Leadership Conference February 12-19
We in the US have grown up understanding the concept that children need to be ministered to on a different level than what is taught to adults, but this is still a fairly new idea in parts of the church world in Mexico, particularly in the mountains. But after the concept was introduced last year, and Olga was prayed over and set apart to led in children's ministry, this arena of ministry has grown at such a delightful rate. In fact Olga has 20 churches under her leadership at this present time.
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So since the workshops for training leaders of children's ministry were so successful last year, we did it again. In fact, we hope to host these opportunities for growth and inspiration each year as long as God gives direction to do so. Nell Lamury of Word of Life Fellowship of Patterson, LA and her team once again did an incredible job. Nell stated prior to their arrival that Russell would need to bring an extra van to the airport just to pick up all the supplies they were bringing in. And she was right. What a blessing to the work of the ministry as the ladies unpacked suit case after suit case of materials that were right away put to good use. In addition an enormous amount of supplies were purchased in Tuxtla, so each church represented at the workshops went home with many new ideas and lots of tools to work with.
view photo album
We began our week with a visit to the Tuxtla orphanage, Casa Hogar Alegre. Besides all the wonderful ministry to the children during a chapel service, the ladies blessed the kids with a pizza and ice cream party. What a delight for us as American adults to see the excitement of these children and the many happy faces as they enjoyed this really special treat!
view photo album
The following day the Tuxtla workshops were hosted for the churches of the cities, and everything was translated into Spanish. 12 different groups were represented from various parts of Chiapas and also the state of Tabasco. Later that week the same workshops were conducted in Chenalho for the Indian churches where all the classes had to be translated into the Tzotzil dialect. 18 churches were represented, and everyone left Chenalho with new vision.
view photo album
The workshops included classes on making puppets, props for various puppet songs, materials for several games that can be used with new themes or Scriptures each week, plus many more ideas. Brandi, Ashley and Bonnie taught a Human Video to a Spanish song, and they all loved it so much. People of all ages were learning these moves including one of the pastors. The passion for worshipping the Lord through this means of expression was beautiful to watch. Those that attended were blessed with gifts sent from the US, and they so enjoyed having so many beautiful things to choose from.
Children's service in San Fernando
view photo album
Many people were responsible for making this a successful week of ministry. Lots of funds were donated by people who were not on the team, but wanted to help out. Many, Many Thanks to all who made it possible! To all of you who came, we once again say thank you, and Chiapas is a blessed place because of your visit. To Martie, Bonnie, Sandy, Shellie, Monique, Brandi, Ashley and Lorraine. You were terrific! And Carlitos is still singing the songs you taught him! And to Nell Lamury - your energy, passion for ministry, love for people - both children and adults, willingness to press on and work through any obstacles, your enthusiasm for life and complete commitment to the cause of Christ regardless of location, is so greatly admired and appreciated! You are truly an inspiration to us and to the leadership of the work in Mexico. To you and all those who have worked along side of you - your labor is not in vain, and we truly believe it has been planted in good soil. We believe you have already seen, but will continue to enjoy much fruit for your labor.
view photo album
So since the workshops for training leaders of children's ministry were so successful last year, we did it again. In fact, we hope to host these opportunities for growth and inspiration each year as long as God gives direction to do so. Nell Lamury of Word of Life Fellowship of Patterson, LA and her team once again did an incredible job. Nell stated prior to their arrival that Russell would need to bring an extra van to the airport just to pick up all the supplies they were bringing in. And she was right. What a blessing to the work of the ministry as the ladies unpacked suit case after suit case of materials that were right away put to good use. In addition an enormous amount of supplies were purchased in Tuxtla, so each church represented at the workshops went home with many new ideas and lots of tools to work with.
view photo album
We began our week with a visit to the Tuxtla orphanage, Casa Hogar Alegre. Besides all the wonderful ministry to the children during a chapel service, the ladies blessed the kids with a pizza and ice cream party. What a delight for us as American adults to see the excitement of these children and the many happy faces as they enjoyed this really special treat!
view photo album
The following day the Tuxtla workshops were hosted for the churches of the cities, and everything was translated into Spanish. 12 different groups were represented from various parts of Chiapas and also the state of Tabasco. Later that week the same workshops were conducted in Chenalho for the Indian churches where all the classes had to be translated into the Tzotzil dialect. 18 churches were represented, and everyone left Chenalho with new vision.
view photo album
The workshops included classes on making puppets, props for various puppet songs, materials for several games that can be used with new themes or Scriptures each week, plus many more ideas. Brandi, Ashley and Bonnie taught a Human Video to a Spanish song, and they all loved it so much. People of all ages were learning these moves including one of the pastors. The passion for worshipping the Lord through this means of expression was beautiful to watch. Those that attended were blessed with gifts sent from the US, and they so enjoyed having so many beautiful things to choose from.
Children's service in San Fernando
view photo album
Many people were responsible for making this a successful week of ministry. Lots of funds were donated by people who were not on the team, but wanted to help out. Many, Many Thanks to all who made it possible! To all of you who came, we once again say thank you, and Chiapas is a blessed place because of your visit. To Martie, Bonnie, Sandy, Shellie, Monique, Brandi, Ashley and Lorraine. You were terrific! And Carlitos is still singing the songs you taught him! And to Nell Lamury - your energy, passion for ministry, love for people - both children and adults, willingness to press on and work through any obstacles, your enthusiasm for life and complete commitment to the cause of Christ regardless of location, is so greatly admired and appreciated! You are truly an inspiration to us and to the leadership of the work in Mexico. To you and all those who have worked along side of you - your labor is not in vain, and we truly believe it has been planted in good soil. We believe you have already seen, but will continue to enjoy much fruit for your labor.
posted by Russell & Charlotte at 9:43 AM
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