Ecuador, Second Time Around

The first trip was in 2000 and radically different from this one. First time: very little people contact. Second time around: lots and lots, and it felt good. I traveled with a miniscule team: the Vick family, consisting of Tim (dad), Marianne (mom), and Kerra (daughter). Logistically, it was nice. Workwise a bit challenging because it would take more than four people to implement the entire program. Fortunately, the permanent workers filled in the gaps. Before departure, our team put together the content and supplies for a traveling kids' club, a jewelry-making class for adult women, and a financial seminar for men/couples. Since I volunteered to do the childrens' Bible stories, most of my time was spent putting the lessons together.

I created a video of the trip (3 mins. 26 secs.), so please take a look!

My biggest challenge was language. Although I lived in Puerto Rico for seven years as a child and reached fluency, I still had to work hard to prepare. I had forgotten lots of words and was going back and forth between the Bible lessons and Google Translate to remember how to say things. The effort was worth it! I was nervous right before the first time I spoke, but once my mouth opened, the words came. I believe I spoke in tongues, according to the Book of Acts.

The Land - Loja Province is beautiful. Small towns hide in the Andes Mountains under the hot sun. During the flight in, we observed rich green hillsides and an agrarian economy. The cost of living is a fraction of mine and incomes are next to nothing.

The People - Historically, people have been untrusting and occasionally hostile to outsiders. But we did not encounter this. Kids and adults welcomed us with hugs, kisses, and conversation. Many thanks to the workers who have faithfully cared for the communities and won the hearts of many.

The Work - A smattering of churches have sprung throughout the province, and they are growing. But there are towns that still live in spiritual darkness. Even though our team did not encounter open opposition, we've heard there are folks who still slander. My prayer is that the churches will continue to grow in spite of the opposition and that the slanderers will come around.

The Lans' - I've known Mark and Ruth for years, even before they started dating. This was a great reunion because they are doing well, and their two boys, Nathan and Caleb, are adjusting. Nathan, age 6, already speaks the language. Mom and dad are making lots of friends and are initiating ministry.

The Martinez' - This was my first introduction to this family, and all I can say is wow! David and Rocio are seasoned shepherds and teachers. Their ability to care for and disciple people impressed me incredibly. And they are hospitable to the max. As soon as I met them, I felt like I didn't want to leave them. We talked and talked (in Spanish) and fellowshipped. Back in the day when Christians were run out of town with sticks and rocks, the Martinez' were among the persecuted. But that didn't stop them. They've been faithful in ministry for over 20 years.

The Takeaway - Positive progress has been made. The air almost felt lighter as we traveled to various locations in Gonzanamá, Portete, and El Fundo. God is breaking through. I wasn't ready to leave even though my allergies and sinuses behaved badly during most of the trip. But my physical condition didn't overcome my excitement.