Thursday

Our group had another amazing day!  We started things off by heading to a remote village around two hours away.  It was intensely hot (hottest we have been since arrival!) and there was an enormous amount of poverty.  We worked with the people of the community at the local church.  The puppets made an appearance, the gospel was presented using the EvangeCube and Belmont/water bottle skit and we handed out food bags to the families, as well as candy, cookies, juice and crayons to the children.  We also had the opportunity to pray with each lady/man that picked up a food bag.  And let us tell you, the Holy Spirit came down on top of us!  Our group was moved, as well as each person we prayed with.  Before we left, we circled around the pastor and lifted him and his community up in prayer.  He then prayed for us and we all sang Hallelujah in Spanish and English.  It was an incredibly moving moment!  Please pray for these people.  There is such oppression from the poverty and the biggest prayer requests were family issues, health problems and spiritual growth.  We continually reminded each person we prayed with that they are not alone.  

We had the opportunity to eat dinner together at a restaurant that was a convent during the colonial period.  It was a beautiful place full of history and ancient artifacts/grounds.  It was a moving time of sharing among the group.  Back at the hotel, Mateo and Cherene surprised Kelcei, Amber and Alejandra with a birthday cake since their birthdays are in May.  It was delicious!