First Presbyterian Church
Peru Mission Trip
2005


Sent: Saturday, June 11, 2005 10:05 PM
Subject: Re: Hello in Peru!

Saturday in Peru saw us very active and stretched our hearts for the people here. We travelled to the edge of Moyobamba to a new "development" called Agarrobos (the name of a type of tree) where the Pres. church is planting a church. The unique thing is that there are very few families established yet, and the church has gotten in on the "ground floor." The hope is that the church will be a very established part of the community. The men did cement work, helping to pour half of the floor of the new church building, which is four walls at this point. The ladies set up shop at in a family yard, and did a mini VBS with about 25 children coming. It was a great time! Later in the afternoon, some of us visited the site of the planned University. Its so exciting to hear Noe (an elder of the church) share the vision to educate yount people at that level in this area. Tonight, Angie and Hans and their families had a very special dinner out, where Hans is formally asking Jims permission to marry Angie. Wonder what he will say?!? The Milstaeds also presented a picture of the Vargas family painted by Kathy Glover, which was wnderfully received. After they left, those of us at the Vargas house visited with John and Sheila Tuggy, who have been involved on the mission field for almost 50 years. They are translators with Wycliffe, and regaled us with wonderful stories!! As a few of us came to the Internet cafe, we ran into some of our folks who are staying at Juan and Estellas home. All in all, we are feeling more and more comfortable down here.

Tomorrow will find us worshipping with you, just that well be here in M.! A special celebration lunch for Angie and Hans is planned afterward, and then more worship tomorrow night. We go into the jungle early Monday, and back Tues. evening. You may not receive another update until after then. God has been so gracious in opening opportunities to make Christ known and share in the ministry that is ongoing down here. We are also grateful for the relationships that were developing (the pastor, David MacPherson and I has a great conversation about the history of the church of Scotland while everyone else carried cement!) and celebrating the one Lord Jesus Christ who draws us all together. Thanks for your prayers and support - all our love comes to all of you.

Blessings!
Tom