This was our last work day and we completed all the projects Pastor Jorge had set out for us at the beginning of the week and more. The remaining team members will depart for home tomorrow.
Looking back, it has been an incredible two weeks! There were 21 mission team members from 5 different churches who traveled from SE Michigan. All told, there were more than 40 people who participated in the mission project including local workers, our cook & driver, missionaries and local church members to make the two weeks a success. However, none of this is possible without the support that each of us receive from our home churches through their prayers and gifts.
When we first arrived at the Methodist Children's home almost two weeks ago, the progress from just one year ago was striking.
Children's Home multi-purpose building - February 2015
Children's Home multi-purpose building - February 2016
However, it's no wonder when you consider the numerous mission teams from throughout the United States who have worked at the home since we were last here.
The progress at the church from last year to this year was equally satisfying as well.
Faro del Este Church Parsonage/Classrooms - February 2015
Faro del Este Church Parsonage/Classrooms - February 2016
While it is satisfying to see the progress of the construction at the two sites, it is even more so to personally witness the influence it has had on our Costa Rican brothers and sisters. The congregation and programs at the Faro del Este church continue to flourish and grow under the guidance and leadership of Pastor Jorge and Jhudy. Through the leadership of Will & Ella Faircloth and Ray & Lydia Zirkel, the Methodist Children's Home continues to provide a safe place for at risk children.
There is no doubt the physical work we do is important, but the friendships that are made with the warm and friendly Costa Rican people will last a lifetime.
Our leaders these past two weeks were outstanding which has made for a very well organized and productive mission trip.
In considering our work here in Costa Rica, we would like to close this year's blog with a verse from this mornings' devotion:
“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Matthew 25:34-40 NIV
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