February 2010
We had the opportunity to go to Plaza Principal in Cochabamba a short walk from where we are staying and witness the weekly baby washing. This particular week there were many willing hands to help with bathing children, combing hair, distributing clean clothes, playing with the children, etc. Seeing teenage boys from a New Brunswick youth team skipping with Bolivian children and tenderly dressing a wee babe was awesome. A number of the Csnsdian Baptist Ministries Field staff and their families also gathered to help, and we had our initial introductions.
What a privilege to worship at Roca de la Fe in Cochabamba this morning. What a rich time of worshipping with our Bolivian brothers and sisters in Christ. The language of love and a shared faith in Jesus our Lord and Saviour crossed the language barriers.
What a delightful surprise during their welcoming song when all visitors were invited to come forward to discover that a fellow Baptist Woman was also in attendance - Sarita Ortiz!! We were at her home church in Bolivia on the very Sunday she was home visiting. She even provided the translation for us as we were asked to introduce ourselves and share a few words. What a beautiful woman she is both on the inside and out.
One of the lovely aspects of the welcoming was the welcoming song they sang - then one by one each congregation member from the youngest to the oldest came forward to greet us with hugs and kisses and warm words. We are truly one in Christ Jesus.
Arrived late yesterday afternoon after almost 30 hours of travel and went directly to Casa de la Amistad in Cochabamba. Here there is a vibrant ministry to children whose parent or parents are in jail. The children live in either the women´s or the men´s jai,l both of which are located within a block of Casa. Upon our arrival the children gathered around eager to interact with us. Many hugs were given. Jamie Lynn, a 15 year old from FBC, Kingsville, was a real hit when she showed the kids their pictures on her camera! What amazing work is being done in the name of Jesus Christ to these needy children.
The reality of my departure this week on my first ever short term trip came one step closer when, on Sunday, my church family at Mount Hamilton Baptist Church prayed for me and the rest of the team during the morning service. I was thrilled that a good number of folks also asked for the prayer calendar I had prepared. Prayer is such a vital aspect of any STM! I am excited to see God at work in Bolivia.
Yours in Christ, Meghan
Yesterday was my first visit to Parkdale . . . a warm welcome, meaningful communion and sharing a meal. Pastor Joe sensitively enabled participation and made all of us feel welcomed to this community of faith.
