The Ecuador team thanks the entire congregation for making this service experience a reality. You prayed with us, generously supported us financially, and helped the team prepare in many ways.
Here are some highlights of the team’s experience.
Outdoor & Outreach Ministry: El Refugio hosts local and international church groups, teens, college students, young professionals and corporate teams to experience, exercise, and grow in faith by taking part in adventure. We got a taste of this by participating in high and low ropes courses, climbing walls, and team bonding exercises. Their “Education=Hope” children came for two sessions with our team to practice English skills and learn about Jesus.
Local Church: The team led a kids’ Sunday school hour and I preached with the help of a translator at the Olsen’s home church. This is the only Protestant church in Calacali. We exchanged testimonies with local believers, a crucial encouragement in our faith, conveying to local believers that we were there not only to give encouragement but to receive as well.
Cultural Immersion: The team went sightseeing and people-watching at historical sites, giving us an opportunity to talk about how people in different cultures behave. Our frequent refrain was, “It is not wrong, just different.”
Serving El Refugio & the Olsen family: The team took part in three work days. We raked, painted roofs and playgrounds, sanded and stained, peeled bark from eucalyptus trees, cleared woods of brush, helped prepare a foundation for a future cabin, weeded, and helped renew a bee colony. I am proud of the team for working cheerfully and tirelessly. We also served the Olsen family by insisting that Jim and Suzy go on a date while we watched their six kids. On another night, knowing that the Olsen family loves Indian cuisine, we cooked a meal with the family and staff.
I encourage you to ask our team for their stories. What was challenging? What was fun? How did God meet you in Calacali? What did you learn about Ecuadorian Christians? How did being in another culture change how you think?
You’ll hear some powerful experiences!