¡Hola amigos y familias!
Thank you so much for your prayers and encouraging comments! Our time here continues to go smoothly. Yesterday we had the privilege of visiting the Christian school that Pastor Jorge’s church founded. This is not just any school! Jorge and the teachers have a grand vision for these students. Education has obviously made a huge impact on these kids’ lives, and Jorge is determined that these children will grow up to be leaders and influencers who care about their people. The school teaches the PEACE plan to the kids and participates in local PEACE initiatives as well. One of the ways they serve their community is by taking food and clothing to a group of about 100 children who live by the river and only eat garbage. Imagine elementary school kids reaching out to their peers who need help! So inspiring!
Last night we got to see some of this poverty for ourselves. It was heartbreaking to be among a group of children who were so needy. Yes, they were lacking resources, but what we noticed most was their need to be touched and loved. We’re praying that our time with them might have been encouraging and hopeful, and we are grateful to know that Pastor Jorge’s church ministers to this neighborhood weekly.
Today we returned to this same under-resourced neighborhood to help prepare a meal at the soup kitchen. Like the school, this is not your ordinary soup kitchen. Several ladies prepare food each weekday and then one member from a family comes and picks up the food to take home. They do this to encourage the families to eat together at home rather than at the soup kitchen.
This afternoon we joined a group of teenagers from the church at a children’s hospital. Get this: one of the teen girls started and leads this ministry where about 10 of the teens visit this 9-floor hospital weekly. Throughout the month they make sure to visit every floor. This is the main children’s hospital in this province so kids are from all over. Some parents are able to stay with their kids and others are not. The teens offer to pray with the children and parents, but they also write down their names and meet at the church later in the week to pray over each one. How inspiring to see these teens putting their love in action! They call their ministry Amor en Acción (Love in Action).
Tonight we are excited to join a small group with Pastor Jorge to share our experiences about our own small groups. We have definitely missed the other part of our team, but we did hear that they arrived safely in the
It has been amazing getting to know Pastor Jorge and 2 other pastors from the church, Victor and Diego. This church really has it goin’ on! They are making a huge impact in their community and are so focused on long-term solutions when serving their people. It is awesome to see the PEACE Plan at work here!
-Michele, for the team in Paraná
7 comments:
Just returned from Africa. So what's this about my daughter being hugged by everyone "in a beautiful way"? We will continue to pray for your trip.
So good to hear of your safe arrival and the great things that are happeing there! The postings and pictures are such an encouragement. Praying for you as you minister.
Thank you for being our eyes in writing such a detailed blog. Why do the children have to suffer? But, I will trust in the Lord that He will care for them and bless those who are being the hands and feet of Jesus. It sounds like you guys are very far from the stereotypical beaches for which "Argentina" is know. And, I love that the food is picked up so that the families can have FNS :) Very smart thinking these by lovers of souls. From you blog it seems there are two very different worlds there. May God arise in Argentina :) Hey! Michele, love how you found the accent mark on your key board :) Many blessings! Joy! Raquel
So glad to hear the trip is going well! I am sure you are starting some amazing relationships. Thanks for being our hands and feet in Argentina!
This is fantastic. I'm so exited for you, Rebekah and the team you're with. I can't...I mean, I just wish I could go and be with you to experience what it's like. The people sound so beautiful.
Michele, so wonderful to hear about the PEACE plan happening in Parana! Love that you're making connections and and impact ... prayers for you and the team. Blessings!(bet you're REALLY lovin' the late supper hours). ;)
There is no age limit in the kingdom of God, just a willing submitted heart. Love hearing about the the young serving their peers. Still praying for you all! cathy s.
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