TORCH APPLICATION FORM ’06 Cost of trip is $1250.
TORCH MISSIONS
7949 Winchester #308
Memphis, TN 38125-2311
Choice TORCH trip Dates June 21-30____ OR July 21 – 30_____
Email address___________________
Name_________________________________ Date of Birth_____________ Age______
Street Address______________________________________________
Home Phone______________________
Cell Phone_____________________________
Social Security Number_______________________
Passport Number_______________________
City Issued_________________________
Date Issued____________________________
Expiration Date_____________________
Are you a Christian? Yes____ No_____
Name of Church you attend_________________________________________________
Address of Church you attend_______________________________________________
Male____ Female____ Adult____ Teen____ Child____ Single____ Married______
If married are husband and wife on the trip together?? Yes_____ No_____
Do you prefer staying with your spouse on the trip? Yes_____ Will Chaperone______
Adults occupation__________________________________________________
Students academic classification & name of school____________________________
Languages you speak__________________________________________________________
Foreign Countries you have visited______________________________________
Are you in good physical condition? Yes_____ No______
Are you taking prescription medication on a regular basis? Yes____ No_____
If yes, List medications and conditions being treated _________________________________________________________
Allergies___________________________________________________
Adult T shirt size Small_____ Medium_____ Large_____ XLarge ______ XXL_____
I have read and accept the conditions listed in the information section of the TORCH Program AND I commit to raising a minimum of $200 over and above the cost of the trip to support the benevolent work of my team.
___________________________ _______________________
Signature Date
IMPORTANT
Everyone traveling must fill out an application
This application is due February 1st & must be accompanied by:
$150 deposit
Spanish Parent consent form, signed and notorized
Copy of your passport
One Passport sized photo
Letter of recommendation for TORCH trip (if it is your first trip)
Essay: Why do you want to participate in this trip
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Monday, November 28, 2005
November News
TORCH 2006 -
WOW , in a month we will be in 2006 and we will be counting down to the annual team(s) travels to Honduras. This year we will be travelling in two groups - one in late June and the other in late July. This part is pretty much a done deal and I will be getting applications out as soon as this week. I plan to post an applicaiton right here but, you can email me and I will attach a copy to your response - marclt2003@yahoo.com
Some of the details for 2006 -
Airfares are WAY up and that means that we do some things differently or make the price go way up. I have chosen the - do things differently side of the fence and that means that we can still have a very effective mission for about the same price as last year - about $1250. That will include all of your travel & most meals but, new for this year, it will not include Roatan. The time working in Tegucigalpa will be about 10 days. Going to Roatan would add at least $350 to that total and the needs are so great in Tegucigalpa that I (and I am sure that you too) would prefer to see those dollars spent on helping people with food and housing. s
So -
Another difference that you will see on your application is a comittment for raising money above the cost of just going to Honduras. I am asking 2006 applicants to committ to raising an additional $200 per person for the benevolent work that we will be doing. If you are part of a team or a group, your team will be making the committment together.
And -
Your application will need to be complete and in my hands by the end of February 2006. (an application won't be considered complete without a $125 non-refundable deposit)
If you are past the end of February with an application, you will be subject to the ever increasing airfare proce increases.
Right now I have the following reservations for the July group -
Memphis, TN - 40 seats
Dallas, TX - 25 Seats
St Louis, MO - 15 seats
Houston, TX - 10 Seats
Miami - 15 seats
I need to hear from Charlotte and to confirm that they want to be part of this team. Please let me know.
Please email or call me with any questions.
Thanks & Love,
marc
WOW , in a month we will be in 2006 and we will be counting down to the annual team(s) travels to Honduras. This year we will be travelling in two groups - one in late June and the other in late July. This part is pretty much a done deal and I will be getting applications out as soon as this week. I plan to post an applicaiton right here but, you can email me and I will attach a copy to your response - marclt2003@yahoo.com
Some of the details for 2006 -
Airfares are WAY up and that means that we do some things differently or make the price go way up. I have chosen the - do things differently side of the fence and that means that we can still have a very effective mission for about the same price as last year - about $1250. That will include all of your travel & most meals but, new for this year, it will not include Roatan. The time working in Tegucigalpa will be about 10 days. Going to Roatan would add at least $350 to that total and the needs are so great in Tegucigalpa that I (and I am sure that you too) would prefer to see those dollars spent on helping people with food and housing. s
So -
Another difference that you will see on your application is a comittment for raising money above the cost of just going to Honduras. I am asking 2006 applicants to committ to raising an additional $200 per person for the benevolent work that we will be doing. If you are part of a team or a group, your team will be making the committment together.
And -
Your application will need to be complete and in my hands by the end of February 2006. (an application won't be considered complete without a $125 non-refundable deposit)
If you are past the end of February with an application, you will be subject to the ever increasing airfare proce increases.
Right now I have the following reservations for the July group -
Memphis, TN - 40 seats
Dallas, TX - 25 Seats
St Louis, MO - 15 seats
Houston, TX - 10 Seats
Miami - 15 seats
I need to hear from Charlotte and to confirm that they want to be part of this team. Please let me know.
Please email or call me with any questions.
Thanks & Love,
marc
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Construction Progress
One week makes a lot of difference! The walls are up and we are well on the way to really becoming the House of Hope for a bunch of kids that need some hope in their lives!
This photo was take on Saturday the 5th of November - big change from the previous picture.
Please continue to pray about the construction funds. We have made big strides in the past two weeks but, the fund is still about $17,000 short of the target.
Please consider becoming one of the team that has comitted to raising $1,000 or more.
(or just send a check)
marc
ps: TORCH applications will be out before the end of November!
Monday, October 31, 2005
Casa de Esperanza
Progress is rapid on Casa construction.
Please pray for the dollars to complete this project.
Here are construction pictures from Saturday the 29th -
Monday, October 24, 2005
An Open Letter
This is an open letter to everyone and anyone that has an interest in TORCH and the ongoing work that we all love.
Dear TORCH’ers,
I have been involved in TORCH for more than 5 years now and am more excited than ever about the work that God has planned for us. TORCH 2006 will be here before we know and we will be able to continue our work.
As we end 2005 and look ahead to 2006, I would ask all of you to examine where we have been and what we can personally do to make our work better. One area where I am convinced that we all need to apply more focus is really answered with a question – What happens in the communities where we work – after we leave?
Our whole team and our supporters focus hard to make our 2 weeks in Honduras one of the most incredibly productive 14 days of the year. Our productivity is blessed with an amazing harvest and we leave feeling great about what we were able to be a part of. Here is the dilemma that being so productive creates. We plant churches and we find preachers to work in those areas. We need missionaries on the ground in Honduras and we get wonderful people like Tim & Gena Hines and Joe Merrilat to devote their lives to this ministry. We build clinics and church buildings, we build children’s homes and all sorts of other great works – and all of this is wonderful and we are blessed to have been a part of it. We come home and we give reports to our sponsors and our home churches and we start planning for the next years work. On the surface all of this is great however, we need to think about what it takes to keep all of the work that we do in our 14 days – working for the other 351 that we are not in Honduras.
Quite frankly, we need your financial help every month.
We planted a church in Los Pinos 2 years ago and there are 4 men that are Baxter graduates working full time in that community. The Los Pinos church is now one of the strongest in all of Central America and we are not helping any of these men with their living expenses.
We planted a church in Santa Ana this summer and asked Noel from the Los Pinos team to move out to the community to work there and so far, we have only 50% of his needs covered. We still need another $200 per month for Noel.
Joe Merrilat needs a raise and we are short by about $300 per month on his support.
Tim & Gena could probably use a raise.
We are still not 100% funded for the construction of the children’s home and we are going to need monthly support for the kids that will live there.
We need you and your support.
Here is what I am asking everyone that reads this to do – pray & sacrifice.
Thanks & Love
marc
Dear TORCH’ers,
I have been involved in TORCH for more than 5 years now and am more excited than ever about the work that God has planned for us. TORCH 2006 will be here before we know and we will be able to continue our work.
As we end 2005 and look ahead to 2006, I would ask all of you to examine where we have been and what we can personally do to make our work better. One area where I am convinced that we all need to apply more focus is really answered with a question – What happens in the communities where we work – after we leave?
Our whole team and our supporters focus hard to make our 2 weeks in Honduras one of the most incredibly productive 14 days of the year. Our productivity is blessed with an amazing harvest and we leave feeling great about what we were able to be a part of. Here is the dilemma that being so productive creates. We plant churches and we find preachers to work in those areas. We need missionaries on the ground in Honduras and we get wonderful people like Tim & Gena Hines and Joe Merrilat to devote their lives to this ministry. We build clinics and church buildings, we build children’s homes and all sorts of other great works – and all of this is wonderful and we are blessed to have been a part of it. We come home and we give reports to our sponsors and our home churches and we start planning for the next years work. On the surface all of this is great however, we need to think about what it takes to keep all of the work that we do in our 14 days – working for the other 351 that we are not in Honduras.
Quite frankly, we need your financial help every month.
We planted a church in Los Pinos 2 years ago and there are 4 men that are Baxter graduates working full time in that community. The Los Pinos church is now one of the strongest in all of Central America and we are not helping any of these men with their living expenses.
We planted a church in Santa Ana this summer and asked Noel from the Los Pinos team to move out to the community to work there and so far, we have only 50% of his needs covered. We still need another $200 per month for Noel.
Joe Merrilat needs a raise and we are short by about $300 per month on his support.
Tim & Gena could probably use a raise.
We are still not 100% funded for the construction of the children’s home and we are going to need monthly support for the kids that will live there.
We need you and your support.
Here is what I am asking everyone that reads this to do – pray & sacrifice.
Thanks & Love
marc
Monday, September 19, 2005
TORCH Update
Planning for 2006 is slightly stalled. Almost all of the TORCH and IRC leaders are involved in hurricane relief and there will be time to plan for TORCH when the clean-up from Katrina is in a little better shape.
There are teams of people heading to both New Orleans and to Gulfport almost every week and weekend and that will continue for the next couple of months. The needs are changing almost daily but, one thing will be constant for the next few months – help is needed! If anyone is interested in making the trip to either area, we can help you find work. Just give me a call or an email and I will make sure that you get a place to stay and a job to do.
I do not have any firm dates for our team – but, you can count on the last week of July as one of our times. He other team – yes, we will have 2 teams in 2006 will be in June or perhaps directly prior to the last trip. Either way, the trips will be about 9 days each and the cost should be in the $1150 to $1200 range – depending on where you will be coming from.
I will get applications posted to the blog before the end of October and we can go from there.
We have a group going down to the opening of Casa de Esperanza – opening on December 10th and you are welcome to join us – let me know and I’ll help you with reservations.
Keep on praying for the people hurt by Katrina and for our team members that are working for them.
marc
There are teams of people heading to both New Orleans and to Gulfport almost every week and weekend and that will continue for the next couple of months. The needs are changing almost daily but, one thing will be constant for the next few months – help is needed! If anyone is interested in making the trip to either area, we can help you find work. Just give me a call or an email and I will make sure that you get a place to stay and a job to do.
I do not have any firm dates for our team – but, you can count on the last week of July as one of our times. He other team – yes, we will have 2 teams in 2006 will be in June or perhaps directly prior to the last trip. Either way, the trips will be about 9 days each and the cost should be in the $1150 to $1200 range – depending on where you will be coming from.
I will get applications posted to the blog before the end of October and we can go from there.
We have a group going down to the opening of Casa de Esperanza – opening on December 10th and you are welcome to join us – let me know and I’ll help you with reservations.
Keep on praying for the people hurt by Katrina and for our team members that are working for them.
marc
Thursday, September 01, 2005
Casa de Esperanza Needs
List of Needs
Here is a list of needs for Casa de Esperanza. The plan is to load a container in mid November for shipment to Honduras.
We all need to encourage our donors to follow the “No Junk For Jesus” policy.
Washer & Dryer – This pretty much looks done
Deep Freeze (2)
Refrigerator (2)
Ice Maker
Twin Mattresses – tops only (20)
Baby Beds (2)
Computer Desk
Office Chair (2)
Twin Sheet Sets (20 to 30)
Towels & Wash Cloths (lots)
Tricycles (3 or 4)
Small Bicycles (3 or 4)
Microwave Oven (2)
It would be nice to have a Big Screen TV (anybody upgrading?)
Stereo
DVD Player
Cookware (Big pots & pans)
Deep Fryer
Sofas (good condition 2)
Room Size Rugs (2 or 3)
Blankets (20 to 30)
Dishes & Eating Ware
I will be adding to the list as we see needs.
Here is a list of needs for Casa de Esperanza. The plan is to load a container in mid November for shipment to Honduras.
We all need to encourage our donors to follow the “No Junk For Jesus” policy.
Washer & Dryer – This pretty much looks done
Deep Freeze (2)
Refrigerator (2)
Ice Maker
Twin Mattresses – tops only (20)
Baby Beds (2)
Computer Desk
Office Chair (2)
Twin Sheet Sets (20 to 30)
Towels & Wash Cloths (lots)
Tricycles (3 or 4)
Small Bicycles (3 or 4)
Microwave Oven (2)
It would be nice to have a Big Screen TV (anybody upgrading?)
Stereo
DVD Player
Cookware (Big pots & pans)
Deep Fryer
Sofas (good condition 2)
Room Size Rugs (2 or 3)
Blankets (20 to 30)
Dishes & Eating Ware
I will be adding to the list as we see needs.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
TORCH 2006
It is really hard for my fingers to type 2006. That seems like it should be years away but, the simple fact is, we will be in 2006 in a short 125 or so days. That means that it is already time to begin thinking and planning for TORCH 2006!
We don’t yet have the trip dates for TORCH 2006 but, you can be assured that planning is already in full swing. The MS TORCH family has grown so much that one of two things must happen – we can stop the growth where we are and fix the number at somewhere between 150 and 170 or, we can divide and conquer. Personally, I like the idea of dividing.
SO –
My current plan is something like this –
I will plan to lead two 9 day trips in 2006. The trips will be sometime in June and we will keep our place for the second trip in late July. We will plan our arrivals in Honduras on a Friday and our departures on the second Sunday. The Roatan retreat will be an optional addition and will no longer be included in the cost of the trip.
Our 2006 cost will not be finalized until sometime in October however, I expect the total of the 9 day mission to be in the neighborhood of $1150 to $1200 per person. (It looks like airfares will be 4100 to $150 per person more than in 2005) In addition to airfares, we all see what the rapid rise in fuel cost has meant to our own budgets – our team alone spent almost $10,000 for bus and truck fuel when we were in Honduras.
Please feel free to share your comments here or email them to me at marclt2003@yahoo.com
We don’t yet have the trip dates for TORCH 2006 but, you can be assured that planning is already in full swing. The MS TORCH family has grown so much that one of two things must happen – we can stop the growth where we are and fix the number at somewhere between 150 and 170 or, we can divide and conquer. Personally, I like the idea of dividing.
SO –
My current plan is something like this –
I will plan to lead two 9 day trips in 2006. The trips will be sometime in June and we will keep our place for the second trip in late July. We will plan our arrivals in Honduras on a Friday and our departures on the second Sunday. The Roatan retreat will be an optional addition and will no longer be included in the cost of the trip.
Our 2006 cost will not be finalized until sometime in October however, I expect the total of the 9 day mission to be in the neighborhood of $1150 to $1200 per person. (It looks like airfares will be 4100 to $150 per person more than in 2005) In addition to airfares, we all see what the rapid rise in fuel cost has meant to our own budgets – our team alone spent almost $10,000 for bus and truck fuel when we were in Honduras.
Please feel free to share your comments here or email them to me at marclt2003@yahoo.com
Monday, August 15, 2005
PRAY!
I just had a call from my friend Les Ferguson. Les is the dad of my other good friend Cole and Les called to let me know of some of the difficulties that Cole has experienced since he returned home ffom Honduras.
Cole developed what was thought to be a case of the revenge in Honduras however, even with meds, the problem didn't go away so, he has been through several tests and now knows that he has contracted E-Coli. He is pretty sick and could use our prayers and our encouragenment.
Please feel free to use the comment section of the blog to send Cole messages of encouragement. I know that he will get every message and will like hearing from everyone.
Also, If you have a CD or DVD of all of your pictures and video, would you please burn a copy for me?
Please send copies to me at 124 Spyglass Ct., O'Fallon, IL 62269
Thanks & don't forget Cole!
Marc
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Robin White's Comments
**** Reflections from Robin****
Hello Team!
Wow! We did it - we went to Honduras and are back and it almost seems like a dream to me!
I know there is so much that happened - oodles of fantastic memories were made; so many people were helped - physically and spiritually. We built houses! We played with lonely babies and children at orphanages. We prayed for and brought smiles to those children who were really sick at Hospital Escuela. We were a part of Bible studies that brought people to the Lord, not only in baptism but then also to a changed life of hope - of walking in the Light and then of Eternal Salvation!! How rich!! We got to witness weddings!! I loved making the cross necklaces with the children - boys and girls alike and well, women too, because each time it was telling a Bible story - The Story of Christ's Love! Thanks, Lowell, for once again buying those special gifts! And Jacob gave out lotsa cars - what a hit! And he made friends and friends and more friends!! And all you girlies -- what nice necklaces and bracelets you made for/with the children and beautiful pictures you colored, 'juntos' with the little ones. Kyrystal, you were so tough! Thanks for putting up with 'pee-pee' on the pant legs - not once but several times. Cuddling those babies was worth it, huh? And "my girls" thanks for looking out for 14 year old pregnant Jaimi and buying her groceries and just for loving her - you made a difference!! (you know that song "Let the Beauty of Jesus be seen in Me." ? well, you did! I saw Jesus and you were beautiful!) Ethan -- do I have it right? you have been a part of building 25 houses in Honduras?? You're the Man!! Also, Laurie fell down the steps in the rainy dark but, talk about attitude!! - bless your heart, girl, for being tough - those bruises were bad but you just kept on going and going, like that everready bunny! even with that rotten headcold! Jessi W., in spite of downright yuckiness with being sick, you were a leader and helper, thanks - again and again and again. Jessi Y., you're a 'roofer' girl! is that your new chosen profession? Honestly, isn't it soooo cool that you're helping keep the rain off those babies in the cold, dark nights? David, I saw you help nail down that floor, and you made some Honduran friends - great going!! Nancy, among other stuff, helping with that food assembly - what an awesome chore! (and it wasn't easy!) Allison tried to stay well and smiled even when she felt rotten - you done good, girl! Russ McC actually turned into a builder by the end of the 2 weeks - and before that, stayed soooo busy with evangelism! and my Lowell - forever the humble, hard-worker - was busy with whatever was given him to do...making kids smile, hammering, putting up lofts, fellowshipping with Hondurans and team members wherever he went...
I actually wouldn't change anything - even though I never knew from day to day how I would be used, I let God just kind of lead me and He always surprised me. At first I sometimes had to work on my attitude if it was something I wasn't expecting (which like was almost everyday) but then, after "sucking it up" and getting over my selfishness, I let God have His way and it was great! I am soooo glad I had exercised beforehand and been on vitamins and was ready because we never stopped! Yeah, echinecea and zinc! And I praise God for giving me the health and fortitude I had...
We had some "not so good happenings" too - so sorry for the several who got sick - Jessi White, Laurie, Allison and Nancy -- but Praise God! we had doctors with medicines available and that we had a comfortable campus if we had to stay out for a day (like about 20 + did various days, including our Allison) - but hey guys, you were in a safe place, there were real beds, water, showers, food, a roof over the heads, and plenty of people coming back within hours, includung 3 doctors with more meds if needed so, even staying behind you all were blessed... while allowing others to be out serving those who did not have doctors available normally, or their own roofs over their heads, or ever, ever water enough for showers, much less hot showers, or electricity, or beds - just pallets on the floor and the beds we built - they were wooden platforms! -- and never, ever enough food and some who had never been taught the gospel...Praise to God that there were those still able to go out and Praise God that they did!!
Well, everything wasn't perfect but it was Perfectly Amazing!!
My challenge to each of you is this: if you have to remember anything negative about our trip, write it down, take it to the Lord, and then tear up that paper in put it in the trash with the devil and his workings - don't give satan a stronghold in your hearts to ruin this trip - we had lessons on this already, but I challenge you to apply it!
There were so many Great things that we were privileged to be a part of and that is what should be coming out of our mouths and hearts - We saw so many terrific examples of servanthood during our time in Honduras. Now that we are home we need to bring the lessons home and bring them to life. Give up selfishness, crucify pride, allow yourself to be a servant where ever and whenever you are needed. Look for opportunities here in the states and allow God to use you up for Him!! We are soooo rich materially and spirtually, there is no room for "oh, woe is me!" Practice living positively - talk positive, walk positive, and treat others with honor. Work on being a part of those who make a choice to make a difference - that's what YOU have been a part of for the last two weeks and it was a God- thing!
I am soooo glad each of you were a part of the time there. I am moved and honored for having been a part of your team. Thanks!
I remain joyful
- Robin
Hello Team!
Wow! We did it - we went to Honduras and are back and it almost seems like a dream to me!
I know there is so much that happened - oodles of fantastic memories were made; so many people were helped - physically and spiritually. We built houses! We played with lonely babies and children at orphanages. We prayed for and brought smiles to those children who were really sick at Hospital Escuela. We were a part of Bible studies that brought people to the Lord, not only in baptism but then also to a changed life of hope - of walking in the Light and then of Eternal Salvation!! How rich!! We got to witness weddings!! I loved making the cross necklaces with the children - boys and girls alike and well, women too, because each time it was telling a Bible story - The Story of Christ's Love! Thanks, Lowell, for once again buying those special gifts! And Jacob gave out lotsa cars - what a hit! And he made friends and friends and more friends!! And all you girlies -- what nice necklaces and bracelets you made for/with the children and beautiful pictures you colored, 'juntos' with the little ones. Kyrystal, you were so tough! Thanks for putting up with 'pee-pee' on the pant legs - not once but several times. Cuddling those babies was worth it, huh? And "my girls" thanks for looking out for 14 year old pregnant Jaimi and buying her groceries and just for loving her - you made a difference!! (you know that song "Let the Beauty of Jesus be seen in Me." ? well, you did! I saw Jesus and you were beautiful!) Ethan -- do I have it right? you have been a part of building 25 houses in Honduras?? You're the Man!! Also, Laurie fell down the steps in the rainy dark but, talk about attitude!! - bless your heart, girl, for being tough - those bruises were bad but you just kept on going and going, like that everready bunny! even with that rotten headcold! Jessi W., in spite of downright yuckiness with being sick, you were a leader and helper, thanks - again and again and again. Jessi Y., you're a 'roofer' girl! is that your new chosen profession? Honestly, isn't it soooo cool that you're helping keep the rain off those babies in the cold, dark nights? David, I saw you help nail down that floor, and you made some Honduran friends - great going!! Nancy, among other stuff, helping with that food assembly - what an awesome chore! (and it wasn't easy!) Allison tried to stay well and smiled even when she felt rotten - you done good, girl! Russ McC actually turned into a builder by the end of the 2 weeks - and before that, stayed soooo busy with evangelism! and my Lowell - forever the humble, hard-worker - was busy with whatever was given him to do...making kids smile, hammering, putting up lofts, fellowshipping with Hondurans and team members wherever he went...
I actually wouldn't change anything - even though I never knew from day to day how I would be used, I let God just kind of lead me and He always surprised me. At first I sometimes had to work on my attitude if it was something I wasn't expecting (which like was almost everyday) but then, after "sucking it up" and getting over my selfishness, I let God have His way and it was great! I am soooo glad I had exercised beforehand and been on vitamins and was ready because we never stopped! Yeah, echinecea and zinc! And I praise God for giving me the health and fortitude I had...
We had some "not so good happenings" too - so sorry for the several who got sick - Jessi White, Laurie, Allison and Nancy -- but Praise God! we had doctors with medicines available and that we had a comfortable campus if we had to stay out for a day (like about 20 + did various days, including our Allison) - but hey guys, you were in a safe place, there were real beds, water, showers, food, a roof over the heads, and plenty of people coming back within hours, includung 3 doctors with more meds if needed so, even staying behind you all were blessed... while allowing others to be out serving those who did not have doctors available normally, or their own roofs over their heads, or ever, ever water enough for showers, much less hot showers, or electricity, or beds - just pallets on the floor and the beds we built - they were wooden platforms! -- and never, ever enough food and some who had never been taught the gospel...Praise to God that there were those still able to go out and Praise God that they did!!
Well, everything wasn't perfect but it was Perfectly Amazing!!
My challenge to each of you is this: if you have to remember anything negative about our trip, write it down, take it to the Lord, and then tear up that paper in put it in the trash with the devil and his workings - don't give satan a stronghold in your hearts to ruin this trip - we had lessons on this already, but I challenge you to apply it!
There were so many Great things that we were privileged to be a part of and that is what should be coming out of our mouths and hearts - We saw so many terrific examples of servanthood during our time in Honduras. Now that we are home we need to bring the lessons home and bring them to life. Give up selfishness, crucify pride, allow yourself to be a servant where ever and whenever you are needed. Look for opportunities here in the states and allow God to use you up for Him!! We are soooo rich materially and spirtually, there is no room for "oh, woe is me!" Practice living positively - talk positive, walk positive, and treat others with honor. Work on being a part of those who make a choice to make a difference - that's what YOU have been a part of for the last two weeks and it was a God- thing!
I am soooo glad each of you were a part of the time there. I am moved and honored for having been a part of your team. Thanks!
I remain joyful
- Robin
Sunday, August 07, 2005
Amazing
It is difficult to decsribe the amazing events of the past two weeks without becoming somewhat emotional. This family of workers was united in everything and the results can only be described as AMAZING....
CONSTRUCTION
Our God assembled a group of builders and....build they did! The final count of 35 houses included 31 from scratch and 4 that were completed for another mission team that was unable to finish the job before thay left the country. Our builders worked in Nuevo Oriental, Santa Ana, Valle de Angels, San Miguel, Via Nueva, & 21 de Octobre. Every home built was completed with lots of love in in the name of Jesus.
Our crews were led by many excellent & dedicated builders including Jim Kelly & his son Austin, Kyle Ferguson, Andrew Kurgenivitch, Mark Halbert, John Rogers, Paul Bennett, Caleb Yates, Ryan & Kirt Hunt, & others that I am sure that I have missed. Everyone agrees that the addition of floors is the best thing on the mountain since outhouses.
Our construction story wouldn't be complete without thanking my friend and brother Mark Connell. Mark's amazing love for putting roofs over the heads and floors under the feet of families that need them is just like mine. He worked tirelessly to make sure that we coule build every home that was humanly possible. Mark, I see Jesus in you every day (except for possibly the hair thing)
More Construction
The community of Santa Ana has a new church building and it was completed - from start to finish in a week. Simply amazing!
We celebrated communion on Sunday the 24th of July on a plot of land that was almost untouched and one week later we worshiped together in a new block building.
This amazing work was led by Don White and he was assisted by Aaron Hill, Andy Hill, Wally Sweedenburg, & Larry Allen. The family of builders looked at what appeared to be an impossible task and said that "With God, All things are possible"...and it was. The work was non stop and it was hard. It included moving 1000's of block, mixing 100's of loads of concrete, moving dirt, and sweat....lots of sweat.
Even more Construction!
The builders also moved dirt in the area of the new children's home and build sidewalks. They worked on rock walls and on block houses that are being build in the area of the new church building.
Food Distribution
Terri Tindall and her team of food packers did amazing work. This team packed more than 10 tons of food for the hungry. Probably closer to 25,000 poubnds of food was packed and distributed to hungry families.
There were a couple of people that turned out to be "professional" packers and they deserve to be thanked and recognized - Mary Sharky was a packing machine and she was joined by Nancy McCullough, Gayla Kenser, Sharen & Jenny Seldomridge, & many others.
Because of the hard work of the food team, we were able to feed about 1500 families.
Clinics & Medical Ministry
This year we were blessed to have Dr's Jason Kelly & Dan Kellum as well as Jim Lup a P.A.
This medical team completed 3 medical clinics and two dental clinisc and were able to treat over 900 people with medical needed ranging from surgery to remove a bullet that was lodged in a mans arm for more than a couple of years to a lady with elephantitus, to having to remove every tooth from the head of a woman. These men were joined by Esperanza Massana, Michelle Rachl, and several other translators that made communication work. Additionally, there were many clinic volunteers that mad the process work for the docs and the people being treated.
On a personal note, I'd like to thank our medical team for always being there for our team - especially for those that fell ill while serving in Honduras.
Evangelism
Amazing, the harvest was simply amazing!
Billy Ferguson & Cisco Vega have established a simple way to deliver the gospel to the people of Honduras and have been joined by several others including Les Ferguson, Wesley Thompson, Jeremy Stewart, David Kenser, John Palmer, Russ McCullough, Lowell White, and many others. Because these and others were willing to step out onto the mountai, there are now 54 new Christians and 2 new churches have been planted.
More than 30 in the community of Nuevo Oriental alone!
UPDATE on Los Pinos - we were able to visit the community of Los Pinos a couple of times and we are happy to report that the church that was planted in Los Pinos two years ago is continuing to grow. More than 120 adults and 12o children meet there every Sunday.
We are praying to see the same sort of results in Santa Ana and Nuevo Oriental.
Other Ministries -
We sent teams of workers to the public hospital every day to spend time playing and praying with the many children with needs. We also sent these teams of servents to several childrens homes and places like the Special Needs Orphanage. Our workers were blessed as much as any of the children that they came into contact with.
Gayla Kenser spent 3 days in Nuevo Oriental teaching a manacure class to 7 ladies from that community. On graduation day many of our ladies allowed the newly trained ladies to test their skills on them for a total of 30 Limpera (about 1.80 US). Each of the ladies earned close to $20 that day and many are going to be able to apply for jobs that they previously were not qualified to do.
As usual, our morning and evening times of devotional were amazing. The singing was the best ever and the thoughts that were shared were inspiring. Most of us weren't quite ready to come home and re-join the routines that we didn't miss.
I'd be remiss in closing this summary without letting all of you know how much we need to thank Tim & Gena & Joe for their unending work and love for making things happen. Nobody knows the amount of time that they put in to making TORCH Missions work. Tim, Gena, Joe, Dalton, & Dylan - We love you with the love of the Lord & we see Jesus in you every day!
Interns - you were all great and we love you too! Thanks!
Team.... Family, If you would like to share your thoughts on the blog, please email them to me at
marclt2003@yahoo.com and I'll post them. I will continue to post at least weekly on this spot as this is the best communication tool for letting you know about TORCH 2006.
It has been a Great Year In Honduras
Love all of ya'
Marc
CONSTRUCTION
Our God assembled a group of builders and....build they did! The final count of 35 houses included 31 from scratch and 4 that were completed for another mission team that was unable to finish the job before thay left the country. Our builders worked in Nuevo Oriental, Santa Ana, Valle de Angels, San Miguel, Via Nueva, & 21 de Octobre. Every home built was completed with lots of love in in the name of Jesus.
Our crews were led by many excellent & dedicated builders including Jim Kelly & his son Austin, Kyle Ferguson, Andrew Kurgenivitch, Mark Halbert, John Rogers, Paul Bennett, Caleb Yates, Ryan & Kirt Hunt, & others that I am sure that I have missed. Everyone agrees that the addition of floors is the best thing on the mountain since outhouses.
Our construction story wouldn't be complete without thanking my friend and brother Mark Connell. Mark's amazing love for putting roofs over the heads and floors under the feet of families that need them is just like mine. He worked tirelessly to make sure that we coule build every home that was humanly possible. Mark, I see Jesus in you every day (except for possibly the hair thing)
More Construction
The community of Santa Ana has a new church building and it was completed - from start to finish in a week. Simply amazing!
We celebrated communion on Sunday the 24th of July on a plot of land that was almost untouched and one week later we worshiped together in a new block building.
This amazing work was led by Don White and he was assisted by Aaron Hill, Andy Hill, Wally Sweedenburg, & Larry Allen. The family of builders looked at what appeared to be an impossible task and said that "With God, All things are possible"...and it was. The work was non stop and it was hard. It included moving 1000's of block, mixing 100's of loads of concrete, moving dirt, and sweat....lots of sweat.
Even more Construction!
The builders also moved dirt in the area of the new children's home and build sidewalks. They worked on rock walls and on block houses that are being build in the area of the new church building.
Food Distribution
Terri Tindall and her team of food packers did amazing work. This team packed more than 10 tons of food for the hungry. Probably closer to 25,000 poubnds of food was packed and distributed to hungry families.
There were a couple of people that turned out to be "professional" packers and they deserve to be thanked and recognized - Mary Sharky was a packing machine and she was joined by Nancy McCullough, Gayla Kenser, Sharen & Jenny Seldomridge, & many others.
Because of the hard work of the food team, we were able to feed about 1500 families.
Clinics & Medical Ministry
This year we were blessed to have Dr's Jason Kelly & Dan Kellum as well as Jim Lup a P.A.
This medical team completed 3 medical clinics and two dental clinisc and were able to treat over 900 people with medical needed ranging from surgery to remove a bullet that was lodged in a mans arm for more than a couple of years to a lady with elephantitus, to having to remove every tooth from the head of a woman. These men were joined by Esperanza Massana, Michelle Rachl, and several other translators that made communication work. Additionally, there were many clinic volunteers that mad the process work for the docs and the people being treated.
On a personal note, I'd like to thank our medical team for always being there for our team - especially for those that fell ill while serving in Honduras.
Evangelism
Amazing, the harvest was simply amazing!
Billy Ferguson & Cisco Vega have established a simple way to deliver the gospel to the people of Honduras and have been joined by several others including Les Ferguson, Wesley Thompson, Jeremy Stewart, David Kenser, John Palmer, Russ McCullough, Lowell White, and many others. Because these and others were willing to step out onto the mountai, there are now 54 new Christians and 2 new churches have been planted.
More than 30 in the community of Nuevo Oriental alone!
UPDATE on Los Pinos - we were able to visit the community of Los Pinos a couple of times and we are happy to report that the church that was planted in Los Pinos two years ago is continuing to grow. More than 120 adults and 12o children meet there every Sunday.
We are praying to see the same sort of results in Santa Ana and Nuevo Oriental.
Other Ministries -
We sent teams of workers to the public hospital every day to spend time playing and praying with the many children with needs. We also sent these teams of servents to several childrens homes and places like the Special Needs Orphanage. Our workers were blessed as much as any of the children that they came into contact with.
Gayla Kenser spent 3 days in Nuevo Oriental teaching a manacure class to 7 ladies from that community. On graduation day many of our ladies allowed the newly trained ladies to test their skills on them for a total of 30 Limpera (about 1.80 US). Each of the ladies earned close to $20 that day and many are going to be able to apply for jobs that they previously were not qualified to do.
As usual, our morning and evening times of devotional were amazing. The singing was the best ever and the thoughts that were shared were inspiring. Most of us weren't quite ready to come home and re-join the routines that we didn't miss.
I'd be remiss in closing this summary without letting all of you know how much we need to thank Tim & Gena & Joe for their unending work and love for making things happen. Nobody knows the amount of time that they put in to making TORCH Missions work. Tim, Gena, Joe, Dalton, & Dylan - We love you with the love of the Lord & we see Jesus in you every day!
Interns - you were all great and we love you too! Thanks!
Team.... Family, If you would like to share your thoughts on the blog, please email them to me at
marclt2003@yahoo.com and I'll post them. I will continue to post at least weekly on this spot as this is the best communication tool for letting you know about TORCH 2006.
It has been a Great Year In Honduras
Love all of ya'
Marc
Friday, August 05, 2005
Thursday
Our Teguc team was smaller today as we sent about 110 to Roatan. There were 35 of us that chose to stay and work. We spent most of our day in Nuevo Oriental working on houses and taking care of the many needs that were in front of us. We finished a new house for a new Christian named Noae and helped he and his family move in. He was so thankful for his new home - he gave all the credit to our God.
Our doc's were busy following up on people that they had seen earlier and also performed surgery on the mountain. There was a man that had a bullet lodged in his arm for several years and our doc's took the time to remove it.
The day closed with a young man in Nueva Oriental choosing to become a Christian. It was awesome!
God continues to bless us and we will send a summary by the end of the weekend.
Marc
Our doc's were busy following up on people that they had seen earlier and also performed surgery on the mountain. There was a man that had a bullet lodged in his arm for several years and our doc's took the time to remove it.
The day closed with a young man in Nueva Oriental choosing to become a Christian. It was awesome!
God continues to bless us and we will send a summary by the end of the weekend.
Marc
Thursday, August 04, 2005
Tuesday / Wednesday
First let me start by thanning my daughter Nicole for keeping all of you updated on the blog. There isn´t any way that I would have had the time to¨get er done¨these past two weeks.
Really cool stuff has been happening...Gayla Kenser has been teaching a class of 7 women the skill of manicure and they all graduated on Wednesday. They were all very excited to be a part of the class and we finished the class with the graduates offering manicures to our ladies for 30 limpera ... about 1.80 US. The ladies were way excited to earn dollars fo their own.
We have continued to build and over the past 2 days there have been about 7 new homes completed. We also built 2 new classroms for the school in Nueva Oriental.
There was a clinic in Los Pinos on Tuesday and over 200 were treated. Our Doc´s have been great and have worked hard.... both in the villages and here on the mission house campus. Thanks Jason Kelly and Jim Lup... you are both great.
Every day we have continued to send a team to Hospital Esquela and various childrens homes. We all see how blessed we are with the health care system in the USA and how much the new childrens home is needed.
This morning we sent a group of about 110 to Roatan for a retreat and we have about 35 here in Tegucigalpa that will continue to build and work. Those that are staying are making a big contribution to the work of building Casa de Esperanza... the new children´s home in Santa Ana. The money that would have gone to Roatan is now going to be used to help children.
We will update tomorrow and then have a summary on Sunday.
Thanks for reading and praying for our work.
We are continuing to have ¨great days in Honduras¨
Marc
Really cool stuff has been happening...Gayla Kenser has been teaching a class of 7 women the skill of manicure and they all graduated on Wednesday. They were all very excited to be a part of the class and we finished the class with the graduates offering manicures to our ladies for 30 limpera ... about 1.80 US. The ladies were way excited to earn dollars fo their own.
We have continued to build and over the past 2 days there have been about 7 new homes completed. We also built 2 new classroms for the school in Nueva Oriental.
There was a clinic in Los Pinos on Tuesday and over 200 were treated. Our Doc´s have been great and have worked hard.... both in the villages and here on the mission house campus. Thanks Jason Kelly and Jim Lup... you are both great.
Every day we have continued to send a team to Hospital Esquela and various childrens homes. We all see how blessed we are with the health care system in the USA and how much the new childrens home is needed.
This morning we sent a group of about 110 to Roatan for a retreat and we have about 35 here in Tegucigalpa that will continue to build and work. Those that are staying are making a big contribution to the work of building Casa de Esperanza... the new children´s home in Santa Ana. The money that would have gone to Roatan is now going to be used to help children.
We will update tomorrow and then have a summary on Sunday.
Thanks for reading and praying for our work.
We are continuing to have ¨great days in Honduras¨
Marc
Monday, August 01, 2005
Sunday and Monday
Yesterday was beuatiful. We were able to worship in three different places. A group went to worship in Los Pinos which has grown so much in the last two years since this church started. An old friend, Verjillio greeted us when we got there. He now lives in Copan, so this was a big surprise. The other groups worshiped in Nueva Oriental with the new Christians. Finally, a group worshiped at Santa Anna. This was neat because only one week ago, we worshiped here in the rain and had communion, but yesterday we worshiped in the building that the group built. About 65 people from the community joined us in worship. God is amazing.
Nueva Oriental... Today we had the opportunity to work on four houses that God had already sent groups to start on. Tomorrow we will finish these. One house was started and finished today. Everywhere we looked around we saw groups of people studying the Bible with small groups of Honduras. We now have 46 new family members in our Christian family. Praise God!! Many of the new Christians are so excited; they are telling everyone they know.
Also today in Nueva Oriental, we had a Mi Esperanza class that will last thru Wednesday to teach women of the community to give manacures and pedicures. This class was a great success today. There were 7 women in the class today, and they all were very eagar to learn.
The hospital crew had a very good day. They spent the morning at the hospital. Many of the kids enjoyed singing with the children. When they finished at the hospital, the group came to the Mi Esperanza. I'm sure everyone loved seeing first hand what this ministry is about.
Lastly, a group went to Santa Anna to work on the land. This land is going to be so important to so many people in Honduras. when we are all here next year, this place will not even resemble the same place that it is now. It will be so full of life. God is going to use this place in so many ways.
Its been another great day in Hoduras. Please pray for us.
Nueva Oriental... Today we had the opportunity to work on four houses that God had already sent groups to start on. Tomorrow we will finish these. One house was started and finished today. Everywhere we looked around we saw groups of people studying the Bible with small groups of Honduras. We now have 46 new family members in our Christian family. Praise God!! Many of the new Christians are so excited; they are telling everyone they know.
Also today in Nueva Oriental, we had a Mi Esperanza class that will last thru Wednesday to teach women of the community to give manacures and pedicures. This class was a great success today. There were 7 women in the class today, and they all were very eagar to learn.
The hospital crew had a very good day. They spent the morning at the hospital. Many of the kids enjoyed singing with the children. When they finished at the hospital, the group came to the Mi Esperanza. I'm sure everyone loved seeing first hand what this ministry is about.
Lastly, a group went to Santa Anna to work on the land. This land is going to be so important to so many people in Honduras. when we are all here next year, this place will not even resemble the same place that it is now. It will be so full of life. God is going to use this place in so many ways.
Its been another great day in Hoduras. Please pray for us.
Sunday, July 31, 2005
This morning our devotional went a little longer tha planned because we had a prayer with thosegoing home today. Also, some of the people going home wanted to say a few words to the group. As soon as devotional ended, each of the five busses went to a different place.
The first bus went to the airport to take a group of about fifteen to go home today. This group included the Chaffin family who everyone hated to see leave because they were all such an asset this year to our evangelism program, Deborah and Jessica Pyle, Caitlyn Grimes, Dr. Dan the dentist from Tupelo, Nikki, Beverly, Earl, and Sarah Ardnt, Sarah's boyfriend Kenny, Denny Madux, Mark McCain, and Jen and Karen that will run the children's home that will open in December. Each of these people were an important asset to our team in their own way. We hate to see each these people have to leave, but I am confident that they will each find their way back here next year. Also, I am confidant that each of these people's lives have been touched immensely from the time that they did spend here.
After this bus dropped the group off at the airport, another group went to Santa Anna to work on the land. Amazingly the building that peopl will use to worship God in was built in one week. The most amazing thing is that last Sunday, the land still was not cleared for this area. There were still three trees in the area where the building is now.
Another bus went to a village that Torch groups have not worked in for several years. This was the village of San Mateo, and the group did a medical clinic there today. As we were telling people about the clinic, we came across a woman who was very ill and could not get up. The only way she could get the help she needed was to go to the hospital, but she and the family refused for her to go; therefore, she likely will die. Here in Mateo, Emily Mathes dressed as a circus clown as entertainment for the children in line for the clinic. I must say that she makes a very bonita clown.
A third bus went to a village called 21 de Octubre or in English it is October 21st. Here we built three houses, one of which was for our truck driver's mom. The house built for Will's mom was bjuilt in memory of Mary Beth Willis' grandmother and Rick Willis' mom. She died only 4 days before the group came, so we are all very thankful that Rick still came.
All of the houses were finished by 3:00, and so Mark Connell aided each group in building beds that are attached to the walls of the house. When we are able to build beds, it is a wonderful addition to the house.
A fourth bus went to Nueva Oriental to deliver food. The delivered about 200 boxes of food in this village. While they were there Billy and Cisco were busy evangelizing, and we had two more baptisms here. Unexpectedly, when our group got to this village, another group was already working there. It was Steve Davidson's group from Nashville, TN who is staying at Baxter Institute of preaching. They were building three houses there, so part of our group decided to help them and swing a few nails. God's family is so huge; it is amazing that no matter where we go, we can always come into contact with people that are in God's family. This bus later met up with the group in October 21.
The fifth bus left to go to the hospital and the blind school. Today we decided to go to a different state hospital, Hospital San Felipe, which is the oldest Hospital in Honduras. After the hospital we went to the blind school, which is one of my favorite parts of coming to Honduras. It is so amazing to watch the children who can't see anything play soccer or to help each other find their way around. One of the most wonderful parts about this place is when we are able to here them sing. It is like God has sent little angels down to earth so that we can enjoy some of his music. The day we visit the blind school is always very emotional. Very rarely does anyone leave here with dry eyes.
Finally, a small group met together at 2:30 for a graduation ceremony in Los Pinos. It was unexpected, so we all ended up being very underdressed. We were all dressed for work, and they were all dressed in their best. It was so good to see many of the people that we have gotten close to over the last three years. It was also neat to see that the church is such a part of the community that it's building held a high school graduation ceremony, and there was even a short sermon in it. What a blessing!
It has been another great day in Honduras. We only have three work days before the group goes to Roatan on Thursday, August 4. Pray for us for strength in the last lfew days.
The first bus went to the airport to take a group of about fifteen to go home today. This group included the Chaffin family who everyone hated to see leave because they were all such an asset this year to our evangelism program, Deborah and Jessica Pyle, Caitlyn Grimes, Dr. Dan the dentist from Tupelo, Nikki, Beverly, Earl, and Sarah Ardnt, Sarah's boyfriend Kenny, Denny Madux, Mark McCain, and Jen and Karen that will run the children's home that will open in December. Each of these people were an important asset to our team in their own way. We hate to see each these people have to leave, but I am confident that they will each find their way back here next year. Also, I am confidant that each of these people's lives have been touched immensely from the time that they did spend here.
After this bus dropped the group off at the airport, another group went to Santa Anna to work on the land. Amazingly the building that peopl will use to worship God in was built in one week. The most amazing thing is that last Sunday, the land still was not cleared for this area. There were still three trees in the area where the building is now.
Another bus went to a village that Torch groups have not worked in for several years. This was the village of San Mateo, and the group did a medical clinic there today. As we were telling people about the clinic, we came across a woman who was very ill and could not get up. The only way she could get the help she needed was to go to the hospital, but she and the family refused for her to go; therefore, she likely will die. Here in Mateo, Emily Mathes dressed as a circus clown as entertainment for the children in line for the clinic. I must say that she makes a very bonita clown.
A third bus went to a village called 21 de Octubre or in English it is October 21st. Here we built three houses, one of which was for our truck driver's mom. The house built for Will's mom was bjuilt in memory of Mary Beth Willis' grandmother and Rick Willis' mom. She died only 4 days before the group came, so we are all very thankful that Rick still came.
All of the houses were finished by 3:00, and so Mark Connell aided each group in building beds that are attached to the walls of the house. When we are able to build beds, it is a wonderful addition to the house.
A fourth bus went to Nueva Oriental to deliver food. The delivered about 200 boxes of food in this village. While they were there Billy and Cisco were busy evangelizing, and we had two more baptisms here. Unexpectedly, when our group got to this village, another group was already working there. It was Steve Davidson's group from Nashville, TN who is staying at Baxter Institute of preaching. They were building three houses there, so part of our group decided to help them and swing a few nails. God's family is so huge; it is amazing that no matter where we go, we can always come into contact with people that are in God's family. This bus later met up with the group in October 21.
The fifth bus left to go to the hospital and the blind school. Today we decided to go to a different state hospital, Hospital San Felipe, which is the oldest Hospital in Honduras. After the hospital we went to the blind school, which is one of my favorite parts of coming to Honduras. It is so amazing to watch the children who can't see anything play soccer or to help each other find their way around. One of the most wonderful parts about this place is when we are able to here them sing. It is like God has sent little angels down to earth so that we can enjoy some of his music. The day we visit the blind school is always very emotional. Very rarely does anyone leave here with dry eyes.
Finally, a small group met together at 2:30 for a graduation ceremony in Los Pinos. It was unexpected, so we all ended up being very underdressed. We were all dressed for work, and they were all dressed in their best. It was so good to see many of the people that we have gotten close to over the last three years. It was also neat to see that the church is such a part of the community that it's building held a high school graduation ceremony, and there was even a short sermon in it. What a blessing!
It has been another great day in Honduras. We only have three work days before the group goes to Roatan on Thursday, August 4. Pray for us for strength in the last lfew days.
Saturday, July 30, 2005
Friday's Work
This day was at times trying on the emotions, and even a little frustrating, but as usual it was another great day!
This morning we sent a group to a village that has never seen gringos called Ciudad Espana. This is an area that the government paid about 1500 houses. The houses are nicer than many that we see in Honduras, but the people are equally poor. This appearence is very deceptive. There are many children that if they have shoes, they are mismatched. Many of the people have no food and no money to get food.
Yesterday, the group we sent to Ciudad Espana went for the purpose of surveying the work that needs to be reached. This community badly needs God in their life. Most of the people were very unreceptive to the evangelism of Billy and Cisco, but I pray that we will be able to reach this community in a big way. I hope that we can do more work in the community so that they can see what we are preaching in action. I think it would be absolutely amazing if a family moved into this community full time to reach this community. Also, in an effort to r each this community, we think that this would be a great opportunity for another Mi Esperanza training center so that we can help the women of this community.
After the group went to the community of Ciudad Espana, they went to Jimmy Hughe's children's home. One of the reasons that this is a children's home not an orphanage is because Jimmy does not want these kids to feel like they are abandoned, and that is the connotation that the word orphanage gives. Jimmy treats each person there equally, and they all love him and consider him a dad. This was one of the most emotional days that many people experienced. Jimmy is an ex-hitman that has become a Christian and has the love of Jesus and wants to give it to everyone else. He reminds all of the groups that it is their responsibility to tell everyone they ever come in contact with to tell about Jesus because we may be the only opportunity they ever have to hear about Jesus.
A different group today worked in a village that our TORCH group has not been to in many years. It is the village of Villa Nueva. Here they built two houses, and with the help and encouragement from Mark Connel, the entire group was finished with both houses and were on the bus by 4:00. This is a neat community because it is one of the only churches here where the preacher is not supported by anyone in the states. The church is growing all of the time, and it is not because of missionary groups that have come in; this happens because the people in their community are going and telling people about the love of God.
Yet another group spent the day in Santa Anna. No one who saw the land last Saturday would believe what this place looks like now. The building is almost finished, and after today, it will be ready to hold God's people. Also, there is now level land where Casa de Esperanza, the children's home will be.
A fourth group visited the children at the hospital. This team was led by Esperanza Massana, one of our translators. She has the most beuatiful heart of anyone I have ever met. She has been coming here to work with Torch groups for several years, and now she wants this to be part of her life forever. Praise God for what this ministry does to people's lives.
To this date, God has used this group in many ways. There are now 34 new Christian family members all over the city of Tegucigalpa. Many of this group of new Christians are the first in the communities, and this Sunday, they will have their first coorprate worship together. Many people have gotten houses this week, and many familys now have food. God is GREAT!! All the time!!!
It's been another great day!
This morning we sent a group to a village that has never seen gringos called Ciudad Espana. This is an area that the government paid about 1500 houses. The houses are nicer than many that we see in Honduras, but the people are equally poor. This appearence is very deceptive. There are many children that if they have shoes, they are mismatched. Many of the people have no food and no money to get food.
Yesterday, the group we sent to Ciudad Espana went for the purpose of surveying the work that needs to be reached. This community badly needs God in their life. Most of the people were very unreceptive to the evangelism of Billy and Cisco, but I pray that we will be able to reach this community in a big way. I hope that we can do more work in the community so that they can see what we are preaching in action. I think it would be absolutely amazing if a family moved into this community full time to reach this community. Also, in an effort to r each this community, we think that this would be a great opportunity for another Mi Esperanza training center so that we can help the women of this community.
After the group went to the community of Ciudad Espana, they went to Jimmy Hughe's children's home. One of the reasons that this is a children's home not an orphanage is because Jimmy does not want these kids to feel like they are abandoned, and that is the connotation that the word orphanage gives. Jimmy treats each person there equally, and they all love him and consider him a dad. This was one of the most emotional days that many people experienced. Jimmy is an ex-hitman that has become a Christian and has the love of Jesus and wants to give it to everyone else. He reminds all of the groups that it is their responsibility to tell everyone they ever come in contact with to tell about Jesus because we may be the only opportunity they ever have to hear about Jesus.
A different group today worked in a village that our TORCH group has not been to in many years. It is the village of Villa Nueva. Here they built two houses, and with the help and encouragement from Mark Connel, the entire group was finished with both houses and were on the bus by 4:00. This is a neat community because it is one of the only churches here where the preacher is not supported by anyone in the states. The church is growing all of the time, and it is not because of missionary groups that have come in; this happens because the people in their community are going and telling people about the love of God.
Yet another group spent the day in Santa Anna. No one who saw the land last Saturday would believe what this place looks like now. The building is almost finished, and after today, it will be ready to hold God's people. Also, there is now level land where Casa de Esperanza, the children's home will be.
A fourth group visited the children at the hospital. This team was led by Esperanza Massana, one of our translators. She has the most beuatiful heart of anyone I have ever met. She has been coming here to work with Torch groups for several years, and now she wants this to be part of her life forever. Praise God for what this ministry does to people's lives.
To this date, God has used this group in many ways. There are now 34 new Christian family members all over the city of Tegucigalpa. Many of this group of new Christians are the first in the communities, and this Sunday, they will have their first coorprate worship together. Many people have gotten houses this week, and many familys now have food. God is GREAT!! All the time!!!
It's been another great day!
Friday, July 29, 2005
One thing I forgot to mention in yesterday's post was that two couples in Nueva Oriental got married. Both couples had been living together for years, but never married. All of the people had become Christians this week and came to an understanding that not being married was wrong. Wesley Thompson performed his first wedding ceremony ever.
Today was wonderful. Every day this week, all five of the busses that it takes to transport our large group have left the gates of the Mission House before 9:00. We have so much to do every day, and there is no need to burn any more day light than we have to. I would love it if we could start work everyday by 7:00 every morning.
This morning we sent groups to Nueva Oriental, San Miguel, Santa Anna, the hospital, and a small group to the hospital.
Nueva Oriental... Today we sent only a small group of God's workers to Nueva Oriental. No houses were built here today; the group that went was there only for the reason of telling people about Jesus. This group included Billy Ferguson, Cisco Vega, Wesley Thompson, Michelle Rachjl, and David Kenser. Michelle has such a beautiful heart. She never wants anyone to go away without talking to them about the love of God. In the five years that I have known Michelle, I have seen her compassion not just for the people of Honduras, but for everyone she comes in contact with. She truly yearns that all people hear God's word. Five people were baptised today in a river about 20- 30 minutes away from tegucigalpa. Yesterday, a women decided be baptized, but was very scared to to get into one of the barrels to be baptized. When it was time to go to the river, 4 other people wanted to go to the river to be baptized as well, so they also went to the river. Josue, a Honduran that was baptized last year studied with several of these people, and was blessed with the experience of baptizing some of his friends. Two or three other people became Christians in Nueva Oriental. God is good, and he is really using his tools to bring people to know him.
San Miguel... We worked toaday in a village that has had a lot of damage from the rain. It has rained there every day this summer. At least 4 times this summer, the rain has forced the rocks to move and to change the landscape everytime.
Three houses were started and completed here today, and two of these three houses were destroyed completely by the heavy rains from this summer. The houses are up, and they are some of the most square house I have ever seen.
The evangelism team in San Miguel worked very hard today. It takes a lot of work to walk through the mountain of SanMiguel; it is very steep and very dangerous terrain. Rudy from Costa Rica and Claudia from Gulf Port, MS worked today as translat0rs with the evangelism team. There were no phisical results today, but I know that many seeds were planted.
Also today in San Miguel, a truckload of food was dellivered. It is always a blessing o see how a family is when they have received a small box of food. the church building just needs a floor and roof. Their group went to Santa Anna. the alls of the home, jusg gouns and voog.
At the hospital... Esperaza Mansana led a small grou to the hospital. After the group spent a couple houras at kids, they should go they went to the orphanage dirty. Everyone that spent their day up there toaday, and we are very blast by the things we ahve seen.
Tonight we were priviliged einough to have the women of Mi Esperanza over to present the progrem to the women. We also had a store for Mi Esperanza. This was a perfect way to end a day. Another great day.
Today was wonderful. Every day this week, all five of the busses that it takes to transport our large group have left the gates of the Mission House before 9:00. We have so much to do every day, and there is no need to burn any more day light than we have to. I would love it if we could start work everyday by 7:00 every morning.
This morning we sent groups to Nueva Oriental, San Miguel, Santa Anna, the hospital, and a small group to the hospital.
Nueva Oriental... Today we sent only a small group of God's workers to Nueva Oriental. No houses were built here today; the group that went was there only for the reason of telling people about Jesus. This group included Billy Ferguson, Cisco Vega, Wesley Thompson, Michelle Rachjl, and David Kenser. Michelle has such a beautiful heart. She never wants anyone to go away without talking to them about the love of God. In the five years that I have known Michelle, I have seen her compassion not just for the people of Honduras, but for everyone she comes in contact with. She truly yearns that all people hear God's word. Five people were baptised today in a river about 20- 30 minutes away from tegucigalpa. Yesterday, a women decided be baptized, but was very scared to to get into one of the barrels to be baptized. When it was time to go to the river, 4 other people wanted to go to the river to be baptized as well, so they also went to the river. Josue, a Honduran that was baptized last year studied with several of these people, and was blessed with the experience of baptizing some of his friends. Two or three other people became Christians in Nueva Oriental. God is good, and he is really using his tools to bring people to know him.
San Miguel... We worked toaday in a village that has had a lot of damage from the rain. It has rained there every day this summer. At least 4 times this summer, the rain has forced the rocks to move and to change the landscape everytime.
Three houses were started and completed here today, and two of these three houses were destroyed completely by the heavy rains from this summer. The houses are up, and they are some of the most square house I have ever seen.
The evangelism team in San Miguel worked very hard today. It takes a lot of work to walk through the mountain of SanMiguel; it is very steep and very dangerous terrain. Rudy from Costa Rica and Claudia from Gulf Port, MS worked today as translat0rs with the evangelism team. There were no phisical results today, but I know that many seeds were planted.
Also today in San Miguel, a truckload of food was dellivered. It is always a blessing o see how a family is when they have received a small box of food. the church building just needs a floor and roof. Their group went to Santa Anna. the alls of the home, jusg gouns and voog.
At the hospital... Esperaza Mansana led a small grou to the hospital. After the group spent a couple houras at kids, they should go they went to the orphanage dirty. Everyone that spent their day up there toaday, and we are very blast by the things we ahve seen.
Tonight we were priviliged einough to have the women of Mi Esperanza over to present the progrem to the women. We also had a store for Mi Esperanza. This was a perfect way to end a day. Another great day.
Thursday, July 28, 2005
Alive and Well
For all that heard about the bus wreck involving a group fromo Tupelo and New Albany, MS, please know that this was not anyone who is part of our group. Also know that all over Tegucigalpa as serparate groups found out about this cotastrophy, the various groups stopped whatever they were doiong to pray for those who are hurt and for the families of those that have died.
We accomplished a lot today, and God is definatetly using this group and making things into what he wants them to be.
Villa Gracia... A small group stayed here to assemble water filters that will be distributed around the communities in which we work.
Nueva Oriental... Three houses were finisthed, and the wood for the fourth house did not come today. Andrew Kurganevitch was a team leader for one f the housesm and he did an excelent job. Up the mountain, the group was hosting a carnival with tickets, prizes and games. We even had a cotton candy machine and they also made popcorn. Today, Billy left his tag team partner all alone today, but we people came to the realization that Billy has discipled others on how to give his Spanish lesson. 7 people in this village were baptized today, one of which (one was a gringo, and he was friends with her.
In Santa Anna... the crew working on the land did an awesome job on working on the house today. Nowi ti has three . There were one or two baptisms there as wel. The church site has about three walls up at the church site.
The hospital... This is always an emotional day. After the hospital,the group went to an orphanage. Tthey remember them as a great friend.
Its been another great day in HOnduras. Keep us in your prayers.
We accomplished a lot today, and God is definatetly using this group and making things into what he wants them to be.
Villa Gracia... A small group stayed here to assemble water filters that will be distributed around the communities in which we work.
Nueva Oriental... Three houses were finisthed, and the wood for the fourth house did not come today. Andrew Kurganevitch was a team leader for one f the housesm and he did an excelent job. Up the mountain, the group was hosting a carnival with tickets, prizes and games. We even had a cotton candy machine and they also made popcorn. Today, Billy left his tag team partner all alone today, but we people came to the realization that Billy has discipled others on how to give his Spanish lesson. 7 people in this village were baptized today, one of which (one was a gringo, and he was friends with her.
In Santa Anna... the crew working on the land did an awesome job on working on the house today. Nowi ti has three . There were one or two baptisms there as wel. The church site has about three walls up at the church site.
The hospital... This is always an emotional day. After the hospital,the group went to an orphanage. Tthey remember them as a great friend.
Its been another great day in HOnduras. Keep us in your prayers.
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Another Day's work
Wow! was a lot accomplished for the Lord today. I don't even know where to begin writing about the wonderful events that happened today. There are so many stories that have affected each individual personally; it is absolutely impossible to write all of these stories. I hope that those stories are all shared with friends and family when the group goes home.
I will start with the fantastic eight. These eight stayed at the mission house and yet again packed food. They entertained each other today, and I had more fun than ever packing food. Oftentimes, people choose to pack food because they believe that it will be an easy or light day, but it as equally as hard as any other thing that one could choose to take part in. The group was entertained by the Wheelbarrow lady and her sidekick as well as Bouyon Boy. There are now 700 boxes of food ready to be delivered to the hungry people here. Today the food packaging group had a blast serving the Lord and getting to know one another better.
Nueva Oriental... Mark Connell led the team to victory as they accomplished the three houses that were left unfinished yesterday because we never got our wood. (Actually these were the three houses where the teams had only dug postholes for the corner posts.) God used Billy and Cisco today to do great things for him. Some other preachers from the states worked with them also. By God using these men, 3 people in Nueva Oriental are now our sisters in Christ.
Santa Anna... Lots of work happened here today. The foundation at the church is ready to be laid; there are footers and level ground today. We will need Cynthia White here to show those men how it is done. Also the land for the orphanage is cleared and ready for work. Can't you imagine how cute those precious children will be? Also on the land today, was another day of VBS. Everyone saw the love that Phyllis Chaffin and Marylin Hunt gave to the children. They spent much one-on-one time coloring with children. They even missed the water balloon fight that has become a highlight of the VBS. Everyone involved with all of the VBS teams has done a great job and spent much time planning.
The VBS crew had to move some cement tiles sometime during the day, and they were all touched by a little Honduran girl Estephania who spent the time helping. She could only move one tile at a time, but is was one tile at a time that the group did not have to move. She did this the whole time with a big smile on her face.
In a remote area near Santa Anna, 4 houses were worked on. They are all almost complete. Two of them are finished, and the others will not take very long to finish. Praise God that 7 families who didn't have a place to live in this morning do now.
In Ojojona... Ojojona is a neat community directly up the hill from our land in Santa Anna. Today we had our first clinic of the trip. Doctor Jason Kelly from O'fallon, IL and Dan the dentist manned this project. They saw about two hundred people in about 5 hours. This group probably saw things that they have not seen before. Many of the children have worms and diareah.
There also was a VBS and Bible study with the adults here today. No one showed up for the meeting at 1:00 or even at 1:30 today, but that is ok; the group did not let Satan get them discouraged. They studied with people that were in line for the clinic, and we have three new familie members in Christ now in Ojojona. That means today we recieved 6 familiy members. What an amazing reason to celebrate!!! In just two days we have 17 new Christian family members.
Les Ferguson told a story of Daisy Gonzoles. She asked him to put her in his prayers. She is a married mother of 5 who became a Christian today. She asked for prayers that God would help her not do things that are wrong, that she would flee from evil ways, and that her husband woul accept God when he hears about him on Wednesday.
Food distribution... The Krug girls, Claire Chessir, and Russel Shaw had more fun riding around in Marc's truck delivering food. They found out that Torch's delivery truck runs like a HumV when it went up to places that even Marc was unsure about. This group was Jesus to many people today as they delivered 125 boxes of food. One lady even told them that all of her thanks was to God for the food. She said that she knew it was from him because she prayed for it. Praise God that she knew the work we are doing is not from us.
The hospital team... This morning Anibal Tamacas otherwise known as AB led a team to the hospital of about 15 people. There were two girls in our group who spent the day playing with a girl with Tiburculosus. They had no worries of catching this; and when asked about why they were doing it, they said that the little girl needed God's love too. Also some of our younger crew members experienced the burn unit. This is always a heart-wrenching experience. The crew saw a baby with a hernia. Also there was a little girl there with a pole through her leg. The entire group had a very emotional day.
AB told me that the most heart warming fulfilling part of his day was the part of the day when this group went to the special needs orphanage. This is a place where kids that are severely retarded can be taken care of and loved. The group spent about 3 hours with the kids. He said that they were able to play soccer with them, and it was much fun watching them try. They also spent time on the new playground built for them in the spring by a Torch group. Everyone was very uplifted after spending time with these special people.
Much happened today. God is awesome! It was another great day.
I will start with the fantastic eight. These eight stayed at the mission house and yet again packed food. They entertained each other today, and I had more fun than ever packing food. Oftentimes, people choose to pack food because they believe that it will be an easy or light day, but it as equally as hard as any other thing that one could choose to take part in. The group was entertained by the Wheelbarrow lady and her sidekick as well as Bouyon Boy. There are now 700 boxes of food ready to be delivered to the hungry people here. Today the food packaging group had a blast serving the Lord and getting to know one another better.
Nueva Oriental... Mark Connell led the team to victory as they accomplished the three houses that were left unfinished yesterday because we never got our wood. (Actually these were the three houses where the teams had only dug postholes for the corner posts.) God used Billy and Cisco today to do great things for him. Some other preachers from the states worked with them also. By God using these men, 3 people in Nueva Oriental are now our sisters in Christ.
Santa Anna... Lots of work happened here today. The foundation at the church is ready to be laid; there are footers and level ground today. We will need Cynthia White here to show those men how it is done. Also the land for the orphanage is cleared and ready for work. Can't you imagine how cute those precious children will be? Also on the land today, was another day of VBS. Everyone saw the love that Phyllis Chaffin and Marylin Hunt gave to the children. They spent much one-on-one time coloring with children. They even missed the water balloon fight that has become a highlight of the VBS. Everyone involved with all of the VBS teams has done a great job and spent much time planning.
The VBS crew had to move some cement tiles sometime during the day, and they were all touched by a little Honduran girl Estephania who spent the time helping. She could only move one tile at a time, but is was one tile at a time that the group did not have to move. She did this the whole time with a big smile on her face.
In a remote area near Santa Anna, 4 houses were worked on. They are all almost complete. Two of them are finished, and the others will not take very long to finish. Praise God that 7 families who didn't have a place to live in this morning do now.
In Ojojona... Ojojona is a neat community directly up the hill from our land in Santa Anna. Today we had our first clinic of the trip. Doctor Jason Kelly from O'fallon, IL and Dan the dentist manned this project. They saw about two hundred people in about 5 hours. This group probably saw things that they have not seen before. Many of the children have worms and diareah.
There also was a VBS and Bible study with the adults here today. No one showed up for the meeting at 1:00 or even at 1:30 today, but that is ok; the group did not let Satan get them discouraged. They studied with people that were in line for the clinic, and we have three new familie members in Christ now in Ojojona. That means today we recieved 6 familiy members. What an amazing reason to celebrate!!! In just two days we have 17 new Christian family members.
Les Ferguson told a story of Daisy Gonzoles. She asked him to put her in his prayers. She is a married mother of 5 who became a Christian today. She asked for prayers that God would help her not do things that are wrong, that she would flee from evil ways, and that her husband woul accept God when he hears about him on Wednesday.
Food distribution... The Krug girls, Claire Chessir, and Russel Shaw had more fun riding around in Marc's truck delivering food. They found out that Torch's delivery truck runs like a HumV when it went up to places that even Marc was unsure about. This group was Jesus to many people today as they delivered 125 boxes of food. One lady even told them that all of her thanks was to God for the food. She said that she knew it was from him because she prayed for it. Praise God that she knew the work we are doing is not from us.
The hospital team... This morning Anibal Tamacas otherwise known as AB led a team to the hospital of about 15 people. There were two girls in our group who spent the day playing with a girl with Tiburculosus. They had no worries of catching this; and when asked about why they were doing it, they said that the little girl needed God's love too. Also some of our younger crew members experienced the burn unit. This is always a heart-wrenching experience. The crew saw a baby with a hernia. Also there was a little girl there with a pole through her leg. The entire group had a very emotional day.
AB told me that the most heart warming fulfilling part of his day was the part of the day when this group went to the special needs orphanage. This is a place where kids that are severely retarded can be taken care of and loved. The group spent about 3 hours with the kids. He said that they were able to play soccer with them, and it was much fun watching them try. They also spent time on the new playground built for them in the spring by a Torch group. Everyone was very uplifted after spending time with these special people.
Much happened today. God is awesome! It was another great day.
Monday, July 25, 2005
Things don't always go as planned... welcome to honduras
I would like to begin with a side not to Cynthia White: I read your comments to your family, and Don, Andy, your dad, and Larry were able to go to Los Pinos on Sunday via truck. Also know that block laying is definately not the same without you here.
This morning we began at devo by presenting pink toolbelts to the six ladies from Borger, TX because of their hard work throughout the year for a mission that only one had ever experienced. These ladies were able to raise almost $10,000 to go towards benevolence. They also earned all of their money to pay for their expenses to get here. Great work ladies!
This morning we sent several groups in many directions. One group led by Terri Tindall stayed at the Mission House to spend the day packing food. Althogh this at first sounds like a very easy task, it is not. When food is packs beans, rice, sugar, and flour are carefully packaged from the huge bags that they are bought in into gallon sized ziplocks. Also in the food boxes things of spaghetti, tomato sauce, lard, some coffee, and most importantly, a Spanish bible. The contents of this box can typically feed a family here from anywhere between two weeks and a month. Tomorrow, several hundred families will have their prayers answered when Jesus sends people to them with a box of food.
At Nueva Oriental... Here all of the construction crews experienced one of those "Welcome to Honduras" kind of days. This expression is often stated when things don't go exactly as planned. The plan was to build four houses in this village today. Mark Connell and some of his interns arrived in the village early to find the sites that needed to be built. None of them were very easy to get to, and none of them were very close to the road in which the wood is delivered. Some people were surprised at where the sites were chosen, but if we didn't make the trek across the mountain to build these people's houses, then who would? The first load of wood arrived shortly after the group, so one group was able to move the wood and then get to work on this house. The people at the other three sites were all promised that a semi carrying enough wood to construct the other three houses. Sometime between 12:30 and 1:00 we found out that the man driving the truck drove the wood to the place where houses are supposed to be built tomorrow. In many circumstances, most people would become impatient and frusterated at the 2 and 1/2 hours they waited, but instead, we saw people on each house site getting to know others better, and taking time to play with and love on the children. Over the years I have learned here that losing my cool on a day like this does no good; I end up yelling at things that I cannot control, and nothing changes. It sure is nice to no that God is in control of everything. When we found out that the woo was not coming today, the three teams that had no wood loaded up on a bus to go to Santa Anna. So that they could get started on the houses that were supposed to be built tomorrow. Guess what? That did not happen.
While the construction, or should I say lack of construction, was happening, evangelim teams were all over the mountain. These groups scaled the mountain for hours telling people about the afternoon Bible study and also to tell peoplle about the VBS that was going to happen the same tie as the group study. The evangelism crew is led by Billy Ferguson and Cisco Vega. The VBS team is led by Paul Bennett. Paul was told that probably only 40 or so kids would be joining the VBS; however, closer to 140 kids showed up today. Fortuneatley, Paul and his crew rolled with the punches and handled the many extra chil . Throuout the day, 7 ladies in Nueva Orientasl decided to became Christians today.
Santa Anna... Here Don White headed up the crew to build the church building. This morning there was no back hoe, nor were there footers dug for the building. Yet again, welcome to Honduras. People here still found plenty of work to take part of today. All of the block needed for the church was moved to the church site. The side walk here was extended more. (Sidewalks here are going to wind through everything.) It looks absolutely beautiful. Dirt was hauled all day long, and cement was mixed for various projects.
In Santa Anna, a Bible study and a VBS also took place here today. I wish that everyone could have seen how intently the children were listening to the team toing the VBS; it was wonerful. Another group held a Bible study here too with a group of women. Three people were added into our family in Santa Anna today. Praise God!!!
Hospital Escuala... This group was led by Oscar Mansana, one of our translators from El Salvador. Here, many people were shared God through smiles, hugs, small gifts, and prayers. Days of visiting the hospital are always very emotional and heart breaking.
Everyone arrived back to the Mission House both exhausted and pumped for God. Tonight's devotional was led by Ray Wood, who gave testimony about his life and how he became a Christian. We all were touched by this and moved to tears.
As soon as devo ended, our own Holly from Vicksburg, MS told Kirt Hunt that the time had come. She was ready to be baptized into Christ. We all immediately gathered around the fountain in front of the girl's dorm What a perfect way to end the night. It's been another great day here in Honduras. Keep praying for us.
This morning we began at devo by presenting pink toolbelts to the six ladies from Borger, TX because of their hard work throughout the year for a mission that only one had ever experienced. These ladies were able to raise almost $10,000 to go towards benevolence. They also earned all of their money to pay for their expenses to get here. Great work ladies!
This morning we sent several groups in many directions. One group led by Terri Tindall stayed at the Mission House to spend the day packing food. Althogh this at first sounds like a very easy task, it is not. When food is packs beans, rice, sugar, and flour are carefully packaged from the huge bags that they are bought in into gallon sized ziplocks. Also in the food boxes things of spaghetti, tomato sauce, lard, some coffee, and most importantly, a Spanish bible. The contents of this box can typically feed a family here from anywhere between two weeks and a month. Tomorrow, several hundred families will have their prayers answered when Jesus sends people to them with a box of food.
At Nueva Oriental... Here all of the construction crews experienced one of those "Welcome to Honduras" kind of days. This expression is often stated when things don't go exactly as planned. The plan was to build four houses in this village today. Mark Connell and some of his interns arrived in the village early to find the sites that needed to be built. None of them were very easy to get to, and none of them were very close to the road in which the wood is delivered. Some people were surprised at where the sites were chosen, but if we didn't make the trek across the mountain to build these people's houses, then who would? The first load of wood arrived shortly after the group, so one group was able to move the wood and then get to work on this house. The people at the other three sites were all promised that a semi carrying enough wood to construct the other three houses. Sometime between 12:30 and 1:00 we found out that the man driving the truck drove the wood to the place where houses are supposed to be built tomorrow. In many circumstances, most people would become impatient and frusterated at the 2 and 1/2 hours they waited, but instead, we saw people on each house site getting to know others better, and taking time to play with and love on the children. Over the years I have learned here that losing my cool on a day like this does no good; I end up yelling at things that I cannot control, and nothing changes. It sure is nice to no that God is in control of everything. When we found out that the woo was not coming today, the three teams that had no wood loaded up on a bus to go to Santa Anna. So that they could get started on the houses that were supposed to be built tomorrow. Guess what? That did not happen.
While the construction, or should I say lack of construction, was happening, evangelim teams were all over the mountain. These groups scaled the mountain for hours telling people about the afternoon Bible study and also to tell peoplle about the VBS that was going to happen the same tie as the group study. The evangelism crew is led by Billy Ferguson and Cisco Vega. The VBS team is led by Paul Bennett. Paul was told that probably only 40 or so kids would be joining the VBS; however, closer to 140 kids showed up today. Fortuneatley, Paul and his crew rolled with the punches and handled the many extra chil . Throuout the day, 7 ladies in Nueva Orientasl decided to became Christians today.
Santa Anna... Here Don White headed up the crew to build the church building. This morning there was no back hoe, nor were there footers dug for the building. Yet again, welcome to Honduras. People here still found plenty of work to take part of today. All of the block needed for the church was moved to the church site. The side walk here was extended more. (Sidewalks here are going to wind through everything.) It looks absolutely beautiful. Dirt was hauled all day long, and cement was mixed for various projects.
In Santa Anna, a Bible study and a VBS also took place here today. I wish that everyone could have seen how intently the children were listening to the team toing the VBS; it was wonerful. Another group held a Bible study here too with a group of women. Three people were added into our family in Santa Anna today. Praise God!!!
Hospital Escuala... This group was led by Oscar Mansana, one of our translators from El Salvador. Here, many people were shared God through smiles, hugs, small gifts, and prayers. Days of visiting the hospital are always very emotional and heart breaking.
Everyone arrived back to the Mission House both exhausted and pumped for God. Tonight's devotional was led by Ray Wood, who gave testimony about his life and how he became a Christian. We all were touched by this and moved to tears.
As soon as devo ended, our own Holly from Vicksburg, MS told Kirt Hunt that the time had come. She was ready to be baptized into Christ. We all immediately gathered around the fountain in front of the girl's dorm What a perfect way to end the night. It's been another great day here in Honduras. Keep praying for us.
Sunday, July 24, 2005
This morning we were able to get some much needed rest, and we did not have worship until 10:00. We were unable to worship with congregations in villages that we work in because the rains this summer have destroyed the roads and made it nearly impossible for our busses to pass. Instead, we worshiped with each other this morning at a beautiful overlook of a valley the mission house. David Kenser from Hot Springs, AR and Wesley Thompson from Starkville, MS each delivered a message. Soon after our time of praise ended, we piled up in the busses to go eat at an area with several American fast food restaurants.
While we were eating, Kirt Hunt, Oscar Masana, and Andrew Kurganevitch siezed an opportunity to wittness to a couple Honuran men. At the same time, several people in the group entertained some poor Honduran street kids by taking them in to the restaurants to get some food and spending time with them while they ate. Come to find out for of the boys (Suel, Danial, Josue, and Oscar) are from Los Pinos, a village that many Torch groups have worked in over the past two or three years.
After lunch, it was time for work. We headed to the village of Santa Anna. Here a large piece of land was bought in April. On this land there will be: sixteen families with new homes, a place for the church to worship, a full time free clinic, a police post, a Mi Esperanza Artisan center, a children's home that will be full of children who today are dirty, hungry and unloved. Within months, the walls of the chilren's home will be full of laughter and love.
We needed to get quite a bit of work done here today to prepare for the work that will happen over the next two weeks. We cleared the land for the the church building. Also, an assembly line was formed to move concrete blocks up to the church site. While this was happening, a group was moving wheel barrows of dirt down the hill so that cement can be made tomorrow.
While we were working, the last part of our group showed up (the ones that didn't come yesterday) When they joined us, we took a time for everyone to celebrate communion with each other and to celebrate our risen savior.
After we spent time in communion, the entire group headed to sthe area where the children's home will be built. Here the entire group gathered around Jen and Karen to pray. They have given up everything they know and all that is familiar to them to do a work here that they are in love with. They will work with the children's home and give an abundance of love to the children and teach them about Jesus. this was very heart-touching, and many eyes were tear-filled.
Tonight we planned to go to the Jesus Statue for our devotional, but as usual, things in Honduras change. Because of the rain today, we couldn't go to the Jesus statue. Instead we had worship at the mission house. Imagine our group of 171 along with plus about 20 others singing to God with everything they have. It was indeed another great day
While we were eating, Kirt Hunt, Oscar Masana, and Andrew Kurganevitch siezed an opportunity to wittness to a couple Honuran men. At the same time, several people in the group entertained some poor Honduran street kids by taking them in to the restaurants to get some food and spending time with them while they ate. Come to find out for of the boys (Suel, Danial, Josue, and Oscar) are from Los Pinos, a village that many Torch groups have worked in over the past two or three years.
After lunch, it was time for work. We headed to the village of Santa Anna. Here a large piece of land was bought in April. On this land there will be: sixteen families with new homes, a place for the church to worship, a full time free clinic, a police post, a Mi Esperanza Artisan center, a children's home that will be full of children who today are dirty, hungry and unloved. Within months, the walls of the chilren's home will be full of laughter and love.
We needed to get quite a bit of work done here today to prepare for the work that will happen over the next two weeks. We cleared the land for the the church building. Also, an assembly line was formed to move concrete blocks up to the church site. While this was happening, a group was moving wheel barrows of dirt down the hill so that cement can be made tomorrow.
While we were working, the last part of our group showed up (the ones that didn't come yesterday) When they joined us, we took a time for everyone to celebrate communion with each other and to celebrate our risen savior.
After we spent time in communion, the entire group headed to sthe area where the children's home will be built. Here the entire group gathered around Jen and Karen to pray. They have given up everything they know and all that is familiar to them to do a work here that they are in love with. They will work with the children's home and give an abundance of love to the children and teach them about Jesus. this was very heart-touching, and many eyes were tear-filled.
Tonight we planned to go to the Jesus Statue for our devotional, but as usual, things in Honduras change. Because of the rain today, we couldn't go to the Jesus statue. Instead we had worship at the mission house. Imagine our group of 171 along with plus about 20 others singing to God with everything they have. It was indeed another great day
commenting
If anyone would like to send a message to anyone in the group, post a comment by clicking in the post comment section, and put the first and last name of the person receiving the message in the first line of the comment space.
Saturday, July 23, 2005
Here at last
The time many people thought would nnever get here is here at last. About 115 of the 175 people arrived safely in Tegucigalpa today. Unfortunately, two people from Hot Springs, AR did not make it in today like they planned. Gabriella and Steve Hogue were unable to make it in today, because they came into some problems with their visas. Pray that God works these problems out and that no one allows the many distractions satan is throwing around to not get them down. Also the group from Hot Springs did not make it with al of their baggage, so pray that all of it gets here soon.
After everyone arrived we went across the street from the airport to grab lunch. The whole group worked hard to make sure that they received no enslada (salad) on their hamburgers and no heilo (ice) in their drinks. If only they knew and understood that everything was ok to eat... Oh well! Better safe than sorry.
As soon as the food was gone and faces were wiped off the group packed like sardines into two of the busses in the TORCH fleet. At least we were only going up to Villa Garcia or what we call the Mission House. All of the newbies that had never experienced riding in Honduras were definately in for a treat unless they dislike rollercoasters. As soon as we arrived and settled in Billy Ferguson led a seminar for anyone interested in doing one-on-one evagelism while working here. At least very eager people attended this meeting. During the same time of the evangelism meeting, Paul Bennet had a time of planning with all of those that want to be involved in Vacation Bible School.
While the meetings were happening, a small group met Mark Connell and some TORCH interns in the village of Nueva Oriental so that they could learn how to put in a floor and how to make the house as square as possible. NO JUNK FOR JESUS!!! The floors are such an improvevment and immensely improve the quality of the TORCH houses. I hope that each person on this trip has the opportunity to put in a floor.
After the meetings were over and the construction crew had finished building, everyone was oriented to the rules and regulations of the trip. They also were told of some of the amazing things that God has in store for this trip.
Devotional tonight was exciting and inspiring. I always am encouraged when I hear so many people singing with everything they have to the one we love and serve. As usual we ended the day with the question "Where did you see Jesus today?" This is a question that causes people to think. Through the trip pray that our eyes are open and that we all meet Jesus face to face.
It was another great day in Honduras!!
After everyone arrived we went across the street from the airport to grab lunch. The whole group worked hard to make sure that they received no enslada (salad) on their hamburgers and no heilo (ice) in their drinks. If only they knew and understood that everything was ok to eat... Oh well! Better safe than sorry.
As soon as the food was gone and faces were wiped off the group packed like sardines into two of the busses in the TORCH fleet. At least we were only going up to Villa Garcia or what we call the Mission House. All of the newbies that had never experienced riding in Honduras were definately in for a treat unless they dislike rollercoasters. As soon as we arrived and settled in Billy Ferguson led a seminar for anyone interested in doing one-on-one evagelism while working here. At least very eager people attended this meeting. During the same time of the evangelism meeting, Paul Bennet had a time of planning with all of those that want to be involved in Vacation Bible School.
While the meetings were happening, a small group met Mark Connell and some TORCH interns in the village of Nueva Oriental so that they could learn how to put in a floor and how to make the house as square as possible. NO JUNK FOR JESUS!!! The floors are such an improvevment and immensely improve the quality of the TORCH houses. I hope that each person on this trip has the opportunity to put in a floor.
After the meetings were over and the construction crew had finished building, everyone was oriented to the rules and regulations of the trip. They also were told of some of the amazing things that God has in store for this trip.
Devotional tonight was exciting and inspiring. I always am encouraged when I hear so many people singing with everything they have to the one we love and serve. As usual we ended the day with the question "Where did you see Jesus today?" This is a question that causes people to think. Through the trip pray that our eyes are open and that we all meet Jesus face to face.
It was another great day in Honduras!!
Tuesday, July 19, 2005
The Time Has Arrived
July 23 – August 6th
July 23 – Arrivals 11:00 to 12:30
Clear customs / lunch and arrive at Mission House between 2:00 & 2:30
Work /
Food Distribution – pack out 2 loads of food
Evangelism Training – Billy to conduct class
Evangelism Training – VBS Planning
IRC Warehouse – Crew to straighten & clean up
Orientation
Devotional
Lights out 10:30
July 24th – Arrivals 12:18
Breakfast 7:00 to 8:15
Two locations for worship – Los Pinos & San Miguel – depart at 9:15
Lunch – Campero’s area
Work planned at
Join up with new arrivals at
Ground Breaking for Casa de Esperanza
Communion at church site
Devotional at Jesus Statue
Return to mission house and orientation for Sunday arrivals
Lights out at 10:30
July 25th – August 3 for most & August 5th for others.
The work begins – daily schedule except Sunday
Breakfast 6:30 to 7:30
Devotional 7:45
Buses depart to work sites at 8:45
Work Opportunities -
House Crews – 4 – average per day
Church Construction in
Block House Construction
Children’s Home – visits and work almost daily
Hospital Esquela - daily
Evangelism – Teaching - daily
Evangelism – VBS - daily
Food Assembly & Food Distribution - daily
IRC Warehouse – assembly of clinic, distribution, clothing, etc
Clinics will be the end of week one and beginning of week two.
August 6th – We go back to our homes and plan another year!
Monday, July 18, 2005
Feet
The feet in this picture belong to two little girls that I met in April in a village called Cuidad Espania. Both of these beautiful children had smiles and were as happy as any children that you might meet here in the states - the difference is, that they have always been poor and they don't know anything different. One day soon, they will realize that everyone isn't always hungry, that their clothes are dirty and that the shoes that the wear don't match - if they even have shoes.Next week we will operate the TORCH Shoe Store and we'll wash a lot of feet like this - then we'll make sure that they have new shoes - that match.
That will be.....Another Great Day in Honduras.........
(see you this weekend)
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
ROATAN
As most of you know, we have a tradition of ending our mission in Roatan. That tradition will continue this year however, there will be another option.Our group size prevents us all from travelling to Roatan at the same time. Since we all can't go at the same time, we are offering the first 40 volunteers the option of staying in Tegucigalpa and working on a few more projects, building a couple of houses, feeding a few more people, playing with a few more kids, and doing what we love to do for a couple more days.
Please call my cell or email me if you want to be one of the lucky group that stay's in Tegucigalpa for 2 more great days in Honduras.
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
Get Ready To Build
When the groups travelling on the 23rd arrive in Tegucigalpa, they will go from the airport to lunch and then straight to work. Well have teams going to pack food, learn how to build a 2005 style house, preparing for VBS, & preparing for evangelism.
Here is a sample of what we will see when we go up the mountain to the House Building 101 class.
Floors are one of the most exciting additions to Hondo Houses that we have ever done. I can't wait to pound the first nails.
We are also adding other additions like bunk beds and even some houses with two rooms!
Get ready to build! We are gonna have a great time and 14 GREAT DAYS IN HONDURAS.
Friday, July 08, 2005
Down To The Wire
Folks, we are down to the wire.
In two weeks we hit the ground in Tegucigalpa and will not stop till the job is done.
The conference call was great and we are planning to email out all flight information by Monday the 11th. If you need your information sooner, please send me an email and I'll get it to you.
All you need to know is this - Unless I've told you something different, you will be on American Airlines and you will be leaving very early in the morning - either the 23rd or the 24th.
If your departure city is Miami, you get to sleep in a little.
When you get your schedule and locater numbers, go to the American web site and pull off your confirmation.
Our benevolence and working fund is growing but, I need to get as much of your earnings as soon as you can get it to me. I had to send a big chunk of money to Honduras this week to pre pay for a lot of our construction material and that means that our budget will be very tight unless you can help us by sending the benevolence dollars so I can get them on deposit.
Many of the items that we we paid for on delivery last year are now pre-paid through our US based account that is tied to a Honduran bank.
Please make sure that all your friends, families, and sponsors have this blog address. This is the place where our reports will be posted.
See you soon!
Marc
In two weeks we hit the ground in Tegucigalpa and will not stop till the job is done.
The conference call was great and we are planning to email out all flight information by Monday the 11th. If you need your information sooner, please send me an email and I'll get it to you.
All you need to know is this - Unless I've told you something different, you will be on American Airlines and you will be leaving very early in the morning - either the 23rd or the 24th.
If your departure city is Miami, you get to sleep in a little.
When you get your schedule and locater numbers, go to the American web site and pull off your confirmation.
Our benevolence and working fund is growing but, I need to get as much of your earnings as soon as you can get it to me. I had to send a big chunk of money to Honduras this week to pre pay for a lot of our construction material and that means that our budget will be very tight unless you can help us by sending the benevolence dollars so I can get them on deposit.
Many of the items that we we paid for on delivery last year are now pre-paid through our US based account that is tied to a Honduran bank.
Please make sure that all your friends, families, and sponsors have this blog address. This is the place where our reports will be posted.
See you soon!
Marc
Friday, July 01, 2005
Let's Talk About It
It's July! and we are only three weeks away from our departure. I am sure that many of you have questions and suggestions and that is why I have set up a way for many of us to get together on a conference call.
Here is the plan -
On Tuesday July 5th at 6:00 PM Central we will have a conference call that will involve one person from every group of 5 or more. That means that I need confirmation by email from someone in each of the following locations -
Starkville, MS
Columbus, MS
Tupelo, MS
Gulfport, MS
Vicksburg, MS
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Orlando, FL
Charlotte, NC - Archdale
Charlotte, NC - All others
Hot Springs, AR
Borger, TX
I am hoping that every group is reading the info here and that I am not chasing you down. Please send me an email confirmation that you are planning to be on this call. We will be discussing work plans, travel plans, trip info, etc. I don't mind if you are using a conference phone or a speaker phone but, please DO NOT CALL FROM A CELL PHONE.
Here is the dial in info -
A few minutes before 6:00 PM CENTRAL / 7:00 PM Eastern - dial 1-866-295-5950
You will be asked for an access code and your code is 28534#
If you have questions and can email them to me in advance, I would appreciate it.
We are getting close!
Marc
Here is the plan -
On Tuesday July 5th at 6:00 PM Central we will have a conference call that will involve one person from every group of 5 or more. That means that I need confirmation by email from someone in each of the following locations -
Starkville, MS
Columbus, MS
Tupelo, MS
Gulfport, MS
Vicksburg, MS
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Orlando, FL
Charlotte, NC - Archdale
Charlotte, NC - All others
Hot Springs, AR
Borger, TX
I am hoping that every group is reading the info here and that I am not chasing you down. Please send me an email confirmation that you are planning to be on this call. We will be discussing work plans, travel plans, trip info, etc. I don't mind if you are using a conference phone or a speaker phone but, please DO NOT CALL FROM A CELL PHONE.
Here is the dial in info -
A few minutes before 6:00 PM CENTRAL / 7:00 PM Eastern - dial 1-866-295-5950
You will be asked for an access code and your code is 28534#
If you have questions and can email them to me in advance, I would appreciate it.
We are getting close!
Marc
Friday, June 24, 2005
URGENT
If you are reading this message you are either going on the Mississippi TORCH mission or you are interested in the work. I have named this message URGENT because there is a crisis in many of the areas of Honduras where we will be working.
RAIN TODAY DESTROYED 10 HOUSES IN SAN MIGUEL
RAIN TODAY DESTROYED SEVERAL HOUSES IN LOS PINOS
RAIN TODAY DESTROYED MANY HOMES IN VILLA NUEVA
MANY PEOPLE ARE HOMELESS!
Folks, if you have been working on raising money to build houses - please don't stop.
If you have raised money for your trip but haven't done anything to raise dollars for the cause - get to telling the story and asking for the funds that we'll need to do what God has planned for us to do.
Please pray for the people that are feeling hopeless and helpless right now. Pray that they will be comforted and that God will deliver them a home.
Thank you for your attention and your work on this need.
(possible ways to get people to give - skip a meal and donate the $$, fast for a day / with prayer and save the money, shorten vacation by a day and donate the $$$, sell something that you really like and donate the $$$ - knowing that you will be reminded that it was a real sacrifice)
God is good ... all the time - even in the face of darkness his light will always shine through!
RAIN TODAY DESTROYED 10 HOUSES IN SAN MIGUEL
RAIN TODAY DESTROYED SEVERAL HOUSES IN LOS PINOS
RAIN TODAY DESTROYED MANY HOMES IN VILLA NUEVA
MANY PEOPLE ARE HOMELESS!
Folks, if you have been working on raising money to build houses - please don't stop.
If you have raised money for your trip but haven't done anything to raise dollars for the cause - get to telling the story and asking for the funds that we'll need to do what God has planned for us to do.
Please pray for the people that are feeling hopeless and helpless right now. Pray that they will be comforted and that God will deliver them a home.
Thank you for your attention and your work on this need.
(possible ways to get people to give - skip a meal and donate the $$, fast for a day / with prayer and save the money, shorten vacation by a day and donate the $$$, sell something that you really like and donate the $$$ - knowing that you will be reminded that it was a real sacrifice)
God is good ... all the time - even in the face of darkness his light will always shine through!
Less Than A Month
Can you believe that in less than 30 days our team will come together in Tegucigalpa for 2 weeks of unbelievable work, praise, and togetherness?
We still have a lot to do but, from my POV, we are going to be very prepared. After all, we couldn't have had a better planner. Our God planned this ministry before time and all we are doing is becoming the tools that he selected for the work. Simple!
As a reminder, next Friday is July 1st and that is when I really need to have your final payment in my mail box. I need to send be able to send money to Honduras to pay for all of our lodging and our transportation. I also need to send money in advance to pay for lumber to build the homes that we have in the plan. That means that if you or your group are planning to sponsor the construction of houses, I need to get the checks for that work as soon as possible. If we don't pay in advance of our departure for wood, there isn't any guarantee that we will have it.
I plan to announce a conference number & time on Monday for all leaders. I can't afford for everyone to call-in but, we will have at least 12 to 15 on the call. We'll make sure that everybody has flight information, and answer any open questions. In the mean time, feel free to give me a call or an email if you need answers.
Best I can tell...we have
28 Days till
Great days in Honduras
We still have a lot to do but, from my POV, we are going to be very prepared. After all, we couldn't have had a better planner. Our God planned this ministry before time and all we are doing is becoming the tools that he selected for the work. Simple!
As a reminder, next Friday is July 1st and that is when I really need to have your final payment in my mail box. I need to send be able to send money to Honduras to pay for all of our lodging and our transportation. I also need to send money in advance to pay for lumber to build the homes that we have in the plan. That means that if you or your group are planning to sponsor the construction of houses, I need to get the checks for that work as soon as possible. If we don't pay in advance of our departure for wood, there isn't any guarantee that we will have it.
I plan to announce a conference number & time on Monday for all leaders. I can't afford for everyone to call-in but, we will have at least 12 to 15 on the call. We'll make sure that everybody has flight information, and answer any open questions. In the mean time, feel free to give me a call or an email if you need answers.
Best I can tell...we have
28 Days till
Great days in Honduras
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Houses, Houses, & More Houses
Since yesterday's post, I have heard about 4 more houses that we will be building in Honduras. WoW!
The church in Borger, Texas had already sent a check to build a house and we now know that there was enough extra money from a special contribution to build another.
Also from Texas, we recieved a check from the church in Shamrock. That is the former church of one of the "Borger Girls" and that means that they have now played a role in funding 6 houses.
This afternoon, we found out that Anne Weaver & her mom want to build a Honduran house. "Atta' girl Anne". Anne is joining our team from Raleigh, NC. Thank's Weaver's, because of you, a family will have a dry place to sleep.
Lastly, I had a call freom my friend Les Ferguson telling me about the Gulfport experience at a WalMart SuperCenter. The team form the south had a bake sale at the SuperCenter and raised almost $1,100.
Hey Gulfport - get ready to pound nails.
Tupelo, MS has a golf tournament and raised over $1,000.........House or Food - y'all decide...
God is good..... All the time!
Marc
The church in Borger, Texas had already sent a check to build a house and we now know that there was enough extra money from a special contribution to build another.
Also from Texas, we recieved a check from the church in Shamrock. That is the former church of one of the "Borger Girls" and that means that they have now played a role in funding 6 houses.
This afternoon, we found out that Anne Weaver & her mom want to build a Honduran house. "Atta' girl Anne". Anne is joining our team from Raleigh, NC. Thank's Weaver's, because of you, a family will have a dry place to sleep.
Lastly, I had a call freom my friend Les Ferguson telling me about the Gulfport experience at a WalMart SuperCenter. The team form the south had a bake sale at the SuperCenter and raised almost $1,100.
Hey Gulfport - get ready to pound nails.
Tupelo, MS has a golf tournament and raised over $1,000.........House or Food - y'all decide...
God is good..... All the time!
Marc
Monday, June 20, 2005
Casa de Esperanza
The House of Hope!
This weekend Terri & I travelled to Belpre, Ohio to meet with the Elders and the Mission Comittee about a project called Casa de Esperanza. This is the name of a children's home that will begin construction on July 23rd. That's right - the construction date is the same as our arrival date. I wonder who is gonna be working on this project?
We went to Belpre because that is the home congregation of my friends Jen Wright and Karen Vaughan. Jen & Karen are comitted to leaving their homes on October 25th, 2005 and moving to Tegucigalpa to run Casa de Esperanza. The Belpre Church is considering the level of support that they will dedicate to this important & life changing work. (Pray about their decision)
Isn't it cool that our team will be setting the corner stone for this project!
Next summer Casa de Esperanza will be the home to 20 or more little girls that really need a place that they can call home. Right now these 20 little girls are probably hungry, probably in a place without much love, probably in a place that is dangerous, and probably cannot even fathom the way that Casa de Esperanza will change their lives.
This is going to be fun!
Marc
ps: In my last post about the "Borger Girls" I accidently left out a key member of the team. Sorry about that Hanna Krug! You can get me back when we get to Honduras.
32 Days till
14 Great Days in Honduras!
This weekend Terri & I travelled to Belpre, Ohio to meet with the Elders and the Mission Comittee about a project called Casa de Esperanza. This is the name of a children's home that will begin construction on July 23rd. That's right - the construction date is the same as our arrival date. I wonder who is gonna be working on this project?
We went to Belpre because that is the home congregation of my friends Jen Wright and Karen Vaughan. Jen & Karen are comitted to leaving their homes on October 25th, 2005 and moving to Tegucigalpa to run Casa de Esperanza. The Belpre Church is considering the level of support that they will dedicate to this important & life changing work. (Pray about their decision)
Isn't it cool that our team will be setting the corner stone for this project!
Next summer Casa de Esperanza will be the home to 20 or more little girls that really need a place that they can call home. Right now these 20 little girls are probably hungry, probably in a place without much love, probably in a place that is dangerous, and probably cannot even fathom the way that Casa de Esperanza will change their lives.
This is going to be fun!
Marc
ps: In my last post about the "Borger Girls" I accidently left out a key member of the team. Sorry about that Hanna Krug! You can get me back when we get to Honduras.
32 Days till
14 Great Days in Honduras!
Friday, June 17, 2005
The Borger Girls
I just gotta let everybody know what is happening in the Texas panhandle town of Borger. That is the place where I grew up and where my folks still live. Last year over the Christmas holidays, I was able to speak to the congregation at the church of my childhood. I told my Borger church family about the work in Honduras and about TORCH. It was a great experience and the church donated enough money to build a house and even more important, one young lady had the courage to say that she wanted to be a part of our team.
Deborah Krug joined our team in 2004 and she is bringing 5 more with her in 2005. On top of just coming, Deborah, Shauna, Naomi, Breanna, & Lanetta (the Borger Team) & their supporters have raised enough money to build more than 4 houses and feed 20 families for a month. All of this has been accomplished by prayer and hard work.
More good things are happining this weekend.
Terri (my wife) & I will be travelling to Belpre, Ohio where I will be meeting with the elders and the mission comittee to discuss their potential support of Casa de Esperanza - our new children's home in Honduras. Our team will be doing some of the initial work on this project and we hope to have the home for little girls open by the end of 2005. On Sunday I will have an opportunity to speak to the congregation in Belpre to encourage their continued support of the work in Honduras and Central America. Please pray for God to open hearts and to guide my words this weekend.
37 DAYS
to 14 Great Days in Honduras!
Deborah Krug joined our team in 2004 and she is bringing 5 more with her in 2005. On top of just coming, Deborah, Shauna, Naomi, Breanna, & Lanetta (the Borger Team) & their supporters have raised enough money to build more than 4 houses and feed 20 families for a month. All of this has been accomplished by prayer and hard work.
More good things are happining this weekend.
Terri (my wife) & I will be travelling to Belpre, Ohio where I will be meeting with the elders and the mission comittee to discuss their potential support of Casa de Esperanza - our new children's home in Honduras. Our team will be doing some of the initial work on this project and we hope to have the home for little girls open by the end of 2005. On Sunday I will have an opportunity to speak to the congregation in Belpre to encourage their continued support of the work in Honduras and Central America. Please pray for God to open hearts and to guide my words this weekend.
37 DAYS
to 14 Great Days in Honduras!
Monday, June 13, 2005
Different Stuff
I have good news on the weight limit per bag - as of right now, the limit has gone back to 70 pounds per piece / two pc. per person. Remember though, whatever you take - you carry. If you can handle 140 pounds of bags & a back pack- go for it. If anything changes, I'll let you know.
By now all of you should have recieved info on your final balance. Please note that this is due in my mailbox on or before July 1 and that due by July 1 doesn't mean that that is the day to start thinking about getting Marc the rest of the money. There are too many people to for Terri & I to go chasing down somebody that is late paying what they owe.
Remember that today - June 13 is 40 days from our departure and plan to join me in the 40 days of prayer - (see the blog below)
Also remember that this site is where all of your friends and family will be reading our trip reports when we are in Honduras. Please pass the address along to anyone that is interested.
All flight plans are complete and I will be passing along your departure info soon. Everything will be e-ticketed and all you will need is a passport.
Please don't be afraid to give me a call or an email if you have any questions at all.
I am looking forward to seeing and working with all of you.
God has Great Days in Honduras planned for us.
Marc
By now all of you should have recieved info on your final balance. Please note that this is due in my mailbox on or before July 1 and that due by July 1 doesn't mean that that is the day to start thinking about getting Marc the rest of the money. There are too many people to for Terri & I to go chasing down somebody that is late paying what they owe.
Remember that today - June 13 is 40 days from our departure and plan to join me in the 40 days of prayer - (see the blog below)
Also remember that this site is where all of your friends and family will be reading our trip reports when we are in Honduras. Please pass the address along to anyone that is interested.
All flight plans are complete and I will be passing along your departure info soon. Everything will be e-ticketed and all you will need is a passport.
Please don't be afraid to give me a call or an email if you have any questions at all.
I am looking forward to seeing and working with all of you.
God has Great Days in Honduras planned for us.
Marc
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Real People
Real people are hurting in San Miguel this morning!
There is a community on the outskirts of Tegucigalpa called San Miguel - some of us have worked there and know & love the people of that community. Last summer a new church was planted there and there are many new Christians worshiping at the building that TORCH built. This morning, there are also several families living in the building. If you have been to San Miguel, you know the landscape and you will remember that it is in the mountains and there is a stream running throug the center of the community. When the rains come, everything runs into the stream and when hard rains come, there is flooding. That is the situation in San Miguel this morning. The rains have been intense and many in the community have lost their homes and their meager possessions.
There are families that live in homes that TORCH built that now have knee deep mud for floors and that is the key reason that we will be adding floors to every home we build this year. Right now there is a TORCH team working in the community and they will do much to ease the pain in the San Miguel community - but, they can only help one family at a time. The needs there are great - just as they are in Los Pinos, Santa Ana, Ojojona, Nuevo Oriental, Nuevo Jerusalem, Mateo, El Magote, Valle de Angeles, La Paz, and all over the Tegucigalpa area. Please don't be afraid to tell everybody that you know about the needs of the people that you are going to serve.
We can build a house - with a floor for $800
We can feed a family - for a month for $15 - 20
We can treat a community in a clinic for $1000
........If we don't ask people to join our team by helping our benevolence fund, we could find ourselves wishing people well - but doing nothing to help them.
I know that many of you are working tirelessly to make sure that we are building, feeding, & helping. Please keep working until the day we leave.
Our fund is the tool that we need to assure us of ...
Another Great Day In Honduras.
Marc
There is a community on the outskirts of Tegucigalpa called San Miguel - some of us have worked there and know & love the people of that community. Last summer a new church was planted there and there are many new Christians worshiping at the building that TORCH built. This morning, there are also several families living in the building. If you have been to San Miguel, you know the landscape and you will remember that it is in the mountains and there is a stream running throug the center of the community. When the rains come, everything runs into the stream and when hard rains come, there is flooding. That is the situation in San Miguel this morning. The rains have been intense and many in the community have lost their homes and their meager possessions.
There are families that live in homes that TORCH built that now have knee deep mud for floors and that is the key reason that we will be adding floors to every home we build this year. Right now there is a TORCH team working in the community and they will do much to ease the pain in the San Miguel community - but, they can only help one family at a time. The needs there are great - just as they are in Los Pinos, Santa Ana, Ojojona, Nuevo Oriental, Nuevo Jerusalem, Mateo, El Magote, Valle de Angeles, La Paz, and all over the Tegucigalpa area. Please don't be afraid to tell everybody that you know about the needs of the people that you are going to serve.
We can build a house - with a floor for $800
We can feed a family - for a month for $15 - 20
We can treat a community in a clinic for $1000
........If we don't ask people to join our team by helping our benevolence fund, we could find ourselves wishing people well - but doing nothing to help them.
I know that many of you are working tirelessly to make sure that we are building, feeding, & helping. Please keep working until the day we leave.
Our fund is the tool that we need to assure us of ...
Another Great Day In Honduras.
Marc
Friday, June 03, 2005
40 Days of Prayer
Today we are exactly 50 days away from our mission and I'd like to offer everyone an invitation to join me in 40 days of prayer for our work. I plan to begin on June 13th - 40 days from our departure and I will be praying for many things relating to our work. Following is a daily reminder of some of the prayer needs in Honduras. Make your own - share it with friends, family, and supporters. Pick a day a week to fast and pray. Whatever you do, please pray for our work -
Day 40 June 13
In 40 days our team will be traveling to one of the poorest countries in the west. Pray that God will open our eyes to the needs of the people of
Day 39, June 14
Pray for our full time workers in
Day 38, June 15
Today there are 12 interns leaving to work for the rest of the summer in
Day 37, June 16
Pray for the children & the workers at the Special Needs Orphanage.
Day 36, June 17
Pray for a widow and her 5 kids in a community called Nuevo Oriental. They probably have no food today.
Day 35, June 18
Pray for the children in the nutrition ward at Hospital Esquela.
Day 34, June 19
Pray for God to deliver the resources that we will need to build houses for the homeless and to provide food for the hungry.
Day 33, June 20
Pray for God to protect the homeless kids on the streets of
Day 32, June 21
Pray that your life will be completely changed by the work that he has planned for you.
Day 31, June 22
Pray that our team will be unified in this work. Pray that everything that we do will be done to glorify our God.
Day 30, June 23
Pray for the Mi Esperanza program. Pray that it will help the ladies in the program to learn a skill and to change their lives.
Day 29, June 24
Pray for the children at the Good Shepherd Orphanage
Day 28, June 25
Pray for a poor man named Trajellio. Pray that he will get the house that he desperately needs.
Day 27, June 26
Pray that we will work tirelessly and that God will protect our team when we are in
Day 26, June 27
Pray for wisdom.
Day 25, June 28
Pray that God will fill the new church building that will be built in Santa Anna with people that need Jesus.
Day 24, June 29
Pray that God will make us fearless and willing to step outside of our comfort zone.
Day 23, June 30
Pray for the children at the School for the Blind.
Day 22, July 1
Pray for the little boys at Jovenes en Camino – a home for boys that need one.
Day 21, July 2
Pray that we will keep our passion for service strong when we return to our homes.
Day 20, July 3
Pray that our message is in our service as much as it is in our words.
Day 19, July 4
Pray for revival in the
Day 18, July 5
Pray for fertile soil and a bountiful harvest.
Day 17, July 6
Pray for Billy Ferguson and Cisco Vega as they prepare to work tirelessly leading our evangelism teams.
Day 16, July 7
Pray for the hungry children in
Day 15, July 8
Pray for everyone that you know that will be on this mission. Pray for them by name and ask God to touch their lives. Ask God to let them see Jesus – face to face in
Day 14, July 9
Pray for my friend Cole – he is coming with his family to work with us. Pray that you will get to know how special he is.
Day 13, July 10
Pray for the mission team working in Los Pinos and preparing to go to
Day 12, July 11
Pray for the Baxter Institute and the students and their teachers.
Day 11, July 12
Pray that God will teach all of us to learn to step out in faith.
Day 10, July 13
Pray for the children in the cancer ward in Hospital Esquela.
Day 9, July 14
Pray for the communities of Santa Anna, Ojojona,
Day 8, July 15
Pray for my little friend Victor. Victor lives in Los Pinos - I see Jesus in him because – just like Jesus, he never forgets my name.
Day 7, July 16
Pray for the new clinic that is being built it Santa Anna.
Day 6, July 17
Pray for Jen Wright & Karen Vaughan. These ladies are stepping out in faith and moving to
Day 5, July 18
Pray for our translators. Pray for God to give them the strength to get the message to the people that need it.
Day 4, July 19
Pray for me. Pray that God will give me the direction and understanding to lead our team where he wants us to be.
Day 3, July 20
Pray that our team will remember why we are in
Day 2, July 21
Pray for Ryan & Janna Beth – they plan to be married while we are in Roatan.
Day 1, July 22
Pray for the safe journey of the 160+ that will be meeting in
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
It's June!
By the time you read this it will be June and we are down to about 50 days until our departure. I am amazed at the speed of the past year.....wow.
Are you ready?
Here is a summary of some of the information you will recieve over the next few weeks.
Please feel free to call or eamil this information.
We will pre-purchase the wood and food so it will be waiting on us when we get to Honduras.
I love all of you and can't wait to say -
Another great day in Honduras.
Marc
Are you ready?
Here is a summary of some of the information you will recieve over the next few weeks.
- You are going to get an email or snail mail invoice letting you know how much your balance due is. We really need to get all balances cleared by July 1. Thay means that July 1 is when I need to have your check.
- You will be notified of your departure time, date, city, and your locater number. All tickets are e-tickets amd most everybody travelling from the same location will have the same locater number.
- Please note that there are some departures on July 23 and some on July 24. This is just American Airlines working to accomidate as many as possible on a given date. We just ran them out of space. For those of you not coming until the 24th - don't worry, we won't build all the houses, pack all the food, or get too much done without you.
- I am planning a conference call with several of the group leaders and will notify you by email of the time, date, and dial in number.
Please feel free to call or eamil this information.
We will pre-purchase the wood and food so it will be waiting on us when we get to Honduras.
I love all of you and can't wait to say -
Another great day in Honduras.
Marc
Saturday, May 28, 2005
Memorial Day
This weekend is one that is set aside to remember the fallen soldiers that gave their lives for the freedom that we in the USA enjoy. I am blessed because others died for me.
I am especially blessed because Jesus willingly carried the cross up the hill at Calvary to die so that I might live. Let's remember our soldiers this weekend and Jesus every day. Let's also remember the living sacrifices of Jesus' soldiers that are on the ground around the world fighting for the cause. This weekend, drop to your knees and pray a special prayer for the following - Tim, Gena, Dylan, & Dalton Hines - Joe Merillat, Nate Reeves, Mark & Lori Connell - all of these brothers and sisters are working full time to make our work in Honduras - work. Pray for missionaries around the world, for the team at Los Pinos that will be going to Mexico later this year. Pray for my friends that have gone as a team to Costa Rica. Pray for the villages of Santa Anna and Ojojona where a new church will be planted this summer. Pray for God to supply the financial tools that we will need to build and fund a new children's home in the Santa Anna community. Pray for the mission teams from Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, North Carolina, Louisiana, & Georgia that will be traveling and working in Honduras in the weeks before we leave. Pray that the fields will be ready for the harvest when we arrive. Pray that God will pour out his love on the people of Honduras through our hands, our words, and our action. Pray that God will deliver the resources for the work that he has planned for our team.
I love all of you and I am praying for you as we prepare for our mission. If any of you have prayer needs, please post them so that we can all pray together.
Marc
I am especially blessed because Jesus willingly carried the cross up the hill at Calvary to die so that I might live. Let's remember our soldiers this weekend and Jesus every day. Let's also remember the living sacrifices of Jesus' soldiers that are on the ground around the world fighting for the cause. This weekend, drop to your knees and pray a special prayer for the following - Tim, Gena, Dylan, & Dalton Hines - Joe Merillat, Nate Reeves, Mark & Lori Connell - all of these brothers and sisters are working full time to make our work in Honduras - work. Pray for missionaries around the world, for the team at Los Pinos that will be going to Mexico later this year. Pray for my friends that have gone as a team to Costa Rica. Pray for the villages of Santa Anna and Ojojona where a new church will be planted this summer. Pray for God to supply the financial tools that we will need to build and fund a new children's home in the Santa Anna community. Pray for the mission teams from Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, North Carolina, Louisiana, & Georgia that will be traveling and working in Honduras in the weeks before we leave. Pray that the fields will be ready for the harvest when we arrive. Pray that God will pour out his love on the people of Honduras through our hands, our words, and our action. Pray that God will deliver the resources for the work that he has planned for our team.
I love all of you and I am praying for you as we prepare for our mission. If any of you have prayer needs, please post them so that we can all pray together.
Marc
Friday, May 20, 2005
This week was the beginning of the summer TORCH Mission season. My friend Terry Reeves and a group of about 40 are in Honduras and are busy working in the Valley of Angels. You may have read about the Hurricane that went through Central America over the past couple of days but, that wasn't enough to stop the work. The team was able to build 2 houses in the pouring rain.
Terry's team will leave in about a week and will be immediately followed by a group led by my friend Mark Connell. Mark's team will be about 80 strong and is mostly from Birmingham, Alabama. As soon as the Alabama team is gone, a mixed team from Florida - Louisiana - & North Carolina arrives - followed by Tennessee - then Florida and Georgia - and finally OUR TEAM!
Our little group of 160 will be blessed to work in many of the same areas that the 350 or so before us have been working. A lot of seeds will be sown before we gwt to Honduras and we need to be praying for a big harvest. For those of you that have never been on a TORCH Mission, get ready - you are going to have a life changing experience. For those of you that are going back a second time and area wondering if the second time can be anywhere as good as the first - you will be amazed!
Please pray for every team that we will be following. Pray for our work and that God will continue to bless us with the tools that we need to serve him. We need to work for our benevolent and building fund unitl the day we leave. Be bold in asking people to provide for food and building funds.
If you are interested in reading mission reports from other teams, you can get a link in the TORCH section of irccorp.org. You can also get direct links at Tim Hines site at waywalkers.blogspot.com
Get Ready For
Another Great Day In Honduras
Terry's team will leave in about a week and will be immediately followed by a group led by my friend Mark Connell. Mark's team will be about 80 strong and is mostly from Birmingham, Alabama. As soon as the Alabama team is gone, a mixed team from Florida - Louisiana - & North Carolina arrives - followed by Tennessee - then Florida and Georgia - and finally OUR TEAM!
Our little group of 160 will be blessed to work in many of the same areas that the 350 or so before us have been working. A lot of seeds will be sown before we gwt to Honduras and we need to be praying for a big harvest. For those of you that have never been on a TORCH Mission, get ready - you are going to have a life changing experience. For those of you that are going back a second time and area wondering if the second time can be anywhere as good as the first - you will be amazed!
Please pray for every team that we will be following. Pray for our work and that God will continue to bless us with the tools that we need to serve him. We need to work for our benevolent and building fund unitl the day we leave. Be bold in asking people to provide for food and building funds.
If you are interested in reading mission reports from other teams, you can get a link in the TORCH section of irccorp.org. You can also get direct links at Tim Hines site at waywalkers.blogspot.com
Get Ready For
Another Great Day In Honduras
Monday, May 16, 2005
Airline Tickets
We are in the process of matching names with all of the airline reservations that we have. In November we made several blocks of reservations to lock in a fairly decent price. You'd be amazed to know that our team is now an exact match for the number of tickets that American Airlines offered us in November. To me, this means that God has had this team planned out for a long time. It shouldn't surprise any of us that the number of seats from every location is an exact match to the number of people that are needing seats from those locations. If this happened in just one place, we could call it a coincidence but, we are using 7 departure cities and they are all an exact match.
WOW!
I will be emailing your info within the next couple of weeks. We are all e-ticketed and everybody except the Hot Springs group will be on American Airlines.
Won't be long now!
Marc
WOW!
I will be emailing your info within the next couple of weeks. We are all e-ticketed and everybody except the Hot Springs group will be on American Airlines.
Won't be long now!
Marc
Thursday, May 12, 2005
Let's Build Some Houses
I am hearing a lot of good things about planning and raising the money for our mission to Honduras. Good things are happening every week and as usual, everyone that has comitted to go on this mission will find that God will provide the way. Pray and be confident in that.
We can't forget that just getting to Honduras is all that we need to be doing. Our team will clearly have the greatest potential of any TORCH Team - EVER! However, potential can only be realized if we are all working toward the same goal. That goal is not just getting to Honduras, it must include a plan to raise working funds for the houses that we plan to build, the food for the hungry, the medicine for the sick.
I'd like to hear form any and all of you about how your group is doing in this area. Are there any challenges out there? Post some news and let's build some houses!
(if you don't want to post, send me an email and I'll post it)
We can't forget that just getting to Honduras is all that we need to be doing. Our team will clearly have the greatest potential of any TORCH Team - EVER! However, potential can only be realized if we are all working toward the same goal. That goal is not just getting to Honduras, it must include a plan to raise working funds for the houses that we plan to build, the food for the hungry, the medicine for the sick.
I'd like to hear form any and all of you about how your group is doing in this area. Are there any challenges out there? Post some news and let's build some houses!
(if you don't want to post, send me an email and I'll post it)
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