A Praise Report

Just returned from my physiotherapist appointment.  One of the first questions she asked was if I was able to do my exercises while I was in Mexico City.  Well, I was honest and said - nope.  While in Mexico City I had joked with one of the leaders that we should have a physiotherapy session and have the whole team do my exercises with me... but we didn't.

So going today was a bit of an unknown and full of questions for me.  I really did try to take care of my knee in Mexico City and the team was great in making sure I never over did anything.  Thanks Team.

Well, I jogged for 5 minutes today on the treadmill!  Yep, I said I jogged for 5 minutes!  Praise the Lord!  My therapist said I am doing well and that the trip did not hurt me in any way.  BUT... she said I needed to do my exercises while we are on vacation... and she would see me again when we get back.  Oh well

Thank you all for your prayers concerning my knee and my health.  They have meant more than words can express.

I hope you are having a great day wherever you are at.

Blessings,

Pastor Terry

Home and Away

Our MOBY team is home. It was a very joyful reunion at the airport, full of cheers and laughter, hugs and tears. It was beautiful and powerful to see everyone together again!

And today they have entered their *old* world but as new people, with new experiences, new pictures of their walk of faith. And as we've heard from a number of the team today....they're all feeling a little bit lost.

I wanted to leave you with one last song from Matthew West's CD...it is a powerful declaration of his surrender to God. A God who takes him when he is at his most lost, fumbling around the most....and embraces him. This beautiful song sings of a complete abandonment to our Saviour Jesus. I write it praying that it will be an anthem for our team and they walk these new steps of uncertainty and faith...and for you as well.

Please pray for the team in these next weeks that they would have patience and persistence to allow God to shape them because of this missions trip - even now as they are back home. They are never lost to Him, even when they feel uncertain or unsure of what He is calling them to next....they can jump into His arms with hope and expectation....He has deep purpose and calling in their lives! Pray that they can respond to Him - calling Him their EVERYTHING!

Everything

I’m the one with two left feet
Standing on a lonely street
I can’t even walk a straight line
And every time you look at me I’m spinning like an autumn leaf
Bound to hit bottom sometime
Where would I be without someone to save me
Someone who won’t let me fall

You are everything that I live for
Everything that I can’t believe is happening
You’re standing right in front of me
With arms wide open
All I know is Every day is filled with hope
'Cause You are everything that I believe for
And I can’t help but breathe you in and
Breathe again
Feeling all this life within
Every single beat of my heart

I’m the one with big mistakes
Big regrets and bigger breaks
Than I'd ever care to confess
Oh but, You’re the one who looks at me
And sees what I was meant to be
More than just a beautiful mess
Where would I be without someone to save me
Someone who won’t let me fall

You are everything that I live for
Everything that I can’t believe is happening
You’re standing right in front of me
With arms wide open
All I know is Every day is filled with hope

'Cause You are everything that I believe for
And I can’t help but breathe you in Breathe again
Feeling all this life within
Every single beat of my heart

You’re everything good in my life
Everything honest and true
And all of those stars hanging up in the sky
Could never shine brighter than You

You are everything that I live for
Everything that I can’t believe is happening
You’re standing right in front of me
With arms wide open
All I know is Every day is filled with hope
'Cause You are everything that I believe for
And I can’t help but breathe you in Breathe again
Feeling all this life within
Every single beat of my heart

You are Oh You are Jesus, You are You are everything

A Small Taste Continued...

A few days ago I uploaded some of the insights learned by team members and I now want to add what the other team members had to say.

---

When I first arrived in Mexico City, I thought: "how much can 6 days running a VBS really impact people here?" Now that I've experienced it on this trip, I'm completely blown away. The few people we've touched here will continue to spread God's love in their communities well after we leave. It doesn't stop with just those 70-80 kids when we leave. The impact that God has made through us keeps on growing and growing.

We've been shown so much love by the Becerra's and the kids at VBS, even as total strangers. Through this God has taught me that being strangers doesn't matter; we are all His children. If they can show so much love to us as foreign strangers, I should be able to show just as much or more of God's love to those I know back at home.

This trip has also shown me what it means to be a servant and in doing so, growing closer to God. Being a servant to me means showing God's love to others in whatever way I can with humility.

The most amazing thing that I've realized on this trip is that God is not a Canadian God. He makes an impact and shows His love worldwide. We weren't here on this trip as Canadians and Mexicans, but together as Christians, serving and worshiping God as one in the body of Christ.

Going to Mexico City on this mission trip was beyond incredible. It was just indescribable. All the wonderful, loving people that I met here were so much fun to hang out with: Luis, Oscar, Pastor Jaime, Sara, Isaac, Amanda, Obed and so many more. It was awesome to meet them all, and I'm glad I'll be abel to take home a piece of their culture and their love to share in Canada. -- Alex Choy

--

This has been an amazing trip so far and even more than I expected. This is my second time here in Mexico City and I am continually blown away by it. Just before we left for Mexico I was having lots of doubts and fears. I was questioning why I was coming and if I was doing the right thing. However, over the past few days God has reminded me that He is in control and that He has a purpose for me being here. I think that it is largely to prepare me for Capenwray in Costa Rica (which I am leaving for right after we get back from Mexico) in terms of relating to people and the culture. It has also been great to be surrounded by such strong Christians, both on our team and in Mexico, who encourage and challenge me in my faith. Being here with very few distractions has also helped me focus on God again.

I absolutely LOVE the culture here in Mexico. I am very comfortable with it and it is great to soak in their love which they always pour out, even to us "strangers." They are so hospitable and it touches my heart how we can love without words and despite the language barrier. it is a great image of the body of Christ and the vastness of God. It is such a blessing to be back here in Mexico with family. God has done such miracles in a very short time. I am learning a lot and I pray that I can bring it back to Canada and share it with everyone. -- Lauren Schneider

--

If you've never been on a missions trip to Mexico before, I recommend you bring three things:

1. Sunscreen

2. Hand Sanitizer

3. A wide open mind.

This is my first missions trip ever. Here's what I learned about Missions to Mexico.

Go to serve, but be willing to receive the service of others. Love is beautiful in this sort of two-way relationship. Be willing for people (to whom you came to minister) to amaze you by their hospitality and generosity.

Plan for flexibility. God is likely to use you in way different ways than you planned, whether this be late night talks, cleaning dishes, or horsing around with a new-found friend.

Plan to bond with unexpected people and also to have to say "good bye" or at least "so long."

Plan to see beauty to an extent that you never imagined possible - for example in the humble spirit and contrite heart of a mother.

Plan to re-define love.

Plan to discover mentors, including yourself.

Plan to laugh yourself silly and to cry to the same extent basically subsequently, and sometimes at the same time.

Expect to see a new side of people... especially an unexpected side: The person you thought was shy, the other one you thought to be strong and impenetrable.

PLAN TO BE REAL

- Drink Water

- Not from the tap

But most of all, don't expect anything except what God will bring, because that will be good, and in Mexico they take it as it comes. -- Hayley León

Phoenix Airport

We are just waiting to get on our plane and I think the people in this general area are hoping they aren't our plane.  We have been playing the game "psychiatrist" and having a hoot - but... maybe others haven't been together for 12 days in Mexico City.

Looking forward to seeing you soon in Edmonton.

Terry

One the Way Home

Very quick post as I am out the door in a few minutes...

Talked to Terry really briefly this morning...they team is packing up, getting ready to go to the airport.

They are saying their goodbyes, people from the community are stopping over to say goodbye.

They had a very great day yesterday at the pyramids and then a special communion service last night. Pastor Jaime said some very special words to the team and thanked them again for coming, for being an encouragement and for loving the people they love in their community. Again his words to the team were - when are you coming back?

I will write more later...but just wanted to ask for your prayers as the team travels today.

Schedule is 4 pm flight out of Mexico to Phoenix
8:15 departure from Phoenix,

Arrive in Edmonton approximately 12:45 am.

For those coming to the airport remember they have to clear customs as well after they arrive!

See you at the airport tonight! It will be a wonderful reunion!

Edited to Add (again): The flight has landed in Phoenix and all the bags arrived for the team and now are rechecked for the next leg. The whole team passed through US customs without any issue and were going to have some supper before getting on the plane departing at 8:28pm I believe. This flight is #2811, scheduled to arrive at 12:45 am.



Flight has left Mexico City on schedule! It is flight #34 on US Air into Phoenix estimated to arrive into Phoenix about 10 minutes early.

A Short Update

Hi All, I hope you have enjoyed the pictures and stories Terry posted yesterday!

I had a quick conversation with Terry last night. The team had a great day yesterday taking the bus and metro into the downtown or center of Mexico City yesterday. They were able to see a beautiful cathedral where they were holding mass, the City Square which was the site two years ago of some heated political demonstrations that made international news while the team was there, and they were able to see some amazing architecture. Many members of the team who have been to Europe said that the architecture reminded them of European style. I believe I read somewhere the Mexico City was rebuilt in the 1500's after a seige but the Aztecs settled it in the 1300's. It is a city that has much history.

Today they will head to the famous Mexican Pyramids, I have seen some pictures but it is supposed to be amazing, and I'm glad they have a chance to see it. Today is their last full day in Mexico as a team.

Terry also told me a little bit about the Sunday service. The team lead the 2 1/2 hour service (a very typical Mexican church service is about 3 hours! ) Terry said he was up till 3:30 am preparing the sermon, and the powerpoint of pictures from the team's trip to show the people of Monte Sion. Then he was up at 6 am to practise again. He spoke on the parable of the sower and the seeds and the soils from Matthew 13. He talked about how each of us are living out a type of soil right now, there might be weeds, hard packed ground, rocky places in our life, and it is difficult for God's word to take root in us. But that God can change those rocky, weedy hard packed places in our life into good soil if we will surrender ourselves to Him. He led a challenge to the people and Amanda Luna spoke it again in Spanish and many people responded and came to the front.

Christie shared her experience of what God has taught her in Mexico entirely in Spanish without an interpreter. She and Hayley worked on what she wanted to say the day before and she shared from her heart in Spanish for the people. I was so proud of her to hear that...and I know that meant so much to the Mexican people.

Matthew also shared in the service and Terry said he did such a wonderful job. He is such a well intentioned and deeply kind hearted young man. I know that this experience has shaped him in powerful ways.

Today is a significant day for the team. Because in their hearts they are beginning the process of saying goodbye to Mexico City and the people that have impacted them so much. It will not be easy for them. Please hold them up in prayer as they say goodbye.

But they also begin the process of re-entry into their life back here. I think of all the preparation for a missions trip, this is the process that is the most important - and the one most people are least prepared for.

The process of Re-Entry is often more difficult and dramatic than is the initial culture shock someone might experience going into a country. Being immersed in a different culture and having a very significant spiritual and relational experience together has changed this team in powerful ways. But often-times they don't even realize how much impact it has had yet. It takes some time and effort to synthesize their experiences into their life so those experiences won't be wasted.

Coming back into a very affluent and hectic North American culture after being in a very humble, resource poor, yet relationship rich culture can be very difficult adjustment sometimes. You might see your loved one dissatisfied with what they see around them, disappointed with our North American excess yet lack of joy, and our more *cold* culture compared to a very relational warm Mexican culture. Don't be surprised by this. And we in North America could learn SO much from them. And I think that is the power of a mission trip, it opens up the world, and WHO the church is globally to our team members. And it challenges us too!

Over the next weeks be sure to ask the detail questions of who ,what, how...but also the why questions, and the "how is this impacting you", "what is God teaching you", "what does it mean for your life?" They will need to process all of what God has showed them for their experience to continue to take root in their lives - and find good soil! They will need people to ask them good questions to help them process what God is teaching them. Please be praying for the team about their re-entry process.

One thing Terry also tells the team when they return...that when someone asks "How was your trip", they are never allowed to just respond with "good". They might have a hard time articulating what the trip meant to them (because it's so big!) ...but Terry always wants them to be ready with a 1 minute report...and a 5 minute report....giving you something of substance about their experience.

Ok...what started short...ended up longer...but the re-entry aspects have been on my heart for a couple of days! I pray that today you allow yourself to be rich deep soil for the Word to be planted deeply in you.

Each day our youngest son wakes up and tells everyone how many days till Daddy comes home. Today he was so excited to say, "ONE!"

Hope to see many of you tomorrow night at midnight at the airport to greet the team and welcome them home!

More Pictures

I hope you enjoy a few photos from our time here in Mexico City. Some of these photos will make more sense if you read the previous post that was made today.

Terry

A small taste of what it has meant to be in Mexico City

Thank you for your continued prayers and support of our team here in Mexico City. I wish all of you could have been here this past week to see these young men and women work side by side to be the hands and feet of Jesus. These young men and women have represented their love of God in amazing ways and have been great ambassadors of God, Canada and McKernan. I hope you enjoy the following (you might need a tissue) and know that this is barely scratching the surface of what this trip means to these young people. (I will add the others later) – Pastor Terry Okken


This trip has been a very special experience for me coming as a leader. To see how the students in our (my & Jesse’s) small group have stepped so far out of their comfort zone and from what I can see, become more of themselves has been such a privilege. I have found so much joy in watching the students step out and lead.

Another special thing has been the “off-ministry” times where we get to build our relationships within the team. It is so exciting to see the students let go of things in their past and use this trip as a turning point, having set up an alter before God saying “I am no longer bound by these things that distract me and hold me back.”

This trip has also provided me an opportunity to set aside my own distractions and enjoy just being in community with God’s people. I have loved building friendships with the other leaders, and students, and forming new ones with my new family her in Mexico City. God has continued to teach me to rely on him constantly and to surrender my plans and agenda to His will. I feel as though he is teaching me what life is about and what my purpose for being on earth is – to glorify God through the love I show for others. I often come to the end of my own love, but then God allows me to see people through a fresh set of eyes – His eyes – and in grace, grants me the extra love I need.

I am blessed by this culture and the love that flows so freely. I pray that this experience will allow me to take more love home. I am so thankful that I am here and am excited to see where God is going to mold and shape me and the rest of the team during the next days and in re-entry. -- Sheleena Boulianne


I have been asked what this trip has meant to me. I ponder in my head and in my heart, “What does this trip mean to me?” Well here it is, unexplainable, but it doesn’t end there. That, that I cannot explain is so much in my heart and changed me as a person. I have had so much fun doing the Lords work which means so much to me and I can’t imagine how happy the Lord is with the work we have done here in Santa Ursula at Monte Sion and in Huixquilucan. I can see him smiling his big grin and it makes me smile and cry. Why? Because we have pleased him and this world is so full of darkness. You can now find light in these two places we have worked in. “The Lord is a light unto my path…”

We have connected so well with the people here, I can’t imagine leaving and never coming back. So many connections with the children here, a girl named Estaphania from the church in Huixquilucn who was always willing to talk no matter how difficult it was for us and for her tounderstand. Xochitl a girl from Monte Sion who clung and cuddled with us all and captured our hearts, as well we will never forget the little cutie Jonathan from Monte Sion. So cute I wanted to take him home with me. I am amazed by God’s amazing way of showing himself to me through my own mind. There were times on this trip where it felt as we both shared a mind and he shared his thoughts with me, with my daily devotions. PRAISE THE LORD! for all he has done! I am looking forward to home but don’t want to leave at the same time. I guess I miss home! It seems that is where my heart lies at the moment but for a piece it is here for we have seen a taste of heaven. No doubt about that. -- Karisa Seim


This has been an amazing short-term mission trip and especially because it was my first experience. It has amazed me that God can do so much in such a short time and all of the miracles he has created in these children’s lives. The amount of kids that came and the great amount of attention they paid really stood out to me, and I praise God for that. In my own heart, I have been shaped greatly by my ability to leave my comfort zone and to worship God with service. Personally, my act of being a servant is to use my hands to further our world and building new area’s. Lastly, I was astonished by the wonderful hospitality of all the people we’ve been around including food and accommodations. Now, I hope to finish off this trip with continued love for Christ and carry that on back to Edmonton. – Matthew Faulkner


Mexico City is an amazing place! I’ve really enjoyed learning and soaking everything I can in since arriving here last Saturday. I’ve really enjoyed learning Spanish with the help of the family we are staying with. I’m actually getting to be functional in it now, and being able to have short conversations in “Spanglish” is a lot of fun! I’ve felt really comfortable all week doing the VBS and playing with the children. This is a major praise item for me since working with young children has never been an area of great strength for me.

Another highlight of this trip for me was playing some genuine Mexican street soccer with some guys my age. I felt like I was in the video game FIFA street! It is great to see God at work here in Mexico, and playing a small part in his plan here has been a great pleasure and privilege. Thank you for your prayers, I’m sure that they have had a positive impact in my trip here in my attitude and enabled me to function beyond my “normal” settings. God Bless -- Jesse Boulianne


Wow doesn’t even begin to describe Mexico City and this missions trip. It has been an amazing experience and one I will never forget. The first full day in Santa Ursula was spent at Monte Sion. The worship caught me off guard at first but was beyond beautiful with the two languages being sung side by side (it brought me to tears). The VBS with the kids was miraculous! How they embraced us as older brothers and sisters and also our lack of well spoken Spanish was well appreciated and so special. Of course you create some bonds with the kids you are working with but for me, I connected with 5 girls in more depth. Estephania, Xochilt, Katherine, Sarai & Nataly Pamela always gave me a huge bear hug & made me feel like I belonged. One of the most rewarding experiences on this trip was to see many more than half of the total amount of the kids draping their black ribbons over the cross and bowing their heads in prayer. It touched my heart in a way I have not felt before.

I love the culture here in Mexico, how they are so accepting, loving and provide hospitality to complete strangers. I only hope that I can learn some of their culture and bring it back to share with my family & friends. The most important things I’ve learned this trip is that everything is possible as long as you give it to God and even though you came to serve, you might be blessed and served by others unexpectedly along the way. -- Christie Roethlingshoefer


It has been such a huge blessing to be back with my brothers and sisters here in Mexico City. I wasn’t sure I’d be back but I’m so glad that I am. God has really reminded and retaught me a lot of the things I learned two years ago. Everytime I am here I am amazed at the power of unspoken love. It blows my mind how easy it is to express love to someone without being able to tell them. One person who really impacted me again this trip was Obed. I was kind of surprised that he still remembered me. Near the beginning of the trip, I showed him the bracelet he gave me last time and he remembered giving it to me. A few days later he actually brought out the letter that I wrote for him two years ago. That blew my min that he still had it. One moment that I will never forget from this trip is when it was after me and Obed had been hanging out with each other for a while that day, and it was time for me to leave, and he came over to me, gave me a big hug, and said in English, “My big brother forever”.
God is continuing to bless me and teach me sooo much about relationships while I’m here. Hopefully I can take this with me forever. – David Schneider

Hey Team!

Hey MOBY Team! Guess what WE did here today back home??

All the parents of you students that were available gathered for brunch today at the R's House (thank you David and Evelyn). It was a gorgeous afternoon in the backyard, and we even ate quiche (just for you Megan!), thanks Christie for loaning us your parents :)

We talked about you and your experiences you've told us about so far, enjoyed the company, our kids went crazy on the trampoline, and we had a time to pray as a group for all of you.

We wanted to let you know we love you and are praying for you, and are very proud of you. How did the service go today team?

9 Minutes on a Phone Card

It's amazing how much you can pack into a phone conversation with 9 minutes left on a phone card! Terry was at the grocery store and called.

Today was the last day of VBS at Monte Sion. And the 37 children there had a wonderful day. 7 children came into the Kingdom today! Accepting Christ for the first time. The other 30 stayed seated, because most of them had accepted Jesus as their Saviour the last time the team was there. What a beautiful end to the week.

Later today the team went to the Floating Gardens and had a GREAT time Terry said. Pastor Jaime had made a meal for them to bring along for lunch it was Stuffed Peppers and Terry just oooed and awwwed about it over the phone. He said it was a little spicy but wonderful. (and Terry loves spicy). Terry said the weather has been so great...so funny every afternoon they say "Oh, it must be 2:30, it's raining!" Each afternoon about that time they have about a half an hour rainstorm!

Tomorrow the team will take the whole service, and Pastor Jaime was going to preach, but told Terry then today that maybe he should preach! (here in Edmonton it takes us a good week to prepare for a sermon!). So, Terry will be working on that tonight!

Some of our students will also be sharing testimonies about what God has been showing them this week, Terry said Matt and Christie will be sharing and at least one other person too. I'm so proud of them and I know it will mean a lot in their own life to articulate that to the Mexicans.

Terry was talking about a conversation with Lauren too how she spoke of her love for this Spanish culture and said "I could live here, that's why I'm going where I'm going". Just three days after Lauren returns from Mexico she will be off to Bible School in a Spanish country. Please be in prayer for Lauren as these days draw to a close and she continues her preparation for what God has for her next.

I heard a little more about the building project. The church is building a second story on top of the house beside the church. Their intention is to build 5 classrooms in order to be able to house a regular school for the community. This gives me such hope and encouragement hearing this. Pastor Jaime has many dreams for the impact of Monte Sion in this community. One of our greatest hopes in a mission team is that we can be an encouragment to the local church we serve. An encouragment in people, in prayer, in care, and very practically too.

When it didn't work out for the team to go to the hospital, Terry asked if they could help with some of the construction. There is one man building on this project and they only build as they have money. Pastor Jaime said yes they could help! So the team helped toss bricks up to the 2nd story, mix cement, move garbage, and build a wall of one of the classrooms. Terry was looking at an invoice on the bricks and realized how we could help them with the project by contributing to the supplies for more of the building. A very good use of our resources and a very practical encouragement for the church too.

Terry again said what a great leadership team he has and how grateful he is for their work alongside of him.

...well then our 9 minutes ran out!

Pray for the church service at Monte Sion tomorrow...for the students sharing and that Terry can hear from God what He desires to be shared with the people there.

Last Day of VBS at Monte Sion

I received an email last night from Terry. Sounds like the team is doing well. Today is their last day of VBS at Monte Sion. He had said it will be a little sad to be done, but that it is the 6th day of VBS for them (and the 2nd week of VBS for them after the week of training here at the VBS at McKernan) and I think they will really miss the interaction with the kids - after all this is what they came for and have just loved being with them, but I know the team is probably tired too.

Yesterday the team was not able to go to the hospital (I don't exactly know why), so they were able to help with a couple of things at the church. They were able to be a cleaning crew and give the spaces some good elbow grease, and they were able to help with some of the construction of the classrooms at the church too laying bricks etc. Terry said that bricks cost 1.5 pecos per brick so 100 bricks is 150 pecos, so about $15 CDN dollars. 1 bag of cement is 100 pecos ($10 CDN) so the team will help purchase some bricks and cement, and do some real help in helping with the building project. I think it was really a fun change of pace for the team to help the church in this way - they really enjoyed it.

After VBS today the team will celebrate by going to the floating gardens later. This is a outdoor floating market that you get to by brightly painted boats complete with mariachi bands playing on the boats for you. It's a very fun and festive Mexican experience.

Tomorrow the team will wrap up VBS with a celebration service at the church. They will be singing 5 songs, hopefully 2 in Spanish. Terry said he's not sure if he's preaching again but after all it was only Friday :)

I want to put some lyrics in today from another Matthew West Song (called The Center). I was thinking about the team and what they are doing in Mexico and how they are putting themselves at the center of God's will for them...and that in doing that it's a huge commitment and also a spiritual battle.

This song talks about some of that surrender.

I want to know how it feels to be
Standing in the center of Your will for me
I want to know what surrender means
Keep me in the center of Your will for me

Lord, help me hold on
Help me be strong
I don't wanna move unless You move me

It is one of my prayers that as the team sees God in new ways, steps forward in new ways, that they begin to experience a deeper level of surrender to God's heart and plan for them. That they listen more carefully for His voice, and then follow where He is calling them. I was reading in the book of Acts again yesterday about the early church and how Paul, Barnabas, Silas, Timothy all had to listen carefully and follow in obedience to God's voice. It's a powerful part of our faith journey, and a powerful part of God doing His work in and through us. Incidentaly, Monte Sion calls themselves an Acts 29 church. If you page to the end of the book of Acts in your Bible you'll understand what that means :) ...continuing the call!

Prayer Requests:

• Tiredness. My guess is that the team's energy is beginning to wane. It is at these moments that patience wanes...and emotions rise. Pray for kindness and understanding and teamwork to reign.
• Today the gospel message will be presented at the VBS in Monte Sion, pray that the Holy Spirit will do it's work today!
• For joy and safety in their time off later today at the Floating Gardens
• For the service tomorrow at Monte Sion. All the families of the children from the community that come to VBS are invited to the service. Last time there were people everywhere! It's a real sense of celebration and outreach.

An AMAZING trip!!!

Where should I begin? As the title hinted, I'm pretty much having the time of my life here in Mexico! But I guess the best place to start is the beginning, when we stepped out of the security area of the the Mexico City airport. As soon as we got some ¨luggage issues¨ worked out and started heading out to the cars, the Mexicans who had come to take us to the Becerra's immediatly grabbed our suitcases, leaving us with nothing to carry and both of their arms full! From there on, I never ceased to be amazed at their hospitality and absolute LOVE for us; some of us complete strangers! We stayed at the Becerra's house for the first night, and they gave up the master bedroom and 2 of the kids' bedrooms for us to sleep in, while some of them shared a little hide-a-bed in the dining room/kitchen area. Things like making us meals, giving up homes and offering everything they had amazed me, even though I had experienced things like this only 2 years ago.

Then, there was the first round of VBS, where we first experienced kids' love. As you may know, we stayed in a house about 5 minutes away from the church in Huixquillican. And the kids there enthusiastically joined us in countless rounds of ¨Stella Ella Olla¨(a hand clapping game for you who are not familiar with popular 1990's games =D ) , helping us with our Spanish, looking after their little brothers and sisters... just amazing, loving children! We were sad when those 3 days ended, but were very excited to go back to Monte Sion, where it all started last year. It's been two days there, and I can't even describe the love those children show us; both kids who remembered us from 2006 and even new ones. They will come up and just SQEEZE you, and you can't help but see nothing but God's love in their beautiful brown eyes and their vibrant smiles. They know nothing about us, other than the fact that we're leading a little kids camp at their church and that's enough for them to show love to us like they've known us for years.

Now, for some of my personal experiences. On the first day, when we first arrived at the Becerra's, I walked over to Mrs Becerra, and we just held on to each others' hands, not really being able to say anything to each other except for ¨How are you?¨ But she showed me love in a different way. Taking this pretty blue beaded bracelet off of her wrist, she held it out to me. Not knowing what else to do, I stuck out my wrist, and she slipped it on. She just GAVE me her bracelet; and even though she didn't say anything, I KNEW this was her way of saying she loved me and was happy to see me again!

There's this fourteen-year-old boy who lives in a house on the church property named Obed. While we were at Huixquillican, he stayed in a house just above us, so we got to spend some time with him. And on Tuesday, he played with a bunch of us on the roof (yes, we hang out on the roofs of houses a lot-- there's always a way to get up there. On this particular roof there were a couple little dogs who lived there, so we had to watch out where we sat!!) ; just laughing and playing a card game (and I won! Haha.) . But then it started to rain, and along with that the thunder and lightening sent us inside. So, there, a few us of sat there and talked; (and laughed-- a LOT!! I mean, sometimes when we do something funny or he tells us something and we don't understand, he just says, ¨You crazy!!¨but anyway) he taught me Spanish but his willingness to try to communicate and how awesome of a time we were having was amazing to me! Ever since then, he feels like a Mexican version of my fourteen-year-old brother, Joel. Just goofing off and being weird; teaching me special Mexican hand shakes and really having a blast around him!

Okay, one more thing... last night after showing a kids movie, most of the kids had left, so we were all hanging out; singing songs in Spanish AND English (sometimes the same song but different languages!! So cool!) . But I was talking to this one girl who had lived in Quebec for 2 years... I finally found someone who speaks French in Mexico! I would say her name, but I really had no idea even how to pronounce it. Maybe she'll write it down next time I see her; hopefully tomorrow! But I learnt that when she came back to Mexico about a year ago, because she was in a Canadian school they wouldn't let her into a Mexican school right away. So, as a 15-year-old, she'll be starting grade 7 in December. Her days are filled with just working, so it was really interesting talking to her!

It's about 9 local time right now; (Terry just told me we had a team meeting in 10 minutes!!) so I will go offline. Hope you enjoyed reading this (and that it made sense-- I'm a little tired because last night was late and this morning pretty early) !!

Oh, and who am I? I'm Megan; might be useful for the following people to know!
I love you Mommy, Daddy, Joel and Austin and I miss you; I have souvernirs for you guys!!!

A Day in the Life...

Just wanted to let you know what Terry told me about what a *typical* day looks like for the mission team. I know it's always nice for me to know what might be happening for them at any part of the day so that as I am praying I can pray specifically for them. They are on Central Time in Mexico City.

7 am - Rise
8:15 - Done with Breakfast
8:15 - 8:45 Quiet Time
8:45 - Walk to the church to prepare for VBS for the day, and get ready for the children to arrive. The church at Monte Sion is gated and Pastor Jaime opens the gate and greets the children as they come! VBS runs till noon each day.
12:00 - return home for preparing lunch and a Siesta, have a team meeting to prepare for the next days work, and/or do ministry (like today at the hospital)

Later in the afternoon its supper prep and then back to the church to show the movie.

Later in the evening the team also has another meeting to debrief from the day, have some time of worship together.

Then it's bed time.

Tomorrow is the last day of VBS at Monte Sion and then the team has church on Sunday. Monday and Tuesday are *days off* where they will do some work around the church I believe and sightsee. They haven't determined what they will go to see yet, though I think the Pyramids were on their list as one thing they'd like to do.

Terry said the church has changed quite a bit from last trip and that they have added some classroom space to the church. A house was built in the open space beside the church that they used to play soccer in, so now it has to be soccer in the church courtyard. Alex and Matt had played soccer with some of the neighbourhood kids in Huixquilucan and despite being our major soccer guys on the team said "oooh these guys are good!"

That's my update for the day. Thanks for your continued support and prayers and comments for the team!

All the News!

I can't tell you how great it was to hear news from the team. Terry was able to go to an internet cafe with Isaac this afternoon and spend some time chatting back and forth and we were even able to use it to actually *talk* to each other over the internet. A little like Skype works if you've ever heard of it. So hearing each others voices was great, especially for our kids to be able to talk to Daddy.

So I have lots of newsy items to give to you.

The team is back at the Monte Sion church. They will hold their second VBS here. This is Pastor Jaime's home church. This past Sunday Terry preached 2 x at both Monte Sion and at
Huixquilucan...good thing we had just preached at McKernan and he had the basic sermon outline on his laptop - because he only found out on Saturday night! :)

The time at Huixquilucan (that is the proper spelling now :) was amazing.... and you can find it on Google Earth if you type it in right! It's about 2 hours west of Santa Ursula). They held their VBS under tarps. This is a very small home church with only 4 families - so the children at the Bible school were entirely from the community. On Wednesday their last day, they presented the gospel message and shared what it means to have Jesus as your Saviour to the children. Amanda Luna (wife of missionary Juan Luna - sister to Mrs. Becerra) explained in Spanish what it meant to ask Jesus into your heart or to rededicate your heart to Jesus. She explained that they should only do this if they were ready and not because they thought someone wanted them to. Terry had told the team in advance if no children stand or if only one child stands - it doesn't matter - we know our role might have been seed planting....and it's the Holy Spirit's work - not our work.

But when Amanda asked those who wanted to receive Christ or rededicate their lives to stand, ALL 46 children present stood. It brings tears to my eyes as I write it. Our team were not only seed planters, but got to help reap the harvest too.

Please pray for these 46 children and their brand new lives in Christ...that they will grow deep in the Lord, that the seed will fall into really great *soil* for them to grow deep and strong in their faith...and pray for this small precious church in Huixquilucan. The children did not want the team to go!

The team was well loved at this church again they were able to stay in a home near the church. On two of the VBS days at lunch - one of the families (who's home the church first started in) invited the team to their *shop/store* for authentic Mexican food.

The team was able to finish showing the Jesus Film the second night, picked up their bags and then drove back 2 hours to Santa Ursula and stay at the Becerra's home.

Just to give you an idea of the hospitality of the Mexican people, the team is staying in the Becerra's home, giving up their beds for the team. There is a big mix of couches, air mattresses etc. there! Can you imagine adding 11 more people to your home?

At the Becerra's during a rainstorm Terry was able to show the DVD that he brought along that Shane Lawrence made of our last mission trip to Santa Ursula with the family. They loved it.
After the DVD was completed they took the team out for supper for Tacos. This is Terry's favourite food he had eaten in Mexico last time. Real authentic Mexican tacos are supposed to be amazing, and I know it was a special surprise for Terry.

So I know the team has been eating a lot of authentic Mexican food and loving it...and no one has been sick! (a great answer to prayer)...and Schneider family Terry said that DAVE has been eating!!!! :) but Terry did let him get some chicken fingers last night (ha!) and Karisa a burger :) But he said that Christie has been loving the spicy food!

Terry said the team has been doing so very well working together, they have bonded to the culture, and have already talked about how difficult it will be to leave. That Hayley has been such a blessing with her Spanish (thank you Lord for putting her on my heart to ask to go with the team). And that Jesse's Spanish is REALLY coming along well. They love being together and are working hard together.

Today began the VBS at Monte Sion, all the kids were excited to see them back. The VBS we did 2 years ago was called Fiesta, we left the material with the church last time, and the church has done it several times since. Terry was playing the old CD for the kids and they all joined in on the songs AND actions that they sing regularly!

Amanda Luna loves the new Avalanche Ranch material they are doing this year too. We will be leaving this material with them too as it is all written in Spanish.

Tonight they will show a movie for the church people, one for the kids (Hermie) and one for the adults. Terry had brought a projecter along to be able to do this.

Tomorrow after lunch the team will hopefully be going to the hospital that Sarah Becerra (Mrs.) works at. She is in charge of a whole floor of the hospital and got permission for the team to come and hopefully be able to do ministry there.

Prayer Requests:

• Adjustments to the new church for the team
• Ministry at the hospital tomorrow
• The children and families at Huixquilucan
• Continued great team work and great relationships between the team.
• Effective ministry to the community at Santa Ursula. (VBS runs tomorrow and Saturday there)
• Energy for our leaders. Good rest for the team with a very busy schedule. God's Spirit to do His work in each of their lives as they minister. I know He has specific things He wants them to learn and experience during this time.

Tomorrow I will post what the team's typical day is like for them and Terry *hoped* to be back with some words from the team and some pictures. He isn't really in control of his time so I know he'll do his best.

Please add your comments to ANY post on the comment button below I know the team will see it and it will be an encouragment to them.

Please Comment!

I know that there are those of you out there reading this blog...but you are a pretty silent bunch! I just talked to Terry via msn...and will post all the details in just a little while...but he did ask...is anyone reading the blog?

Your comments can be seen by the team~ Terry can print them off and they would be greatly encouraged to hear from you. All you need to do is look on the bottom of any *post* from any of the days and click on the word comment. It will take you to another screen where you can type away your message to the team or a team member. Then type in the funny letters you'll see in the smaller box and I'll get the comments up on the blog.

I'll be posting more great news and details on how they are doing in just a few hours, so please check back later!

Pictures

Sign outside the church where we are doing VBS at Huixquilucan.

Another picture of the church (not the house - the area beside the house under the tarps)

Team meeting in the courtyard of the house we are staying.

Mexico City from the air.

The team (minus Matt - he is taking the picture) and me - no going on the roof for me.
Another picture of our courtyard.
The team with some of the children at the church.

Well, that is all for now. There is a rain storm right now - please pray that it will stop and people will still come out tonight for the movie.

We will try to get more up tomorrow or the next day. We are having a great time and are kept very busy.

Pastor Terry