Palora, Ecuador part 2

Last week I told you all about how we got to Palora. This week I wanted to share some of what we did. This trip was a joint NILI and Mt. Vernon Nazarene University venture. We were together most of the week before splitting off and doing different activities.

Once we arrived in Palora we really needed a break so we headed to the river. Yes, family I am still jumping off of things! (Although the photographic evidence that I plugged my nose is a little embarrassing). The time at the river was just what the doctor ordered. We left there and went on to work.

The students moved all the roofing materials and worked on putting the roof on the new church. They also painted the old church so that it can be returned to the owners.

Along with the physical work the students accomplished we also did many ministry activities. Including kids club and a few church services. The following are some highlights.

I was a little 'crabby' that day! :O)

Probably the biggest highlight while we were in Palora was a trip out to a Shuar Village where we did a kids club activity. When we reached the end of the road everyone got out of the vans and started walking. We were greeted with a traditional Shuar welcome ceremony complete with dancing and the passing of the Chicha (a traditional drink made by the Shuar). I was very proud of all the group members and me included. We all tried the Chicha.

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A personal highlight was once we were back in Quito I had the opportunity to translate for Salomon as he preached the sermon. We were on the side of a hill overlooking Quito. It was a beautiful sunny day, the mountains were out. I could not think of a better place and time to have a worship service.