I still remember when I was baptized, I was 9 years old and it was a hot summer day in Kansas. I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that I wanted the WORLD to know that I had given my life to Jesus. Do you remember how you felt when you came up out of the water? Although it’s just a symbol, I felt new and complete; like God had just washed me clean! My prayer is that all those who were baptized this Sunday will continue to shine for our Savior and always remember the day they told the world they are following Jesus!
Between all three church plants here in the city we baptized 8 new Christians, and many from our Mother churches were there to show their support. 9 de Octubre baptized two, Rosa and her grand-daughter, Janith. It has been a true pleasure to watch Rosa and Janith grow in their faith. Rosa has truly been a shining light to her family and neighbors.
A few weeks ago Janith (15) shared her testimony with the church. She told us that she used to love to go out with her friends and party, but since Esther and I came to her house and she accepted Christ she no longer has a desire to go out. WOW, isn’t God awesome! Esther and I had the GREAT joy of being with Janith and her boyfriend as they welcomed their baby boy into this world, we also had the joy of being at church the night they dedicated that little boy (Jan Aidan Kaler) back to God. I don’t think my heart could be any more content.
“And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love, with him I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:17
In His service, Bri and Esther
Friday, December 3, 2010
Baptisms
Janith (In purple) and Rosa (In white)
Rosa being baptized!
Janith being baptized!
Left to Right: Me, Rosa, Janith, Esther and little Kaler
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
An Answer to Prayer
So where are we now? Well, let me tell you about what God has been doing in 9 de Octubre.
A few weeks ago we decided to show the Jesus Film in the plaza as a way of getting some new contacts. The morning of the showing Esther and I passed out 420 invitations, we went door to door and if no one was there we would slip an invitation under the door : ).
In the afternoon we came back to the compound, rested and finished getting ready for the showing. We have little info cards that have our names, the dates and times of our service and Sunday school. Well, we changed the time of our Sunday school so by hand I went through and corrected all that we had printed. As I was correcting them, I began to pray for the turn out for the film and for each person that would receive one of our information cards.
I learned this tactic years ago when our church put on the “Heaven’s Gates, Hell’s Flames” drama and every night we would meet and pray over he auditorium, the invitations, the actors, and the information cards. I can remember year after year seeing how God moved, how He healed the sick, He provided for every need….and more, but most of all I remember that same room that we prayed in being filled with people who had watched the drama and now desired to accepted Christ as their personal Savior. I saw God move when His people prayed!
So can you imagine the victory I’m about to tell you about! Once again our God was and is Faithful! We didn’t get an exact count, but I’m guessing there were 80-100 people that came to the movie. And the best part, at the end when our District Superintendent gave the salvation message 16 people gave us there names and addresses. Not all of them accepted Christ, but many of them were open to having us visit. Praise the LORD, right? I think so! : )
As Esther and I have been doing the follow up, not all lived in the 9 de Octubre area, and some changed their minds and no longer wanted us to visit, some have started going to church again, and others are now in discipleship class. Our favorite story from this night is the story of Margret.
When we went to see Margret the first time, she was on her way out, but asked that we return later to talk. We went back the next day and when she opened the door she had a big smile on her face and she greeted us with a warm kiss. She invited us in to sit for a while. She began to tell us that she was raised in a Christian home and that her Mother is a Pastor. She had fallen away from Christ in her teen years, but is now trying to get back to Him. We asked if she would like to start these discipleship lessons with us, she of course agreed. We then invited her to join us at one of our Thursday evening services. She was surprised to hear that we are meeting in a house.
Esther then explained to her what exactly we are here doing and that is when she said we were more than welcome to have a service in her house as well if we wanted. I know she must have seen the look on mine and Esther’s face, because there was no hiding our joy in the moment. You see Esther and I have been praying that someone would open their home in the upper section that way we could start a second service. And now here we were being offered a place in the perfect location, in moments like these how can you not believe that God hears and answers prayer?
So we have started a second service on Tuesday nights dedicated to prayer, last week was our first week so it was Esther, Margret and I…..but we are hopeful that more people will be coming tonight now that they know about it. Esther and I are so thankful for the prayers God has answered for us and we are looking forward to seeing more. Please continue to pray for the people of 9 de Octubre and the work that Esther and I are finishing in 9 de Octubre.
In His Love and Service, Bri and Esther
A few weeks ago we decided to show the Jesus Film in the plaza as a way of getting some new contacts. The morning of the showing Esther and I passed out 420 invitations, we went door to door and if no one was there we would slip an invitation under the door : ).
In the afternoon we came back to the compound, rested and finished getting ready for the showing. We have little info cards that have our names, the dates and times of our service and Sunday school. Well, we changed the time of our Sunday school so by hand I went through and corrected all that we had printed. As I was correcting them, I began to pray for the turn out for the film and for each person that would receive one of our information cards.
I learned this tactic years ago when our church put on the “Heaven’s Gates, Hell’s Flames” drama and every night we would meet and pray over he auditorium, the invitations, the actors, and the information cards. I can remember year after year seeing how God moved, how He healed the sick, He provided for every need….and more, but most of all I remember that same room that we prayed in being filled with people who had watched the drama and now desired to accepted Christ as their personal Savior. I saw God move when His people prayed!
So can you imagine the victory I’m about to tell you about! Once again our God was and is Faithful! We didn’t get an exact count, but I’m guessing there were 80-100 people that came to the movie. And the best part, at the end when our District Superintendent gave the salvation message 16 people gave us there names and addresses. Not all of them accepted Christ, but many of them were open to having us visit. Praise the LORD, right? I think so! : )
As Esther and I have been doing the follow up, not all lived in the 9 de Octubre area, and some changed their minds and no longer wanted us to visit, some have started going to church again, and others are now in discipleship class. Our favorite story from this night is the story of Margret.
When we went to see Margret the first time, she was on her way out, but asked that we return later to talk. We went back the next day and when she opened the door she had a big smile on her face and she greeted us with a warm kiss. She invited us in to sit for a while. She began to tell us that she was raised in a Christian home and that her Mother is a Pastor. She had fallen away from Christ in her teen years, but is now trying to get back to Him. We asked if she would like to start these discipleship lessons with us, she of course agreed. We then invited her to join us at one of our Thursday evening services. She was surprised to hear that we are meeting in a house.
Esther then explained to her what exactly we are here doing and that is when she said we were more than welcome to have a service in her house as well if we wanted. I know she must have seen the look on mine and Esther’s face, because there was no hiding our joy in the moment. You see Esther and I have been praying that someone would open their home in the upper section that way we could start a second service. And now here we were being offered a place in the perfect location, in moments like these how can you not believe that God hears and answers prayer?
So we have started a second service on Tuesday nights dedicated to prayer, last week was our first week so it was Esther, Margret and I…..but we are hopeful that more people will be coming tonight now that they know about it. Esther and I are so thankful for the prayers God has answered for us and we are looking forward to seeing more. Please continue to pray for the people of 9 de Octubre and the work that Esther and I are finishing in 9 de Octubre.
In His Love and Service, Bri and Esther
Two Months
“Do not be anxious about anything.” Philippians 4:6
“Anxiety should never be found in a believer. In spite of the magnitude, quantity, and diversity of our trials, afflictions, and difficulties, anxiety should not exist under any circumstances. This is because we have a Father in heaven who is almighty, who loves His children as He loves His “one and only Son” (John 3:16), and whose complete joy and delight it is to continually assist them under all circumstances. We should heed His word, which says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God.”
~Streams in the Desert~
It’s so easy to read this verse, but to live by it is a whole another story. We have two months left in 9 de Octubre and to be honest we’re struggling. I found myself becoming VERY anxious, thinking” we have so little time and we aren’t even close to being done here. God, how can we ever finish and finish strong?”
When I read the above scripture I was filled with a peace, knowing that 2 months is a world of time to our God. I’m have this incredible feeling that God is going to work some miracles in these next two months, I believe that He has GREAT plans for this area and these people. His is not finished yet…..and neither are we!
Yesterday Esther and I had a meeting with the pastor of our “Mother Church” to talk about what we have planned for the upcoming months. We talked about having a day of evangelism, where we will canvas the area, going door to door sharing about God’s love and His wonderful plan for each of us. We also want to have an outreach event in the plaza, ending with a movie or Pastor preaching. And this is just a few of our idea so far; we are still thinking and praying. We are very excited to see what God is going to do, please join us in praying for a God movement in 9 de Octubre!
In His service, Bri and Esther
“Anxiety should never be found in a believer. In spite of the magnitude, quantity, and diversity of our trials, afflictions, and difficulties, anxiety should not exist under any circumstances. This is because we have a Father in heaven who is almighty, who loves His children as He loves His “one and only Son” (John 3:16), and whose complete joy and delight it is to continually assist them under all circumstances. We should heed His word, which says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God.”
~Streams in the Desert~
It’s so easy to read this verse, but to live by it is a whole another story. We have two months left in 9 de Octubre and to be honest we’re struggling. I found myself becoming VERY anxious, thinking” we have so little time and we aren’t even close to being done here. God, how can we ever finish and finish strong?”
When I read the above scripture I was filled with a peace, knowing that 2 months is a world of time to our God. I’m have this incredible feeling that God is going to work some miracles in these next two months, I believe that He has GREAT plans for this area and these people. His is not finished yet…..and neither are we!
Yesterday Esther and I had a meeting with the pastor of our “Mother Church” to talk about what we have planned for the upcoming months. We talked about having a day of evangelism, where we will canvas the area, going door to door sharing about God’s love and His wonderful plan for each of us. We also want to have an outreach event in the plaza, ending with a movie or Pastor preaching. And this is just a few of our idea so far; we are still thinking and praying. We are very excited to see what God is going to do, please join us in praying for a God movement in 9 de Octubre!
In His service, Bri and Esther
Friday, September 17, 2010
Picture#1 Jan Aidan Kaler was born Sept. 16th, 2010Kaler and Mama are doing GREAT! Daddy is a little scared, but he'll get over that soon!
Picture# 2 "Aunt" Bri holding little Kaler for the first time!
Picture# 3 (Left to Right) Jan Carlos (Daddy), Janith (Mama), Kaler, and Bri
Picture# 4 "Aunt" Esther loving on Kaler!
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Baby, Baby, Baby!
Esther and I can now say that we have planned a baby shower! Last Saturday we threw a baby shower for Janith and her boyfriend, Jan Carlos. They are expecting a baby boy on the 18th of this month. Janith is one of our very first contacts, and we’re hoping that she will be one of our first members. When Janith first told us she was pregnant she said she would name the baby after me if it was a girl……lucky for the baby it’s a boy : ). Since they can’t name a boy Brittany, she asked me to write out some boy names that I liked and they would consider using one of them.
I’m honored to say that they have decided to use one of the names I picked; the baby’s name will be “Jan Aidan Kaler”. Not really sure if one of these names will be used as a middle name or if he will just have three first names. I’m sure you can guess what name I picked….yes, Aidan. Thank goodness they will just be calling him Kaler : ).
Planning the baby shower was lots of fun and work. More than anything we wanted Janith and Jan Carlos to feel loved by the church, and I think they did. We had close to 30 people come and half of them were from our group (Other 40/40’s, our cluster support Mom and the D.S.’s wife) the other half were friends and family of Janith and Jan Corlos and youth from our Mother church. They were showered with love, words of encouragement and of course gifts!
I’ll be sure to let you know when Kaler is born! Please pray for Janith and the family as this will be a big adjustment for their family!
Love always, Bri and Esther
I’m honored to say that they have decided to use one of the names I picked; the baby’s name will be “Jan Aidan Kaler”. Not really sure if one of these names will be used as a middle name or if he will just have three first names. I’m sure you can guess what name I picked….yes, Aidan. Thank goodness they will just be calling him Kaler : ).
Planning the baby shower was lots of fun and work. More than anything we wanted Janith and Jan Carlos to feel loved by the church, and I think they did. We had close to 30 people come and half of them were from our group (Other 40/40’s, our cluster support Mom and the D.S.’s wife) the other half were friends and family of Janith and Jan Corlos and youth from our Mother church. They were showered with love, words of encouragement and of course gifts!
I’ll be sure to let you know when Kaler is born! Please pray for Janith and the family as this will be a big adjustment for their family!
Love always, Bri and Esther
Friday, September 3, 2010
A Hardened Heart is Softened
Before I tell you *Paul’s story I would like to give you a little bit of history. In our first weeks in 9 de October Esther and I went door to door meeting people and trying to get some contacts built. One day we ended up at *Jacob’s house, Jacob was very nice, he listened to what we had to say and accepted Christ; but said that he did not have time for the one on one lessons. We asked him if it would be ok if we came back and just dropped off the material for him to at least read, he said he would like that very much.
The following Sunday we went to give Jacob his book, sadly he wasn’t home; but his sister Kathy and niece Julie were home. We talked with Kathy and Julie for about 15 mins and when we asked if they would like to go through the lessons with us they agreed wholeheartedly. Although, it has been very hard to catch them at home (this is a common problem for us). One afternoon Jacob and Kathy’s parents were visiting, so while I was talking with Julie, Esther took the opportunity to introduce ourselves and tell them why we are working in 9 de Octubre and what our purpose is.
Paul (Jacob and Kathy’s father) was very defensive and WAS NOT in agreement with anything Esther had to say. When she asked him what he thought about the bible, he said “I think it’s just a bunch of stories.” I don’t remember exactly what he said about God, but I think it was something to the fact that yes, a god exists but I don’t believe in him. Esther and I left feeling very sad, but before we left Esther made sure to tell him that we would be praying for him.
Fast forward a couple weeks. We have gone to see Julie and find that Kathy is home for once, but has company, of course she invites us to stay. While we’re talking she begins to share with us about the accident her father was in last week. Paul lives out on the river but brings his boat in every weekend to visit his family. So Paul was on his way back, but before he could leave he had to fix a leak in the boat. He boiled (or heated) the tar and was just about to pour it out, when he slipped spilling the tar all over himself. He burnt the right side of his shoulder and arm VERY bad!
Esther and I both felt the door open for us to ask if we could pray for him, before we could ask, Kathy was asking us. Esther asked if he could come out so we could pray right then. Much to our surprise, he agreed and by the time we had finished praying I think I saw tears in his eyes. It was clear to us that God was working on Paul’s heart. Last week when we went to give Julie her lesson Paul was there. Always before he would leave us alone with Julie, this week he stayed and listened, and not quietly he had lots of questions.
We asked him if he would like a book of his own so he could follow along with us, I think my mouth was probably hanging open when he said yes. When we had finished the lesson, I asked Julie if she needed any help with her English homework. She didn’t have homework that week, but she did want me to teach her a few things. The best part about this was that Paul was right there trying to learn English also. Just before we left we asked Paul if he would like us to come by during the week to get him caught up with Julie. So this week we went to see Paul twice and on the second visit he prayed and accepted Christ into his heart.
As I was thinking about Paul’s story I could help but think about Pharaoh and how hard his heart was, but then when God sent the Plague’s Pharaoh’s heart began to soften. Sadly it took Paul experiencing a tremendous amount of pain before he would listen to the Holy Spirit moving in his life and heart. I have been amazed at the difference in Paul from the very first day Esther talked to him to now. We are very excited to be giving Paul his very first bible.
What an Awesome God we serve, He can take a heart of stone, melt it and mold it into His home! WOW! This is what I love about my job, seeing my God work and giving him all the praise for it!
In His service, Bri and Esther
*For privacy reasons, names where changed
The following Sunday we went to give Jacob his book, sadly he wasn’t home; but his sister Kathy and niece Julie were home. We talked with Kathy and Julie for about 15 mins and when we asked if they would like to go through the lessons with us they agreed wholeheartedly. Although, it has been very hard to catch them at home (this is a common problem for us). One afternoon Jacob and Kathy’s parents were visiting, so while I was talking with Julie, Esther took the opportunity to introduce ourselves and tell them why we are working in 9 de Octubre and what our purpose is.
Paul (Jacob and Kathy’s father) was very defensive and WAS NOT in agreement with anything Esther had to say. When she asked him what he thought about the bible, he said “I think it’s just a bunch of stories.” I don’t remember exactly what he said about God, but I think it was something to the fact that yes, a god exists but I don’t believe in him. Esther and I left feeling very sad, but before we left Esther made sure to tell him that we would be praying for him.
Fast forward a couple weeks. We have gone to see Julie and find that Kathy is home for once, but has company, of course she invites us to stay. While we’re talking she begins to share with us about the accident her father was in last week. Paul lives out on the river but brings his boat in every weekend to visit his family. So Paul was on his way back, but before he could leave he had to fix a leak in the boat. He boiled (or heated) the tar and was just about to pour it out, when he slipped spilling the tar all over himself. He burnt the right side of his shoulder and arm VERY bad!
Esther and I both felt the door open for us to ask if we could pray for him, before we could ask, Kathy was asking us. Esther asked if he could come out so we could pray right then. Much to our surprise, he agreed and by the time we had finished praying I think I saw tears in his eyes. It was clear to us that God was working on Paul’s heart. Last week when we went to give Julie her lesson Paul was there. Always before he would leave us alone with Julie, this week he stayed and listened, and not quietly he had lots of questions.
We asked him if he would like a book of his own so he could follow along with us, I think my mouth was probably hanging open when he said yes. When we had finished the lesson, I asked Julie if she needed any help with her English homework. She didn’t have homework that week, but she did want me to teach her a few things. The best part about this was that Paul was right there trying to learn English also. Just before we left we asked Paul if he would like us to come by during the week to get him caught up with Julie. So this week we went to see Paul twice and on the second visit he prayed and accepted Christ into his heart.
As I was thinking about Paul’s story I could help but think about Pharaoh and how hard his heart was, but then when God sent the Plague’s Pharaoh’s heart began to soften. Sadly it took Paul experiencing a tremendous amount of pain before he would listen to the Holy Spirit moving in his life and heart. I have been amazed at the difference in Paul from the very first day Esther talked to him to now. We are very excited to be giving Paul his very first bible.
What an Awesome God we serve, He can take a heart of stone, melt it and mold it into His home! WOW! This is what I love about my job, seeing my God work and giving him all the praise for it!
In His service, Bri and Esther
*For privacy reasons, names where changed
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
VBS
I can’t believe it’s August already, summer has gone by so fast…..okay that’s just a joke because it’s been summer for all but 2 weeks since I moved here in Nov. 2009. : ) For those of you who don’t know our typical weather is about 100° with 60% to 70% humidity. Therefore a cooler day for us would be like 80°, when it drops to the 60’s we are wearing jeans, long sleeves and drinking hot coco. The beginning of this month we had a cold front come in with temperatures down in the 50’s and it lasted 3 or 4 days. During this time I felt like the biggest sissy, but then I stopped and thought about it and that is a 50° difference to what we are a costumed to; and then I didn’t feel so bad. Okay enough about the weather
July 28th was Peru’s Independence Day, so the kids were out of school for like 2 weeks. Since Esther and I have both been dying to work with kids more we agreed this would be the perfect time for a “Vacation Bible School” in 9 de Octubre. But Esther and I knew we couldn’t do it alone, good thing we have an AWESOME “Mother Church” (when Esther and I pull out of 9 de Oct our “Mother Church” will be the ones helping to keep our little group going.). Several of the ladies in the church were very excited about helping us with our VBS.
The VBS was held in a school (the same school we did the project at in June) from July 29th to August 1st 3pm-5:30pm. The first day we had 15 kids, we were going to divide the kids into two groups; ages 3-6 and 7-11. But it was easier to just keep them together and much to our surprise it worked out very well. The second day we had 29 kids, the third 35 and the last day 38 plus some of their family members so on our last day we had over 60 people at the school.
Everyone had a GREAT time, yes, even the teachers : ) I loved getting to play sports with the kids and sit and color with the little ones. On Sunday (the last day) one of the parents came up to Esther and said “Thank you so much for what you’ve taught our kids this week, they have been coming home and telling us all about what they were learning.” The kids asked us every day when we were going to do this again, Esther made the mistake of asking them if they wanted to do this every day, of course they all shouted at the top of their lungs “YES!!!” What a blessing for us to know that not only did they enjoy the VBS but that they were also telling their parents and friends all about it!
We are now having our weekly service on Thursday nights at 7pm (which means we don’t actually start till like 7:30 or 7:45) in Rosa’s house. The Pastor of our “Mother Church” comes every week and gives a short little devotional, Esther usually leads us in a few songs and I read a verse or pray. On a good week we will have 7 adults, it’s hard not to get discouraged by numbers. After all we do live in a world that loves numbers. Last week one of our new contacts came and he (let’s call him Mark) brought a friend with him, we were so shocked; most of the time it takes us inviting 10 times before they will finally come.
The following week when we went to do lessons with Mark and his Mom (Mark is probably in his early 30’s and his Mom in her 60’s) Mark was gone, but we asked his Mom what he had said about the service. We told her how surprised we were to see him there with his friend, and this is when we got the story of how he got his friend to come with him. Mark was on his way to the service when he ran into his friend (we’ll call him Jerry). Jerry asked Mark if he wanted a beer, Mark said “No, I can’t I’m on my way to have some ‘God time’. Jerry gave him a funny look, but said ok. Mark then asked if Jerry would like to come with him, Jerry’s first question was “will there be girls there?” Mark laughed and said yes, but that’s not why I’m going. Again I would guess that Jerry gave him a funny look, but still agreed to go along.
Esther and I were so pleased to hear this story, we were so proud of Mark for saying no to the beer and then for having the courage to invite his friend to come with him. When I hear a story like this or about the parent who thanked us for teaching his children about Jesus, I can’t help but praise God! He really is using us to change lives in 9 de Octubre!
In His service, Bri and Esther
July 28th was Peru’s Independence Day, so the kids were out of school for like 2 weeks. Since Esther and I have both been dying to work with kids more we agreed this would be the perfect time for a “Vacation Bible School” in 9 de Octubre. But Esther and I knew we couldn’t do it alone, good thing we have an AWESOME “Mother Church” (when Esther and I pull out of 9 de Oct our “Mother Church” will be the ones helping to keep our little group going.). Several of the ladies in the church were very excited about helping us with our VBS.
The VBS was held in a school (the same school we did the project at in June) from July 29th to August 1st 3pm-5:30pm. The first day we had 15 kids, we were going to divide the kids into two groups; ages 3-6 and 7-11. But it was easier to just keep them together and much to our surprise it worked out very well. The second day we had 29 kids, the third 35 and the last day 38 plus some of their family members so on our last day we had over 60 people at the school.
Everyone had a GREAT time, yes, even the teachers : ) I loved getting to play sports with the kids and sit and color with the little ones. On Sunday (the last day) one of the parents came up to Esther and said “Thank you so much for what you’ve taught our kids this week, they have been coming home and telling us all about what they were learning.” The kids asked us every day when we were going to do this again, Esther made the mistake of asking them if they wanted to do this every day, of course they all shouted at the top of their lungs “YES!!!” What a blessing for us to know that not only did they enjoy the VBS but that they were also telling their parents and friends all about it!
We are now having our weekly service on Thursday nights at 7pm (which means we don’t actually start till like 7:30 or 7:45) in Rosa’s house. The Pastor of our “Mother Church” comes every week and gives a short little devotional, Esther usually leads us in a few songs and I read a verse or pray. On a good week we will have 7 adults, it’s hard not to get discouraged by numbers. After all we do live in a world that loves numbers. Last week one of our new contacts came and he (let’s call him Mark) brought a friend with him, we were so shocked; most of the time it takes us inviting 10 times before they will finally come.
The following week when we went to do lessons with Mark and his Mom (Mark is probably in his early 30’s and his Mom in her 60’s) Mark was gone, but we asked his Mom what he had said about the service. We told her how surprised we were to see him there with his friend, and this is when we got the story of how he got his friend to come with him. Mark was on his way to the service when he ran into his friend (we’ll call him Jerry). Jerry asked Mark if he wanted a beer, Mark said “No, I can’t I’m on my way to have some ‘God time’. Jerry gave him a funny look, but said ok. Mark then asked if Jerry would like to come with him, Jerry’s first question was “will there be girls there?” Mark laughed and said yes, but that’s not why I’m going. Again I would guess that Jerry gave him a funny look, but still agreed to go along.
Esther and I were so pleased to hear this story, we were so proud of Mark for saying no to the beer and then for having the courage to invite his friend to come with him. When I hear a story like this or about the parent who thanked us for teaching his children about Jesus, I can’t help but praise God! He really is using us to change lives in 9 de Octubre!
In His service, Bri and Esther
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Love Extreme to Iquitos!
I’m so sorry it has taken me so long to write an update, I’m sure I could give you plenty of excuses, but none of them would justify my laziness. So I’m going to just skip them and jump right in and start telling you about what God has been doing.
Love Extreme to Iquitos was AWESOME!! We had an incredible group of people from the states who come to help us with a project (well, more like lots of little projects) here in our beautiful city of Iquitos. Each day of the week long project we went to a different location. Although only 4 of us 40/40’s (who live and work here in IQT) were able to help with the project all the 40/40’s helped to plan what we would do in/at their location.
The one thing we were worried about was whether our short termers would feel needed and useful. I love how when we attempt to make plans, even if we “believe” they are plans God has given us; He will ALWAYS step in and make His own plans. By the end of the project everyone was praising God for how He had used them in ways they’d never dreamed. God is good, isn’t He?!
Okay, now for a little more on what we did. Our very first day we went to a school to do lice treatments, and also to teach the kids about how God created earth and how we are to do our part in taking care of it…..such as recycling. We realized this was a big stretch because it’s hard enough just to get people to use a trash can, let alone the “right” ones. But, I’m happy to report that Esther and I have since been back to the school and it was evident that they had indeed been using the trash cans because there was NO trash on the ground.
The second day we took a two hour boat ride (which was only suppose to be an hour, you’ve got to love Peru) to a remote village were a pair of our guys are working. By the time we finally got there we only had a few hours, but how much time does God really need to work? We made a quick sandwich before setting up for bible stories, a puppet show, face painting, and other crafts. The kids loved the crafts even if it was just coloring a picture.
Another day we had “Princess Day”, with the help of a church in Nebraska we were able to play dress up, with little girls , young women and even adult ladies. We had four stations set up, one for painting nails, one for doing make up, another for doing their hair and the last for dressing up. Complete with crowns, wands and even high heels, but the best part was when we took them aside and told them that they really are princesses because they have a Father who is the King of Kings. Many accepted Christ that afternoon, and just through playing a little dress up : ). No worries, we had something for the boys too, they got to play sports and hear about how they are Princes’ and they even got to color a picture or two.
Perhaps the most challenging day for me was when we went to Belen to pick up trash. Belen is the poorest area in all of Iquitos and also one of the most dangers. We knew that what little trash we did get picked up wouldn’t even make a dent, but we wanted to show the people that we weren’t scared to come down there and we weren’t too “ rich” (for lack of a better word) to pick up trash. As we began to pick up piece after piece people started to stop what they were doing and just watch, they could not believe that we were really down there doing that……and yet we were! The entire time I was picking up the trash I was praying one, that I didn’t get sick (the smell is horrible in Belen, it smells of sewage, and rotting fish) and two; that these people would know that someone cares for them and their city.
Several of the nights we were able to show the Jesus Film, and Glory to God in the highest, many people accepted Christ into their hearts. As 40/40’s it has been our honor and privilege to go and meet these people and with a few of them we have even started a discipleship class. We believe that there are even more in Iquitos that a seed was planted and we pray that someone, someday will get to harvest that seed; after all our God is”faithful and just”.
Since the project ended all the 40/40’s have returned and we have started back to work, all of us were eager to get back “home” to our house and our work. Never thought we’d be saying that, but God has been good to us and is continuing to bless us in His work.
Prayer request’s for 9 de octubre:
Vacation Bible School (July 29th-Aug 1st)
Jobs (many of our contacts are out of work)
Health (many are also sick)
And last but not least, Wisdom for Esther and I. That we would know and continue in the will of God!
In His Service, Bri and Esther
Love Extreme to Iquitos was AWESOME!! We had an incredible group of people from the states who come to help us with a project (well, more like lots of little projects) here in our beautiful city of Iquitos. Each day of the week long project we went to a different location. Although only 4 of us 40/40’s (who live and work here in IQT) were able to help with the project all the 40/40’s helped to plan what we would do in/at their location.
The one thing we were worried about was whether our short termers would feel needed and useful. I love how when we attempt to make plans, even if we “believe” they are plans God has given us; He will ALWAYS step in and make His own plans. By the end of the project everyone was praising God for how He had used them in ways they’d never dreamed. God is good, isn’t He?!
Okay, now for a little more on what we did. Our very first day we went to a school to do lice treatments, and also to teach the kids about how God created earth and how we are to do our part in taking care of it…..such as recycling. We realized this was a big stretch because it’s hard enough just to get people to use a trash can, let alone the “right” ones. But, I’m happy to report that Esther and I have since been back to the school and it was evident that they had indeed been using the trash cans because there was NO trash on the ground.
The second day we took a two hour boat ride (which was only suppose to be an hour, you’ve got to love Peru) to a remote village were a pair of our guys are working. By the time we finally got there we only had a few hours, but how much time does God really need to work? We made a quick sandwich before setting up for bible stories, a puppet show, face painting, and other crafts. The kids loved the crafts even if it was just coloring a picture.
Another day we had “Princess Day”, with the help of a church in Nebraska we were able to play dress up, with little girls , young women and even adult ladies. We had four stations set up, one for painting nails, one for doing make up, another for doing their hair and the last for dressing up. Complete with crowns, wands and even high heels, but the best part was when we took them aside and told them that they really are princesses because they have a Father who is the King of Kings. Many accepted Christ that afternoon, and just through playing a little dress up : ). No worries, we had something for the boys too, they got to play sports and hear about how they are Princes’ and they even got to color a picture or two.
Perhaps the most challenging day for me was when we went to Belen to pick up trash. Belen is the poorest area in all of Iquitos and also one of the most dangers. We knew that what little trash we did get picked up wouldn’t even make a dent, but we wanted to show the people that we weren’t scared to come down there and we weren’t too “ rich” (for lack of a better word) to pick up trash. As we began to pick up piece after piece people started to stop what they were doing and just watch, they could not believe that we were really down there doing that……and yet we were! The entire time I was picking up the trash I was praying one, that I didn’t get sick (the smell is horrible in Belen, it smells of sewage, and rotting fish) and two; that these people would know that someone cares for them and their city.
Several of the nights we were able to show the Jesus Film, and Glory to God in the highest, many people accepted Christ into their hearts. As 40/40’s it has been our honor and privilege to go and meet these people and with a few of them we have even started a discipleship class. We believe that there are even more in Iquitos that a seed was planted and we pray that someone, someday will get to harvest that seed; after all our God is”faithful and just”.
Since the project ended all the 40/40’s have returned and we have started back to work, all of us were eager to get back “home” to our house and our work. Never thought we’d be saying that, but God has been good to us and is continuing to bless us in His work.
Prayer request’s for 9 de octubre:
Vacation Bible School (July 29th-Aug 1st)
Jobs (many of our contacts are out of work)
Health (many are also sick)
And last but not least, Wisdom for Esther and I. That we would know and continue in the will of God!
In His Service, Bri and Esther
Monday, May 31, 2010
Just another week (May 24th)
Well, yet another week has gone by and God continues to move in 9 de Octubre. We have more and more people who we are disciplining. Many of them are Catholic, but they are eager to learn and hear what we have to say. Ideally it would be great if they would come to our “new” church, but as we have told them. God told us to go out and preach the gospel and to share his love, so that is what we are trying to do. If the people decided to come to the Nazarene Church, WONDERFUL, and if not that’s ok too.
Last week I met a young man who knows a decent amount of English and was very excited at the chance to practice. He has asked me if I would teach him about the bible in English. I was super excited about this and then I realized all our material is in Spanish. So quickly I set to work on translating, it has been wonderful practice for me.
Esther and I are getting really excited about the project coming up. We went and visited the schools in the area and we think we may have found a winner. They have about 210 students and 9 class rooms. The principle was very nice and was very excited about the possibility of having us come and help her school and kids. If we end up doing the project at this school, we are hoping that we would also be able to use one of the class rooms to have Sunday school once a week. We will just have to wait and see where God leads.
Once a week we have an all group meeting. We have a time of devotion, prayer and sharing. It’s wonderful to hear all that God is doing here in IQT (Iquitos). When I was in Arequipa God gave me this verse from Joshua, it says: “….and said to them, “I know that the Lord has given this land to you and that a great fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear.”
There is no doubt in my mind that God has gone (and is going) before us and has been (and is) working in the hearts of the Men, Women, and Children of IQT. We give Him all the glory!!!
In His Service, Bri and Esther
Prayer requests:
A place to hold a weekly service
Continued guidance and protection
And open hearts and minds!
Last week I met a young man who knows a decent amount of English and was very excited at the chance to practice. He has asked me if I would teach him about the bible in English. I was super excited about this and then I realized all our material is in Spanish. So quickly I set to work on translating, it has been wonderful practice for me.
Esther and I are getting really excited about the project coming up. We went and visited the schools in the area and we think we may have found a winner. They have about 210 students and 9 class rooms. The principle was very nice and was very excited about the possibility of having us come and help her school and kids. If we end up doing the project at this school, we are hoping that we would also be able to use one of the class rooms to have Sunday school once a week. We will just have to wait and see where God leads.
Once a week we have an all group meeting. We have a time of devotion, prayer and sharing. It’s wonderful to hear all that God is doing here in IQT (Iquitos). When I was in Arequipa God gave me this verse from Joshua, it says: “….and said to them, “I know that the Lord has given this land to you and that a great fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear.”
There is no doubt in my mind that God has gone (and is going) before us and has been (and is) working in the hearts of the Men, Women, and Children of IQT. We give Him all the glory!!!
In His Service, Bri and Esther
Prayer requests:
A place to hold a weekly service
Continued guidance and protection
And open hearts and minds!
Our First Week (May 3rd-9th)
Esther and I have been working in 9 de Octubre for about a week now, and so far so good. For the next month our week will look something like this…..
Monday: FREE DAY!!!
Tuesday & Wednesday: 10am-11am Discipleship class with Jenny
11am-12:30pm Evangelize
12:30-2pm Lunch (out)
2-4pm Evangelize
*Dinner on the compound at 6pm*
Thursday & Friday: 2:30pm-3:30pm Discipleship class with Rosa
4-5pm Discipleship class with Blanca and Demetrio
5pm-6pm Dinner (out)
*Lunch on the compound at 12:00pm*
Saturday: Discipleship classes and maybe some outreach projects
12:30-2pm Lunch (out)
*Dinner on the compound at 6pm*
Sunday: Church at Colinas (Our mother church)
This is just to get an idea of what we will be doing, more than likely it will change a little from week to week. But it gives you an idea at least.
God has been so good to us, we already have 4 people who are or will be starting discipleship class. There is also a Nazarene family in the area who are willing to help in any way possible. We are hoping to eventually have some classes/church services in their home.
Esther and I are doing wonderful, we are working as one. We have had some really good laughs and some good discussions. One day I even spoke up and told her I didn’t like something she’d done; this was a big step for me. We see things VERY differently, but we have a mutual respect for one another.
Blanca (who will be starting her first discipleship class on Thursday) owns a little store; she sells snacks, soda and other various items. One day this week we stopped by to talk to her and get a cold drink. After we finished talking she asked us what we’d like to drink. Esther asked for a couple waters before she realized I had my own. But it was too late, Blanca’s son (Demetrio) was already bringing two glass bottled waters……..with gas. Esther had forgotten to say without gas, but I was fine with it. Little did I know that this was Esther first time to drink water with gas. She was really struggling to drink it and finally when Blanca got up to tend to something Esther turned to me and said “I don’t think I can finish this.” And me being the nice partner I am, I said “But, you have to or you will be a bad missionary.” She laughed and said “okay but it may be next year.” When Blanca came back we asked her how much we owned her and she said “Nothing, this one’s on me” my partner turned to me and said” in that case I will finish mine.” I decided I should be nice so I finally I asked her if she was done (knowing she wasn’t but because Blanca was right there I had to ask) I said I will finish yours.
We had a good laugh at this in the taxi on the way home. I was feeling pretty proud of myself for being able to do something my Peruvian partner couldn’t; even if it was only drinking a bottle of water.
More stories to come as we continue in our ministry!
With Love, Bri and Esther
Monday: FREE DAY!!!
Tuesday & Wednesday: 10am-11am Discipleship class with Jenny
11am-12:30pm Evangelize
12:30-2pm Lunch (out)
2-4pm Evangelize
*Dinner on the compound at 6pm*
Thursday & Friday: 2:30pm-3:30pm Discipleship class with Rosa
4-5pm Discipleship class with Blanca and Demetrio
5pm-6pm Dinner (out)
*Lunch on the compound at 12:00pm*
Saturday: Discipleship classes and maybe some outreach projects
12:30-2pm Lunch (out)
*Dinner on the compound at 6pm*
Sunday: Church at Colinas (Our mother church)
This is just to get an idea of what we will be doing, more than likely it will change a little from week to week. But it gives you an idea at least.
God has been so good to us, we already have 4 people who are or will be starting discipleship class. There is also a Nazarene family in the area who are willing to help in any way possible. We are hoping to eventually have some classes/church services in their home.
Esther and I are doing wonderful, we are working as one. We have had some really good laughs and some good discussions. One day I even spoke up and told her I didn’t like something she’d done; this was a big step for me. We see things VERY differently, but we have a mutual respect for one another.
Blanca (who will be starting her first discipleship class on Thursday) owns a little store; she sells snacks, soda and other various items. One day this week we stopped by to talk to her and get a cold drink. After we finished talking she asked us what we’d like to drink. Esther asked for a couple waters before she realized I had my own. But it was too late, Blanca’s son (Demetrio) was already bringing two glass bottled waters……..with gas. Esther had forgotten to say without gas, but I was fine with it. Little did I know that this was Esther first time to drink water with gas. She was really struggling to drink it and finally when Blanca got up to tend to something Esther turned to me and said “I don’t think I can finish this.” And me being the nice partner I am, I said “But, you have to or you will be a bad missionary.” She laughed and said “okay but it may be next year.” When Blanca came back we asked her how much we owned her and she said “Nothing, this one’s on me” my partner turned to me and said” in that case I will finish mine.” I decided I should be nice so I finally I asked her if she was done (knowing she wasn’t but because Blanca was right there I had to ask) I said I will finish yours.
We had a good laugh at this in the taxi on the way home. I was feeling pretty proud of myself for being able to do something my Peruvian partner couldn’t; even if it was only drinking a bottle of water.
More stories to come as we continue in our ministry!
With Love, Bri and Esther
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