tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86305683255638744142024-03-18T23:17:30.327-04:00Sharing Presbyterian MissionsTherefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. 1 Thessalonians 5 11:13Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger585125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-36221526291163676492021-06-12T13:43:00.000-04:002021-06-12T13:46:34.575-04:00Perú's COVID Crisis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="455" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pw1S8UsrXtQ" width="549" youtube-src-id="pw1S8UsrXtQ"></iframe></div><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-89966458547106786322021-05-26T10:19:00.001-04:002021-05-26T10:19:16.627-04:00Thoughts And Prayers Needed<p>Thoughts and prayers needed for our friends and family in the Ayacucho region of Perú.</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://www.cnn.com/2021/05/25/americas/peru-shining-path-rebels-killings-intl/index.html?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=news_tab&utm_content=algorithm">Perú's Shining Path Rebel Group Kills 16</a></li><li><a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/latino/peru-shining-path-rebels-kill-least-16-ahead-vote-un-condemns-murder-rcna1022">U.N. Condemns Murders</a></li></ul><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Ayacucho, Peru-13.1638737 -74.22356409999999-41.474107536178849 -109.37981409999999 15.146360136178846 -39.06731409999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-97898094780854592021-05-25T13:56:00.008-04:002021-06-12T14:02:21.528-04:00Shining Path Murders<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="393" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YExOgI0Ar-c" width="473" youtube-src-id="YExOgI0Ar-c"></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> <p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-4716955077701125782021-03-24T11:01:00.003-04:002021-03-24T11:09:04.880-04:00Happy Learning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="471" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DrrvXoQGh58" width="568" youtube-src-id="DrrvXoQGh58"></iframe></div><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-35521201535860073952021-02-16T10:42:00.001-05:002021-02-16T10:42:26.691-05:00You Are Invited To An Event In Honor Of Molly F. Greene <p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x0AB09xNxzQ/YCvl_hVP08I/AAAAAAACOho/WZyVWBF-_uoULZY9O-S_s5X-XXnlifFmwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/COL_email-invite_header.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1200" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x0AB09xNxzQ/YCvl_hVP08I/AAAAAAACOho/WZyVWBF-_uoULZY9O-S_s5X-XXnlifFmwCLcBGAsYHQ/w400-h240/COL_email-invite_header.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><i><span style="font-family: georgia;">Please join us in celebrating the joy, integrity, and generosity that defined the life of Molly F. Greene, co-founder of Water Mission, Thursday, March 18, 2021.<br /><br />Seating begins at 5:30 p.m. Program begins promptly at 6:00 p.m.<br /><br />Join us in person at Seacoast Church in Mt. Pleasant or virtually via an interactive livestream of the celebration.<br /><br /><a href="http://wmi.convio.net/site/MessageViewer?em_id=7480.0&dlv_id=8888&pgwrap=n" target="_blank">Learn More & RSVP</a>. Please RSVP by March 5. Childcare is not available.</span></i><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-22017329081538542292021-01-27T19:11:00.000-05:002021-01-27T19:13:05.113-05:00COVID In PerúI heard from Brenda today and learned that COVID has struck the Paredes family. Kiara tested positive yesterday, but it's not clear yet how severe it is. She lives at home with Alfredo, Miriam, Kevin and Sébastien so they're all at increased risk.<div><br /></div><div>Brenda lives in her own apartment and is very careful about visiting family. She had been back in the office for a few weeks, but is now working home again because of the national lockdown. One of her office coworkers tested positive shortly after they returned to work, so I'm thrilled she's not going to the office at least until Feb 14.</div><div><br /></div><div>We all know how the Peruvian healthcare system struggles. Brenda told me about 2 weeks ago they had only recently ordered the first million vaccine doses. This <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/1/27/peru-volunteer-in-sinopharm-vaccine-trial-dies-of-covid">link</a> shares a bit more information about the current situation. Brenda requests prayers for her family and for all of Perú. </div><div><br /></div><div>Connie</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-78041655049513717042021-01-16T11:30:00.003-05:002021-01-16T11:41:51.377-05:00Julia And Samuel Health UpdateI talked to Pastor Samuel this morning.<div><br /></div><div>Fortunately, both Pastor Samuel and Julia are feeling better. He said they've recovered with Andean herbs and lots of rest. Their sense of smell is back, so that's a good sign.</div><div><br /></div><div>Please stay well and safe y'all too! This virus is not going away and we need to protect ourselves.<br /><br />Love,<br />Brendita</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-63410934731423036552021-01-13T16:00:00.023-05:002021-01-16T11:42:14.912-05:00Julia And Samuel HealthI got the following message from Samuel today:<br /><br /><i>I'm already getting better from COVID. Me and Julia were sick. Thank God we are better. How is your Health?. How are they going?</i><br /><br />ConnieUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-40777039391700372682020-10-10T17:52:00.016-04:002021-01-16T11:51:31.491-05:00Perú DayDear Peru Crew,<br /><br />As part of World Communion emphasis month, tomorrow will be "Peru Day" in worship at Sharon. Khris has reached out to Miriam, Samuel, Chenoa, and Jose to lead the multilingual service. Khris showed me a quick preview this morning. Chenoa and Jose will do the Call to Worship. Miriam will lead the Lord's Prayer. Samuel will read from I think Psalm 106. Khris is also incorporating two videos he made when he was there with us, one when we worshipped in the hole in the ground at VRAE II, and one when we partied and worshipped with our brothers and sisters in Christ in Huanta in the courtyard of La Posada, where Gamaliel led the singing. (I saw Beverly sitting on the front row). Randy and I make a token appearance at some point doing a Minute for Mission (sorry to say, our part is not multilingual). <br /><br /><div>You can catch the online service either through the church website, Facebook, or You Tube. Personally, Linda and I have gotten quite spoiled attending these online services at a time of our own choosing, and sometimes in our pjs' with a mug of coffee in hand.</div><div><br />Saludos! I miss you guys. The quick preview Khris showed me brought back a flood of wonderful memories. Please stay in touch.<br /><br /></div><div>Take good care!</div><div>Ton</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-37916659718723852932020-09-13T11:22:00.002-04:002020-09-14T08:51:48.622-04:00More Good News!<i>Good Morning Van! Thank you for sharing on your network! What good news!<br /><br /></i><div><i>If you want to you could post some more news.</i></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><i>At the IEP seminary for Quechua speaking students where Presbyterians have worked south of Cusco in Sicuani, the Director Santiago Condori, his son and the watchman have recovered but his wife Ana Maria is still quite ill with COVID.</i></li><li><i>Pastor Leopoldo who worked with churches here in the US to build a seminary near Quillabamba in the jungle had a stroke and is recovering with family in Cusco. Even thus impaired he is working to serve members of his church in Cusco.</i></li><li><i>The Mission Co-Workers are well but Jose’s father died in Bolivia and he was not able to go back.</i></li><li><i>Gabi is in her last semester of college (Halleluia!) She is still working for Living Waters but there is not much work now. Urpi is in Cusco. They have been apart since mid-March. Urpi has been working on building her house as she can but again it is difficult without being able to leave her house and work. Her Mama Eva is well. Urpi is applying for a job this week. She got to put all the fun word we did together on her resume.</i></li><li><i>Rusty and I are well. You can imagine that this shutdown has killed most of his plans for retirement travel. It is the first Sunday in Cortez that seems like fall. I love it here although the challenges of COVID pastorates often seem horrendous. We are taking time off in October to participate in a CREDO conference put on by the PCUSA Board of Pensions. Since its virtual Rusty and I will get a Vrbo house in SE Arizona for a week and have fun when I am not online. I’m counting the days ’til we leave!</i></li></ul><i>It was good the hear from you. God bless you and Connie as you enter into the joy of fall in NC.<br />Abrazos de Sara</i></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-60366226955463567882020-09-13T08:59:00.003-04:002020-09-14T08:51:36.405-04:00Message From Gamaliel<i>"My mother was infected with the virus but thank God she recovered and returned home... Daniel, Kenny, Raquelita, Jeimy and I are healthy..."</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-27055841238615225842020-04-22T17:48:00.000-04:002020-09-14T08:51:19.836-04:00Walking With Puriyninchik<i>Dear brothers / sisters!</i><br />
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<i>Receive our affectionate greeting from Perú, in the love of Christ, for which we are brothers and family in the Lord, our Father. Today I am writing to greet you and through you to your family and all the sisters and brothers of the church.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>We are going through a difficult and complicated time with this virus, however, we are happy to announce the Puriynichik website, finally, we successfully completed the construction of this website, where we will share news about the association, our projects, actions and reflections from Ayacucho - Perú.</i><br />
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<i>Who can we thank for this blessing? Only to God, our Father who, in his infinite love, prepared this precise moment for the website to be ready. But we also want to thank you, brother, who always supported us with your offerings, your prayers and your words of love and encouragement. Many thanks!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>So brother, we want to invite you to review the link and share it with the church, your friends and family.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>The website is: https://puriyninchik.org/ has the option of being read in Spanish and English, just click on the United States flag for the English version, or follow this link: https: // puriyninchik.org/en/home</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Please let us know your opinions and comments, we would love to receive your messages by email: puriyninchik@gmail.com</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I say goodbye to this Bible verse from Romans 8:28:</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"We know that for those who love God, all things work together for good."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>This time in captivity helped us to strengthen our faith, to read the Bible, to pray and to work… Now, when we see the web page made, we feel so happy, truly ALL THINGS HELP US WELL.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I say goodbye, also encouraging you to remain in the love of the Lord, because apart from Him we can do nothing ...</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>In the love of Christ,</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Yesenia Montes</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Puriyninchik - Perú</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-25211542783071346812020-04-05T12:31:00.000-04:002020-04-05T12:31:06.447-04:00Just Breathe - A Letter From Chenoa Stock<b>Lent 2020</b><div>
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Psalm 119:105: <i>Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a Light to my path.</i></div>
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I lay on the floor of our living room, listening to my two-year-old son enjoying “tubby time” with my husband, and took a moment to breathe after a busy day. These are rare months of sun in the desert city of Lima, and it does not disappoint neither in ferocity nor beauty. Breathing in, I looked up at the wall and noticed how the rays of the setting sun were illuminating our wedding banner—a rainbow-colored Chakana Cross, with the Earth image of North and Latin America in the middle, with its organic colors of blue, green and white. Breathing out, I remembered the words of our wedding bulletin explaining the Chakana as: “traditionally the cross of the indigenous Andean Inca Civilization of Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. Over the years, The Chakana has become more universally recognized as a symbol of the wholeness and interconnectedness of all life and of all of God’s creation.”</div>
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With each breath, I can imagine that in these past weeks we have all felt the powerful interconnectedness of life, with the rapid spread of COVID-19 around the world. We are all facing similar disruptions to our daily routines and challenges in finding a “normal” amidst so many life changes and fears. Here in Peru, President Martin Vizcarra declared a military-enforced, national state of emergency on March 15th for 15 days. The borders are closed. Every citizen is required to self-quarantine. All schools and establishments, except grocery stores and hospitals, are closed. More recently, a curfew has been imposed.</div>
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Though the different measures taken by governments may physically separate us as a society even more, perhaps it will truly give us the time and space to breathe, to spiritually and emotionally draw us together, and to interconnect on another level with ourselves and with Earth. In the Spanish language, quarantine is <i>cuarentena</i>. Lent is <i>Cuaresma</i>. On the surface (I am not claiming a degree in etymology here), these are such similar words for similar times. Perhaps this time of darkness, both for the world and during this church season, feels endless, makes us feel like we’re walking life alone, and creates doubt in ourselves and in each other. A Lenten quarantine, if you will, for our global village.</div>
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Since the COVID-19 outbreak, the World Mission Crisis Management Team (CMT) has been monitoring the situation and effectively communicating information and decisions with staff. Due to the uncertainty of the spread of the virus and what future measures might be taken by governments, the CMT announced a work travel ban for all staff, including Mission Co-Workers, while also strongly encouraging everybody to work from home. This recent decision, as well as the many other factors, called for deep reflection and faithful action. We decided to cancel our medical mission team in May and postpone or perhaps cancel other church groups scheduled for later this summer. This is disappointing news for both our Peruvian partners and our U.S. church teams. We have, however, come to the mutual understanding that the health and well-being of everyone involved is our greatest concern and responsibility.</div>
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Although the physical presence of the mission teams might be absent this summer, our call to partnership and solidarity with our partners is not. Our solidarity is made stronger through prayer and mutual accompaniment as we faithfully walk this Lenten <i>cuarentena</i> together.</div>
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The journey is always one of alternating darkness and light. During this time of darkness and ‘fasting’, we can use this time to ‘feast’ on things that bring us closer to God: God-given gifts within ourselves, the silence to connect with ourselves, and deeper consciousness to connect with those around the world in order to, as the Chakana reminds us, feel our oneness with all of God’s Creation.</div>
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One light for us now is our son, Leandro. Though our apartment is not as exciting as a park, his friends, or his scooter, we are digging deep into our creativity to ensure that our confined days provide time and space for learning, fun, imagination, and love. In our tight quarters, he continually reminds us of the simplicity of life, the importance of connecting as a family, the little joys of dancing and singing, and taking the journey one day at a time.</div>
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It is not always easy, but darkness never is, and we, as a people of faith, were never promised it would be. Maybe these difficult times will bring a better world for our son and his friends. After taking the time to breathe, we can hopefully look up at the clearer skies. We can give thanks that the Earth is being given this chance to heal from excessive auto emissions and pollution. Perhaps we will begin to change our habits for the good of God’s Creation. There is always light amidst the darkness.</div>
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Thank you for walking with us on this journey during these unique and challenging times. Please keep our Peruvian and PC(USA) church partners and the world in your prayers.</div>
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May this Lenten cuarentena journey reveal to all of us God’s love, wholeness, and healing light, one breath at a time.</div>
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Peace and hope,</div>
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Chenoa</div>
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<i><a href="https://www.presbyterianmission.org/ministries/missionconnections/letter/just-breathe/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Read+the+latest+from+Chenoa+Stock+-+Presbyterian+Mission+Agency&utm_campaign=Chenoa+Stock+RSS">Link</a> to Chenoa Stock's entire letter including pictures.</i></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-41939196705951022672020-03-26T18:47:00.000-04:002020-04-05T11:54:06.257-04:00News From Yesenia<i>Connie and Van!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Receive our affectionate greeting in the love of Christ, for which we are brothers and family in the Lord, our Father. Today I am writing to greet you and send you all our love.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Receive greetings also from my family: My father Samuel, my mother Julia who always think and pray for you, also receive greetings from Denilson my brother, and from Misael Lunazco who is already like another brother and member of Puriyninchik.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>We want to announce that we have finally successfully completed the construction of the Puriyninchik website, where we will share news about the association, our projects, actions and reflections.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Who can we thank for this blessing? Only to God, our Father who, in his infinite love, prepared this precise moment for the website to be ready. But we also want to thank you, brother, who always supported us with your offerings, your prayers and your words of love and encouragement. Many thanks!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Therefore, we want to invite you to review the link and share it with the church, your friends and family. The website link is: <a href="https://puriyninchik.org/">https://puriyninchik.org</a> and has the option of being read in Spanish and English, just click on the United States flag for the English version, or follow this link: <a href="https://puriyninchik.org/en/home">https://puriyninchik.org/en/home</a></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Please let us know your opinions and comments, we would love to receive your messages by email: puriyninchik@gmail.com</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>We encourage them, with the faith that, as Romans 8:28 says: We know that for those who love God, all things work together for good. This time in captivity helped us to strengthen our faith, to read the Bible, to pray and to work… Now, when we see the web page made, we feel so happy, truly ALL THINGS HELP US WELL.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>I say goodbye, also encouraging you to remain in the love of the Lord, because apart from Him we can do nothing ...</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>In the love of Christ,</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Yesenia Montes</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-45108999820110051572020-01-27T09:44:00.000-05:002020-01-27T09:44:02.167-05:00A Gift From The Montes Family<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oqlajiIDrRM/Xi7tvs6TerI/AAAAAAACMFw/3ZQFd-F4Hb0Fzuw_kaKlcwjZJIBgrUcnACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0931%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oqlajiIDrRM/Xi7tvs6TerI/AAAAAAACMFw/3ZQFd-F4Hb0Fzuw_kaKlcwjZJIBgrUcnACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/IMG_0931%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Above is a picture of the special gift from the Samuel Montes family that is temporarily displayed in the Sharon Presbyterian narthex. It is a tapestry of the history of Sharon's bond with the Montes family, the Presbytery of Huanta and Puriyninchik. Our relationship is exquisitely and loving displayed with the addition of their own pictures. The frame was donated by John Thompson and his Frame Warehouse.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com05201 Sharon Rd, Charlotte, NC 28210, USA35.1410562 -80.8361527999999799.1606782 -122.14474679999998 61.1214342 -39.52755879999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-52565176164632779562020-01-09T09:23:00.001-05:002020-01-15T08:43:38.443-05:00Mission Perú<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKei0_gX0JY/Xhc0Lh5PVYI/AAAAAAACLuM/0RqjsG3bF8YqEzdUOkxkgs_9WHTWuxdeACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/map-peru-newsdesk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="975" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKei0_gX0JY/Xhc0Lh5PVYI/AAAAAAACLuM/0RqjsG3bF8YqEzdUOkxkgs_9WHTWuxdeACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/map-peru-newsdesk.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Tentative planning has started for Perú Mission 2020!<br />
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We've settled on the date. Thursday, July 2 through Sunday, July 12.<br />
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We hope that you can join us!<br />
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More news will be coming soon...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-36196210274881239242019-06-26T16:57:00.000-04:002019-06-26T17:00:17.776-04:00First 2019 Perú Challenge?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dO5sTOUF3tk/XRPZ7dg_iiI/AAAAAAACJ_M/CHReDDd45l4R8Xz9dvCl-iTe64AfAu8_QCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20190626_155042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dO5sTOUF3tk/XRPZ7dg_iiI/AAAAAAACJ_M/CHReDDd45l4R8Xz9dvCl-iTe64AfAu8_QCKgBGAs/s400/IMG_20190626_155042.jpg" width="300" /></a>We have already had our first travel challenge of the trip!<br />
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The mission team was scheduled to leave the Charlotte station on the 10:30 AM train to Durham on July 1st.<br />
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Norfolk Southern plans to do track maintenance AFTER the 6:35 AM train and BEFORE the 10:30 AM train.<br />
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So, it looks like the team will be getting on the 6:35 AM train... A long day of travel awaits! Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Kannapolis, NC, USA35.4873613 -80.62173410000002635.2804663 -80.944457600000021 35.694256300000006 -80.299010600000031tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-63657312718631970932019-04-18T15:10:00.002-04:002019-04-18T15:12:57.562-04:00Saludos desde Perú {Greetings From Perú}<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ADWg8Ag09hQ/XLjExDgHVNI/AAAAAAACIAo/hp4fgNlLrMseL4IfTEagwzKhaKqnGkaYwCLcBGAs/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ADWg8Ag09hQ/XLjExDgHVNI/AAAAAAACIAo/hp4fgNlLrMseL4IfTEagwzKhaKqnGkaYwCLcBGAs/s320/unnamed.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leandro, José Luis And Chenoa Bidding Farewell To Bolivia</td></tr>
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Thank you for your continued support of our family ministry through your prayers, messages and financial gifts. We continue to serve because of you and your accompaniment.<br />
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Rebirth {A letter from Chenoa Stock serving in Peru}<br />
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Lent, 2019</div>
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“Rebirth." This is how my husband, Jose, describes our recent move to Lima, Peru. In early February, we packed our possessions, said our goodbyes to Bolivia and took off to begin a new family mission -- from a country of 11 million to a city of 11 million; from a landlocked country to a coastal one; from a dry, mountain city at an altitude of 13,000ft to an ironically humid, desert city at sea level; from our layers of jackets, jeans and boots to a city where the summer months are no joke and sandals and short-sleeves are a must. So yes, a rebirth into new life has indeed begun.</div>
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Perhaps this family life transition is timely during this season of Lent. Rebirth, a time of renewal, and resurrection are never easy. There is darkness, there is struggle, there is a longing for what used to be in all its simplicity. But we are called to be Easter people. We are called to walk through that darkness with faith that the Light is greater and that resurrection leads us to brighter days.</div>
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Our two months here have found us both in the darkness and in the light. But I imagine that is expected in any life transition, especially as a family. The enormity of this city is one that intrigues and overwhelms at the same time. We have already explored it a decent amount in our searches for an apartment, technological amenities to keep us connected to the outside world, grocery stores, markets, and baby needs. Venturing out to meet friends and colleagues and take walks have also proven to be times of exploration.</div>
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This new mission call is with the program, PERUSA, that is part of the Peruvian Joining Hands Network, the same program with which I served in Sri Lanka and Bolivia. PERUSA helps to facilitate partnerships between PC (USA) churches in the US and communities in Peru, in order to create strong, long-term relationships through working, learning and reflecting together. These partnerships are with communities of the Evangelical Church of Peru and their work in Bible institutes and seminaries, but also accompany Joining Hands Peru network partners, including a school for the deaf, a home for abused girls and ecological gardens. These Peruvian communities are blessed to have partnerships with so many PC (USA) congregations who faithfully support and visit them each year to grow their relationship. If your congregation is interested in exploring a partnership with Peru or in bringing a delegation to visit, please let me know!</div>
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Next month we will be traveling to Cusco to meet with the Synod members there, as well as visit their Sajiruyoc Bible Institute and attend their General Assembly. We are looking forward to getting out of the city and visiting a new part of the country. Luckily, our Bolivian-trained lungs should not have a problem with the altitude there. After Easter, we will start focusing on finalizing the logistics and details for the next few months’ scheduled delegation trips and their time here with our partners. It is a big learning curve, and there is still so much more to do, see, and learn; but we are taking it one day at a time.</div>
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We are deeply grateful to have another Mission Co-Worker couple here, Jed and Jenny Koball, and their son, Thiago, to support us, especially in these first months. Leandro and Thiago have already taught each other so many things, and we look forward to seeing how their friendship blossoms over the years.</div>
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So yes, amidst this transition, that sometimes feels dark or confusing, we see the Light and feel its presence. We know and faithfully believe that the Easter promise of reconciliation and renewal will be fulfilled and present, not only this Easter, but throughout our time here, accompanying our Peruvian partners in God’s mission – a mission that only grows stronger because of your accompaniment and prayers.</div>
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Thank you for walking with our family through this time of change and renewal and for your financial gifts and support that make this service and partnership possible. We would ask for prayers of patience and humility as we continue in our ‘rebirth’, learning about this partnership and country and discovering our role in it all.</div>
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May the Resurrection of Easter lead us to be people of Light.<br />
Peace and blessings,<br />
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Chenoa</div>
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Our new mailing address:<br />
Chenoa Stock and José Luis Claure<br />
Av Juan de Aliaga 702, Departamento 1401<br />
Magdalena del Mar<br />
Lima 15076<br />
PERU<br />
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<b>MATCHING GIFT OPPORTUNITY!</b><br />
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Give now to the life-giving ministries of mission co-workers and have your gift matched. You can double the impact of your gift thanks to a group of committed World Mission donors who have agreed to match dollar for dollar all gifts to World Mission up to $50,000 between now and Easter Sunday. This means your gift of $50 towards my support today will leverage another $50 to support all mission co-workers. Or perhaps you can give $500, which will become $1,000 when matched. You can help alleviate poverty, hopelessness and violence around the globe. You can mail a check, writing Chenoa Stock Peru and my ECO number (E200335) or when you give online, simply write “matching gift, Chenoa Stock Peru and my ECO number (E200335)” in the comments field. Thank you for your faithful support of this great opportunity!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Lima, Peru-12.0463731 -77.042754-12.5433321 -77.688201 -11.5494141 -76.397307tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-77540552411054969262019-03-01T14:37:00.000-05:002019-03-15T09:52:38.357-04:00Samuel’s Good NewsHi Randy,<div>
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I just spoke with Samuel. He is loving his job with 14,000 handicapped people in the province of Ayacucho. He is also responsible for youth programs. He has not been paid yet due to the fiscal irresponsibility of the last mayor but he hopes that will be resolved this week. He said that the Sharon Church was directly responsible for his getting this job because people saw him handing out clothing and glasses and working in Huanta with disabled folks. Pretty exciting NO? He is well and sends his regards. He will be in touch next week he says.</div>
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Love to you all!</div>
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Sara</div>
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Rev. Sara G. Armstrong</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-58920417392356971692018-12-22T12:10:00.001-05:002018-12-22T12:36:36.064-05:00Back HomeGood Morning Van,<br />
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It is my first day home after four months on the road. As I travelled I tried to present the work of our new office and of the Joining Hands program of the PCUSA. This collection of articles does it so much better and the one written by Jed Koball is extremely articulate and clear. <a href="https://www.presbyterianmission.org/together-justice/2018/11/28/day-by-day-across-the-decades/?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Presbyterian%20Justice%20and%20Peace%20Focus%20December%202018&utm_content=Presbyterian%20Justice%20and%20Peace%20Focus%20December%202018+CID_970439d79d599a72881412ba9edc08e5&utm_source=Email%20marketing%20software&utm_term=Learn%20more">Link</a></div>
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I look forward to Christmas at home with family. I hope you and Connie enjoy yours too.</div>
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Saludos y abrazos de Sara Rusty y Gabi<br />
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Sara Armstrong<br />
PC(USA) Mission Co-Worker, Perú<br />
<a href="http://www.presbyterianmission.org/ministries/missionconnections/the-rev-sara-armstrong-and-russell-edmondson/">http://www.presbyterianmission.org/ministries/missionconnections/the-rev-sara-armstrong-and-russell-edmondson/</a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-89288669631286369102018-10-27T13:05:00.000-04:002018-12-22T12:33:10.726-05:00Sara Armstrong And Rusty Edmondson Visit Sharon ChurchAll:<br />
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I wanted to let you know that Sara and Rusty will be in Charlotte the weekend of December 1st and 2nd.</div>
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They are still working on their travel plans and schedule but I am thinking they will arrive on Friday, November 30th and depart on Monday, December 3rd. I think they are giving a presentation about their work in Peru during the Sunday School hour. I haven't heard if Sara will be preaching that Sunday.</div>
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Mark your calendars!</div>
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Thanks and blessings to each of you.</div>
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Randy</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-3716144977312475142018-09-16T18:00:00.000-04:002018-12-22T12:34:11.749-05:00PCUSA World Mission<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://vimeo.com/286550105">Rusty Edmondson and Sara Armstrong</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/presbyterianmission">Presbyterian Mission Agency</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-22294901852255237622018-08-28T20:06:00.001-04:002018-12-22T12:37:04.516-05:00Pictures & BirthdaysPictures from our 2018 mission trip to Perú are being posted in the picture album that can be accessed from the Picture Albums link list below.<br />
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Also, a lucky few of you will notice on our calendar that you share a birthday with one of our Peruvian hosts. My apologies with the spelling of some of the names, but the dates are correct.<br />
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More mission pictures will be added soon.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1Huanta, Peru-12.9384113 -74.250212199999964-12.9693628 -74.290552699999964 -12.9074598 -74.209871699999965tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-29056837230379860672018-08-10T20:56:00.000-04:002018-08-10T20:56:10.167-04:00Machu Picchu<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://vimeo.com/116213270">Machu Picchu</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/irenavision">irenaVision</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Machu Picchu, Peru-13.1631412 -72.544962899999973-39.2278887 -113.85355689999997 12.9016063 -31.236368899999974tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630568325563874414.post-46486106472347487492018-08-03T20:45:00.000-04:002018-08-03T20:45:11.959-04:00Perú<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://vimeo.com/139725989">Visual Diary: Peru</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/theminordetail">Jimmy Raymond</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Peru-9.189967 -75.015152-39.7632035 -116.323746 21.3832695 -33.706558