Services in Chiquicha, Cops and Robbers, and Sauna

We traveled to Chiquicha on Saturday afternoon. On the ride were Milton, his father Celio, Paulus and Lisbeth with baby Allison, Elaine, Katherine, Avis and Walt. Some of those wishing to make the two hour trip to services make a sacrifice in comfort as they must ride in the box of the truck. Like tradition we stopped in Ambato to pick up two chickens, potatoes and two liters of Coke for lunch as the farm.

Celio listens intently.

 

When we arrived we were surprised to find several people at the Martinez farm. Present were a first cousin of Sonia's, his wife and three children and a work friend. After visiting for a quite awhile it was decided to go ahead with the services.

The text was from Matthew 6, the Lord's Prayer. Before explaining the text Walt took the opportunity to explain the propose of our visit at the farm. The Laestadian Lutheran ministers having been sent to Ecuador since about the year 2000. We are continuing the mission command of Christ to preach repentance and the forgiveness of sins. At the conclusion of the sermon four of the visitors wanted to be assured with the gospel of their hope of heaven.

Walt speaks from Matthew 6 about the Lord's Prayer.

 

After the services comments and questions were invited. One visitor was amazed at the depth of meaning in the Lord's Prayer. After relating of our family another asked "Why do you have so many children?" Walt explained that God has blessed our lives and has given us the right number of children. We then made comparisons between the two countries.

Services guests: Patricio and for the first time Victor.

 

Elman (l) together with a first time service guest.

 

While we waited for the dinner to be served Paulus Mikkola entertained the children and some adults with a game of "cops and robbers." He drew a big circle on the ground, which represented the jail. A team of cops and one of robbers was chosen. Many games were played. A game of tug of war topped in off.

Paulus organized a game of Cops and Robbers.

 

Paulus has built two saunas in Ecuador. One in the valley and one near Riobamba. Today we were able to take a nice hot wood fired sauna and shower in ice cold water. The valley is very beautiful and peaceful. Could it have once been part of the Garden of Eden?

Walt and Avis