Village Parkway Baptist Church Part II

We had a big week planned for our friends from San Antonio Texas.  Our first planned activity was a community carnival.  People came from Paso Marcos, Santubal, Bajo Pacuare and even as far as Tsimrinak to enjoy a relaxing morning and afternoon of games, crafts, fellowship, tug or war and a good summer treat of Hotdogs, Chips and Salad.

Family and friends enjoying the carnival

Mike helping one of the little ones.

Sunday was our day of rest.  Well, not exactly.  The day was spent playing futbol (soccer) in the community of Santubal.  There is nothing like sports to bring a group of people together.  Some of us had soccer skills, (everybody from Santubal) and some of us didn't (the gringos), but what mattered is we had a good time, got some exercise and continue to build bonds and friendships.  That evening we spent some time in prayer and preparation as we got ready for the big event that started on Monday, Vacation Bible School

 The Big Football Match

Vacation Bible School took place Monday through Thursday at an elementary school inside the reservation on the outskirts of Paso Marcos.  God has opened doors for us to work with the community to include two building restorations and other activities.  I do not think many indigenous schools here in Costa Rica have had the great oportunity to have God's word brought to the students in such a manner.  What a blessing to share a couple Bible stories with 24 children, play games, and do arts and crafts.

Terri teaching the Bible Story

The children acting out the Bible Story

Holly always had a crowd around her.

Briana leading the choir.

The afternoons were spent doing activities in the surronding communities.  A big hit on this trip was Holly.  She is a professional balloon animal creator.  Not only did she entertain kids with her fun balloons but also taught adults how to make such creatures.  Other activities included visiting local farmers our micro loan program has helped.  It was great for these farmers to demonstrate how these micro-loans have helped the community and provide insight to us North Americans how difficult and demanding life is here in Costa Rica. 
 

Balloon Fun at Bajo Pacaure

Ron, Mike, Franklin, Art and Vicki on one of our farm expeditions.

Missions trips are always exciting.  We never know what God has in store for the community let alone all the members on the trip.  Of course, life in a foreign environment has its challenges such as the heat, rain, bugs, spiders, lack of hot water, strange food, and even the unexpected power outages but what a wonderful experiece for all of us. What a joy for our team to reconnect with friends they have made over the years while serving in Costa Rica.