Thursday

Thursday, February 28

After breakfast the team enjoyed a devotion of using our individual talents for God's purpose followed by songs of praise. 

La Veredas is a common stop for this team and the morning was spent at this especially poor community about 45 minutes north of town. After dropping off clothes, shoes, Bibles, children's story books, and food in the village the team walked with the kids down the road to the school. While poor in terms of possessions this community is very strong in spirit. The team enjoys a close relationship with the village as a whole and many individuals personally. Games, crafts, and the Noah skit were included during their visit. 

In the afternoon the ladies visited the women's prison in Bani to share messages. It's a different experience than at the men's prison but the situation is the same; image-bearers who have sinned and need the forgiving grace of Christ. Before leaving Bani they stopped at the second-hand store where they found some great deals on used equipment for the disabled (wheelchairs, walkers).

While the girls were gone the men went shopping in Azua. They had a fairly long list of needs and had a great time collecting them going store to store as they did not have a translator. Much fun, many laughs.

The film was shown in an area not previously touched by the team. Messages were give by the team and local Pastor. The main message from the team began with what the audience felt when the Roman soldiers pounded the spikes into the hands of Jesus. It concluded with the best response of the week; very emotional hugs, praise, and worship. Some of the team also went to a church service in Paster Anderson's where more messages were given.

With more debriefing needed than typical, the team made it back to the hotel just prior to midnight.