Alward Bound

Off to the National Campamento

2012-01-02T15:01:00.002-04:00

Happy New Year!!!

Tomorrow am I head to Oruro for the national jovenes (young adults) campamento for 5 days. I'll be doing 2 workshops as well being available for any girls who are wanting to talk about whatever is on their minds. I'll return to La Paz for a night (celebrated New Years with the Guthries) and will then head back to Tarija. I ask for prayers regarding travelling, the workshops, conversations with the girls, health, spanish, and well...some sleep would be nice :).

Will let you know how everything goes afterwards.

'til next time,

rebecca

Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-26T18:11:00.002-04:00

I want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas as we all celebrate our Christ's birth
and enjoy time with family and friends.

Blessings!
rebecca

Ministry Update

2011-12-13T15:43:00.003-04:00

It's hard to believe that this is the final ministry update of 2011. If you're interested in reading it, please click on the link to the right called "Ministry updates".

Blessings!
rebecca

A Time for Giving

2011-12-10T15:08:00.003-04:00

I would like to encourage any of you who may be thinking of different ways of giving to go to the Canadian Baptist Ministries website to check out their 2011 Christmas Catalogue. There are opportunities to help with education, agriculture, and health, etc. You can either click on the link on the right hand side of my blog or go to: www.cbmin.org

'til next time,
rebecca

Sin Limites

2011-12-06T13:43:00.012-04:00

As you know from my last post, Saturday was very special. I am pleased to say that it was a great day! Both the leadership team as well as the teens who did dramas, were part of the worship team, etc. did a fantastic job. The teen ministry, Vida Joven, is officially launched in Tarija. God is Good!

Prep time beforehand

Youth worship team practising

Some of the youth doing a drama from the Nueva Jerusalen church

Worship time

Drama from the Sion church

One of the leaders, Cleiver, speaking

Introduction of and prayer for the leadership team

Thank you for your prayers...

rebecca

The Big Day

2011-12-02T08:59:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow is the big day - the official kick-off of Vida Joven. Tomorrow afternoon at 4:30 we'll be starting (although it'll probably be closer to 5pm :)). This afternoon we have our final planning meeting to make sure everything and everyone is ready. If all goes well, I'll have my camera back today so that I can take pictures and post them.

The verse that we chose as our theme is 2 Timothy 1:7 "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline". And our motto is "Sin Limites" which talks about the impact and potential of the youth - no limits!

Myself and two other leaders will be speaking and interspersed will be drama, music, etc. from the teens on the same themes that we're focusing on. My theme is self-esteem, Rodrigo will be focusing on dealing with pressures, and Clever will finish with making decisions and how they can impact the rest of our lives. Each talk will be 5-10 minutes long.

I ask for much prayer over the next 48 hours; that we're all focused, that God prepares the hearts of those who will be there, and that those who have doubts about themselves and about God will know his love and peace and how special they are. As well of course that my spanish is in top form :)

I'll do another posting (hopefully with pics!) asap to let everyone know how it went. Thanks so much for being a part of this with us...

'til next time,
rebecca

The Plan

2011-11-17T07:35:00.004-04:00

The Vida Joven (teen ministry) leadership team is meeting here at my place at noon to continue planning our kick-off event with the youth here in Tarija. It's to be for December 3rd. I'll be one of the speakers and there'll be drama, music, video, etc. Please be praying that all the details come together...there is no doubt that the saying "manana, manana" - basically everything can be put off until tomorrow - could be multiplied down here in the South :)

This leadership team involves all the Baptist churches here in the city but there's one that seems to be struggling a bit and the girl who is to be part of the team working with teens hasn't actually attended any of the meetings yet so we're working on some commitment issues and I'm trying to learn what truly is going on.

It's already mid November which is just nuts! I need to get the December kick-off talk ready and then 2 workshops for the annual jovenes campamento in early January done. I'll be starting that this afternoon. I'm also getting back into Horizons again; that needs to be a priority for the next few months. I need a new brain :) Terry Smith and two others from the CBM home office will be arriving early December for team meetings as well as partnership meetings with the Bolivian Baptist Union (UBB). I must say that it'll be great to see them as well the Guthries and Nachos (and their new little baby :)).

Basically the next month will be crazy busy but exciting so please be praying regarding the kick-off event, the Vida Joven leadership team - commitment, bringing everyone together, etc., cbm's team & ubb meetings and the workshops I'm putting together.

In other words...keep praying! :)

Blessings!
rebecca

Back Home

2011-11-10T11:44:00.004-04:00

I took Jeff Carter to the airport a few hours ago. He'll spend the night in Santa Cruz and then will catch the early morning flight out to make his way back to Prague. I ask that you be praying for safety and the time to get caught up on some much needed sleep and family time for him.

I can't say how well the past 11 days have gone...it's been fantastic! The seminars in Sucre, Potosi, and Tarija went really well with good attendance - at least 50 last night here in Tarija! There were good questions and definite interest in Horizons so I'm really looking forward to the upcoming months. A big thank you goes out to Jeff Carter for being such a good sport with the altitude (especially in Potosi) and the crazy schedule I put us through :) As well to Ivan Gutierrez, Humberto Flores, and Diego who helped with translating various times during the trip.

And many thanks to all of you who have been praying. Unfortunately my camera stopped working on the first night of the congreso/convention - I have to take it in to be checked...I'm hoping it's just some dust that needs to be cleaned out - so I don't have any pictures to show at this point but will get some from Jeff and Ivan to post when possible.

'til next time,
rebecca

Off to Sucre

2011-11-06T20:36:00.003-04:00

The youth congreso/convention just finished up - at 1am today. The joys of council meetings :) Jeff Carter did a fantastic job with the workshop and keynote address regarding youth and integral mission and he was able to reconnect with friends he hadn't seen in more than 20 years. It was great being back with youth I haven't seen for months and I'm pleased to say that I survived council meetings that went to 2 in the morning.

Tomorrow we head to Sucre to meet with youth leaders there. Then it's off to Potosi on Tuesday. Jeff will be speaking about the Calling of a Youth Leader as well as Horizons. We met with the first to-be mentors of the Horizons program. Danny and Sara want to go through the program and then the 3 of us will do a test run before launching it. It's exciting times!

I'm also excited that the new jovenes national president and vice-president who were elected yesterday are from Tarija! I wasn't so excited about the huge spiders I encountered where we were sleeping :)

Thanks for all the prayers...will write again in a couple of days. It's time to get some much needed sleep.

'til next time,
rebecca

All Systems a Go

2011-11-01T20:34:00.003-04:00

I'm now in Cochabamba with Jeff Carter...he arrived without problems (thanks to all of you who have been praying!) and we've had a great first day of conversations and sharing. Please continue to pray as we get ready for the conference/convention starting on Thursday; for health and safety, and all the connections that will be made.

More to follow including pics later this week.

'til then,
rebecca

A Return

2011-10-31T08:26:00.003-04:00

I know...it's been way too long since I've written...I think I needed a break from it and so haven't blogged in quite awhile plus I took a good chunk of time off in September to get some rest with my friend, Kristin, who came to visit. It was sooo good to have her here...but more on that later.

Today I head to Santa Cruz to meet Jeff Carter, CBM field staff in the Czech Republic. He'll be here until November 11th to speak at the national youth conference/convention that is taking place later this week in Cochabamba. It's been about 20 years or so since he spent four months here as a volunteer...to say he's excited to be returning is an understatement :) He'll be speaking twice regarding youth and technology as well as a challenge to youth and integral mission and I'll be part of a symposium on teen ministry. Once the conference ends, we'll be traveling to Sucre, Potosi, and Tarija to do a workshop on the Call to be a Youth Worker including promotion of the online training program for youth leaders, Horizons.

I ask that you be praying for Jeff's safety in traveling as well as our travel throughout his time here. We'll be meeting with many leaders and potential leaders both at the convention as well as afterwards throughout the cities we'll be visiting. Please pray for good conversations, an openness to the ideas and Horizons in general. Please pray for health and basically good brain power :) Oh, and sleep would be a good thing :)

As well, November 19th at 5pm will be our kick-off combined service for the teen ministry, Vida Joven!!! Please be praying that all the details come together. I'll write more on this later.

Will keep you posted on how everything is going...

blessings,
rebecca

Important meeting tonight

2011-08-30T13:58:00.002-04:00

There's a meeting tonight at my place with leadership from the various churches regarding the Vida Joven teen ministry. This is to bring a better understanding of both the ministry, it's importance as well as what my role is. This is the first step in forming the core leadership team of youth workers. Please be praying...

Blessings,
rebecca

The Guthries and the McBeths

2011-08-16T19:27:00.003-04:00

I ask that you be praying for two families from the team: the Guthries have just returned to Canada to begin their three month home assignment. Please be praying for safety in their travels to various churches and communities, a smooth transition, and rest & and good visits with family and friends.

As many of you may already know, the McBeths (Jim has been our team leader) have made the difficult decision to settle back in Canada due to family reasons and a desire to return to full-time pastoring. Please pray for them as they fly back tomorrow and begin the difficult task of transitioning back into life in Canada as well as looking for work.

Thank you,
rebecca

Sand Dunes and Flamingos

2011-08-14T12:59:00.019-04:00

This past Saturday Heather, Rachel and I went to Tajzara for the day to celebrate Rachel's birthday. None of us had ever been there but had heard of it's beauty. It's approximately 2.5 hours from Tarija and feels like another world. Just think sand dunes and flamingos!

A glimpse of the beauty of the way there

Llamas are definitely part of life in this area

There was a second lake with many more flamingos but unfortunately
no matter hard we tried to sneak up on them to take pictures, they kept flying away :)

It felt so great to be able to put our bare feet in the sand :)

'til next time,
rebecca

Campamento Pics

2011-08-02T10:34:00.021-04:00

I'm finally getting this pics posted from the Nacional Vida Joven Teen Campamento...

Enjoy!

One of the daily morning group sessions

One of the games that worked on teamwork and listening to one another

The ever important football (soccer) match

The last night, there's always a special dinner and many of the guys will ask a girl to go
as their date, this group was patiently waiting outside one of the dorms for the girls to exit...
I will underline again how patient they were :)

A couple of leaders helping out in the canteen

After the special dinner, there was a talent show and I found myself singing with the group from Tarija in both English and Spanish - thankfully I wasn't laughed off the stage :)

Some of the leaders taking a much-needed breather

I loved the quietness of the early morning overlooking the camp
from where many of the dorms were

I talked about my first attempt at llama herding in my last post,
in case you were wondering what he looked like, he's the big one on the left :)

Thanks again for all of your encouragement and prayers!

'til next time,
rebecca

National Vida Joven Camp Part II

2011-07-25T10:25:00.003-04:00

I got back to Tarija from the Vida Joven camp and spending some time with the Guthries and Nachos (other CBM staff in La Paz) last week. Thanks for all your prayers...the bus trip there was smooth without problems, and the camp went great. There were about 200 of us including leaders and I was able to begin the research project with two groups of teens from El Alto and Oruro. I was really pleased with the conversations and how open and honest the the teens were with me. We're going to learn a lot and I think it will be a help to the leadership in working with the youth.

And praise God, a number of the youth made first-time commitments to Christ while others recommitted! Like I said, it was a great camp!

It was definitely cold and I made good use of my long johns, multiple layers, etc. but I must say that the most interesting moment I found myself in took place on the last morning when I found myself being a llama herder. Yep, you read that correctly. The place where the camp was held also had sheep, ducks, and 3 enormous llamas. It's quite the feeling when you come face to face with them running free :) On that morning, the biggest one escaped and didn't seem to have any intention of joining it's friends in the pasture area so I ended up trying to herd it back to the camp area but pretty much ended up looking like a fool :) Thankfully a couple of the youth came by and saw what was going on. The extra waving arms helped and we got it back to it's spot safely. I wonder if I should add llama herding to my resume? :):) Yeah, probably not...

Again, thanks for the prayers and I'll be posting pics from the camp in the next couple of days.

'til next time,
rebecca

The National Vida Joven Camp

2011-07-04T08:22:00.002-04:00

The national teen campamento is coming up this week...we're trying to finalize numbers (seems like a never-ending process!) and getting bus tickets, etc. We head to the El Alto region on Wednesday for Thursday's start. The camp will finish on Sunday. I'll be leading one of the sessions as well starting the research regarding the teens through focus groups each day.

I ask that you please be praying for safety and good health for all of us, good conversations, as well as a strong connection with the teens during both the focus groups as well as the session. And of course, the never-ending need for my brain to function for Spanish :)

Thanks for the prayers and support...this wouldn't be possible without you all. When I'm back beginning of next week, I'll fill you in on what all happened including pictures and hopefully some video.

'til next time,
rebecca

Loss

2011-06-29T08:08:00.002-04:00

On Sunday afternoon, a bus that was travelling from Villazon to Tarija lost control and crashed. 28 died including a pastor and a youth from one of the churches here in Tarija. I was at the funeral yesterday and I can only describe it as bittersweet. Pastor Choque was in his early 30's and had definitely had impact in his community and congregation. The youth was only 15 years old. That's not even talking about the others who died including entire families. But there was rejoicing as well and the pledge to continue to serve God.

Please, please be praying for the families who have lost their loved ones, for the congregation (Gnezereth) that lost their pastor and one of their youth, and for the community in general here.

Blessings,
rebecca

Happy Birthday!

2011-06-13T04:14:00.015-04:00

A few days ago was my birthday and I must say that it was the most unique one I've experienced yet! It began shortly after midnight when my doorbell rang and there entered over 20 jovenes and adolescentes and leadership from the church where I'm attending along with a few from a couple of the other churches. It was my first serenade :) It was an amazing time of laughter, beautiful music, worship, and speaking into my life. At the end they prayed for me. Words cannot convey how much the time meant to me. Of course, if I'd been fully awake, I'd have videotaped them singing but as it was, the following are some pictures of both that night along with my lunch party with one of the families in my church and the finale of a "Canadian" birthday celebration of chocolate cake and ice cream with a couple of other friends the following night. It's the first time my birthday has ever lasted for two days. I also enjoyed conversations with family back in Canada, and team mates both here in Bolivia as well as in Canada.

The view of some of them actually singing to me

Some of the guys getting the snacks ready so that I could hangout withe everyone

My new piano arrived that evening so everyone wanted to help break it in :)

A time to just be together

Some had already left but this is the end result of the night

My birthday cake with the Guzman family...part of the tradition is having
your face pushed into the cake...thankfully it was very tasty! :)

La Familia Guzman - a lovely family from the church who has basically taken me in

That evening, a group of the youth from the church took me to the Christian youth drop-in center where they celebrate your birthday in a very unique and embarrassing way :)

Rachel (from Alberta) and Ana (she is both spanish teacher and friend to both of us) helped me finish off my birthday celebration with cake and ice cream (unheard of here) and a movie
- and of course lots of laughter :)

I think it was one of the best birthdays of my life...
I felt very loved and cared for and a part of life here.

God is Good!
rebecca

Santa Cruz

2011-06-11T18:48:00.016-04:00

Last week I spent a couple of days in Santa Cruz to meet with a few of the leaders regarding the Vida Joven teen ministry in order to find out what the situation is there. It was my first time that I'd been in Santa Cruz aside from being in the airport. I hadn't realized how modern and big it truly is! The following are random pictures that I took around the main plaza and as I was walking around including the river. I now have a new camera so these pictures were taken as I was practicing and trying to figure out what I was doing (and I must say that I'm still working on that :).

Amilcar (with his aunt) is my main contact in Santa Cruz with the teens ministry

'til next time,
rebecca

Happy Mother's Day - Bolivian Style

2011-05-27T11:11:00.002-04:00

Today is Mother's Day here in Bolivia and since moving to Tarija I've learned that part of the culture (more than I realized) is serenading. Birthdays and special occasions (e.g. Mother's Day) result in going to the person's house and singing to them. With birthdays, the person's friends, the pastor, various leaders, etc. use the time as an opportunity to speak into the life and talk about their impact and strengths; to encourage them to continue following God. It's actually pretty incredible.

Last night was my first Mother's Day serenade. We literally visited every mother from the church and sang a couple of songs and wished them Happy Mother's Day. Sometimes we were invited inside to drink tea or coffee and eat sandwiches or cookies. The youth would then sing some of the mom's favorite worship songs and there would be a prayer for her and her family.

And something that was special for all of us was that the first mom they sang to was mine. I called her on my cell so the youth could sing to her. It was awesome! She couldn't understand anything but she knows she's loved :)

I got home this morning at 6am after a crazy but wonderful night of laughter, singing, and a celebration of mothers.

To all of you Moms out there...
Happy Mother's Day from Bolivia!

Many blessings,
rebecca

The Most Interesting Food Yet...

2011-05-26T08:32:00.002-04:00

This past Friday night was the Inauguration service for the national crusades that will take place in the Tarija region in January, 2012. It was a time of celebration and prayer as the leadership team of all the various committees was introduced. Afterwards, in true Baptist tradition :), there was food for anyone who wanted to eat - the cost of it will go towards the cost of the crusades . I had my first experience with the very traditional Tarija dish, "Rranga". There were vegetables in the meat sauce of...the only words I can think of are: cow belly. At least that is how it was literally explained to me. Apparently there was another type of meat involved but I still haven't figured out what it was (and that's probably a good thing). The taste was good although I fully admit that I didn't really care for...well, I guess I would say the "chewiness" of it :)

Everyone was watching me eat it because they knew it was my first time. Nothing like being on display! So, up to this point, I've experienced two Tarija dishes: saice which is another meat dish that makes my face go red as a tomato from the spiciness (thanks to my scottish, english, and irish ancestry) and now Rranga. Pretty much no matter what, everyone laughs when I eat anything new. Part of the laughter comes from the fact that I rarely eat meat in a meat-obsessed region and there are quite a few people here who know that :)

Oh well...it's all good :)

'till next time,
rebecca

Potosi and Sucre & what's coming up

2011-05-21T09:45:00.005-04:00

A little over a week ago I spent a few days in Potosi and Sucre in order to meet with the leaders (vice presidents) in charge of Vida Joven - the teen ministry. It is brand new in Potosi and we were able to start conversations about what the situation is for this specific region. I admit to being a bit disappointed with the turnout and so I think it's going to literally mean starting from scratch as far as building a team of leaders. In Sucre, the ministry has been happening for a couple of years but has been in a bit of a slump recently. It was a good time in both areas to get to know one another a bit better and allowed me the opportunity to understand what some of the needs are better and how to best work in each of the areas.

Next week I head to Santa Cruz for a couple of days to meet with the leaders there. Please be praying as I get ready and travel; that the conversations go well and that it's a time of encouragement for all of us. There's no doubt that each area has different needs and I require wisdom to know how to best proceed in the various regions.

As well, the national Vida Joven camp will be taking place in El Alto June 30-July 3. I'll be one of the workshop leaders and will also be starting the investigation with the teens from Cochabamba, El Alto, La Paz, and Oruro. Please pray as I get ready for this camp - they're hoping for 240 teens from all over.

'til next time,
rebecca

A Time of Thanks

2011-05-06T19:24:00.003-04:00

I realized that I haven't thought of all that I have to be thankful for in quite a while so it is time...

- an amazing group of churches, family, friends, and individuals who have been supporting me both financially and/or through prayers...it is overwhelming. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

- I'm feeling more and more at home here in Tarija. I'm still dealing with settling in and some "culture stress" or whatever you want to call it but everything considering, I think it's been going well.

- maple syrup finally available in the market (of course it's no longer there but it'll reappear one day as will the peanut butter :)).

- peanut butter

- good beginnings of Vida Joven work with the teens

- skype conversations with family and friends

- my two cats (Wawita and Pon Pon) who provide great entertainment everyday.

- deepening trust with the national council board of jovenes (young adults)

- laughter amongst friends

'til next time,
rebecca

The Weekend

2011-05-04T18:45:00.003-04:00

I got back last night from the training weekend in Oruro. I'm trying to think of how to describe it all. The training time itself and consilio (council) meetings went well. I was really pleased with my session (I started promoting Horizons and led them in a discussion on what they believe is going on with the teens in various areas - e.g. family, abuse, sexual issues, faith, etc.). But I must say the trip to Oruro left a bit to be desired. I ended up with food poisoning for most of the 12 hour bus ride. And then part way through the night, a truck driving with no lights forced us off the road. Everything ended up fine (praise God!) but I guess the only way to describe that trip was "interesting" with a desire to never repeat it again. :) I decided to bus it to La Paz to spend a couple of days with the Guthries and then fly back to Tarija. It was great to see the Guthries, have good talks, get caught up on some of my sleep and have a much shorter trip home :)

I can't thank you enough for your prayers. I'm really excited about these upcoming months of getting more and more settled into ministry. I'll share more in upcoming weeks.

'til next time!
becca

Vida Joven Training Weekend

2011-04-28T05:54:00.003-04:00

Late this afternoon, I will be getting on a bus with 5 jovenes leaders to head to Oruro which is about 13 hours away for a vida joven (teen ministry) training weekend. My session will focus on both promoting Horizons and having a discussion with the leaders regarding the issues the teens are dealing with as a kick-off to the research I'll be doing for the next year. I want to hear from the jovenes leaders what they believe are the issues, etc. to have as a comparison for once the research is finished.

During the weekend, there will also be council meetings (consilio) with the national jovenes council - always a fun-filled exciting time (there might be a touch of sarcasm in that statement :)). Seriously, I'm excited to be seeing jovenes leaders I haven't seen in a number of months. The group of us from Tarija and Burmejo (about 3 hours away) will be busing back to Tarija Sunday evening to arrive early Monday morning.

Please be praying for safety in travel, for me as I do my session - both regarding Horizons as well as the research (especially that there will be a good and honest discussion about what's happening in the teens' lives), for my spanish, the council meetings and good re-connecting time with the jovenes leadership. Pray also that the weekend will be a time of encouragement and growth for the jovenes leadership in general as well as the Vida Joven leaders.

Oh, fyi, my camera decided to work no longer so I won't be showing any pics for awhile but I will be getting a new one next month :)

Thanks for your prayers!

'til next time,
rebecca

Back into It

2011-04-28T05:40:00.003-04:00

I'm sorry I haven't been blogging for some time. Last week I was in Cochabamba for team meetings and realized that I've been going through culture shock I think both from returning from home assignment in Canada as well as making the move to Tarija and settling into life here. As far as the blogging goes, I just haven't known what to write about. Again, my apologies.

Please be praying that this time of - I'm not sure what to call it - doesn't hang around too long and that I feel more of the joy and peace that is typical. But also that I have patience with myself and that whatever God is wanting to teach me, I have a good attitude; a teachable spirit. Thank you.

Many blessings,
rebecca

The Start of Vida Joven!

2011-03-22T12:56:00.006-04:00

I tried to get this posting done yesterday but my internet wasn't working well. On Monday night we held our first VJ training time at my place with 12 leaders/volunteers from the 5 churches here in Tarija who have a heart for working with teens. Pastor Ramiro and his wife, Angelica, from La Iglesia (church) Nueva Jerusalen were invited to share from their training and experience with teens. Angelica is in her 3rd year in university as a psych major and so spoke about the physiological aspect of being an adolescent and Pastor Ramiro shared about their spiritual growth as well as leadership issues. We meet again this coming Sunday afternoon for another workshop focusing on specific issues dealing with adolescence such as self-esteem, depression, suicide, sexuality, etc.

Next week, I'll be heading to Sucre to meet with the VJ leaders there who are more established. I'm hoping to learn from them as well as find out about the issues they're dealing with. If all goes well, I'll then be heading to Potosi and Santa Cruz later on in April to meet with leaders in regards to training and the starting of VJ in these places.

These are exciting times! I cannot say enough how much your prayers are needed during the upcoming weeks and months. Many, many thanks for your overwhelming support and encouragement...

'til next time,
rebecca

The Beautiful Outdoors

2011-03-18T06:45:00.013-04:00

I'm becoming friends with another Canadian, Heather, who has lived in Tarija for about 11 years. Last Saturday we spent about 6 hours hiking about 20 minutes outside of the city enjoying the beauty and quietness of nature. It was like a whole other world and I almost felt like I was back in New Brunswick. I cannot say how refreshing it was. And that's not mentioning the point where I actually fell into the river while trying to cross some rocks :)

The fotos show you not only the beauty but also some of what life is like in the country. The farm dog that followed us for much of the day (I called him Hank), the farmers sowing their crops and plowing the land, and a few of the animals.

'til next time,
rebecca

Campamento Pics

2011-03-14T07:12:00.017-04:00

The following are pictures from the campamento including getting there, sleeping quarters, the kitchen and
just some fun pics of people and what was going on.
We stayed on a school property in the country.

The loading of the truck I went in, I stood at the back and basically prayed the entire way that nobody would fall out
but I admit that it was a lot of fun :)

The room where I slept with about 20 other girls

I'm always amazed at the delicious meals...these ladies were fantastic cooks!

An old outdoor oven no longer in use

'til next time!
rebecca

Campamentos, new leadership, and the joys of no sleep

2011-03-14T06:01:00.003-04:00

Carnaval has been happening over the past few weeks...parties, parades with beautiful costumes and dancing, many, many water fights involving balloons and guns, and a general time of celebration. Something I've been learning about Tarija is that because of the easy access to wine (there are beautiful vineyards just outside of the city and cheap wine can be purchased at pretty much every little "tienda" or store), Tarija has the highest level of alcoholism in Bolivia so by the end of the final weekend of celebrations, it's typically not a very safe place to be. Plus with school holidays for the celebrations, the churches across the country have a habit of holding regional campamentos (last year I went to the teen camp in La Paz) so that people can still have fun but be safe at the same time. This year I was at the Tarija regional camp outside of the city. It was basically a family camp with a wide range of ages.

The theme was about being transformed by the love of Christ with workshops, many games, worship services, etc. It went from Saturday through Tuesday and in that time I think I got maybe 10 hours of sleep. For those of you who know me well, you know that I'm not a late night person and so I'll just say that by the last day, even I was amazed and couldn't help but laugh at how bad my Spanish had become because of tiredness. With the hard rain that poured most of the last couple of days, I'm now getting caught up on sleep and fighting a head cold :) I was one of the "counselors" and was able to use the time as a way to get to know more people and vice versa. There were people there as well from Burmejo which is around 3 hours away down by the Argentina border. All total (including those who came for day visits), we numbered about 230!

In the last few postings, I've written about Vanesa - the leader who was going to help me and then couldn't because of a new job and then lost it. Well, she's now living in another area and from what I'm understanding has found work which is great! So, we held elections and now have a new vice-president (who automatically works with the teen ministry and provides leadership). I'm very excited to share that Rodrigo was elected to the position. He's been working with teens for over a year now in the Nueva Jerusalen Baptist church and loves this age group (he's 23 years old). This position is brand new for him and so there's a steep learning curve right now but I think he's going to do a great job...please be praying for him. We're hoping to have our first official Vida Joven meeting with the various leaders of the teens from the churches in the area in the next couple of weeks.

Please be praying for us...

I also start language classes again this week (just one or two/week) to refine my Spanish and help me with the local accent and sayings. During the camp, the teens especially were helping me sound more "local". We had some good laughs :)

Pics are coming from the camp...thanks to all of you for your support and prayers!

'til next time,
rebecca

Now That's Random...

2011-03-04T13:01:00.007-04:00

So, a few weeks ago, I was invited to go to a figure skating event at the university here in Tarija. Yes, you read correctly...a skating event in hot, humid Tarija, Bolivia.

I was sure I had not heard correctly but I was told repeatedly that it was happening. When we entered that university's gymnasium, I couldn't help but laugh. What you're looking at to the left is the rink :) As a Canadian...well, I'm laughing right now :) I actually thought little kids were going to be putting on a show but get this...the skaters were professionals from Russia on tour.
Go figure!

They were amazing! Even though the rink was incredibly small, they did jumps, spins, and pairs skating with all the tricks. The first half was basically a classical ballet and the second half reminded me of cirque de soleil. Afterward, any kids who wanted to try on some skates and go out on the ice could. The part that made me laugh the hardest was the ice itself. Because of the heat, the ice kept melting. By the time we got to the break, the man who swept the ice (I was hoping for a mini-zamboni but was disappointed:) ) tried to sweep the water into the trough around the "rink" but because it wasn't deep enough, the water just flowed back onto the ice. By the end of the show, the majority of the ice was now water and you could literally see the spray of it as the skaters did their work. Amazingly enough, only one of the skaters fell. They obviously had practiced and were seasoned pros with both the size and the "ice conditions".

Below are a couple of pictures of the skaters and the ice. Unfortunately my camera doesn't do them justice but hopefully this will give you an idea of what it was like.

This was taken from my where I was sitting...that's the ice at the far end of the gym

It was a night to remember and about the craziest, most random experience I've had yet.

'til next time,
rebecca

Now What?

2011-03-04T12:53:00.002-04:00

I know...it's been awhile...I've been too distracted and couldn't get my thoughts gathered so hopefully now my brain is working a bit better (no comments from the peanut gallery!) and I can get some postings done on what's all been going on.

My last blog posting had to do with Vanesa who was to have been one of the main leaders I was going to be working with. Well...when she arrived at the office on her first day of work, she found out that her job had been taken away in a political move even though she had a signed a contract (that is very common here). So now she's back and at this point has not found work. She loves being back with her family, friends, and church but obviously this is a stressful time so please be praying for her.

This weekend beginning tomorrow, I'll be at a campamento which is where we're going to do the election for the new vice president and leader of Vida Joven. There is still the possibility that Vanesa will be the vp but at this point, it's unknown. Pray that the right person as both a leader and one who loves to work with teens is voted in.

Will keep you posted.

'til next time,
rebecca

A Change

2011-02-03T09:32:00.005-04:00

Vanesa and her two younger brothers
I've mentioned Vanesa before - both in blog postings as well as ministry updates - she is the young woman that I was to be working with in the Tarija area with Vida Joven (the teen ministry). I found out Monday night that she will be moving tomorrow (Friday) to Villamontes which I think is around 9 or so hours from here via bus for work. Her contract is ending and she was unable to find other work and this job is in the area of computers that she was trained for and it's a government position. She lost her mother when she was about 16 years old and her father left them shortly afterwards. Since then, she has been caring for her younger brothers. With this
new job, she will be able to provide better for them even though she will be away from them. The youngest one is in high school now. She's asked that I keep an eye on them to make sure they're actually studying :)

I ask that you be praying for Vanesa as she makes the move tomorrow and settles into her new job which begins on Monday. Thankfully she used to live there and has friends who can help her find a place to live, etc. It's not completely unfamiliar territory for her.

Also, please be praying for me. Vanesa was a huge help as I started looking at Tarija as my base and is becoming a good friend. She has huge potential. I had really been looking forward to working with her and am going to miss her - both on a personal level of friendship but also work-wise. She'll be returning every couple months or so to check on her brothers and we'll be able to touch base as well.

The jovenes council for Tarija has asked me to be one of their advisors and so we have our first full council meeting this Sunday afternoon and Saturday night will be the joint kick-off service for the new incoming council. We will need to start looking for a replacement for Vanesa this weekend. Please be praying for the new vice-president (all the VP's work with the teen ministry - Vida Joven). Hopefully within 10 days or so they will vote in the new VP. This will be the key person I'll be working with. Please pray for guidance and wisdom for all of us who are involved in this process.

'til next time,
rebecca

Blessings

2011-01-25T11:48:00.006-04:00

It's been two weeks today since I arrived here in Tarija. I thought it was time to think of my blessings and give thanks for how God has been taking care of me during this time...

-the care of the jovenes here in Tarija who met me at the airport and who have been so welcoming and helpful during these past two weeks.

- only one dish broken during the packing and unpacking process :)

- being able to unpack everything after almost 5 months of living out of suitcases

- the convenience of living in the city center (just 2-3 blocks from the two main plazas)

- peanut butter

- getting internet set up

- skype

- rain after a drought

- cooking in my own kitchen

- all those who have been praying for me during this time

- the care of friends and teammates during the move

What are you thankful for?

'til next time,
rebecca

Settling In

2011-01-22T10:46:00.008-04:00

The following are pictures from the move starting in Cochabamba and ending here in Tarija. Once I'm a bit more settled, I'll show more pics including around the town but this will give you an idea of my new home.

Happy Weekend!
rebecca

The Move

2011-01-18T18:26:00.002-04:00

I am now officially living in Tarija...I arrived a week ago and my furniture, etc. got here Thursday evening. I was able to get internet going today so now need to get caught up on everything.

The move went surprisingly smooth - I was even met at the airport by 4 jovenes who took me to get my keys for the apartment. God has been so good. My place still looks nuts but I have hope :) I've taken a few pictures of the moving process and will post them on Friday which will give me a bit more time to get my place in order.

Thanks for all the prayers...please continue as I settle in. I love living here but it doesn't feel like home yet. I need some more time.

'til next time,
rebecca

A Look at Christmas 2010

2010-12-25T20:22:00.009-04:00

A week ago there was a Christmas bbq at the McBeth's for those of us with CBM in Cochabamba. The following pics are from the bbq as well as today with the Guthries in La Paz. It has been a blessed time with family and friends celebrating Christ's birth and just being together.

Ivan and Jim - the mighty chefs of the bbq :)

Ivan and June

Emigdio's wife, Gladys, and myself

Together

Duane and Carin with their kids Paige, Caleb and Duane's parents

The turkey dinner prep time...hmm, hmm, good!

Merry Christmas!

rebecca

Feliz Navidad!

2010-12-25T11:14:00.002-04:00

I just wanted to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! I'm in La Paz with the Guthries having a wonderful time with them laughing, talking, singing carols, and celebrating Jesus' birth . I'll post some pictures in a few hours.

Merry Christmas!

rebecca

The Joys of the Unexpected

2010-12-21T14:17:00.003-04:00

Well, Sunday morning was one of those days that made me just kind of shake my head and think, "what???". I went out to Sacaba for the service like usual. I had just been thinking that I was actually a few minutes early (when using the trufis - public vans - you never know for sure when you'll arrive) when I turned the corner and saw various people from the congregation climbing into a couple of vans/trucks. When I asked what was going on, I found out there had been an earlier service and that now they were going to another church in an area I'd never heard of for a "constitucion" which I figured meant a business meeting after the service. The next thing I know, I'm squished into a truck and I'm told that it'll be over at noon (which I figured meant 1pm). I had already made plans with friends for that afternoon so I thought all would be well...

We arrived at the church (Congregacion Israel) which I realized was a church plant from the Sacaba church, Rey de Reyes. It was in the middle of nowhere but apparently in the outskirts of Sacaba. Once Rosio (my friend as well as youth pastor at the Sacaba church) and I were settled, she turned to me and told me that since I was a CBM representative I would be part of the "concilio" that morning. I basically looked at her with a blank look on my face and, still thinking that this was more of a celebration service, asked her if she meant that they wanted me to bring greetings on behalf of CBM. She chuckled and told me no...that I would be part of the council that would ask questions to the members and then decide whether the congregation could become an official UBB (Bolivian Baptist Union) church.

No pressure...

So, once those of us on the council were introduced and the message had started, we went outside to another room to come up with the questions. There were questions regarding biblical knowledge, mission, history, principles and beliefs; questions directed to the children, youth, married couples, etc. Some of the questions, I was just hoping to understand in Spanish - let alone the answers that might be given. We all had various questions to ask and could make suggestions as well. I literally felt like I was flying by the seat of my pants and was praying that I wouldn't look (or sound) too stupid (no comments from family or friends!) :) When I asked what would happen if they didn't get all the questions correct, they simply told me that wouldn't happen.

Well, I won't bore you with all the details except to say that this congregation is now an official UBB church (congratulations La Iglesia Israel!) and I survived. Of course, I had to call my friends at around 2:30 letting them know that I may not be able to make it because the service was not even over yet nor did I have any idea where I was even if I could leave. I ended up getting back to the McBeth's around 4pm, had a bit of a rest and then got ready for the Christmas party at the McBeth's that evening (pictures coming in a couple of days).

It was a most unexpected day and I admit that I'm not looking to repeat it for awhile :) But I must say that it was interesting to see the two different thought processes. The majority of the questions that were asked dealt with straight facts, dates, etc. The two questions that I put forth to be asked (the rest of the council cleaned up the Spanish :) dealt with how spouses can show love to one another (giving practical examples) and when thinking of how a church is called to serve - how can they (their specific congregation) be a part of their community and serving [looking at integral mission]. What struck me was that those were the two questions they had the most trouble with because they had to think and be practical as opposed to just giving memorized answers.

Although the day certainly didn't go as planned, it was a good learning experience and certainly made for a good story :)

'til next time,
rebecca

Foto Friday

2010-12-17T22:41:00.009-04:00

I took the following pictures right before I left for Canada. Every once in awhile the city has a "no vehicle" day where overnight the city changes and it's a time of walking, riding bikes, and being together in a much quieter and relaxed place. Here's a glimpse of the beauty, architecture, and people, including my favorite one of the world's youngest driver :)

'til next time,
rebecca

Once Again Choices

2010-12-13T07:33:00.006-04:00

I remember one of my first blog postings was about choices that I had to make. And as I've been getting settled back in to Bolivia and was walking around the city center over the weekend and thinking of this next phase of ministry, those choices came to mind again...

...I have the choice to either dig in deep and give it everything I've got or settle for mediocre and be satisfied with that

...do I see, hear, and feel with God's heart or turn the other way and tell myself that there's nothing that can be done and refuse to fight injustice and feel the hurt of those around me

...do I stay satisfied with my Spanish as is or keep pushing myself to the fluency that I pray I'm capable of

...do I look for the joy midst the craziness and all that I don't understand and just enjoy being a part of this adventure of God's or do I sink into frustration and not look for the good

...do I seek God's direction in every part of my life (personal and ministry-wise) or try to do it all on my own

Please God, help me make the right choices each day...

'til next time,
rebecca

What a Week!

2010-12-11T13:38:00.003-04:00

Thanks to all of you who have been praying about my time in Tarija...it was fantastic! I got back to Cochabamba Thursday afternoon very excited about what's coming up.

We were able to find an apartment for me in a great location - basically in the center of everything, close to public transportation, the markets, the university and almost in between the two main churches. I'm very excited about the move - I admit that I'm really looking forward to being able to fully unpack and settle once again.

I also met Diane, a former American missionary, who is now retired with her Bolivian husband in Tarija - they've opened up their home to me and have told me that they'll help me in any way I need with the transition and life there. I also spent time with Heather who is another Canadian who runs a youth cafe/drop-in center and I think there will be a great friendship there. We'll also be living only about 4 blocks from one another which will be a huge help for me especially in the beginning. I was able to spend some time also at the Sion church as well as with Vanesa who is a lovely Bolivian young woman that I'll be working with with Vida Joven (teen ministry). She and some of the other jovenes are going to help me with the move which will be a blessing and I'm sure quite hilarious at the same time. We're going to have our first planning meeting at my place with all the youth/teen leaders once I've had a couple of weeks to settle in.

God is good!

'til next time,
rebecca

Foto Friday

2010-12-04T12:22:00.008-04:00

I thought you should see a "before" and "after" shot...

Just outside of my parents' home a couple of weeks ago...
there was more snow by the time I left

The backyard at the McBeths this morning

Isn't the beauty of the seasons amazing?!!!

'til next time,
rebecca

And We Have Touch Down

2010-12-03T17:50:00.003-04:00

I got in last night after an amazingly smooth trip - Praise God!!! Aside from a couple of exploded lotions (thankfully I had bagged them), even my luggage survived with everything intact. I was met at the airport by the McBeths where I'll be staying for next month. I can't say how good it feels to be back.

I literally just clued in that today is Friday so I'm going to pretend that tomorrow is Friday and do a "Foto Friday" then once I've been able to take a couple of pictures I want.

Thanks to all of you who were praying for safe journeys...I head down to Tarija on Sunday with a few other team members for meetings and then Ivan (one of our Bolivian teammates) and I will do the apt. hunt. Please pray throughout next week - am hoping to be back by Friday if possible.

'til next time,
rebecca

Get Ready for Take-Off

2010-11-30T19:47:00.004-04:00

Well, I fly out tomorrow morning at 6am. I can't describe all the emotions right now...excitement about returning to Bolivia and "normal" life and getting back into ministry but sadness as well at the thought of leaving family and friends again. But in the midst of it, I feel utmost peace.

Although, I also fully admit that I'll feel even more peaceful once my luggage has been checked through :)

I can't thank all of you enough for the prayers and encouragement over the last 3 months during my time in Canada. The care that you've shown me. To my family...there are no words...I am going to miss you so much. My friends who helped me laugh and relax and get caught up on what's been going on...thank you, thank you, thank you. I think there should be some visits down to Bolivia :) And to all the various churches and individuals whom I met for the first time or reconnected with, thank you for helping me process my first two years in Bolivia, for your support, and just being a part of this journey with me. I pray it continues.

Peace and grace to you all,

rebecca

Heading back

2010-11-29T15:45:00.008-04:00

Well, its just a couple of days before I leave. I can't believe that my return is here already! I thought I'd just show a couple of pics from my time here of family and just a couple that made me smile.

My brothers, Paul and Mark, pretending they're helping with the cooking on Thanksgiving :)

My niece, Alison practicing her driving skills :)

My nephew, Brad, with my mom at Thanksgiving

Lobster traps on Nova Scotia's south shore

Yes, wild turkey's outside of my parents looking for food

Blessings

2010-10-16T07:43:00.002-04:00

I thought it was time to think of all the blessings in my life right now...

- the encouragement and care from so many as I've shared stories about life and ministry during all the various speaking engagements

- a crazy but absolutely wonderful thanksgiving with my entire family...the first in two years

- the spectacular nature and scenery of the Atlantic provinces

- the care and concern from the CBM home office staff

- hugs

- time spent with friends

- a really good cup of tea

- Turkey dinner :)

- fully understanding worship services

- laughter with friends over coffee

'til next time,
rebecca

Visits

2010-10-13T12:20:00.006-04:00

I've been really enjoying the visits with the various churches I've been invited to so far. The following are just a few pics of some of people I've met with so far (I need to remember to use my camera more!).

Union Street Baptist WMS in St. Stephen, NB

Leona Mae Devine in Woods Harbour, NS

Middleton, NS ABW

Thanks to all of you from the various areas of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia
that I've visited so far for your hospitality, care, and encouragement!
You've been a blessing!

rebecca

Finally!

2010-10-13T11:14:00.003-04:00

Hello all! My apologies for not doing an update sooner. It's hard to believe that it's coming up on the middle of October already. Part of me feels that it's been a whirlwind of activity since arriving in Canada (Sept. 7th) and that there's no way it should be the middle of October yet and the other part of me feels like I've been here for much longer. Go figure...I guess my brain is just basically messed up! :)

All I can say is that it's a joy to be here...both to be with family as well as meeting with many churches, friends, and individual supporters. I'm amazed and blessed by how many have told me that they enjoy reading my blog and I'm just meeting them for the first time. Thanks so much for all the encouragement that I've received since being back in Canada. It's been great to meet so many new people and reconnect with others.

I'll be doing a couple of more updates regarding life, home assignment, etc. And then hopefully I'll be back into the swing of doing at least one update/week like I had been.

Blessings!
rebecca

The List

2010-09-03T21:05:00.007-04:00

Just a couple more days now...I'm now staying at the CBM apartment and am enjoying various visits with friends and jovenes (I don't think it's really sunk in yet that I head out in 2 days). There have been a few people who have asked what I'm going to miss from Bolivia . So here's what comes to mind...

What I'm going to miss from Bolivia:

- all the fresh fruit and vegetables (there's amazing variety that is also unbelievably cheap!)

- outdoor markets

- the beautiful flowers and flowering trees that can be enjoyed year-around

- the music and bright colors of the ethnic clothing

- the breath-taking mountains

- the more personal way of greeting one another

- cheap and easy public transportation including taxis, buses, and "trufis"

- Spanish - although I still have much to learn and sometimes think it's hopeless, I love the sound of the language

- the friends that I've made so far (both from other countries and here)

- the potential and energy of the adolescentes and jovenes

- Bolivian food - it's very different with every region having specialties...I've been trying to learn to cook some of it but I don't think it's possible to replicate much outside of Bolivia

- the vast differences in scenery (from mountains to the jungle) - it's like there are different countries all within Bolivia and all accessible within a 3 or 4 hour drive

What I'm not going to miss:

- the smell of rotting garbage and urine in the streets

- the many times of feeling uncertain and inadequate regarding ministry, language, and figuring out life here in general (the feelings still haven't left and probably never fully will)

- the continuous sounds and sights of dogs...they're everywhere - sometimes playing, sometimes fighting; sometimes alone or in packs but almost always constantly barking - day and night

- a lack of street signs - for one who can be directionally challenged, this does not help the situation :)

- the water - I'm excited to be able to soon drink out of the tap and not be wondering much of the time whether I'm going to be having intestinal problems due to the water, the food or both

- wondering whether what I've just bought will be either broken or unsafe in some way

'til next time,
rebecca

The Homestretch

2010-08-24T18:10:00.002-04:00

It's hard to believe that in two weeks I'll be in Canada. I'm in the midst of packing; surrounded by boxes and the joy of trying to tie up any loose ends before leaving but I think it's going pretty well. The actual move will take place Friday afternoon. The McBeths have generously offered their place for me to store my stuff until my move to Tarija in January. Tomorrow night there'll be about 6 girls here (young jovenes leaders) for an overnighter before I move out of my place. If it's anything like last time, there will be much laughter and non-stop talking throughout the night. I can't wait! I figure I can catch up on my sleep either next week or on the plane :)

Thanks so much for all your prayers, support, and encouragement...this wouldn't be possible without you all.

'til next time,
rebecca

Congratulations Sacaba Cristo Rey de Reyes!!

2010-08-02T09:27:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was the 88th anniversary of the Cristo Rey de Reyes church in Sacaba where I attend. The Bolivians love their anniversaries and this one was certainly a huge celebration and time of thanksgiving. I forgot my camera (which always seems to happen when I really want it) but just use your imagination with lots of music and words of encouragement :)

Please be praying for this great group of people as they continue working to further God's kingdom in their area. Pray for the Bolivian Church in general as they seek God's vision, His will, and look to the future and what that means for them.

Blessings,
rebecca

Thankfulness continued...

2010-07-26T13:25:00.007-04:00

- spring on the way

- physiotherapy

- all of your prayers and support

- grace & understanding

- my family and friends both here and in Canada (and other countries)

- emotions

- sleep

- friendship and laughter over a shared piece of cake

'til next time,
rebecca

The Race is On

2010-07-20T01:00:00.002-04:00

I was looking at the calendar yesterday and realized that I've got about 6 weeks left before heading back to Canada for home assignment. I can't believe it's coming up so quick! I don't think it'll really hit until I'm on the plane. But before I leave, there are things that I need to be concentrating on now.

I could be going to Santa Cruz this coming weekend to meet with the Vida Joven leaders in that area but that will depend on my back (I have my first physiotherapy session tonight - thank goodness!). I'll then be attending the national jovenes convention which takes place August 6-8 in El Alto with a few days afterward to visit the Guthries in La Paz. I also need to move out of my place by August 28th because of heading to Canada and then Tarija in January. I also want to have the girls (young jovenes leaders) over again for another sleepover at least once and have some good conversations and visits over coffee with various jovenes. Plus, I'm starting to go through Horizons myself to be better prepared for when I return in January for the start-up of Horizons.

The next six weeks will certainly not be boring but I need to stay focused and it would also certainly help if I could keep myself from falling down anymore stairs or getting sick, etc. :)
So...I ask that you be praying for me in these upcoming weeks - for my focus and energy, wisdom & good conversations (especially with the young women), my health (a return to gracefulness and coordination would be great :), and that I finish well and can leave for home assignment in peace.

Thanks so much for your support and encouragement!

'til next time,
rebecca

Foto Friday

2010-07-15T19:03:00.015-04:00

A few Sundays ago, I had a group of jovenes (young adults) from the Sacaba church where I attend, over to my place to teach me how to make "Pique" from scratch and just basically hang out. Pique is a Bolivian dish that involves french fries, a type of hot dog, another type of beef & it's juice (I learned that soy sauce is a key ingredient to making the juice so good), topped with onions and green peppers and then a hard-boiled egg. Mayonnaise, mustard and ketchup can be added as well at the end if you wish.

There was much joking, games, and good conversation in general and also a great time of being together with everyone pitching in to help with both the prep and clean-up (I fully admit that the guys weren't given a choice in the matter :)

The following pics give you an idea of the process.
The menu consisted of pique and fresh homemade orange juice.

The tasty result of all our hard work!

'til next time,
rebecca

Oh, to be Graceful :)

2010-07-12T07:16:00.003-04:00

So, I'm starting to question my feet or my coordination - I'm not sure which...on the last night of the teen camp, there was a special gala dinner for the teens during which the leaders served the food, etc. I helped out in the kitchen. After, the leaders were able to get some food however, while I was crossing the floor of the outer room of the kitchen with my food to talk to someone, I forgot about the hole in the middle of the floor and proceeded to pretty much fall on my face. Amazingly enough, I didn't hurt self (except for my pride) and didn't drop my food.

Well, then on Thursday, I was going down the stairs in my place, and fell at the bottom and landed on my back. Thankfully, there was no fracture but I must say that I thought having a broken foot was bad...that was nothing to the pain of the last few days.

So, I ask for your prayers...for a full recovery with my back and that it's quick. As well, that somehow I become graceful and less accident-prone because I'd really like to make it back to Canada for home assignment in one piece and at the rate I'm going, I won't last the month! :):) And yes, its okay to be laughing at me right now...I have been :)

'til next time,
rebecca

Foto Friday II

2010-07-08T17:45:00.010-04:00

Here are some general pics from the camp along with a second video from Saturday night's worship time. To watch the video, just click on play and adjust the sound...enjoy :)

'til next time,
rebecca

Foto Friday

2010-07-07T19:14:00.009-04:00

Here are a few of the Vida Joven leaders that were at the camp...
please be praying for them as they continue their work with the teens.

'til next time,
rebecca

Sobrenatural - National Vida Joven Camp 2010

2010-07-07T12:23:00.007-04:00

I got back from the national teen camp in the outlying area of Sucre early Monday. Sobrenatural was the theme/name of the camp which means "super natural". There were about 160 teens from Sucre, Santa Cruz, Potosi, La Paz, El Alto, Oruro, Cochabamba, Tarija, and Villazon and with all the leaders, kitchen staff, etc., we were 200 strong. It was a great weekend, very crazy as you'd expect with teens and little sleep was to be found but I was really pleased with it all. I did my first workshop on ways to draw closer to God both traditionally and not so traditionally and felt pleased both with my Spanish as well as being able to keep their attention....thanks for the prayers! It was also a fantastic opportunity to meet some more of the leaders and learn some of their thoughts regarding the youth ministry.

I'm including a couple of pics along with a video of a few seconds of the worship time on the last night but will post more on Friday. I fully admit that I'm getting caught up on some much needed sleep and am trying to get rid of the head cold that I got as a going away present from the camp :) The weather was crazy - freezing cold at night and unbelievably hot during the day.

If you want to see the video, just click on the play button...you can also adjust the volume.
Please note: this is not a professional video :)

'til next time,
rebecca

Foto Friday

2010-06-24T14:31:00.015-04:00

Since the Guthries are moving to La Paz this coming week, I thought you might like to be "introduced" to them as well as have an initial look at the city including a view up to El Alto where much of their ministry will be focused.

Duane and Carin with their kids: Caleb and Paige

'til next time,
rebecca

What's Coming Up

2010-06-21T20:14:00.002-04:00

I thought you might be interested in what's coming up in the next couple of weeks. Part of it's a time of transition...Eliana (June Castellon's daughter) and Craig Allin who have been here for the past year working at Carachipampa school will be returning to Canada in 10 days. Duane and Carin Guthrie and their two kids, Caleb and Paige, will be moving to La Paz within the next couple of weeks. Unfortunately, they've had to wait longer than expected to move because of immigration requirements and work on the house that needs to be completed where they'll be living. If all goes well, they'll be making the move by the end of June.

As for myself, I'll be taking part in my first National Vida Joven Camp in Sucre (teen camp) July 1-4. I'll be doing a workshop for 3 of the days on a rotational basis and they're expecting approximately 150 teens. We'll just say that I'm a bit nervous although thankfully I only have to prepare one workshop :) I'm also hoping to be able to learn more of the issues going on in the teens' lives as I get to know more of them as well as their leaders.

I ask that you be praying for...
- Eliana and Craig as they move back to Canada
- the Guthries as they prepare for their move to La Paz & El Alto and that it won't be long before they feel at home and are building relationships
- the national teen camp & safety for everyone, my workshop (that my brain will work!), energy and at least a little bit of sleep :), deepened relationships and a better understanding of my work and it's potential

'til next time,
rebecca

La Familia Whittle

2010-06-13T19:04:00.003-04:00

Today we said "see you later" (not goodbye) to the Whittle family (Brian and Norma and their two kids Matt and Sarah) from Edmonton, Alberta who has been here for the past year working with Casa de la Amistad - the ministry working with kids who have to live in prison with their parents. Tomorrow they head back to Canada from La Paz and should be getting home Tuesday evening. I ask that you be praying for safety as they travel and that their transition goes smooth as they settle back into life in Canada. They will be missed.

'til next time,
rebecca

A Time of Thanks

2010-06-07T09:57:00.007-04:00

It's been awhile since I've given thanks so here goes...

- laughter and great conversations with friends

- receiving my passport and one-year visa

- the beautiful variety of landscapes in Bolivia

- walking through the jungle and spending some time with the monkeys and a cougar in Villa Tunare, Chapare

- an abundance of fresh juice from fruit straight off the trees

- boy talk with young girls :)

- learning a new game with friends: Phase 10

- the jovenes from my church in Sacaba

- the wonder of skype

- sunshine

What are you thankful for?

'til next time,

rebecca

The Challenge

2010-05-31T08:11:00.006-04:00

For three weeks in May, four students were with us from various seminaries across Canada to take part in a course called "Praxis". They were teamed up with Bolivians and the goal was to learn more about Integral Mission. For the first two weeks, they visited various projects in La Paz, El Alto, Oruro, and Cochabamba to get an idea of what integral mission looks like here and and then this past week they took a course taught by Rene Pedilla from Argentina, head of Kairos, and an incredible theologian in Latin America.Others were invited to sit in on the course to have this opportunity to learn including all of the CBM team.

I'm still trying to process all that was taught; everyday I felt like I was slapped across the face (in a good way!) regarding not only how integral mission fits into my ministry but also in how I live my life on a day-to-day basis. So, I thought as a way to help me think through what I learned and to share with you some of the ideas that were brought up in class, I'd write down random thoughts and notes from the week. I hope you're as challenged as I was because we all have a part in this...

- you cannot separate faith from life; you can't talk about God's love and not live out God's love

- there are at least 2000 references to justice in the Bible...the widows and orphans represented those most easily marginalized

- contextualizing theology doesn't mean you're relativalizing it. God's theology has to be lived out in your world/context

- what are the main problems with society?...does God care about it? are you concerned? what are you doing about it?

- shalom does not only mean an absence of conflict nor does it solely mean internal peace...shalom is fullness of life in your relationship with God, your neighbor, and creation

- consume to live or live to consume???

- in each of our communities: what are the needs? what can we do about it? what are the resources the church already has?

- what is "basic needs" from a biblical perspective?

- Integral Mission is not just about poverty...many churches in all countries do not see the poverty in their communities; there are different types: spiritual, relational, material, physical, and pyschiatric

- Jesus means to liberate the rich from their wealth and the poor from their poverty

- the church needs to reflect kingdom values; not societal values

- how do you bring together lifestyle & theology?

- how do we begin to enable people to do that which they have been called to do by God?

I pray God's peace and grace for you,
rebecca

Foto Friday

2010-05-28T17:30:00.014-04:00

These fotos are from Tarija and the surrounding area...including the main plaza, downtown, the main market, and the vineyards.

My Visa!!

2010-05-26T20:14:00.003-04:00

I just wanted to share my exciting news...I now have my passport and my one year residency visa! It's been a long process but everyone on the team has their visas now...God is good!

Tarija

2010-05-24T17:25:00.001-04:00

As most of you know, my work will be focusing more and more in the south of Bolivia: especially Tarija, Potosi, and Sucre.

There were UJBB "concilio" meetings (the Baptist Union Jovenes board meetings) held during May 15th and 16th in Tarija and so I was invited to go a week earlier to start getting a better idea of the area, visit the churches, meet more of the jovenes and adolescentes and learn more about Vida Joven which is just starting up in that area. It was a fantastic week; incredibly exhausting mentally with language but very encouraging. I was able to visit every church (6 in Tarija) whether it was a Sunday service or a prayer meeting, etc. and was given the opportunity to introduce myself and bring greetings from both the Canadian church as well as from Cochabamba. I now am sending greetings back to the Canadian churches from Tarija...blessings!
I was even able to visit a jovenes and adolescentes drop-in center that's been running for 11 years and it's run by 3 Canadians working with the Evangelical Free church of Canada...go figure! They also work with street kids.

In regards to the concilio, although it will never be my favorite way of spending my time :) I loved the conversations that took place with the jovenes leaders during the mealtimes and breaks and was able to get to know them a bit better. Friendship and trust is deepening for which I am so thankful. I was especially blessed by my time with the girls during those two days. There was also a joint jovenes church service on the Saturday evening of the concilio. There were close to 300 there...it was an incredible time of worship! God is good!

So...Jim (leader of Team Bolivia) and I met with the General Secretary of the UBB and the Jovenes Coordinator after I got back from Tarija regarding my work and where it's leading and all of us agreed that it does not make sense for me to be staying in Cochabamba. And so, once I get back to Bolivia from home assignment in December, I'll spend a few days in Tarija looking for a place to live and then will be making the move in January. I am so excited and feel complete peace about this next stage. I will miss my church here, the jovenes, my friends and team mates but I know this is the right move and it's called...visits! :)

Grace and peace to you!
rebecca

Foto Friday

2010-05-21T03:09:00.010-04:00

These fotos are from my couple of days in Potosi

The beautiful mountains at the bus terminal

Potosi vs. Cochabamba (Potosi won at the last moment)

Our national jovenes coordinator, Edi Perez, speaking at the youth service

These lovely ladies are from the church where we stayed

These adorable girls were very curious about me
and helped me eat my meal :)

Our sleeping quarters

And I'm Back...

2010-05-19T11:24:00.004-04:00

Me with some of the Vida Joven leaders in Potosi

Ok, so it's been basically forever since I've written anything. My last update said that I'd be spending a week or so in Potosi. Well, what I thought was happening ended up completely changing so I actually was only in Potosi for a couple of days for the first training time of Vida Joven leaders (of teens).

It was a fascinating time...great visit with the jovenes leaders, leading my first session (all in Spanish) on leadership types and qualities (the nerves were definitely present but I think it went well and am praying I'll continue to improve Spanish wise :) It was freezing cold and the effects of the altitude were incredible (Potosi is the highest city in the world)...a couple of times I thought my head was going to fall off and honestly - at that point I was wishing that it would :)

I was able to also meet with the the key Vida Joven leaders in regards to my work and was able to get more specifics. I will definitely be focusing my work in the South of Bolivia...mainly in Tarija, Potosi, and Sucre in regards to the research. I'll also be helping to start up Vida Joven in Tarija, Potosi, and Santa Cruz (which isn't in the south but will simply be another area to focus on) and will the having a strong emphasis on the actual leadership training and empowerment.

I just got back from a week in Tarija to get to know more of the leaders and teens and have a better idea of the area but more on that later this week :)

Thanks so much to all of you have been praying for me these last few weeks!

'til next time,
rebecca

What's Up

2010-04-24T09:07:00.002-04:00

I've been neglectful...sorry about that! I've mentioned in the past while that I would be heading to Potosi soon. Well, the time has come. If all goes well, I'll be on the bus tonight for about 9 hours or so and will be there for about a week including a bit of time in Sucre to meet with the Vida Joven leaders there regarding what's happening in their area and the National Adolescentes Camp in July. During the week we'll also be finalizing the research project (regarding parameters, locations to focus on, etc.) and then I'll be able to get started. All the Vida Joven leaders will be getting together next weekend in Potosi for a training time. I'll be leading a session on leadership and influence - this will be my first time for leading a session.

I ask for your prayers - everything from traveling safety, my Spanish, the research project, the training time, and meaningful conversations. Also, part of the culture here is "manana, manana" - which basically means that details are figured out as you go or "tomorrow". The details of the week are a bit... "sketchy" shall we say, which can be frustrating so also pray that I have a good attitude and see the humor in it all as I go - literally not knowing much - just the goals for the week. No comments from the peanut gallery regarding my knowledge base (you know who you are)!!! :):)

I have no idea how much internet access I'll have for the next week so it could be a week or more before I can let you know how it all goes.

'til next time,
rebecca

Happy Easter

2010-04-05T14:10:00.002-04:00

Yesterday had to have been one of the oddest Easters I've experienced so far. Government elections were held all over the country yesterday and part of the law is that no public gatherings are allowed nor can vehicles be driven which meant no church services and many people out walking. It was actually unbelievably peaceful and lovely to be outside. I spent part of the day with the Whittles and was able to watch via skype the Easter service from their home church back in Alberta while we also enjoyed homemade hotcross buns and coffee :) Later on in the afternoon we all walked over to the Guthries and enjoyed an Easter bbq and some tasty chocolate eggs :) It was a bit of a crazy day but definitely one to remember.

I hope you all had a wonderful Easter!

'til next time,
rebecca

April

2010-04-02T07:33:00.004-04:00

Sorry it's been so long since I did a posting...I ended up with a nasty case of bronchitis (thankfully it's pretty much gone) and have just been concentrating on getting healthy again. You know how it is, life continues on and there hasn't really been a lot to share. And I fully admit that I'm pleased that nothing too embarrassing has happened that is worth sharing :)

I wanted to let you know that the translating of Horizons (the online youth training program) has begun and we're anticipating completion by mid-June! As well, this month, I'll be meeting in Oruro with a couple of the main Vida Joven youth leaders regarding the research project. We're going to finalize the issues that they want addressed in the research as well the provinces that they want me to focus on. I think once we have those issues finalized I'll be able to start the project, figure out the shedule and how it should all come together. At the end of the month, I'll be heading to Potosi for a meeting that involves all the Vida Joven leaders. It'll be my first opportunity to meet all of them and to have some time specifically in Potosi to find out what's happening there with Vida Joven...I'm planning on being there for about 1 week. They've also asked me to lead a session during that time which will be the first time to do so...I'll be starting work on that this coming week.

Please be praying for me...that my health levels out and that there isn't a return of the bronchitis. Pray for guidance and insight for all of us during the Oruro meeting regarding the research. I also definitely need your prayers as I prepare my first session that I'll be leading in Spanish in Potosi. Pray as well for the translation of Horizons...that it goes smoothly and is completed on time.

Thanks for all your support and encouragement!

'til next time,
rebecca

Foto Friday

2010-03-19T09:24:00.011-04:00

These fotos are from our spiritual retreat...we were at a beautiful location that was incredibly peaceful. Unfortunately the fotos don't do it justice but I hope you'll enjoy them.

The kids were trying to teach the parrots new words
(actually...we all tried :)

Norma and I enjoying the sun and laughter

Caleb popped in front of the camera just at the right moment...
the girls were enjoying petting the dogs that live there.

Sharlene and Diane enjoying coffee break

Enjoying Saltenas...a very tasty Bolivian snack
that is also very messy :)

Have you ever seen aloe vera of this size?!!

We think this is grapefruit

'til next time,
rebecca

Home Assignment

2010-03-17T13:03:00.001-04:00

I forgot to mention...my home assignment has been confirmed for beginning of September of this year through to end of November!!!

Just had to share my exciting news :)
rebecca

The Past Week

2010-03-17T11:57:00.007-04:00

The past week has been pretty incredible. If you read my last posting, you'll know that an overnighter happened at my place last week with 6 girls who are jovenes leaders. There was much conversation, laughter and they also taught me how to cook silpancho. There wasn't much sleep (they didn't crash until about 4:30am) but it was definitely worth it. This past weekend Sharlene Craig (head of member care for CBM) and her husband, Brian who's a pastor, who have been visiting us for the week, led the entire team in a spiritual retreat. It was a wonderful time of being in God's Word, prayer, and a time of just being together. The following pics show some of what was happening and some of the team. On Friday, there will be more pics from the weekend.

The girls' night

The makings of Silpancho

Pedro, Diane, and Gladys (Emigdio's wife)

Norma, Brian, Jim, and Brian (Craig)

Sandra, Chantal (our route students), June, and Sharlene

'til next time,
rebecca

2am and still going strong...

2010-03-11T01:56:00.003-04:00

I needed a bit of a "brain break" so thought I'd let you know how my evening/night has been going. There are 6 girls downstairs talking (all jovenes leaders) who arrived between 9pm and 10:30pm. We made Silpancho and have talked the entire time...ok, they've talked and I've talked a bit, asked questions and tried to listen and understand everything but have been lost in conversations many times during the last few hours :)

It's a painful and frustrating process trying to get language comprehension and speaking "up to speed" - especially when there's a group of girls talking about guys, love, relationships, marriage, and God's Will in it all. But there's great conversations happening and definitely a lot of laughter in the midst of all :)

I should get back to them so will let you know how the rest of the time goes later.

'til next time,
rebecca

This Week

2010-03-08T18:23:00.003-04:00

I think this is going to be quite the week...on Wednesday evening I have 6-8 girls (jovenes) coming over to spend the night. They're very excited about a girls' night of watching movies, doing makeovers and nails, eating chocolate, and of course lots of talking. I believe they're also going to teach me how to cook Silpancho which is a very tasty Bolivian dish. I have a feeling sleep is not part of the plan...

Sharlene Craig and her husband, Brian, arrive as well this week from Canada. Sharlene is head of member care for CBM and Brian is a pastor who will be doing some teaching at the seminary here in Cochabamba. Sharlene will be meeting with all of us on the team and what we're especially looking forward to is the spiritual retreat, led by Sharlene and Brian, coming up this weekend with the entire team.

Besides my spanish classes, I'm also hopefully finalizing the beginning of translation of Horizons and starting to put together the interview questions for the research project for Vida Joven. Like I said, it'll be a week :)

'til next time,
rebecca

Foto Friday

2010-03-05T02:48:00.012-04:00

Well, it's not quite 3am so since I can't sleep, I thought I'd do my blog update. These fotos are of some of the main Vida Joven leaders from last week's VJ meetings and some of the various adolescentes (teens) from the La Paz camp that I attended a few weeks ago.

Have a great weekend!

'til next time,
rebecca

Exciting news from Vida Joven

2010-03-02T17:32:00.008-04:00

Vida Joven Leaders and Myself

As I mentioned on Monday, I hosted the main leaders from Vida Joven (ministry with the teens or adolescentes) at my place for meetings that lasted all Saturday and Sunday morning. They were from La Paz, El Alto, Sucre, Oruro, and Cochabamba. We were able to get to know one another better and have good, deep conversations regarding the ministry and what is needed to improve and deepen the impact of Vida Joven. I was also able to introduce them to the online youth leaders training program, Horizons, that Jeff Carter (CBM field staff in Prague) ... and after talking through how it works and the potential of it, they decided that it should be brought to Bolivia. We'll be starting translating and culturalizing the units as soon as possible with the plan to have the pilot project in one of the areas beginning at some point in the fall.

One of the main points that kept coming up was the need for more training for the leaders. As the discussion continued and more detail and specifics came to light, one of the needs that came out was for a deeper understanding of Bolivian youth so that the leaders can better communicate with them and have more impact. So they've asked me to do a research study on Bolivian youth for the next 1.5 years that will look at everything from what they're watching on tv and the internet, their interests, fears, drugs, alcohol, sexual activity, parentless families (as a result of one or both parents working in another country to get make money for the family), and the consequences of it all. The study will look at youth in all 8 districts where Vida Joven is or is planning on starting up: Cochabamba, La Paz, El Alto, Sucre, Santa Cruz, Oruro, Tarija, and Potosi and I'll use the various camps and gatherings to build up trust and friendship in order to talk with them and gather the info but first I'll begin with the leaders to learn their thoughts and assumptions which will also allow more time for the youth to get to know me.

To say it was an exciting weekend is putting it lightly. Four of the leaders (they're all jovenes) spent the night at my place which also helped deepen friendship and trust. Of course, I didn't
get much sleep but it was worth it :) I ask that you be praying both for the Horizons leadership training project - many details regarding the translating, time frame, etc. need to come together quickly. As well as the research project as I put all the parameters in place and the questions together. I'll keep you posted on how it's all going.

Sunday morning tying up the meetings

'til next time,
rebecca

Oh, Canada!!!

2010-03-01T08:15:00.006-04:00

Within the next couple of days, I'll share about the amazing meetings that took place over the weekend with the main Vida Joven leaders but right now I just want to share in the excitement of Canada's hockey team winning Gold yesterday :)

Yesterday, Team Bolivia gathered at the Whittles with the STM led by Blair Clark from CBM to watch Canada go for gold...it was a great time of being together, laughing, and sharing in the tension and anxiety of wondering what the outcome would be :) Duane (Guthrie) also invited our friends, the Collins, to join us who are from Oregon, USA. They were very brave and took our ribbing well...you gotta love friendship!

'til next time,
rebecca

Foto Friday

2010-02-26T18:34:00.003-04:00

I thought I'd introduce you to the fabulous ones who have been teaching me Spanish
at the Serve Abroad Institute...
I'm missing a photo of Toni who has been teaching me the entire year
but will include it when I have it.

Angelica and Mauge

Lidia, Noelia, and Roxana

'til next time,
rebecca

Random Thoughts

2010-02-22T13:52:00.005-04:00

I've tried to do this posting but I don't have a main thought or point that keeps coming to mind...it's just these random thoughts so I thought I'd write about that...

One thought is that I have a lot of work to do this week between classes (need to start going back through old notes to refresh my memory on some grammar and vocab)and a meeting that I'm hosting at my place all day Saturday with various leaders of Vida Joven (Young Life). Definitely need to prep for that. I also have to write the article for the monthly paper that the jovenes started putting out a month ago and that goes out to jovenes and churches around Boivia and which I have a page just for the girls...so...my first main thought is that I need to make good choices in the upcoming days in how I spend my time to make sure this week goes as it needs to.

We also have Blair Clark (part of the leadership team with CBM) arriving end of this week with a group of potential donors. They'll spend a couple of days in Coch with us and then they'll head to La Paz and El Alto with Duane and Emigdio to learn more of the possibiliies in that area. Less than two weeks after that, Sharlene Craig who is also part of the CBM leadership team will be arriving to meet with all us fieldstaff regarding job descriptions, etc. and then along with the volunteers there will also be a time of spiritual retreat. We're all looking foward to it.

Gratitude...another thought is that I want to give thanks for weekend bbq's, laughter, friendship, visits from home office, and no longer having spanish classes 5 days/week :)

So, thanks for listening or I guess reading these random thoughts :)

'til next time
rebecca

Foto Friday

2010-02-19T14:13:00.012-04:00

We travelled in various mini buses up from La Paz, through El Alto, and down to just outside of Sorata in the Yungas...about a 3 hour drive. The following pics give you an idea of the journey. Unfortunately, they're almost all taken from behind the window but you'll still have an idea of the vast beauty of this country.

The View from beside the Driver - El Alto

El Alto

One of the Markets in El Alto

View of Lake Titicaca

Breathtaking snow-covered mountains

Arrival at our teens' camp location outside of Sorata

'til next time,

rebecca

Adolescentes, nature, and 2am seranades...

2010-02-16T22:19:00.009-04:00

I got back last night from my first Vida Joven camp in the department/district of La Paz. There were about 35 teens who attended from the city of La Paz and with the leaders and support staff; there were about 50 of us altogether. We travelled 3 hours (on a road beyond description :) to a town in the Yungas area called Sorata which is in the more tropical region and stayed at a Catholic Seminary about 15 minutes outside of the town. Words cannot describe the beauty of the area...I keep thinking I've the most beautiful spot in Bolivia and then there's something more. Bolivia is a country absolutley filled with contrasts in so many ways including it's nature.

The theme of the weekend was from the movie: The Ice Age and included a session on caring for the environment amongst other topics and the plenary sessions focused on Moses. It was my first time at a camp for the adolescentes (teens) and it was interesting to see the differences and have a better understanding of them especially thinking of the jovenes (young adults). The attitude of "whatever" or "you can't tell me what to do" has definitely crossed cultures :)

I was one of the councellors for the weekend and belonged to the group, the saber-toothe tigers (think Diego from the movie). On the final night, we had the "cena de gala" or the special dinner and no, I didn't allow anything anyone to do my hair or make-up :) I actually helped do the make-up for a few girls which was a blast and talked to them about looking pretty and natural at the same time. Of course, a few minutes later, I noticed one of the girls getting her friend to add more fushia eye make-up so I don't think at least a few of them are ready to hear about that. :) Plus, there's a definite difference in make-up looks here.

So, the gala ended around 11:30pm and then if the campers wanted to hang out, throw water balloons (think Carnival here...unbelievable amounts of amounts of water and foam spray used all over Bolivia throughout the last few weeks and ending this week...)they had free time to do so. Sometime around 2am I was able to start to sleep when all of a sudden, noise makers were going off right outside our door and scared the living daylights out of me. So, I start thinking that the guys were simply up to some mischief when out of the night, I heard the guys singing. There were seranading us. I didn't understand everything but there were dedications to various girls from certain boys as well as songs sung to the girls in general by the guys. It wasn't anything serious but more of a joke. Those of us who were councellors kept shushing the girls from laughing and calling out comments. So then, all was quiet and I thought ok, we can sleep now but really, what are the chances the girls won't try to sneak out?? I started watching for movement and sure enough, I saw girls starting to get up so I went and told them to get back to bed; that they couldn't go outside. I then received one of those looks that only teenagers can give and was promptly ignored. The head counsellor and female leader, Maria, had been at the doors keeping the guys out (and the girls in) so I went to find out what was going on. When I let her know that I'd told the girls to go back to bed, she looked at me in shock and said no, they have to reciprocate and go seranade the boys. I just looked at her and thought, "where am I??" So, as the girls thought up their songs, Maria told me that this had been going on for decades; that it's a time-honored tradition. I found myself accompanying them to the boys quarters in the building next door and was then told that my job would be to hold the doors closed so that the guys wouldn't be able to get out while the girls sang to them. I must say it was one of the most interesting situations I've found myself in so far since I've been here.

Thanks for the prayers for safety (the 3 hour drive to the seminary was about the craziest I've experienced at this point and it's the new road!) and the thoughts and prayers throughout the weekend. It was great to get to know even a few of the teens and talk with some of the jovenes leaders that I'll be working with in the future...I was able to get a better handle on the possibilities for my work. It was a great and crazy weekend!

The Saber-Toothe Tigers

'til next time,
rebecca

Vida Joven

2010-02-10T16:59:00.003-04:00

Sorry I haven't updated in awhile...I've had some problems with internet but all seems well now so here goes...

I head to La Paz on Friday for my first Vida Joven camp over the weekend. If you remember, Vida Joven is the ministry to the teens that I'll be working with in regards to leadership development of its leaders (the jovenes/young adults). I'm really excited about getting to know some of the leaders (I have no idea how many will be there) and learning more about how I can be involved and a part of their work. I'm also curious about the differences and similarities that I'll see from the jovenes camp in Tarija to this camp.

Please be praying for safe travels for all of us attending and that I'll have fruitful conversations both with the leaders and the teens. I'm really hoping to be able to map out at least part of the year as far as my part with Vida Joven goes as a result of this weekend. I'm also having a meeting with Edi Perez (head of the youth work for Bolivia) tomorrow morning so that should also be a big help and guide going into the weekend.

Oh...something exciting! (well, at least for me :) I've been placed at an intermediate high level for my spanish so I just need to get to advanced...oh so close and yet so far away :):) But, it's getting there. Thanks so much for the prayers.

'til next time,
rebecca

Can't sleep...

2010-01-31T02:55:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone,

My apologies for not updating the blog this past week...different times, I sat down to do it but my mind would go blank and I couldn't figure out what I wanted to say (no comments about my brain power! :)

So, it's close to 3am and I haven't been able to sleep so I thought I would get up and try this again. Life has settled back down again with classes and team...honestly nothing too exciting...just life. In a couple of weeks I'll be heading to La Paz to attend my first adolescentes (teens) camp with Vida Joven. This will be my first opportunity to meet with the jovenes leaders and get a better idea of how to shape my work with them. From having been at the Tarija Jovenes Camp, I'm very curious about what this camp with the teens will be like; the differences and the similarities.

Thinking of the Tarija camp, I forgot to tell you my story about how some of the girls tried to straighten my hair for a special dinner on the last night. They also asked if they could do my make-up. For those of you who don't know me, I have naturally curly hair (really curly hair and a lot of it) and although I like wearing make-up, I typically like the natural look. Well, Tarija is near the Argentina border and there's more humidity which can have an unfortunate affect on hair. There ended up being 4 girls who worked on my hair but unfortunately for all involved, it wouldn't fully straighten...it didn't look awful, just....different. I found out that hair products for curly hair that will stop friz don't work too well on hair that's been straightened :)

So, once my hair was done I touched up my make-up (even used a "heavier hand" for the night look) but as I was passing the girls to leave, they asked me if they could do my make-up because they wanted to make my eyes "pop". Another little aside...I don't need any help in making my eyes pop - they're big enough as are! Plus, I had already done my make-up and thought I looked pretty good :) Well, I thought, "why not?? It's called girl-bonding and building relationships". We only had a tiny mirror so I wasn't able to see the full effect until later that night - well, it was actually 3 in the morning. Words cannot describe how I looked except to say...throughout the evening, my hair had gotten even bigger and frizzier (I can't think of any other way to describe it) and my make-up??? Well, the term "drag queen" comes to mind.

Even thinking about it now, I can't help but laugh. And no, I do not have a foto of it and I will not be hunting one down to share with you all :) But even though I was waaaay out of my comfort zone, it was a great time with the girls and we've already talked about them coming over for a girls night at my place (I think I'll only let them do my nails :)

Anyway, it's now 4am so I'm going to close for now and try to get some zzz's...

'til next time,
rebecca

Foto Friday

2010-01-23T15:54:00.007-04:00

These nature fotos are from around Tarija...

'til next time,

rebecca

Celebrating one year with friends

2010-01-18T08:46:00.011-04:00

I'm not sure if you were aware but I celebrated my one year anniversary here in Bolivia while I was at the Jovenes Camp in Tarija. I still find it hard to believe that I've been here for a year already. It's been a time of both joys and excitement along with challenges.

I had invited the Guthries over for supper last night (Sunday) thinking it would be an evening of catching up on what had happened while I was away at camp and just having a good time with friends but when I opened my gate door, I was in for quite a surprise...

I've become good friends with 4 families in particular: the Guthries, the Whittles, the Hathaways, and the Collins. Between all of us, we represent Canada, the U.S., and Britian. Around a couple of months ago, the Hathaways also celebrated their one year anniversary in Bolivia and we held a surprise anniversary party for them...at their place :) Dan Collins' wife, Darryl, was back in the States for a couple of weeks so he was taking care of their 3 children. Initially the party was supposed to be at his place but the Hathaways wanted to have them over to help out with the children and since Dan couldn't think of any way out of it without giving away the surprise, everyone showed up with food and festive spirits at the Hathaways. And so began a fun tradition :)

Back to last night, when I opened up my gate door, there were not only the Guthries, but the Whittles, Hathaways and Collins as well...about 21 of us in total including the children! Once I got over my surprise, oh, we had a wonderful evening of fun, laughter, and remembering! Thankfully, they had also brought some food because I definitely didn't have enough to go around :)

I can't thank them enough for helping make this year passing one of joy, togetherness and a time of blessing. I'm excited about this upcoming year even though it will be a difficult one of learning and figuring things out. And a big reason for that is the feeling of family and support that I have found in the friendships here. Both family and friends here and in Canada are a big reason why I'm able to be here. It's a gift from God.

Here's to friendship and making it through the first year!!!

'til next time,

rebecca

Foto Friday

2010-01-15T14:42:00.016-04:00

The following pictures are of various jovenes during the week of the National Camp including during the 18hr bus drive to Tarija, mealtimes, and games time.

It was an incredible time of being together.

More to come :)

And I'm Back...

2010-01-11T18:48:00.004-04:00

Overlooking a vineyard in Tarija

Well, I got back yesterday afternoon from an incredible week in Tarija with over 400 jovenes! I've been trying to think of ways to descibe everything but I think it's going to take a bit of time to process it all. So, I'm going to start with giving thanks and then throughout the week, I'll share more thoughts and stories...

- safe journey there and back

- breathtaking scenery...Tarija and the surrounding area are absolutely beautiful

- deepened friendships and trust with the jovenes I already knew and new friendships with more from around the country

- unbelievable trust shown by the girls in talking with me about problems/questions in their lives

- good conversations with the leaders of the jovenes and adolescentes

- connections made with some of the pastors in Tarija and surrounding area and Burmejo (on the border of Argentina)

- made it through a week of almost entire spanish, gave my testimony and helped with another session, was part of a board meeting and a couple of other leadership meetings still with my brain kind of semi-intact :)

- am starting to get caught up on a bit of sleep considering it was definitely in short supply each night :)

- and finally...many, many thanks to all of you have been praying for me and thinking of me during this time

More to come...

The lunch line and "cafeteria"

Update

2009-12-30T15:09:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone...if you're interested in reading my latest ministry update, just click on "Ministry Update" under the section: "Links" on the right.

'til next time,
rebecca

Looking to the New Year

2009-12-28T20:17:00.006-04:00

I had a wonderful Christmas with the Guthries, Whittles, and the MacBeths. Great company and mouthwatering food - twice! (I'm happy to say that I'm healthy once again :) And now two things are on my mind: New Years and the National Jovenes Camp in early January.

I must admit that I have no plans for New Years but I can't help but think of the upcoming year and this is what comes to mind...
- I want to stay as healthy as possible (haven't been doing so great with that this past year :)

- there will be a lot of research and prep time for starting to help with leadership development of the jovenes leaders of Vida Joven (Young Life -the new ministry with teenagers)...high levels of perseverance, motivation, and wisdom will be key

- I will be finishing up language learning at some point in the upcoming months (so to speak...the learning will never actually stop). I must admit I will do the dance of joy when I have my last class :)

- it's going to be a stressful first year of figuring out and starting my ministry so I'll need to be careful to deal with the stress in healthy ways

- personal time with God, friendships, and downtime will be really important

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I leave for Tarija on Sunday evening with a group of jovenes and leaders. The trip will take about 18 hours by bus. Please pray for safe travels and an incredible week. I'm finishing up the last of the prep and practise (for my spanish :) throughout the week. My next blog update will take place after I return on January 11th.

I cannot thank you all enough for your support, prayers and encouragement throughout the past year. And I have to say it needs to continue now more than ever. Thanks for being a part of this with me.

Happy New Year!

'til next time,

rebecca

Feliz Navidad!

2009-12-23T04:49:00.012-04:00

Hey everyone...Merry Christmas! I'm sorry I haven't posted anything for awhile but here are some pictures of Team Bolivia's Christmas Party from last night held at the Guthrie home.

June's daughter, Eliana, and her husband, Craig, are here for a year working at Carachipampa and June's son, Arturo, and his wife, Emily, just arrived to spend Christmas with the family.

Proud father, Jim MacBeth, with his daughter, Amy, who arrived a few days ago on
Christmas break from college.

June, Brian and Norma relaxing after a wonderful meal.

Duane and Carin Guthrie

Our fantastic kids of the team:

Matt and Sarah Whittle, Caleb and Paige Guthrie, and Pedro MacBeth

Ivan Gutierrez and field staff, Suzanah Nacho, in visiting from Argentina with her adorable new daughter, Sofia.

It was a wonderful time to be together with great conversations had by all.

Ivan's wife, Christina, and myself.

Feliz Navidad!!

Prayer

2009-12-14T08:09:00.004-04:00

Sorry I'm a bit late with this...I ended up getting sick so I'm only finishing this now. There's about a week left of classes and then it's break time and I must admit that I'm really looking forward to it. I had a group of about 20 jovenes (young adults) at my place Sunday afternoon. They're the incoming presidents/leaders of their church jovenes groups from around Cochabamba. It was a time for us to get to know one another a bit better, share, laugh, and pray together.

I'm wondering if you could please be praying for the following:

- Kallie Josephson, who has been our intern for the last three months, returns to Saskatchewan, Canada this evening. It's been a joy to have her here with us. Please be praying for safe travel and a smooth transition back into life in Canada for her.

- health...I've been getting sick quite frequently from food, water, etc. which is unusual for me but am on antibiotics right now. Please pray that my health improves long-term and that this round of antibiotics kills any and all amoebas, parasites, etc. and that they won't return - at least for awhile :)

- energy and perserverance...I think all of us on the team in language learning feel incredibly tired both physically and mentally and that we should be farther ahead in the language (or at least that's something I struggle with depending on the day). Please pray for patience, energy and a positive attitude.

- National Jovenes Camp in Tarija (January 4-9)...They're expecting approx. 300 jovenes to be attending. They've asked that I give an indepth testimony and I'll be helping in another plenary session. I'll also have time with the girls each day. Please pray that it all comes together smoothly and that I'm understanding what God is wanting me to share.

- Homesickness...please be praying for all of us (especially the kids) that our first Christmas here will be one of joy and peace and that new traditions will begin that will help us during this special time of the year.

Thanks so much!
'til next time,
rebecca

Foto Friday

2009-12-12T10:34:00.010-04:00

It's been a couple of busy days so we'll just pretend it's Friday :) I thought I'd take a few pics of some of the flowers and plants from around my yard this morning.
Enjoy!

Gratitude

2009-12-07T07:28:00.003-04:00

I wanted to give thanks today...

- a weekend of relaxation

- putting up the Christmas tree with Kallie (our internship student)

- hot chocolate with melted candycane

- Christmas tree ornaments from home

- safe elections

- afternoon naps

- skype

- Christmas music

- laughter with friends

What are you thankful for?

'til next time,
rebecca

Foto Friday...So to Speak :)

2009-12-05T08:32:00.010-04:00

Some of the Joys and Craziness of Team...

Celebrating Canada Day together

Slaving hard over the bbq

Special moments at Casa de la Amistad

The MacBeths - Our newest arrivals

The Lone Ranger and his trusty sidekick, Tonto :)

Changing of the Season

2009-11-30T04:25:00.000-04:00

It's hard to believe that December is about to begin...partly because it's not cold out, nor is there any possibility of snow but also, the calendar is about to change :) I do have to say though that in the last 2 or 3 weeks, the rain has begun - not on a regular basis but you can tell that the rainy season (which is summer here) is around the corner. It's quite exciting...I even had to wear pants and a light jacket yesterday because it was chilly. Of course, by mid afternoon, it was hot but still, the season is changing.

I went to the english service at Calama Baptist yesterday and we celebrated the first Sunday of Advent. I have to admit that even though I'm excited about Christmas, I'm finding it a bit hard to think about decorating and baking, etc. because it simply does not feel like the Christmas season is here. It's not that there isn't a difference in the stores; there is. All the trappings are now available to buy but it's just not quite the same for this Canadian. I do love the fact that Christmas is not quite so commercialized here but there's still way too much "stuff".

The topic of yesterday's message was hope with one part being how we are part of God's plan for justice (check out Mary's Song in Luke 1:46-55). I'm praying that through the advent services, talks with friends, the music, etc., I'll feel that excitement and joy for this season but that I won't get caught up in the negative aspects that can so easily suck one in.

Another part of a change that could be coming is the national election that will be occurring this coming Sunday. Bolivians will be voting for their President...all traffic shuts down for the day as they take to the polls. I don't know what will happen but I'm praying that it will be a peaceful process and the aftermath as well.

As I finish this, the question that comes to mind is: what can we all learn and be challenged by during this Advent Season?

'til next time,
rebecca

Foto Friday

2009-11-26T19:35:00.000-04:00

These pics are from the weekend Jovenes Congreso (training weekend)...including one of the meals (I forget the name) with fried banana as well as a look at the infamous

yuka icing disaster :)

Have a great weekend!
rebecca