The first village we went to was called Santa Isabel. The village was flooded and we found ourselves carrying all our bags wearing boots because the water was up to our calves. We arrived at sunset which meant we had to move fast because the mosquito’s would start to swarm. We quickly sent up the tents in the church we stayed at, ate dinner and went to bed. In the morning we met with the Pastor and discussed how our week would shape up, what activities we would do and what he thought needed to be done or what the village needed to be challenged on. Each morning we met at the boat at 7 a.m., then went right into VBS back at the church.
The children were sweet and playful. They loved our felt boards, even though we thought they would think they were outdated! We sang silly songs with them in Spanish, did a craft that had to do with our lesson and then played games with them in the soccer fields. When we were done, we normally would play volleyball or futbol until lunch.
The afternoon usually brought more play time, personal devotion time, or bath time. At night, we would have a church service where we performed our dramas, shared testimonies, worshipped and preached. The people were friendly and receptive. By the end of our time there, 3 people were baptized, 12 kids and a couple adults accepted Jesus, 11 kids were dedicated to God, the church was dedicated, 30 pairs of eye glasses were given out.
A few highlights were chasing the kids through the murky water. We first went out there to bathe (in the river, where they poop, pee, bathe, drink, use the water to cook with, find crocs and poisonous snakes, etc). but it soon turned into a game of tag with the kids yelling “hello” with sweet little accents and then jumping into the deeper portion of the river. What other choice did I have then to throw off my boots and join them?! No choice :)
The people at this village were incredibly receptive and warm. It was a great way to start our trip on the river off!
***all of a sudden I can't load pictures anymore so more of those to come later. Here's my facebook link again to see more!
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.700160650818.2104235.53701690&type=1&l=0e07ef6114
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