We have done a lot since Sunday and I have not been able to blog since we have not had internet access. At least I have been able to check my email several times a day with my phone. I have to admit that technology is amazing and so often I take it for granted. This trip has reminded me of how blessed we are materially in the States.
Monday and Tuesday were dedicated primarily to projects around the children’s home. We spent time weeding (light and industrial size weeds). We also cleared out several areas around the grounds. Others installed new handrails and a fence to keep the children safe while they play.
We have enjoyed some delicious homemade Brazilian foods, including traditional breakfasts and soups. The people here have been extremely hospitable and kind to us.
The group was also introduced to one of my personal favorite treats in Brazil, chocolate pizza. Imagine thin crust pizza with chocolate sauce, chocolate sprinkles, and M&M’s. All I can say is, yummy!
I have been highly impressed by our team. We are a diverse group with a variety of different abilities, but we have all come together to accomplish so much. Since our arrival we have transformed the children’s home in a number of ways. In addition to the weeding, handrails, and fence, we have put down concrete where we will be installing a new play structure. (They don't use sand in Rio for playgrounds because it will quickly become a litter box for the animals in the community.)
We have also connected with many of the people here. Marcos and his family have grown close to us. Marcos, a member of the Victory Church, volunteers his time to help fix things around the children’s home. He and his family have spent a lot of time with us. I have gotten to know their fifteen-year-old son, Thauan. We talked throughout the day (using a dictionary and a lot of hand signs) and played foosball. Table soccer is like real soccer…the Brazilians always win.
This morning we experienced a power outage in the favela. While power outages are a struggle for us in the States, they create even larger problems here. Not only do you lose lighting and electrical outlets. You also lose water. Here, the water is pumped up to the top of the house in a large cistern. The plumbing then uses gravity to feed faucets, showers, etc. So when you lose power, you also lose the source for water. For a few hours this morning, that meant most of us couldn’t shower. Fortunately, the power came on in time for most of us to get a shower before heading to the church building.
Today we will be starting our three days of VBS. Today’s VBS will be held at the Ramos Church. Tomorrow we will hold a VBS at the children’s home. On Friday, we will hold our final VBS at the Victory Church. We have many other things on the agenda as well as our English Day on Saturday.
This year has been different than the last two trip to Brazil, but equally as fulfilling and encouraging. I have enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. I am really excited that Thauan gave me an email address so we can keep in touch – which should be interesting with the need for translation. There is so much more I could say, but I will end with one final story…
This morning as some of us were sitting in the kitchen listening to the rain and without power, we began singing “Send Your Rain.” It was a moment of peace as the Spirit of the Lord poured over us. God reminded us of His presence and working among us. It was one of those thin spaces where God speaks in a quiet but powerful way.
shine!
Jason
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