Of Churches and Valentines | Day 15 - Richard

This morning was a restful and relaxing time for the team. After cramming our minds full of Spanish for the past week it was good to catch up on some sleep. This morning was also chore day for the team. We cleaned the kitchen and common living areas and our rooms. Then it was time to hit our books once again for more studying. You know you have been studying to long when you start dreaming of conjugations. :-)This afternoon we took a walk across town and up to a Catholic Church that overlooks the city. As we stood there and looked out across the city I was struck with the hopelessness of those who worshiped there. What a joy it is to know that we worship a risen God who loves us and allows us to have a personal relationship with Him.This evening we went to the combined youth and college aged group worship service at church. During the service the pastor challenged the young people to get out of their little groups and make a difference in the lives of those around them. As I was listening with my limited Spanish I was challenged by my own lack of outward focus at times when surrounded by friends.After the message we all gathered outside around a campfire for a time of singing and sharing what God was doing in each others lives. After the sharing they told all the guys to go back into the church and they would setup the tables and chairs for the meal while the girls stayed warm. Upon walking inside they handed us all roses and told us to take them to one of the girls of our choice. They quickly added that the American guys could not give ours to the American girls but had to give them to one of the Mexican girls. I quickly found one of the Mexican guys who did not have any flowers and gave him mine. Whew... :-)Several of the couples from the church cooked a delicious meal for all the young people that several of the members of the team helped to serve. The fellowship and Spanish practice with the body of Christ is always a big encouragement to the team.Thank you all for praying for the team. Without your faithful prayers we would not be able to make the impact we have. Please continue to pray for us to learn quickly in class and be bold with the gospel.