SAMS Long-Termer Update!

Sandy and Gloria have finished their 3 weeks of Cross Cultural Training and are now in the middle of their Language Learning unit. They hope to come to Arequipa in January to begin helping us with the work here with the music, small groups,school, teams, and whatever else the Lord has in mind for them! Here are a couple of pics from their training center. Pray that their deputation goes well!

Kids Get Ready for the "Roof Dogs"

Miguel practices a dance routine with his usual big smile. He really loves to dance and was dying to try out the ballet steps a few weeks ago when Tía Toni´s goddaughter was here. Everyone is excited about the visit. Please pray that the team doesn´t experience any more "hiccups" in their travels and that they arrive rested up.
Juan Diego and Tamara latched on to Padre Ron the other day. Little Tamara is solid as a ROCK and equally as heavy! But what loving kids we are blessed with. May God watch over them and protect them as the grow.

Tío Larry Arrives

¡Bienvenido, Tío Larry! Larry has seriously committed to find ways for the Casas to produce income. He has spent a lot of energy in work previous to coming down here two weeks ago. Now he has completed a two-week intensive Spanish course and is awaiting the Roof Dog team to join him. Being open to the Spirit, Larry has investigated both cuy and Spirulina and made LOTS of contacts. It has been a delight to spend some time with him! Please pray that God guides him in his efforts to help our Casas Hogares. ¡Muchas Gracias!

Shake, Rattle, N' Roll!

This morning about 4:13a.m. we were awakened by a "Temblor" or earth tremor. 35 miles from here they had a 6.2 quake. We felt the shaking immediately, but their was no rumbling, nor did the dogs bark. Ron headed up to the roof to awaken Ginny and the shaking continued strongly. Everyone headed downstairs while listening to the glass roof rattle over the stairs (my big fear always.) Then peoples alarms began to go off as people headed outside into the street. We stood at the door and things began to subside. In about 30 minutes we got calls from both directors of the Casas that all was well at their sites although the little ones were quite frightened as their electricity went off for awhile. Praise God that all was okay here and we have seen no damage. Now our concern is the general strike tomorrow over food prices. It is scheduled for 24 hours only. We pray there will be no violence and things will be calm so that by time for our Grief class at the church, transportation will be restarting. Thank you for your prayers!

GRIEF COUNSELLING

We are please to offer one more intensive class this year. This one is lead by Sharon Fox assisted by Ginny Lydick. Welcome, friends to Arequipa!!

Visiting Profs

Last week the Ss. Agustin Seminary offered an intensive course on Youth Ministry. It was a thrill to have Yeadon and Jessica Smith teaching. In addition, Jessica's mom, June, came along to help with baby William. Our classes were well attended with 12-18 students each night.

Party On!

Seminarians Help Out

Thanks, guys, for helping out in numerous ways. You made great bouncers and door guards at the party, too! (Guess that wasn't on the seminary curriculum..oh, well.)

Special Guests

Tía Toni and her goddaughter Maddie were here for the big day.

Big Event

Father Rob and Lilly were here for the BIG EVENT- the Quinceañera of Margot, Susana, and Giovanna. I think they really enjoyed all the "bullo" (noise or excitement).

Preach On, Brother!

Father Rob accepted Padre Juan Carlos's offer to preach on Sunday. It was great to have his class on the Synoptic Gospels. We hope both he and Lilly enjoyed their time here- our seminarians did!