Today was filled with mixed emotions – A ride through the
business district of Guayaquil with quiet streets on a Sunday morning, a stroll
in Iguana Park watching the Iguanas eat their breakfast of lettuce leaves, Mass
at the Catedral Metropolitana
San Pedro Apostol, then back to the van to Cerro Ana to
climb 444 steps to the light house and chapel at the site of a historical fort,
returned to Damien Foundation for a delicious lunch of rice and lentils,
followed by a birthday celebration for Juan and a despesido (farewell
gathering) an opportunity for our group and the residents to share words of
gratitude and blessings, with full hearts we cooled off in the air conditioned
art room while Sister Annie told storied of medical miracles for patients
suffering from the effects of Hansen’s Disease, next we walked along the seaside
boardwalk called the Malecon, and our final stop was the food court at the
mall.
I feel privileged and proud to journey with a group of
thoughtful, faithful, articulate, loving, caring, willing and open young women
and young men. Thank you parents for
entrusting your sons and daughters to Sabrina and my care and leadership – we
are truly blessed.
During these past 5 days, the college students who volunteer
at Damien House have inspired me in many ways and have left an impression on
our team. Abel, Genesis, and Luceti are working
diligently to complete their studies and make a better life for themselves and
for their families. Education is the
ticket out of the cycle of poverty .
Abel, Genesis and Luceti continue to spend time with the residents
at Damien Foundation and their fondness and care for one another is a visible
sign of God at work in this community.
As we conclude our time in Guayaquil and prepare to fly to
Quito, the people of Guayquil, Damien Foundation, Nuevo Mundo Schools, our
families, and our group are in my
prayers.
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