Wednesday

Wow - what a day......
Wow because we were able to see past the "projects" and focus on the people.  We enjoyed the journey,not just the tasks.  A very full day with similar activities as mentioned in the previous posts.  Our team seemed more seamless today - we moved together well.  We distributed the food bags today to many homes.  The families really appreciated the food, especially one who's husband has just lost his job.  Some of us walked up and down the streets stopping at homes visiting, inviting them to the services tonight and tomorrow night.  The Mexican people are so warm and friendly and often invite us to come into thier property and sit and chat for a bit.  It is so heartwarming and enjoyable to sit with them in their humble abodes and share life stories and encouragement from the Bible and our life experiences.


For the childrens Bible school Pam and Steve shared the story of the boat twice owned.  We all sang He's Got The Whole World In His Hands with the motions, and even tried it in Spanish, but that didn't go over too well.  Yoko taught us the Oragami folds to make a boat for a craft.  The puppets made the kids squeal with joy as always.  Another event that the kids enjoyed was the clown that came tonight to share his talents and enthusiasm with the kids, weaving in bible stories.  He held their attention for a very long time.
The highlight for us all was the evening service.  The church  at Progreso, House of Hope, is still under construction, yet we had our first real service in the "sanctuary".  The city donated a stage which was set up, the Three Amigos musicians were on stage, and we had an awesome sunset as the backdrop.  Two members of our team shared how Jesus has changed their lives - transforming them, after some very low points in their lives and struggles with addictions.  Pastor David preached with enthusiasm and passion.  It was a great night to remember, especially for those of us who have worked here in Progreso since our first time here. 
We are lacking in sleep a bit, but that's usually the norm.  Everyone seems in good health and usually remembers to put their sunscreen on. (Yes, the SUN is shining).  Have we mentioned the food is really good?  :)

For the team,
Peggy and John

Tuesday

We began our day Tuesday with an early breakfast in Progreso with 36 kids at the church site.  We served up a warm breakfast of eggs and ham, tortillas, beans, fruit, tamales, and OJ.  It was fun to see the kids eating breakfast on the tables covered with tablecloths that the kids from North Haven Wednesday night club had written sweet messages on.  Once breakfast was over, the kids from Progreso wrote on tablecloths that will be returned with the team.  Great idea!

The construction work continued on the walls and chairs. The numero uno bano was finished and the inaugural flush was done.  We all say GRACIAS!!!!  We spent a lot of time with the children and playing with them.  We ordered bread from the family next to the church who have a brick oven in their back yard.  Mmmmmm good - fresh yummy homemade bread.
Octavia, Pete, Cindy and John went to the wholesale market in town to purchase food to fill food bags to give out to families in Progreso who are in need and have a relationship with the church.  Money was raised at this years Gala particularly for that.  We put together bags of food to be given to 30 families.

VBS story "David and Goliath" was acted out by Shawn and Lexie (guess which one was Goliath?) while Cindy read the Bible story in Spanish.  Music was led by Emily, Glynae read a poem in Spanish about Jesus is our Shepherd, and Nicole told the story of the candy cane:  the shape is a shepherd's staff, or turned up side down,  a "J" for Jesus, and the (red) stripe represents the blood of Jesus and the (white) is Jesus' pureness.

People from a bordering neighborhood were invited by a group from Emmanuel to attend the Wednesday and Thursday evening evangelistic services at House of Hope.  One group spent an extended time with Maria.  Please pray for her, as she acknowledged her need to be right with God and take that step of faith.

We wrapped up the day with carne asada dinner at Emmanuel Baptist church.

Thank you for your interest in our trip.  We covet your prayers and ask that you continue to pray for our team.  We are really having a great time!

For the team,
Peggy and John