March 2010
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| A scrapbook design by Smilebox |
Meghan McIntosh, Central Canada Director, Legacy for Ministry. I'm here in Bolivia catching a few moments in the early morning before the day truly begins to post some field notes for our website. Legacy for Ministry is a jointly supported program of CBWOQ, CBM & CBOQ.
Yesterday I was interviewed on Southern Cross Radio with a moment's notice. Within minutes of arriving for a tour of the radio station, Nelida, the Director graciously informed us that she was going to interview us live on the Hymn Sing program that would start momentarily.
She began by interviewing Blair Clark from Canadian Baptist Ministries (CBM). Blair brought greetings and shared eloquently on many and varied aspect of integral mission in Bolivia and around the world - naturally with translation.
I was then invited to take the hot seat. After introducing myself, bringing greetings and sharing about my joy in connecting with my brothers and sisters in Christ in Bolivia, I was asked about my work.
What a privilege to share about the Legacy for Ministry program of CBWOQ, CBM & CBOQ.
What a beautiful yet terrifying journey from Cochabamba to Oruro through a wide variety of mountains. In Oruro we had the opportunity to go to Reekie College, Cristo Resucitado (the First Baptist Church in Oruro) and the cemetery. Visiting the masoleum for the Martyrs of Merk'amaya was very moving - reflecting on the martyrs through the centuries who lived fully for the Gospel of Jesus Christ - giving truly their all.
Tuesday was an incredible day which included visiting three of the micro credit program beneficiaries.
Maria had a lovely contenance - her smile just radiated as she shared with us in the workroom in her basic El Alto home. Loans from the micro credit program have allowed her to purchase moulds and materials for her candle making business. In order to sell her product for cash (as opposed to credit) she travels each Friday several hours by public transport to sell her candles. Her four children help with the business but also attend school in the morning. She also bakes and decorates cakes to sell which is her real passion. Her dream is one day to open a bakery and provide employment for others. Micro credit is truly a program that is making a difference!
Patriotic mission was present in Bolivia on Sunday - Canadian patriotism that is! Our team, the CBM field staff and a few honorary Canadians totalling 18 adults and 9 children gathered at the Widdles (CBM STEP missionaries on a one year term). Much laughter, fellowship, and encouragement was had as we were able to watch the exciting gold medal Team Canada/ Team USA men's hockey. You never know what a STM will bring!
