Remembering Huanta

As I stepped outside the walls of the Cristo Rey Church in Huanta on Friday night, I realized something. Yet before that moment, I thought that I had experienced the feeling before. I thought that I knew everything there was to know about that emotion. I had no idea.

What the Peruvians of Cristo Rey Church taught me that night was the feeling of love. Yes, I saw examples of it throughout the week, but on Friday, August 6th, 2010, it hit me.

That afternoon, some of the kids went with us to Cristo Blanco. They went, but without their parents. Their parents let their children go with people from another country to Cristo Blanco. To know that the Peruvians trust us like that was breath taking. There is no word to describe how I felt that afternoon.

That evening we had a potluck dinner at the church. It was our last night in Huanta. The thought of having to say goodbye to all of my Peruvian brothers and sisters was very upsetting. We played games, sang songs, and then we had a ceremony. The Peruvians gave us handmade crafts. They even remembered to include Rose, who was unable to make the trip. Then, they passed the microphone around for all of the Gringos to say a few words. I was tearing up the whole time, and when the microphone got to me, I couldn't put my thoughts into words. After that, we ate dinner that the ladies of the church prepared for us. It was amazing. I could not believe that they spent all that time cooking for us. But as I was looking around the room, I knew that we were one family. One family in Christ.

Then, the hard part came. Goodbyes. I was already crying from our mini-speeches, but I couldn't hold any tears back. It was impossible. As I made my way away around the room, I was grateful for every hug and kiss I was receiving. It was truly a blessing. This year, it took me a little longer to say my goodbyes. Most of the Gringos had left by the time I even made it outside. But as I was standing there in a circle that consisted of Brenda, my dad, Millie, Luz, me and a few others, I could feel an overpowering sense of love.

Anthony, a young boy from the church, was standing near my dad. My dad had told Anthony to take care of himself and that he would see him next year. But, Anthony wouldn't look at him. That's when my dad put his hands on Anthony's shoulders and he turned around with tears streaming down his cheeks. I was heartbroken. To know that he was as emotional about us leaving as we were was reassuring. We were in the right place. We were home.

As I walked down the empty streets of Huanta that night, I thanked God for everything-our safe travels, our outstanding Gringo group, and most of all-the chance to meet, worship, and spend time with my brothers and sisters in Huanta, Peru.

Sarita Ross

God's Mission Matters

Just be there!Being, not doing: do we have to “accomplish” anything?February 15, 2010

By Hunter Farrell
“abide in love, abide in God” (1 John 4.16)
I have a confession to make: when I look into the eyes of human need around the world — hunger and domestic violence, child trafficking and racial discrimination, war and corruption — sometimes it makes me feel hopeless.

The first tinge of despair in the face of overwhelming need can quickly push me to my tried and true default setting: “DO!” I shift into overdrive to assess the need, develop strategies, seek allies, and problem-solve — to busy myself so that I don’t sink deeper into the painful realization that the world and all its problems are much more than we can ever change.

Oftentimes, when I’m engaging in mission, I feel this need to shift into “DO mode”: compelled to impose my agenda, to fill in the awkward silence when I don’t know what to say next, and silence the growing voice within me that says I can’t even begin to make a difference in this frighteningly complex and different context. It’s then that I recall Jesus’ example, try to set the tasks of mission aside, and ask myself, “What would Jesus do here?”

Often, the answer is right in front of me: he’d be playing soccer with the kids, listening to the recently fired workers grieve the loss of their jobs and livelihood, sitting beside the mother whose son has gone off to war: he would embody Emmanuel, God with us, and invite me to be that presence in the world. Jesus would just be there; being, not doing or trying, to necessarily, “accomplish” something.

Tuesday / Perú & U.S.

The experiences and memories on a mission trip are as varied as the people that participate. We get to know each other in a different atmosphere and a different country. While some members thrive on the camaraderie, some are reserved and stoic. Some are excited in the moment and a few relate and share their emotions after contemplation. If we enjoyed the trip or not, we all are better for participating. We understand that we can't change the world with just one trip or two or even nine. But, we hope that we have created a relationship with others that will spread the love and understanding of Jesus Christ through churches in Bryson City, Port Orange, Charlotte and a few special churches in Peru.

We just talked to Donna Ketchledge of Port Orange Presbyterian Church. Everyone from the POPC team has arrived safely back home. After some much needed rest... I'm sure the stories of our recent trip will begin!

Praises be to God for a wonderful trip!

Thanks to ALL!

wvd

Monday / Perú & U.S.

Our apologies to everyone for not posting more often. It seems that Peru is a country that is very much in transition. Using and accessing the Internet is no exception. Each and every Internet cafe was overwhelmed with people that were wanting to connect with friends, loved ones or play online games. So, the bottom line is... We just couldn't get online much of the time... or at least we were not able to create a post.

Thank you and may God bless everyone for a wonderful trip.

Sunday / Ayacucho & Lima

Sunday was the time of our trip that was bittersweet. We were going home soon but, sadly we would be saying goodbye to many of our good friends. A few, we would not be able to see for whole year.

We had to get up very early for our flight from Ayacucho to Lima. The flight was rather uneventful. But, the beautiful views of the Andes in the early morning are always breathtaking.

We arrived in Lima and boarded our bus to take us to the Amen Presbyterian Church. As we arrived at the church, the anticipation and excitement of both groups was apparent (even the local dogs began barking). The mission team was greeted warmly with hugs and kisses all around. A wonderful brunch was served to everyone before worship began.

I must apologize about the mixup with the Skype call to Sharon Presbyterian. It seems that with the differences in languages, scheduling and in time... it just didn't work out. We will be ready next time.

After church, the mission group returned to the city for lunch and a few hours of shopping.

With the early evening came the time that most knew was coming but no one dared talk about... The 2010 Peru Mission team had to split up and go their separate ways. First, the group from Port Orange needed to be dropped off at their hotel. They would be staying in Lima an extra day before their return to the U.S. From the moment we met the POPC group, we knew we would grow to love them... and we did.

After a brief stop for Chinese food came the next time for sad goodbyes. Our bus dropped off Sara Armstrong and Rusty Edmondson near their apartment. We had depended on Sara and Rusty to guide us though another spiritual journey to Peru. And once again they did not disappoint us. Every time we travel to Peru, we meet friends and confidants that we hope we will never lose track of. Sara and Rusty have been a inspiration to us and we all are better people for meeting them.

Finally we had to say goodbye to our friend, sister, and daughter Brenda. Departing was very sad because once again we saw the differences in cultures and the cost of security. Brenda and her family were not allowed to join us inside the airport because they did not have airplane tickets. Because of security no one is allowed in the Lima airport without tickets. So, with all of the excitement, confusion, bags, and people, we were not able to say our proper goodbyes to our dear Brenda. Quick hugs and quick goodbyes gave way to the hustle and confusion the airport interior. Tickets were searched for and bags zipped up to get ready for our flight home. All the while, tears were in our eyes for having to leave wonderful Peru again.

Thank you.

Saturday / Huanta, Quinua & Ayacucho

Up early for a morning walk. This morning I walked by myself through the streets of a city that was just beginning to wake up. The streets were clean and empty. The air was cool, fresh and dry. Actually the air was too cool for the shorts that I was wearing because my laundry was not yet dry from the day before. But, it was a good walk and it gave time to reflect and think about the week that we all had just experienced.
We were treated to an early breakfast and were joined by the Montes family. Sadly, now was the time to say our final goodbyes with tears and promises of our returning next year.

On the bus ride to Ayacucho we were taken on a side trip to the obelisk memorial of the Battle of Ayacucho near La Quinta. (The memorial of the 1824 Latin-American battle of independence of Peru and South America over Spain). The harrowing road was rough, narrow, high, long and unforgettable.

After visiting the memorial we visited the small and picturesque town of Quinua, Peru. It had small shops, stone streets and on this day... a wedding reception. With the celebration and inviting nature of the local Peruvian people, we all were invited to the reception. A few of us visited the wedding for just a few minutes to send our well wishes. (videos are in the picture album).
After our visit to Quinta, we were back on our way to Ayacucho. After arriving in Ayacucho, our group split up to visit different places and eventually all met at the local Indian Market. While walking to the Indian Market, among all of the cars, trucks, horns blowing, people, and musicians... someone seemed to be yelling specifically at us. As we turned, we noticed it was the family that owned the Hostel in Huanta! They were in Ayacucho visiting! Small world... even in 35,000 people!
While returning from the Indian Market, Theresa and I were almost hit by a MotorKar! It was the closest I think that I have ever been to a moving vehicle. I think the driver literally brushed the back of my pant legs as he went by! Whew!
We enjoyed an early, light dinner at the Via Via Cafe on the Plaza de Armas before returning to our rooms. We had to get up very early the next morning for our flight to Lima.

Friday / Huanta

Friday was a "light" day since the benches were completed and taken to their respective churches.

After lunch at the Cristo Rey Church, most of the group retired to a quiet area to sort all the donations. After sorting and then repacking, we had 14 full suit cases! The donations were given to each church in the Presbytery.

The soccer match was this day for the bragging rights to retain the Huanta Cup! We are sorry to report that the that the "Galloping Gringos" lost. So, the La Copa Huanta will remain in Huanta!

We enjoyed a late afternoon visit to Cristo Blanco and we celebrated Sarah Dolatowski's 16th birthday (again) with a surprise party with cake and Coke-a-Cola when we returned. A special thank you to Sarita Ross for the idea of the party, the card and "quietly" getting everyone's autograph. And thank you to Sara Armstrong for helping aquire the birthday cake. The cake was so good... we might have to get one every year!

The celebration atmosphere continued at the Cristo Rey Church in the evening with games and a wonderful potluck dinner.

Finally, what we all had been dreading since the beginning of our trip to this wonderful place. We had to say some heartfelt and very sad goodbyes to our friends at the Cristo Rey Church... until next year!

Thursday / Huanta

Theresa and I had another early morning walk that was culminated with coffee and pastries with Sara Armstrong. All of us had been lax in keeping our journals and wanted desperately to catch them up. The early mornings were a great time to sit, be quiet, think, and be thankful. Down time for reminiscing and reflection was at a premium this year.

Thursday was our final day of work and we were prepared to complete our task of assembling, sanding and painting. We only had 41 benches to left to paint and we completed them before lunch.

I must say that this day was one of the most spiritual days in recent memory. Connie had been suffering back pain since before we left Charlotte. The pain seemed to be getting worse with the walking, standing and working on the benches. This day, in fact, she was hardly able to walk and was transported by MotoKar to the church by our very good friend Gamaliel Berrocal. She didn't want to stay away from the "action" at the church. Once there, she was able to just lie on her back and watch the work going on. Many in the group were concerned of her pain and a few from the church actually wanted her to go to the hospital. I and a few others were fortunate to be asked to join the group that would pray for Connie. I couldn't understand the language from Pastor Vlado Massón but, I could feel the love, passion and spirit that was transmitted on that glorious day.

The emotional dedication and presentation of the benches to the Presbytery of Tampo was done in the late afternoon. Each church in the presbytery had a representative present. Some churches received as many as 10 benches for their church and some as few as only one. The number of benches awarded was based on the number of members. It was during this time that the members of the mission team had the honor to present to the Presbytery a number of prayer shawls on behalf of the Prayer Shawl Ministry of Sharon Presbyterian Church. The Prayer Shawl Ministry has provided shawls for warmth to those that need a special prayer. The shawls reinforce the feeling of compassion and love. They also remind the wearer that someone, somewhere is praying for them in their time of need.

We had a light early dinner at Pastor Orlando's home before returning to our hotel to get ready to visit more churches within the Presbytery of Huanta.

Wednesday / Huanta

Theresa Wolf and I got up early for a walk. We walked early and we were treated to the experience of the city "waking up". The air was cool and crisp, the morning was clear and the streets had been swept clean during the night.

The whole mission group was invited to the home of Samuel Montes for breakfast. It was a warm and inviting home filled with love. The breakfast was wonderful with danish, fruit, coffee, and juices. The only thing better than the breakfast was the fellowship and hospitality of the Montes family.

We all worked hard at the Cristo Rey Church assembling, sanding and painting all of the 150 benches (except 41). We will have to complete the remaining benches Thursday by lunch because everyone will be coming to the Cristo Rey Church to pick up their benches at 3:00.

We all have had a wonderful time here in Huanta bonding with other churches and seeing our old friends. Everyone's health is fair, but a few have some bug bites and sunburns.

We hear from Luz that Pricilla wakes her siblings in the mornings by saying "THE GRINGOS ARE COMING... THE GRINGOS ARE COMING!"

Tuesday / Huanta

We found a few computers with the speed that will allow us to post. But, we were still trying to get used to a Spanish keyboard (with the lettering on the keys worn off too). Everyone's health is OK (so far) except for working too hard at 8500 ft and 20% humidity. No rain yet!

We were quickly getting to know our partners from Port Orange Presbyterian Church and Bryson City Presbyterian Church. We were honored to have them join us and share this journey together.

We completed assembling the rest of the 150 benches with sanding today! We had 2 full days of painting to do ahead of us.

In the evening, we separated into 2 groups and visited 2 different churches. These are outlying churches that we had not visited before.

Monday / Huanta

As we woke Monday morning:

• The morning sounds of the rooster crowing, the clanging of the trash men, and the church bells ringing.
• The smell of fires burning to heat water and wood stoves for warmth, the faint smell of coffee and the aroma of the orange tree just outside our door.
• The feel of the chill in the air and the very low humidity.

All help us remember the Huanta, Perú that we missed so much.
This day was a big step in the spiritual journey for each of us. As we had our morning devotions, many of us thought of the planning and dedication that has gone into this trip. We all are fortunate and blessed to have leaders Randy Ross, Sara Armstrong and Rusty Edmondson that are so devoted to these mission trips. This trip and the following days of our week would be a culmination of a year of planning.

The day progressed into the afternoon and as we finished our workday, we had completed assembling 43 benches. On my way back to the hotel, I reflected on how much everyone had put their lives on hold to accomplish our goal. As I walked quietly and with my eyes tearing up, I gave thanks to God... it's great to be back.

Sunday / Lima, Ayacucho & Huanta

I must thank Gemetta Stanford for sending a post to let everyone know we had made it to Lima safe and sound. I was not able to post on the hotel computer because of firewalls. We were able to check and send emails, but when we tried to post, we were shut down. Also, adding to my predicament were my limited amount of sleep, the complications of travel, the computer in Spanish, the computer keyboard in Spanish and most of all... my lack of Spanish.

Up at 2:30AM! We needed to be at the Lima airport by 3:30AM! We flew from Lima to Ayacucho and then a 1½ hour bus ride to Huanta for Sunday services at the Cristo Rey Church. We were blessed for Brenda to be able to join us on the flight to Ayacucho and on to Huanta. Our thoughts and prayers were still with Rose Boelke and her mother's health. We missed her terribly.

When we arrived at the church in Huanta, it was so wonderful to be back with our Peruvian brothers and sisters. It was almost as though we had never left. All of the planning, packing, traveling, and aggravation had been worth it. We joined our brothers and sisters with hymns in Quechua, the Sermon in Spanish, English and Quechua, and we received the bread and the cup of Communion. We were home again... with God's people... in God's house.

After the spiritual morning of seeing the sun come up over the horizon of the Andes and worshiping with our hosts, we returned to our home away from home the Hostal "La Posada del Marques" to rest and unpack. A few returned to the church later to play volleyball. In the early evening the group got together to talk and receive an orientation.

Good Pizza for dinner.

Theresa didn't have any hot water in her shower... he he... I had plenty.

Saturday / Lima & Nuevo Ayacucho

After very little sleep we were up early for our bus trip to see our freinds at the Nuevo Ayacucho Church. The trip was longer than I had remembered (since I was asleep last time). We received a warm and spiritual welcome from the ladies of the Nuevo Ayachucho Church. I say ladies because the men were away working. For some unknown reason, everyone was notified that we would not be visiting this year.

We were all worried that we have not heard any news from Brenda about her condition. We learned that we must be patient and put our faith in our Lord.

We all need to be concious (and thankful) of the impact of our visits to Perú have made on us and on others. On the return trip to Lima, Sara Armstrong mentioned that Samuel Montes had stated to her "that if we can come this far to visit Perú... then he can buy a car and visit others close to Huanta."

Later in the evening we heard the good news that Brenda would be joining us at the airport for the trip to Ayacucho the following morning!

Glory to God!

Friday / Lima

We were treated to a band playing Latin music next door last night. The only problem was that they didn't quit until 2:30AM! Actually the band was good. It could have been worse if the band was bad.

We were up fairly early with Brenda and I walking to the corner store to buy fresh bread for breakfast. The breads and pastries here in Perú are wonderful!

I made the mistake of taking a Hydrocodone pill for my back and foot pain in the morning. (I'LL NEVER DO THAT AGAIN). Most of the morning was a haze and my head didn't stop spinning until around noon. It made the kamikaze Lima traffic a little more relaxing though. Ha!

The day's schedule was a light one. We walked around the center of Lima playing tourist by visiting the President's Palace to watch the changing of the guard and some shopping.

We returned home after lunch with Brenda not feeling well. She decided to lie down for the afternoon while Connie and I packed for our trip to Huanta. Some of the luggage that Connie and I had brought were gifts to the Amen Presbyterian Church, so those bags could stay at the Paredes' home until we returned on the following Sunday.

We were all excited to see the rest of the group from Port Orange, Bryson City, and Sharon. We had left for the airport early in order to visit with Samuel and Julia Montes, Sara Armstrong, and Rusty Edmondson. As we were at the airport we heard that Brenda would not be joining us that night or the following day. She was taken to the hospital with an bacterial infection. We learned later that she was kept at the hospital for the night with IVs. We all prayed for Brenda and quietly hoped she would be able to join us for the trip to Huanta on Sunday.

As the evening hours wore on, our group finally started coming out of the secure area at the airport. Hugs were all around, as we saw old friends and met new ones. We in Lima were treated to a surprise that Phyllis Acton was able to join us again this year! But, in the back of our minds was the heartache that Brenda and Rose Boelke were not with us. Our thoughts and prayers were with both of them.

We stayed the night in Lima at the Casa Kolping Guest House and with all the excitement, bus ride and amount of luggage... we made it to bed around 2:00AM!

I must take this time to thank the Paredes family for allowing Connie and I to disrupt their daily lives and welcoming us into their wonderful home. They had spent untold hours making their home a comfortable and inviting place for us to visit. I hope someday we will be able to return their hospitality. Thank you very much.