Family Life/The Vineyard July 10 - 17

Family Life Fellowship of Lafayette and Lafayette Vineyard came together with funds and a combined team to build yet another mission church among the people of the mountains of Chiapas. Most churches have been built among the Tzotzil and Chamula Indians, but various dialects and people groups are in this area. Chanal was the location for this weeks project among a group of Tzetel Indians. For someone who only speaks English, this meant a 4 way translation, so there were many other ways to show expressions of love to these people than through words. The work was accomplished thanks to so many hard working people, but in addition, it is the relationships that are established and built upon that really bind and connect us as one body in Christ. Evangelist Beau Thomas, and his wife, Jessica, have been with us many times before. Beau's great sense of humor has led to the name "Pollo Loco" throughout this part of the state. Just as his humor tops the scale, so does his violin playing. Wonderful opportunities to unify hearts from various cultures were provided through his incredible gift of music.

Something so thrilling for us is to be a part of people's lives long enough to watch them grow and mature in the work of the Lord. Cassie came on a missions trip here several years ago as a young 14 year old. Now she and her husband Brandon M. are youth pastors and brought in their own team. "We know it was a brand new experience, but you two did an outstanding job!"

There was absolutely no down time and that meant driving also to Santa Marta to paint a church. Meals were provided in the villages each work day. "We are proud of so many of you who were able to receive this expression of gratitude and kindness by enjoying the special meals sacrificially prepared just for you."

We joined Chenalho for their midweek service. The youth put together dramas and songs that blessed the congregation. 5 year old Graci sang for the first time in church and did a super job.


TUXTLA YOUTH CONFERENCE

On Friday we headed to Tuxtla. And what a week end that followed! Each summer for several years now we have had a youth conference that brings together many different churches and groups of young people. We have seen tremendous growth from the first, humble beginnings until today. We praise God for all He has done! The Word was preached and as God has promised, He showed up! So much was done in the hearts and lives of young people from Chiapas and the U.S.

We thank the local pastors for sharing the vision and opening their hearts and doors to us. We thank each American youth and their leaders for caring about others and giving up personal pleasure time to minister to people that most of you didn't know before last week. The hours and days were long, but you all were outstanding! We can't thank you enough!

An added special treat for us was to have our son, Jordan and his wife, Mindi, join the team to be interpreters. They both worked extra hard. "We thank God for sending you to help us! We love you very much!"