksgiving Feast for the maintenance workers at our school. We have been busy preparing a skit, decorations, and cards for each worker. We have a 3 day Thanksgiving break and I’m going to the beach with two friends!
I continue to go to the children’s hospital on Wednesdays with the high school students. I have to share a story about a visit I had a couple of weeks ago: I entered into a room and started talking with a woman who was there staying with her nephew. When I asked her how she was, she started crying and shared with me that her sister was in labor in another hospital (the mother of the boy in the hospital), and that her 5 year old niece had been missing for 2 hours. She was outside playing and then disappeared. I was speechless. I just hugged this woman and she cried in my arms. I then prayed for her family, and that the little girl would return home safe. About 5 minutes later, the phone rang!! Guess what?! The little girl had been found! This woman burst out into tears again and said to me, “Your prayers were answered! Your God hears you. I want to know more.” I then was able to share with her about the Lord and give her a Bible. God is good. I am so proud of the students that go every week. They bring many smiles to the parents and children there. I am on the Broken Bones floor this year again.
Santos Pamba Preschool update: As you know, Compassion International will now be visiting on December 5th. In the meantime, they are continuing to prepare the house. We still need $1000 to pay back the loan on the house. Please pray that the Lord will provide the money needed.
Remember how I met with the Director of my school and went through the “old” preschool things to get donations for Santos Pamba? Last week I cleaned up all of the toys and furniture and boxed everything up. We completely filled 2 trucks full and haven’t finished yet! Next weekend I am meeting with the teachers to explain the different materials and help them set up centers. I then am having them over for lunch. Please pray for this time with Amanda and Mari. I’m really excited about it! I praise God for the doors He keeps opening for ministry and feel this is just the beginning!
This is the last week of the Nickel Drive that I am doing at my school for Santos Pamba preschool- the kids have raised over $1200! This money will be used to buy school supplies and furniture needed in the school. On Nov. 20th I will be presenting this gift to Pastor Pedro Pablo at our Elementary chapel! It is a surprise and I can’t wait to share this blessing with them. I’m working on planning a field trip to take my class to the Santos Pamba preschool to play with the kids.
Fox Island Alliance Church just finished their Mission Conference and there was a table for Santos Pamba. Did you see it? We are praying that God provides the finances to buy a school uniform for each student (only $31) and working on getting each student sponsored. Please let me know if you are interested or have any questions.
Karlita: Do you remember my little Karlita? The girl we got a wheelchair for last year? I FINALLY saw her! I had been calling since I returned in August and finally they called me back. I was able to go to a doctor’s appointment with Manuela (her mom), Karlita, and her brother Sabastian. It was wonderful to see them again. Karlita has grown a lot! They are using the wheelchair, but unfortunately cannot use it when traveling because the buses don’t help her load the wheelchair. Can you believe that? They just pass her. Karlita just started physical therapy. She has been given 20 free sessions, and then the rest are half price. The physical therapy will help with developing her muscles. Please pray that the therapy will help her. After the appointment I took them to lunch and bought shoes and socks for Sabastian, who is 7. He probably tried on 30 pairs of shoes. They had never been to a shoe store before. He was so excited that he hugged the cashier, the lady who helped us, and then me, and went skipping down the mall. Something so small made his day. It is a blessing to be able to bless others. I will keep you updated on Karlita.
I went to the Cloud Rainforest last weekend with a couple from my church. I got to hold one of the big exotic blue butterflies on my finger! I also saw lots of colorful hummingbirds. It was great to get out of the city for a day. Last Sunday I went to visit the Santa Maria church where I visited a lot last year. It was great to be back with the kids there. I missed them. I am planning on going there once a month at least.
Please continue to pray for me with my roommate situation, and that I will continue to spend time in the Word daily and seek God’s direction in the ministries that I do here. Also, my uncle Peter is in the hospital with cancer and doesn't have much time left to live. Please pray for him and that he will come to know the Lord.
Thank you for your prayers and support. God bless you all!
School: I have 2 new boys in my class now that got switched from the other class to mine. They have transitioned well to my class and are doing great. I now only have 11 students. Please continue to pray for me that God will help me be the best teacher for my students and be Jesus to them each day.
My class is getting ready for the 3rd grade tradition of putting on a Thanksgiving Feast for the maintenance workers at our school. We have been busy preparing a skit, decorations, and cards for each worker. We have a 3 day Thanksgiving break and I’m going to the beach with two friends!
I continue to go to the children’s hospital on Wednesdays with the high school students. I have to share a story about a visit I had a couple of weeks ago: I entered into a room and started talking with a woman who was there staying with her nephew. When I asked her how she was, she started crying and shared with me that her sister was in labor in another hospital (the mother of the boy in the hospital), and that her 5 year old niece had been missing for 2 hours. She was outside playing and then disappeared. I was speechless. I just hugged this woman and she cried in my arms. I then prayed for her family, and that the little girl would return home safe. About 5 minutes later, the phone rang!! Guess what?! The little girl had been found! This woman burst out into tears again and said to me, “Your prayers were answered! Your God hears you. I want to know more.” I then was able to share with her about the Lord and give her a Bible. God is good. I am so proud of the students that go every week. They bring many smiles to the parents and children there. I am on the Broken Bones floor this year again.
Santos Pamba Preschool update: As you know, Compassion International will now be visiting on December 5th. In the meantime, they are continuing to prepare the house. We still need $1000 to pay back the loan on the house. Please pray that the Lord will provide the money needed.
Remember how I met with the Director of my school and went through the “old” preschool things to get donations for Santos Pamba? Last week I cleaned up all of the toys and furniture and boxed everything up. We completely filled 2 trucks full and haven’t finished yet! Next weekend I am meeting with the teachers to explain the different materials and help them set up centers. I then am having them over for lunch. Please pray for this time with Amanda and Mari. I’m really excited about it! I praise God for the doors He keeps opening for ministry and feel this is just the beginning!
This is the last week of the Nickel Drive that I am doing at my school for Santos Pamba preschool- the kids have raised over $1200! This money will be used to buy school supplies and furniture needed in the school. On Nov. 20th I will be presenting this gift to Pastor Pedro Pablo at our Elementary chapel! It is a surprise and I can’t wait to share this blessing with them. I’m working on planning a field trip to take my class to the Santos Pamba preschool to play with the kids.
Fox Island Alliance Church just finished their Mission Conference and there was a table for Santos Pamba. Did you see it? We are praying that God provides the finances to buy a school uniform for each student (only $31) and working on getting each student sponsored. Please let me know if you are interested or have any questions.
Karlita: Do you remember my little Karlita? The girl we got a wheelchair for last year? I FINALLY saw her! I had been calling since I returned in August and finally they called me back. I was able to go to a doctor’s appointment with Manuela (her mom), Karlita, and her brother Sabastian. It was wonderful to see them again. Karlita has grown a lot! They are using the wheelchair, but unfortunately cannot use it when traveling because the buses don’t help her load the wheelchair. Can you believe that? They just pass her. Karlita just started physical therapy. She has been given 20 free sessions, and then the rest are half price. The physical therapy will help with developing her muscles. Please pray that the therapy will help her. After the appointment I took them to lunch and bought shoes and socks for Sabastian, who is 7. He probably tried on 30 pairs of shoes. They had never been to a shoe store before. He was so excited that he hugged the cashier, the lady who helped us, and then me, and went skipping down the mall. Something so small made his day. It is a blessing to be able to bless others. I will keep you updated on Karlita.
I went to the Cloud Rainforest last weekend with a couple from my church. I got to hold one of the big exotic blue butterflies on my finger! I also saw lots of colorful hummingbirds. It was great to get out of the city for a day. Last Sunday I went to visit the Santa Maria church where I visited a lot last year. It was great to be back with the kids there. I missed them. I am planning on going there once a month at least.
Please continue to pray for me with my roommate situation, and that I will continue to spend time in the Word daily and seek God’s direction in the ministries that I do here. Also, my uncle Peter is in the hospital with cancer and doesn't have much time left to live. Please pray for him and that he will come to know the Lord.
Thank you for your prayers and support. God bless you all!
Sunday, October 21, 2007
1 Year Anniversary of Santos Pamba
I spent all day today at Santos Pamba. The preschoolers and their parents were there, along with members of the church, and people from the neighborhood. The preschoolers sang 3 songs at the service. (see the picture below) It was adorable! I spent the afternoon helping serve lunch to everyone, and playing with the preschoolers. I also got to spend time with the teachers, Amanda and Mari. The kids are loving going to preschool. We are planning to take all of the preschoolers to a park to play and have a picnic soon! I wish you could all be here to meet these precious kids.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Santos Pamba Pictures
Pastor Pedro Pablo, and the preschool teachers Amanda and Mari
Working on the roof and prepping for a second floor.
Second story- new! They had the first church service here last week. All the neighboors were watching and curious about what was going on.
Working on the new house. It is now plastered inside and has cement outside. The part to the right is where the dining area will be for the children.
Santos Pamba Church- the new house is the cement house to the rightSANTOS PAMBA PRESCHOOL UPDATE
God has been providing! It brings tears to my eyes just being able to share with you how much has been going on. The home next to the church is almost paid off! Only about $1000 more is needed. The house is bought, but through a loan. Thank you so much to those who have donated! On behalf of the church and preschoolers…thank you. When I told Pastor Pedro Pablo how much has been donated, he started to cry and thank God. This dream for a Compassion Center would be impossible if it weren’t for people donating and praying like you. Thank you very much. May God bless you.
The members of the church have started construction on the house. Another missionary here has donated money for this construction. It was just cinderblock and now they are putting plaster, stairs, and have built 2 classrooms, a kitchen, and are working on building the dining area for the kids. (see pictures above) It’s been amazing to see the change. They are very excited about this home being a ministry to their neighbors. Compassion International will be coming to visit the site on November 5th. Please be praying for this day, that Compassion will agree to finally start a site at Santos Pamba! I will keep you posted on what happens.
The Lord has been using me at my school to be a voice for Santos Pamba also. I am on the Ecuadorian Outreach Committee for the Elementary. We are doing outreach projects each quarter. Since Thanksgiving is coming up in November, we decided to do a Thanksgiving Nickel Drive and donate the money somewhere. Guess where we decided to donate the money? To Santos Pamba Preschool! I took pictures of all of the kids and have them hung up all around the school. Each classroom has a jar with a picture of one of the preschool students on it. We are having a competition between each grade level to see who can raise the most. I’m in charge of this fundraiser. I made a PowerPoint presentation of the preschoolers and comparing their “school” with our school. It’s been amazing to see how passionate these Elementary kids are to help others. The money is coming in quickly! Parents wrote me and asked for it to be school wide instead of just the Elementary, and now it is! Parents who are doctors have contacted me and want to donate medicines, others have donated clothes, and just on Friday an aunt of a student called me and wants to donate a bunch of children’s books and school supplies! Daily I am in awe of God and how He is moving in the hearts of people at my school to reach out. I’m not finished yet- there’s more! Our school has a storage room full of old things that no one is using anymore (old furniture, toys, and books). I met with our Director on Friday morning to talk to him about donating those items instead of taking up storage space. God has blessed our school with many things, and I told him that we need to in turn give and bless others in need around us. Guess what? Those things are now going to be donated and I’m in charge of it! J God is so good.
Tomorrow I’m going to the 1 year anniversary of the Santos Pamba church and I’m the honored guest. I’ll let you know how it went. Thank you again to everyone who has been praying and supporting Santos Pamba. Thank you for being a part of what God is doing here in Ecuador. God is moving! Praise Him!
The members of the church have started construction on the house. Another missionary here has donated money for this construction. It was just cinderblock and now they are putting plaster, stairs, and have built 2 classrooms, a kitchen, and are working on building the dining area for the kids. (see pictures above) It’s been amazing to see the change. They are very excited about this home being a ministry to their neighbors. Compassion International will be coming to visit the site on November 5th. Please be praying for this day, that Compassion will agree to finally start a site at Santos Pamba! I will keep you posted on what happens.
The Lord has been using me at my school to be a voice for Santos Pamba also. I am on the Ecuadorian Outreach Committee for the Elementary. We are doing outreach projects each quarter. Since Thanksgiving is coming up in November, we decided to do a Thanksgiving Nickel Drive and donate the money somewhere. Guess where we decided to donate the money? To Santos Pamba Preschool! I took pictures of all of the kids and have them hung up all around the school. Each classroom has a jar with a picture of one of the preschool students on it. We are having a competition between each grade level to see who can raise the most. I’m in charge of this fundraiser. I made a PowerPoint presentation of the preschoolers and comparing their “school” with our school. It’s been amazing to see how passionate these Elementary kids are to help others. The money is coming in quickly! Parents wrote me and asked for it to be school wide instead of just the Elementary, and now it is! Parents who are doctors have contacted me and want to donate medicines, others have donated clothes, and just on Friday an aunt of a student called me and wants to donate a bunch of children’s books and school supplies! Daily I am in awe of God and how He is moving in the hearts of people at my school to reach out. I’m not finished yet- there’s more! Our school has a storage room full of old things that no one is using anymore (old furniture, toys, and books). I met with our Director on Friday morning to talk to him about donating those items instead of taking up storage space. God has blessed our school with many things, and I told him that we need to in turn give and bless others in need around us. Guess what? Those things are now going to be donated and I’m in charge of it! J God is so good.
Tomorrow I’m going to the 1 year anniversary of the Santos Pamba church and I’m the honored guest. I’ll let you know how it went. Thank you again to everyone who has been praying and supporting Santos Pamba. Thank you for being a part of what God is doing here in Ecuador. God is moving! Praise Him!
Friday, October 19, 2007
Weekend Trip Pictures
Abram, Raquel, and I
Pastor Manuel, Mark Shafter, and un hermano
San Bartolo Seminary
Chacapungo Christian Missionary Alliance Church
Pastor Ipolito's family in Chacapungo
Pastor Ipolito and his wifeWeekend Trip to Visit Churches
Last weekend I went to visit 4 different Quichua Alliance churches south of Quito with Mark and Cheryl Shafer. It was an amazing weekend. We went with the purpose to encourage those in the churches, and be a blessing to them, but I returned 10 times more blessed and encouraged by them!
On Friday we drove 4 hours up into the mountains and farm land to visit a church in the village Chacapungo. There we went to the home of the Pastor Ipolito and had lunch with them (no guinea pig! Thanks God!) What a beautiful family (see the picture above). We visited with them and then continued on to visit a church in San Bartolo. The Fox Island mission team helped build a seminary there this summer. It was amazing to see the progress they have made on the seminary since then (see picture). It was freezing cold in San Bartolo because it is on top of a hill! We spent time with Pastor Manuel, his wife, and some of the members of the church. During our time there, I met two little precious kids who I got to read some stories to (see the picture)
On Saturday we went to Quitocucho, where I spent a week this summer- a community way up in the hills, with corn and onion fields everywhere….donkeys, pigs, and chickens roam the streets. Kids came running down the dirt roads calling my name when they saw me. It was wonderful to be back and see the kids that we worked with this summer, and the families from the church. While there, we went to visit another remote church nearby in San Rafael. This summer I went there to encourage the church members. While I was there in July, I was asked to counsel and pray with a couple who was having marriage problems and difficulties in their home. They were able to reconcile after my time with them. The Lord gave me the words to say! Guess who was waiting for me at the San Rafael church that afternoon?! Abram and Raquel! They were smiling and told me that things are going a lot better in their marriage, that they are going to church every Sunday, and that the Lord used me that day I prayed with them! Wow! God is good! It was such an encouragement to me to see fruit of ministry. It made my day! We spent the night in the home of the family I stayed with this summer and then went to the church on Sunday. The church has grown since July! My pew was full of kids! We returned to Quito Sunday afternoon. It was a wonderful weekend away. Thank you God for bringing me to Ecuador.
On Friday we drove 4 hours up into the mountains and farm land to visit a church in the village Chacapungo. There we went to the home of the Pastor Ipolito and had lunch with them (no guinea pig! Thanks God!) What a beautiful family (see the picture above). We visited with them and then continued on to visit a church in San Bartolo. The Fox Island mission team helped build a seminary there this summer. It was amazing to see the progress they have made on the seminary since then (see picture). It was freezing cold in San Bartolo because it is on top of a hill! We spent time with Pastor Manuel, his wife, and some of the members of the church. During our time there, I met two little precious kids who I got to read some stories to (see the picture)
On Saturday we went to Quitocucho, where I spent a week this summer- a community way up in the hills, with corn and onion fields everywhere….donkeys, pigs, and chickens roam the streets. Kids came running down the dirt roads calling my name when they saw me. It was wonderful to be back and see the kids that we worked with this summer, and the families from the church. While there, we went to visit another remote church nearby in San Rafael. This summer I went there to encourage the church members. While I was there in July, I was asked to counsel and pray with a couple who was having marriage problems and difficulties in their home. They were able to reconcile after my time with them. The Lord gave me the words to say! Guess who was waiting for me at the San Rafael church that afternoon?! Abram and Raquel! They were smiling and told me that things are going a lot better in their marriage, that they are going to church every Sunday, and that the Lord used me that day I prayed with them! Wow! God is good! It was such an encouragement to me to see fruit of ministry. It made my day! We spent the night in the home of the family I stayed with this summer and then went to the church on Sunday. The church has grown since July! My pew was full of kids! We returned to Quito Sunday afternoon. It was a wonderful weekend away. Thank you God for bringing me to Ecuador.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
God is so good. Everyday I stand in awe of how He is working here in Quito and the privilege it is to be a part of His ministry here. I truly love it here. Thank you for your faithful prayers and support. Your prayers are vital and I feel them! Thank you.
I have been in school now for a month. My class is wonderful! (see our class picture below, as well as pictures of my school) This past week we had Spiritual Emphasis Week. A team from North Carolina came and taught chapel everyday. They focused on how God’s Word has a purpose in our lives. They wrote in their chapel journals everyday about what they learned or what God spoke to them about and then we had a time of sharing. The Lord really touched the hearts of many of my students and spoke to them. Please continue to pray for me, that I will be a light to these students and be Jesus to them each day. Many of my students come from non-Christian families.
Last weekend we had a staff retreat. Our school took EVERYONE (even the guards and custodians) to a fancy hotel here in Quito. It was a wonderful time of fellowship as staff and a time to relax together. We have a new Director this year who is incredible. He has Godly desires and dreams for our school. He spoke to us about how the most important thing in our school is our individual walks with the Lord, and then everything follows that. We had a very special time of worship and communion together. It was a wonderful way to start off the school year. I felt refreshed and encouraged.
Thank you to those who have been praying for Santos Pamba! God heard our prayers for a teacher! There are now 22 students, and 2 teachers. The new teacher’s name is Amanda and she has 15 years of experience, plus a degree in Early Education! She will be working along with the other teacher named Mari. They are meeting in the church until the house next door is bought. They have class everyday from 8am until 1pm. The teachers are teaching basic skills for preschoolers, as well as basics from the Bible. Here is the house update: we have to buy the house as soon as possible. The owner is getting impatient. We still need $5,500 in order to buy the house. If you feel led to give, even $1, PLEASE contact me! Anything will help. Compassion International is coming to see Santos Pamba the middle of October. Our goal is to have the house bought, and be all set for Compassion to come start a center! PLEAE PRAY! THIS IS NOT POSSIBLE WITHOUT PRAYER! God has been faithful so far and I know He will continue to be.
Last Monday I started the mentorship program with the high school students, Peer Helpers. They are a quality group of students and I’m excited to get to know them as we meet together this year.
Summary of praises and prayers:
Praises:
1. For the new teacher, Amanda, at Santos Pamba preschool
2. For my wonderful class and new friends at school
3. I have been reading through the Bible faithfully and the Word is coming alive to me in a new way
Prayer requests:
1. For $5,500 to buy the house for Santos Pamba
2. That I will learn to balance my time well and take time for myself
3. My roommate situation
4. That I will continue to be faithful to reading the Word daily and God will give me new insights, and speak to me
Thank you so much for your faithful prayer support and encouraging emails. May God bless you!
I have been in school now for a month. My class is wonderful! (see our class picture below, as well as pictures of my school) This past week we had Spiritual Emphasis Week. A team from North Carolina came and taught chapel everyday. They focused on how God’s Word has a purpose in our lives. They wrote in their chapel journals everyday about what they learned or what God spoke to them about and then we had a time of sharing. The Lord really touched the hearts of many of my students and spoke to them. Please continue to pray for me, that I will be a light to these students and be Jesus to them each day. Many of my students come from non-Christian families.
Last weekend we had a staff retreat. Our school took EVERYONE (even the guards and custodians) to a fancy hotel here in Quito. It was a wonderful time of fellowship as staff and a time to relax together. We have a new Director this year who is incredible. He has Godly desires and dreams for our school. He spoke to us about how the most important thing in our school is our individual walks with the Lord, and then everything follows that. We had a very special time of worship and communion together. It was a wonderful way to start off the school year. I felt refreshed and encouraged.
Thank you to those who have been praying for Santos Pamba! God heard our prayers for a teacher! There are now 22 students, and 2 teachers. The new teacher’s name is Amanda and she has 15 years of experience, plus a degree in Early Education! She will be working along with the other teacher named Mari. They are meeting in the church until the house next door is bought. They have class everyday from 8am until 1pm. The teachers are teaching basic skills for preschoolers, as well as basics from the Bible. Here is the house update: we have to buy the house as soon as possible. The owner is getting impatient. We still need $5,500 in order to buy the house. If you feel led to give, even $1, PLEASE contact me! Anything will help. Compassion International is coming to see Santos Pamba the middle of October. Our goal is to have the house bought, and be all set for Compassion to come start a center! PLEAE PRAY! THIS IS NOT POSSIBLE WITHOUT PRAYER! God has been faithful so far and I know He will continue to be.
Last Monday I started the mentorship program with the high school students, Peer Helpers. They are a quality group of students and I’m excited to get to know them as we meet together this year.
Summary of praises and prayers:
Praises:
1. For the new teacher, Amanda, at Santos Pamba preschool
2. For my wonderful class and new friends at school
3. I have been reading through the Bible faithfully and the Word is coming alive to me in a new way
Prayer requests:
1. For $5,500 to buy the house for Santos Pamba
2. That I will learn to balance my time well and take time for myself
3. My roommate situation
4. That I will continue to be faithful to reading the Word daily and God will give me new insights, and speak to me
Thank you so much for your faithful prayer support and encouraging emails. May God bless you!
Monday, September 24, 2007
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Pictures of the Indigenous Gringa
Pastor Pedro Pablo Morocho and I at Santos Pamba Quichua Alliance Church
The Indigenous Gringa
I arrived back in Quito on August 16th, and time has flown by fast! Here’s a quick update on what has been going on since then:
Santos Pamba home/preschool update:
As many of you know, I spoke at church about the need for support for helping buy a home in Santos Pamba next to the Santos Pamba Alliance Church. Once this home is bought, Compassion International will partner with the church to open a center there, which will change the quality of life for many children who live in Santos Pamba. This home is also to be the site of the preschool that they want to begin also. The Lord has been providing support and most importantly prayer support for Santos Pamba. I met with the pastor, Pedro Pablo, to share with him about how brothers and sisters in the Washington are praying for Santos Pamba and that many want to support financially. He couldn’t stop saying “Gracias a Dios” and had tears in his eyes. While I was gone, he met with Compassion International and they said they had to do four things before they would partner with Santos Pamba.
They need to:
1. Buy the home (which costs $10,000)
2. Build a bathroom
3. Build an office room
4. Create an administration team
I’m excited to report that they have done everything on their own except buying the house! Pedro Pablo is in the process of talking with the owner and finalizing the price. Please pray that this process will go smoothly and that the Lord will provide the rest of the finances. If you feel led to give towards this, please contact me.
Last Sunday, I went to Santos Pamba for church. When I arrived, Pedro Pablo greeted me with a hug and told me to follow him. He took me into a room where all the women of the church were waiting for me. He had shared with the congregation how I had spoke on behalf of Santos Pamba in the States and asked people to pray for them. Before I knew it, the women were dressing me in their traditional dress! I had a group of 5 women dressing me! The pastor’s wife then told me that on behalf of the church, this outfit was a gift from them to thank me for being a prayer warrior for them. Tears rolled down my face as I was overwhelmed with their gesture of love. Below are some pictures of me as an indigenous gringa J
They are hoping to start the preschool soon, but are still in need of many things. Please pray that the Lord will provide. Also, they are looking for a teacher who has a college degree.
School:
School began on August 30th. I have 10 beautiful third graders. My class is made up of 2 Koreans, 1 Chinese, 3 Ecuadorians, and 4 from the U.S. (3 missionary kids, and 1 whose dad works in the oil industry here). I am excited about this year. They are very well behaved and excited about learning. Please pray that the Lord will give me discernment about where they are with God and that each day I will be an example of Jesus to my students. I am now in charge of leading chapel worship for the 3rd through 6th graders. Please pray that God will give me insight into how to best lead them in worship. Also, I will be starting up helping lead the hospital ministry again with the highschoolers each Wednesday. I have also been asked to be a mentor in a program called Peer Helpers. It is a small group mentoring program where you disciple the students spiritually and also teach them how to reach out to their peers who they see struggling spiritually or emotionally. I’m excited about this new opportunity. It is an honor to be asked. Two of the highschool girls that I built relationships with last year are going to be in my group. Please pray for me as I begin this ministry.
There are 2 new young single teachers at my school this year that I’ve become good friends with already. It’s great to have more single friends my age at my school. I’ve been taking them around Quito and helping them get used to the culture here. We’ve been having a lot of fun together.
You won’t believe where I went yesterday?! The teachers at my school were invited to lunch at the US Ambassador’s house! It was incredible. It took up a whole block and the food was amazing! Check out the pictures.
Roommate situation:
My wonderful roommate Laura, who is like a sister to me, went back to the US for 4 months to raise more support. She will be coming back in January. In the meantime, I have another roommate who is a new teacher this year. PLEASE PRAY FOR ME. We are complete opposites and it has been difficult. It has been a huge adjustment for me, and quite frustrating. I know the Lord has a reason for her living with me for this time. I know I am going to be able to teach her things, and that God is going to teach me things through this experience also. Please pray that God will give me understanding and patience with her, and love for her. This is a huge prayer need for me right now.
Quick summary:
PRAYER REQUESTS:
1. Financial provision for Santos Pamba and also a preschool teacher
2. Wisdom and discernment for me as I lead chapel, and start the new mentoring program Peer Helpers
3. That God will give me patience and understanding with my new roommate, and love for her.
4. That I will stay devoted to taking time each day to be with the Lord and renew and refresh myself. I am reading through the Bible this school year. Pray that I will stay dedicated to that and that God will speak to me.
5. That the Lord will bless my new class and help me be the best teacher that I can be for them.
PRAISES:
1. For the numerous ministry opportunities the Lord has given me
2. For new friends at school
3. For how God is moving in Santos Pamba and the faith of the brothers and sisters there
4. For a wonderful new class of third graders
Thank you for your continued support and prayers. I feel them! May God bless each of you.
Santos Pamba home/preschool update:
As many of you know, I spoke at church about the need for support for helping buy a home in Santos Pamba next to the Santos Pamba Alliance Church. Once this home is bought, Compassion International will partner with the church to open a center there, which will change the quality of life for many children who live in Santos Pamba. This home is also to be the site of the preschool that they want to begin also. The Lord has been providing support and most importantly prayer support for Santos Pamba. I met with the pastor, Pedro Pablo, to share with him about how brothers and sisters in the Washington are praying for Santos Pamba and that many want to support financially. He couldn’t stop saying “Gracias a Dios” and had tears in his eyes. While I was gone, he met with Compassion International and they said they had to do four things before they would partner with Santos Pamba.
They need to:
1. Buy the home (which costs $10,000)
2. Build a bathroom
3. Build an office room
4. Create an administration team
I’m excited to report that they have done everything on their own except buying the house! Pedro Pablo is in the process of talking with the owner and finalizing the price. Please pray that this process will go smoothly and that the Lord will provide the rest of the finances. If you feel led to give towards this, please contact me.
Last Sunday, I went to Santos Pamba for church. When I arrived, Pedro Pablo greeted me with a hug and told me to follow him. He took me into a room where all the women of the church were waiting for me. He had shared with the congregation how I had spoke on behalf of Santos Pamba in the States and asked people to pray for them. Before I knew it, the women were dressing me in their traditional dress! I had a group of 5 women dressing me! The pastor’s wife then told me that on behalf of the church, this outfit was a gift from them to thank me for being a prayer warrior for them. Tears rolled down my face as I was overwhelmed with their gesture of love. Below are some pictures of me as an indigenous gringa J
They are hoping to start the preschool soon, but are still in need of many things. Please pray that the Lord will provide. Also, they are looking for a teacher who has a college degree.
School:
School began on August 30th. I have 10 beautiful third graders. My class is made up of 2 Koreans, 1 Chinese, 3 Ecuadorians, and 4 from the U.S. (3 missionary kids, and 1 whose dad works in the oil industry here). I am excited about this year. They are very well behaved and excited about learning. Please pray that the Lord will give me discernment about where they are with God and that each day I will be an example of Jesus to my students. I am now in charge of leading chapel worship for the 3rd through 6th graders. Please pray that God will give me insight into how to best lead them in worship. Also, I will be starting up helping lead the hospital ministry again with the highschoolers each Wednesday. I have also been asked to be a mentor in a program called Peer Helpers. It is a small group mentoring program where you disciple the students spiritually and also teach them how to reach out to their peers who they see struggling spiritually or emotionally. I’m excited about this new opportunity. It is an honor to be asked. Two of the highschool girls that I built relationships with last year are going to be in my group. Please pray for me as I begin this ministry.
There are 2 new young single teachers at my school this year that I’ve become good friends with already. It’s great to have more single friends my age at my school. I’ve been taking them around Quito and helping them get used to the culture here. We’ve been having a lot of fun together.
You won’t believe where I went yesterday?! The teachers at my school were invited to lunch at the US Ambassador’s house! It was incredible. It took up a whole block and the food was amazing! Check out the pictures.
Roommate situation:
My wonderful roommate Laura, who is like a sister to me, went back to the US for 4 months to raise more support. She will be coming back in January. In the meantime, I have another roommate who is a new teacher this year. PLEASE PRAY FOR ME. We are complete opposites and it has been difficult. It has been a huge adjustment for me, and quite frustrating. I know the Lord has a reason for her living with me for this time. I know I am going to be able to teach her things, and that God is going to teach me things through this experience also. Please pray that God will give me understanding and patience with her, and love for her. This is a huge prayer need for me right now.
Quick summary:
PRAYER REQUESTS:
1. Financial provision for Santos Pamba and also a preschool teacher
2. Wisdom and discernment for me as I lead chapel, and start the new mentoring program Peer Helpers
3. That God will give me patience and understanding with my new roommate, and love for her.
4. That I will stay devoted to taking time each day to be with the Lord and renew and refresh myself. I am reading through the Bible this school year. Pray that I will stay dedicated to that and that God will speak to me.
5. That the Lord will bless my new class and help me be the best teacher that I can be for them.
PRAISES:
1. For the numerous ministry opportunities the Lord has given me
2. For new friends at school
3. For how God is moving in Santos Pamba and the faith of the brothers and sisters there
4. For a wonderful new class of third graders
Thank you for your continued support and prayers. I feel them! May God bless each of you.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Guinea pig anyone?
Yes, it's true...that is a roasted guinea pig that I'm holding in that plastic bag. It was my parting gift from one of the churches. Anyone want to try it?
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