San Jose, Costa Rica: La Carpio

August 8-9, 2013: Day Six and Seven, Part II

After breakfast Thursday morning we left for La Carpio, a slum area on the border of San Jose that is literally situated at the edge of the city dump between two rivers.  The narrow streets allowing for vehicles to pass one way at a time are teeming with make shift shelters of corrugated sheet metal where people live or work.  Many youth linger at store fronts, homes and on street corners.  Toddlers play in a few tiny yards while older children play in the street as dogs lazily sun themselves on the warm asphalt.  It is a dichotomy of aesthetics with the clearest blue skies, distinct aromas of corn and chicken cooking in front of businesses for later sales which are mingled with looks of despair and displacement on the faces of young and old.   In the midst of this community profoundly impacted by disparity we stop at a larger space designated for a church, our destination, the ministry of Pastor Jose and his wife Sonia. 

La Carpio occupied by approximately 40,000 people on 145 square miles of land owned by the government are comprised mostly of native Nicaraguans who have little to no formal education, lucrative employment and survive below the poverty line.   Over 700 tons of daily waste from the rivers and landfill often overflow into La Carpio. Pastor Jose, anointed man of God and gifted chef, along with his wife Sonia minister to the people of La Carpio with open arms, joyful hearts in complete abandonment to their middle class lifestyle.  Owners of a struggling sushi restaurant, Pastor Jose and Sonia give of themselves to serve Christ in La Carpio, first and foremost. 

The team was to assist in the building of a wall using cement blocks.  The back wall was nearly completed and they were starting the left wall, joining it to the back.  Plumbing in place for a restroom, some digging was required in order to mount the first steel supports.  A pile of cement in the middle of the church floor was prepared for mixing while we formed a line moving a tower of bricks to the other side of the space to make room for construction. 

I attempted to help in any way I could, however once the new tower of bricks reached a certain height I could no longer stack them without the use of my right hand.  After taking photos for awhile, Tricia approached me with a request.  She asked if I would be willing to pray and write any words of encouragement the Lord gave me for whomever He directed.  Overwhelmed, at this point with a great sense of uselessness, I felt my heart release the uneasiness I’d been battling all morning.  Smiling to her I returned the camera, gathered my bible and began to pray and search God’s word as the Holy Spirit guided me to explicit scriptures.  The Lord gave me a word for Roshani, Tricia, the women of Pearl Process, Pastor Jose and Sonia and the La Carpio church. 

The word ministered to Pearl Process, Pastor Jose and Sonia, and the congregation made me laugh in utmost joy several times because they were words of promise, restoration and victory.  Later that evening praying before bed I could not contain myself as I walked, praising Him, jumping and clapping in the excitement of what He was doing in the lives of people.  To Pearl Process, God revealed how the women were each transforming into a Godly woman as outlined in Proverbs 31.  Pastor Jose and Sonia, God explained the situation of crossing the Jordan River at a time when the melting snow of Mt. Herman created overflowing banks of rushing currents.  Joshua was leading the Israelites to the land of promise: “Be strong and of good courage.  He is with you.”

Just as the Israelites stepped into the Jordan River, following God by faith into a new strange land so did Pastor Jose and Sonia move by faith forsaking all comforts to follow Christ into La Carpio.  The Lord has a plan and the congregation can look beyond what the world decrees, no longer accepting “slum” but join together as a community of believers tearing down the walls of Jericho in order to possess the land God brought them to.  This is the path of all believers, to be transformed into the image of Christ leaving behind temporal things of this world to follow Him, setting our eyes on eternal blessings.  Though the waters may rise and the waters rush, all is not lost for those who love and serve the Lord, the author and finisher of our faith, keeper of our souls. 

Friday morning we returned to La Carpio.  Alex pulled out a guitar and led an impromptu worship time.  Afterwards, he designated Tricia to take me shopping to make purchases for books.  We were introduced to Gissenia, wife, mother and sister to Sonia who recently walked away from a prestigious opportunity as a psychologist to work as a missionary on staff with OM Costa Rica, partnering with her family in the La Carpio church.  Knowing the needs of the children and the best place to make our purchases Gissenia went with us.  Like her sister and brother-in-law, Gissenia has a keen sense of humor and devotion to serving Christ.  Kaitlyn and Stacey went with us as well.  Listening to the dialogue between Tricia and Gissenia, able to translate the jest of what they were saying, I realized the immediate needs in La Carpio went beyond literature.  Remembering all the school age children and teens I observed the previous morning I asked Tricia to tell Gissenia to purchase what she needed in school supplies as well.   I also told Tricia to let Gissenia know much donated funds were available.   Looking to me for confirmation, wide-eyed and a bit surprised, Gissenia hit the aisles without a moment’s hesitation! 

Your generosity not only covered the cost for me to go to Costa Rica, but supported the purchasing of 3 dozen new Spanish children/youth literature, $310 in school supplies and academic student workbooks for at least 20 children, in addition to the ½ dozen gently used Spanish children’s books I collected.   Sonia shared that the people in their church felt forgotten and wanted to display at the evening service the materials donated as a witness that the people are not forgotten, that God has not discarded them and here is the evidence.  One of the biggest hopes of those living in poverty revolves around their children being educated.  God has put it upon the hearts of many to make provision where there was none.

Thank you for such compassionate service to Christ through your resources.  I am tremendously blessed be the one to transport and distribute what you have given to the children and youth of Costa Rica.  When paying for the purchases, I glanced at Gissenia who had stepped off to a corner wiping tears from her eyes.  As my own eyes watered my heart offered prayers of thanksgiving to do what my heart most desires….serve.

Writing to me recently, Gissenia shared her heart is “set on God to change the future of many of the kids through His love, which is our job, to show them the love of God, through a meal, care, the Word of God and offering opportunities for them to learn.”  Gissenia believes this will change the lives of many.  I wholeheartedly agree.  

While we were shopping, the team had an engaging game of fotbul (soccer) with the kids, who were very friendly.  I spoke to several of the boys off and on the previous day.  Practicing a few words in English they asked numerous questions and I was only too eager to answer them.  With just as much enthusiasm they took it upon themselves to correct my Spanish and were very good teachers! 

Later that evening Pastor Jose welcomed the team to his restaurant.   I do not have to be a fan of sushi to recognize a master of culinary arts when I see one.  Served in decorative wooden ships, the various types of sushi were exquisite in presentation.  Knowing I did not care for sushi, he blessed me with the best chicken and rice dish I’ve ever tasted!  All too soon, it was time to part and for the second time that week I felt a pull on my heart not wanting to go.  I could have very easily remained and worked alongside Pastor Jose and Sonia, with Gissenia ministering to the needs of the children of La Carpio. 

PRAY, CONSIDER, RECEIVE, SHARE 

     Please PRAY for the people living in La Carpio, Costa Rica and other regions in the world where so many continue to flee their countries due to war.   Many people are in need of suitable living conditions with clean water, food and unassailable shelter.  Many more are in need of resources and job skill training in order to learn a trade for employment.  Men and women require opportunities to earn a steady income to support their families sufficiently.  Children and teens ought to be available to access an education.  Many are unable to attend school due to the cost, distance or must work to help support their families.  People need Jesus to guide them to a loving God who is the only One who can protect the essence of self, their soul.  Jesus is the Way, the Truth and Life.  Only He can reconcile our hearts back to God.  Seek the Way.  Learn of Truth.  Choose Life.  Please PRAY for the work being accomplished through Pastor Jose, Sonia and Gissenia.  That God would honor and bless the efforts of these ministers of the gospel, missionaries, and other pastors of local churches, mission ministries and their volunteers.  Pray for others who support God’s work through resources, time, skills and/or finances.  Pray hearts open to hear the Good News of God's plan to reconcile all creation back to Him through His Son Jesus Christ.  Pray for spiritual growth with the people of La Carpio, that they embrace their faith in Jesus, fully trusting in Him.  May we all not just believe in Jesus, but believe Him.

     Please CONSIDER giving, through donations or volunteer service, to the people of La Carpio and/or locally within your own community.  Below are specific prayer requests to sponsor teens and projects, as well as links to websites where you can learn more about this God-honoring ministry fulfilling the Great Commission through service to the poor and neglected people of Costa Rica and other regions worldwide. 

     RECEIVE the Lord's eternal blessing for your partnership in whichever manner He guides you in. 

    Please SHARE this blog with anyone you know who is interested in supporting and/or partnering in missions work, locally or globally. 


PRAYER REQUESTS

Individual children and youth of La Carpio:

            Jerry, a 14 year old homeless boy, has been removed from his home by his mother.  Found living on the streets by a woman from the church, she took him home to her family.  However, Jerry’s host family endures economic struggles of their own.  He has not been able to complete his primary school studies and in order to attend he needs the required uniform, texts and school supplies.  A one-time gift of $150 provide Jerry with materials and the opportunity to continue his education.

            Antonio, is 13 years old and has not completed his primary school studies.  Antonio’s mother is not able to purchase the uniform, texts, or school supplies so she sends him to work.  A one-time gift of $150 provide Antonio’s mother with a means to purchase the necessary materials to send Antonio to school.

            Estefania, 7 and her brother Justin, age 10 are both in grade 2.  They suffer from malnutrition and Justin has a severe speech disorder.  Justin’s speech difficulty as led to conduct issues at school and he has been retained several times.   A one-time gift of $200 provide Estefania and Justin with nutritious meals and other expenses. The siblings are being sponsored to alleviate malnutrition and provide services for Justin’s speech disorder. Please continue to pray healing for both children.  Any other financial assistance to cover the cost of speech therapy for Justin, I am confident, would be considered a blessing. 

Dia del Saber (Day of Flavor):

            One Saturday, per month, the church dedicates one day to working solely with the children of La Carpio.  Dia del Saber provides a nutritious breakfast and lunch, recreation activities where the children learn to socialize and relate to one another without violence and thematic workshops in the areas of:

• Spiritual (biblical teachings)
• Psychological (work through emotional problems)
• Academic (assistance with homework)
• Crafts (encourage creativity and other skills)
• Art (promote alternative ways of self-expression)

Given the quantity of children going hungry due to the poverty in their homes, project Dia del Saber hopes to provide for 15 children.   Funding of $500 a month is needed to meet those needs and keep Dia del Saber operating on a monthly basis. 

The Church of La Carpio

           In order to continue working with the community, particularly the children, Pastor Jose and Sonia require a functional facility (classrooms, tables, chairs, kitchen, etc.).  There are no resources to continue the construction.  Please pray that God would bring forth the funds needed to continue, to completion, the construction so they are able to continue minister through services, meals and Dia del Saber.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT

La Carpio - (documentary "Village of Hope" following lives of 11 women)

Go to:  http://vimeo.com/12801861

Operation Mobilization (OM) –

Go to:  omusa.org

OM Costa Rica (Spanish, Chrome translates to English) –

Go to:  http://www.omcostarica.org/spa/

To donate to La Carpio, partner ministry of OM Costa Rica (English) -  

Go to:  https://my.omusa.org/page.aspx?pid=328

             Note:  In the additional information comment box type: “Donation for OM Costa Rica                                                                                               field #14500 La Carpio, then specify, as desired, construction, Jerry,                                                                                                                       Antonio, Justin's speech therapy, uniforms, school                                                                                                                                                                 supplies,  literature, Dia del                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Saber, etc.         

San Jose, Costa Rica: Pearl Process

August 8-9, 2013: Day Six and Seven, Part I

The last two full days spent in San Jose were divided between the ministry Pearl Process and partner ministry with a local pastor in La Carpio.  I will share Pearl Process in Part I and in Part II, La Carpio.

Through project Pearl Process, Operation Mobilization Costa Rica strives to support community development among the women of San Jose in the areas of spiritual growth by exemplifying Jesus.   Pearl Process reaches out to women at-risk to poverty with limited opportunities for education, a lack of resources for employment and/or exposure to exploitation and subjugation.  The ministry is also an initiative of Freedom Climb (ministry under OM USA), which supports international projects that work with at-risk women and children with a specific focus on the exploitation, trafficking, and enslavement of women and children.  Currently, Pearl Process concentrates on two areas, sewing and mosaics, training and equipping the women to produce and receive compensation for their products.  The ministry also offers workshops that advocate, advise and provide legal support, case specific.

Offering bible studies lasting barely ten minutes and more time teaching seamstress skills overtime evolved into two hour bible studies as the women grew in their understanding of Jesus developing a hunger to know Him more deeply. 

Helga, expert seamstress with a desire to partner with the women's ministry, volunteers by passing on her sewing talents to the local women. Developing a marketable business from sewing proved difficult and through this the idea of mosaics was born, along with many women living in new found faith in Jesus, self-esteem and training.

Although the mosaics has become a marketable business, the women continue to gather under Helga's guidance to develop skills as a seamstress and study God's word.

Thursday afternoon we joined these beautiful women for a time of fellowship, devotion in God’s Word and presentation to learn more of Pearl Process.  Julie planned a special ice breaker, in which I inwardly groaned.  I typically escape to the nearest restroom about this time!  Being trapped at the most furthest corner in a crowded room made me deal with my adversity to ice breakers.  However, this was not your average ice breaker.  I happened to be towards the end of our rather large circle, sixth to last, I believe, with approximately 25 to 30 people before me.  The idea was to state your name and do a dance move….after stating all the names and corresponding dance moves prior to you!  I’ll just interject here that I, along with Roshani who was two turns before me, “rocked” out everyone’s name and dance move with synchronized rhythm!   Well, truth be told, Rosh was much more in step than I, but she had two less people to remember and is half my age! 

(Weeks later I found my mind bopping to a tune mentally going around the circle remembering all the ladies names and moves.   I have never enjoyed an ice breaker as much as this!  It was very cool!  So cool, I introduced it to my life skill middle school students the first day of school.  They loved it and did amazingly well!) 

Brian and Julie shared various aspects of Pearl Process ministries that included a video with testimonies from woman sitting in my midst.  What an honor to meet the “fruit of the harvest” in the form of transformed lives!  Hearing the continuation of the women’s stories, first hand, embedded them in my hearts for a lifetime. 

Their chains are gone, they've been set free.

Our God and Savior has ransomed

through unending love, amazing grace

(paraphrase, my own, from Chris Tomlin’s rendition of 
Amazing Grace by John Newton).

After a time of devotion, we broke into smaller groups for prayer, each of us sharing what we were comfortable with, many requests were lifted as one voice throughout the room. 

What happened afterwards warmed my heart as two women took my braced hand into theirs to lift up an addition prayer for healing. 

We also shared a meal together.  I love partaking of a meal with others.  For me, gatherings are a special time to make memories through fellowship, amiable conversation and a delicious food.  

Julie gave the team a tour of the tiny space where the mosaics are made, explaining the process involved in the designing and preparing of glass in order to create mosaics. 

Three women were busy working on current orders and we were able to observe them in various steps and see a variety of finished products.  A special piece catching my eye was specifically tailored by special order and I found the completed masterpiece exquisite.  My artist heart was stirred by the giftedness revealed through the assembled tiles.  As the craftsmanship is skilled, the creativity is twice as inspiring.  I gazed upon true works of art. 

A few women shared how they could relate to the process of making mosaics because the cutting of glass into fragments reminded them of the pain and suffering they'd experienced, but were encouraged when the pieces were put together as a work of art.  They saw beauty could come from pain.   What insight!  The Bible says "God gives us beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness".  Give glory to the One who brings healing and restoration from the  
inside out.   

Friday afternoon we returned to the OM Costa Rica office for a debriefing of the week that was rapidly coming to an end.  We learned more regarding the needs of OM Costa Rica and projects to come.  From ministry to mosaics emerged Business 4 Transformation (B4T).  Pearl Process Mosaics is a business example of B4T.  Future goals are to develop other God-honoring businesses involving partnership between entrepreneurs, investors and OM teams that “maximize social, economic, environmental and spiritual transformation in communities” (OM Costa Rica, Transforming Lives and Communities brochure).   Businesses ideas such as a coffee shop are being discussed along with a site to board visiting mission teams.  These Kingdom building initiatives not only provide continued skill training and income but work alongside the owner(s) to build the business in areas such as ensuring the idea is marketable, generates investor interest, etc.

After the presentation Julie had a reflection exercise she referred to as the “swimming pool” and placing cards outlining a pool area we were to think about where we were at the beginning of the our decision to come to Costa Rica and then go to that place card.  Were we in the shallow end, deep end, diving board, spectator’s room, changing room, café?  I immediately stepped over to the “diving board”.  Everyone took turns sharing why they went to that specific place.  I really did not have much to share outside of I had been ready to jump in, practically aching to be back in international missionary work.  Close to 20 years had passed since I had the accessibility to Mexicali, Mexico from Southern California in ongoing relationship with the local church there.   Next, we were to go to the card that described where we were today, at the end of the mission’s trip.  I had to think about this for awhile.  I thought of selecting the “deep end” because I felt I was ready to remain there.  I considered the “spectator’s room” because I was doing a lot of observing and with my arm healing often felt on the outside.  I could also remain where I was because I was ready to plan my next trip back.  Interestingly enough, I realized I was in the café.  I shared how God told me just weeks before leaving He wanted me to pay close attention because there were certain things He wanted me to know and learn.  I had much to process.  I was intrigued to hear the responses of others as they shared their perception of the process and how each experience unfolded.   Through an array of events, spanning a five month period of time, I believe I have experienced God in a bold new way.  Occurrences in life may not always be as it seems, but the God of Ages is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.  Of that I am sure.

PRAY, CONSIDER, RECEIVE, SHARE 



    Please PRAY for the at-risk women living in San Jose, Costa Rica and other regions in the world where they and their children live in fear of enslavement, exploitation and trafficking. Pray for ministries such as OM Costa Rica that are creating resources and partnering with other businesses to provide opportunities for entrepreneurship, skill training and income in order to support the women as they gain liberty through self-sufficiency to provide for themselves and/or family.  Many people are in need of adequate housing, employment, food and clothing without an anchor to keep them tossing and turning in the storms of life.  Far too many women and children, particularly adolescent teen girls, are in danger of exploitation and human trafficking.  People need to know Jesus, the only One capable of restoring us to a loving God who can protect the essence of self, the soul.  Jesus is the Way, the Truth and Life.  Only He can reconcile our hearts back to God.  Seek the Way.  Learn of Truth.  Choose Life.  Please PRAY for the work being accomplished through Pearl Process Mosaics, sewing classes and bible studies.  That God would honor and bless the efforts of the missionaries, area pastors, local church, volunteers and others who support God’s work through resources, time, skills and/or finances.  Pray hearts open to hear the Good News of God's plan to reconcile all creation back to Him through His Son Jesus Christ.  Pray for spiritual growth among the women of San Jose, that they embrace their faith in Jesus, fully trusting in Him.  May we all not just believe in Jesus, but believe Him.

     Please CONSIDER giving, through donations or volunteer service, to OM Costa Rica and/or locally within your own community.  Consider hosting a Pearl Process Mosaic party to promote the business by generating clientele that in turn will open up a need to hire more women providing more at-risk woman opportunities to earn income.  Below are links to videos and websites where you can learn more about this God-honoring ministry fulfilling the Great Commission through service to the at-risk women in San Jose, Costa Rica and other regions worldwide. 

     RECEIVE the Lord's eternal blessing for your partnership in whichever manner He guides you in. 

    Please SHARE this blog with anyone you know who is interested in supporting and/or partnering in missions work, locally or globally. 

PRAYER REQUESTS

• Julie Paniaqua as she works to generate business for the women by increasing clientele through marketing
• Brian as he works with establishing B4T along with director Alex Paniaqua and his wife Julie
• The at-risk women of San Jose, Costa Rica and their families
• An increase of orders for mosaics 
• Purchase of sewing machines, tables and other seamstress equipment
• New initiatives such as a cafe 
• Center for workshops, training, and boarding for mission teams

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT

Pearl Process Ministries - 

Go to :  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bHQUmwXbkY4       

Go to:   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJgMGWglvNo  

Operation Mobilization (OM) –

Go to:  omusa.org 

Freedom Climb - 
Go to:  http://www.thefreedomclimb.net/6-freedom-climb

OM Costa Rica (Spanish, Chrome translates to English) –

Go to:  http://www.omcostarica.org/spa/

How to donate to OM Costa Rica (English) -  

Go to:  https://my.omusa.org/page.aspx?pid=328

             Note:  In the additional information comment box type: “Donation for OM Costa Rica                                                                                               field #14500 Pearl Process, then specify, as desired, sewing equipment,                                                                                                              tables, initiatives, building, etc.                      

Request catalog or place order for mosaics (in USA) - 
Email: rochelleduplessis@outlook.com

View Chris Tomlin's Amazing Grace

Go to:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-4NFvI5U9w

Costa Rica: Talamanca to San Jose via The National Rain Forest

August 7, 2013: Day Five

Wednesday came bright, sunny and hot.  After devotions and breakfast the morning was spent cleaning the three buildings, bathrooms and packing.  Mattresses needed to be deflated.  Tents needed to be taken down.  The kitchen needed to be inventoried and packed.  Trucks and vans needed to be loaded. Everyone pitched in.  Still sensitive and sore over the previous evening, I was grateful to be given a task that allotted me some needed space, privacy and opportunity to bless the next pastor using the house when ministering to the local people.  As I thoroughly swept and mopped the four room house, the opportunity to think of others took my attention off myself.  As I began to pray for Anthony, the other pastors and their families I was filled with such a warm sense of His Presence. 

Felicia, a local believer arrived that morning.  I had a specific book for her daughter, Angel, whom I felt would find the story amusing and touching.  I had the pleasure of spending time one afternoon with Angel, a young teen.   Angel is a bright young girl and a bit reserved who openly expresses a keen sense of humor.  I also had, to my amusement, had the opportunity to observe her momentarily interact to an equally engaging young teen boy of her age.  Realizing I watched a moment of shy, awkward innocence, I prayed for them.  I instinctively prayed they both retain a childlike faith before the Lord, trusting in Him, as they matured out of childhood.  

After giving Felicia the book for Angel, Felicia lifted my spirit as she shared her witness to my fall.  Felicia exclaimed, raising her arms into the air, “When I saw you get up and brush yourself off and go on with what you were doing, I knew you were a missionary!”  Thank you, Jesus.  It is to You alone, for Your glory and by Your power I can get up, brush off and go on with Your work.  The Bible says the God will restore the years the locust have destroyed.  I wonder if the “locust” are more than just insects, but anything that robs people of what God intended because I have often felt destroyed by the impact of abuse, which represents the locust in my life, leaving me with a sense of unworthiness and self-loathing that years ago kept me from fully serving as a missionary.   Felicia’s words remind me of my heart’s desire and of how by the merciful blood of Jesus Christ we are made worthy. 

With bags, equipment and coolers trekked up the hill and loaded we began the journey back to San Jose.  I did not wish to go.  It was difficult to leave and I had such a rush of feelings!  I experienced a pull on my heart like never before.  Arriving at the village at the base of the mountain we stopped to drop off Pastor Anthony and Gabriel.  Alex purchased everyone a cool drink of their choice.  Miriam and her daughter were across the road at the bus stop so Rosh and I ran over to speak with them.  After saying goodbye to Anthony and Gabe we were on our way again.  Our second stop was for gas, restroom and for me the dreaded goodbyes to Carlos, Marguerite and Martha.  Feeling very self-conscious for my emotions, it was difficult to hold back tears as I will miss them very much.  Alex, in his generosity surprised me with a bottle of cold water, in which I was very appreciative.  Driving through the mountains and villages I enjoyed gazing out the windows looking at the lush unusual plants, especially flowering bushes and endless plantations.   

  

                                                                              






                                               

                      

Early afternoon we arrived at the National Rain Forest for lunch and zip-lining.  I, of course, with the condition of my hand, could not zip-line.  Interestingly enough, it did not bother me being left out, as we all know I’d be the first in line to zip line!  Tricia kindly stayed behind with me and we watched a video presentation and took the tram tour that lifted to a breathtaking view mid-canopy.  The rain forest, extremely dense and full beheld many species of plants.  At the entrance, we did see a sloth and it was much larger than I’d expected.  As it climbed higher into the tree I do not think I have ever seen anything move so incredibly slow, not even a turtle!  On the tram we did see an anteater in a bit of trouble extremely high off the ground as he disturbed a hive of bees.  He caught our attention as it leap out of the hole, scrambled to grasp a vine upside down, midair and rapidly raced down the trunk.  I had no idea anteaters could climb trees!  On the way back we looked for signs of the animal, but all that remained were a multitude of bees hovering in protection of their hive. 

   

As this was my first visit to a rain forest I was content with the opportunity to learn the history of the habitat and explore before zipping through it.  

Next time though..….

We arrived into the city during rush hour.  The District of Columbia has nothing on the traffic in downtown San Jose!  Yet, amazingly the traffic flows and moves along.  We stopped at our accommodations, unpacked, washed-up and met up for dinner.  We met Julie, Alex’s wife who ministers to the women of San Jose, along with their two young daughters.  We dined in a local pizza parlor for dinner and ate by far the best pizza, ever.  

(OM Costa Rica does not yet have accommodations to board mission teams, so we sampled a variety of local restaurants when in San Jose.) 

The night ended dozing to mariachi music being played in the common area where guests were celebrating.  It all felt just too familiar and I found comfort in this.

Following photos.....not for the skirmish, squeamish or skittish....Kait and I were fascinated with the bugs and reptiles.  Here are a few shots depicting several industrious, colorful and quite large bugs we encountered.

          


PRAY, CONSIDER, RECEIVE, SHARE

Please PRAY for the people of Costa Rica and other regions in the world who are struggling to make ends meet.  Many people are unable to secure stable work, are being released from employment or cut back in hours and/or pay.   Too many people are in need of adequate housing, food and quality medical care.  Communities of people are in need of resources and job skill training in order to learn a trade for employment.  Children and teens are not in school because they are the sole caretaker of younger siblings or are working because they must contribute to their family's income.  All children and youth ought to have access to education and a childhood.  Pray for the diligent work of OM and other ministries worldwide partnering with local churches in the area of restoration and development, as visions are ignited through the encouragement for people to utilize their God-given gifts and talents in order to guide communities to the prospect of economic self-sufficiency.  So many people are lost, existing day to day in a cycle of confusion and hurt that tears down one's ability to trust. Trust themselves, trust others, or trust God.  Jesus gave His life as a living sacrifice in order to guide us back to a loving God who is the only One who can protect the essence of self, our precious soul.  Jesus is the Way, the Truth and Life.  Only He can reconcile our lives back to God.  Seek the Way. Learn of Truth. Choose Life. Please PRAY that God would honor and bless the efforts of missionaries, area pastors, local churches, volunteers and others who support God’s work through resources, time, skills, finances and/or prayer.  Pray hearts open to hear the Good News of God's plan of redemption for all creation through His Son Jesus Christ.  Pray for spiritual growth in all people, for the embracing of faith in Jesus, fully trusting Him to make a way where they seems no possible means.  May we all not just believe in Jesus, but believe Him.  May we grow in understanding and knowledge of Him, walking in forgiveness and love for all people we encounter.

Please CONSIDER giving, through donations or volunteer service, globally and/or within your own community.  Below are links to websites where you can learn more about OM who is fulfilling the Great Commission through service to the poor and neglected people of Costa Rica and other regions worldwide.

RECEIVE the Lord's eternal blessing for your partnership in whichever manner He guides you in.

Please SHARE this blog with anyone you know who is interested in supporting, praying for and/or partnering in missions work, locally or globally.

PRAYER REQUESTS

For those in need of physical healing
For the unemployed
For children unable to attend school out of necessity to work in support of family
For children unable to attend school due to lack of funding or flooding across roads

For access to quality and affordable medical care

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT

Vive Talamanca (Spanish, Chrome translates to English) - 

Go to:  http://www.omcostarica.org/spa/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=92:vive-talamanca&catid=34:noticias-y-articulos&Itemid=84

Operation Mobilization (OM) –

Go to:  omusa.org

OM Costa Rica (Spanish, Chrome translates to English) –

Go to:  http://www.omcostarica.org/spa/

To donate to OM Costa Rica (English) -  

Go to:  https://my.omusa.org/page.aspx?pid=328

             Note:  In the additional information comment box type: “Donation for OM Costa Rica                                                                                               field #14500 Vive Talamanca, then specify, as desired, water         
                                          filter, construction, motorcycle, school supplies,  literature, etc.