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Written by Pastor Abby Davidson

Week two started with leaving the remote town of Auquile. During week one, we spent three days working on our two houses and two professionals came in to finish the jobs. On Friday we bought gifts for the families and went to say goodbye. It was a long process as our messages were translated from English to Spanish to Quechua and then back again. Up until that point, we didn't have much opportunity to speak with the families. It was a very meaningful time and there were a lot of tears. 

In the house where I was working, the mother was a widow. She lived there with her two sons, two daughters, son-in-law and three grandchildren. She told us that before we came, her house was falling apart. She was grateful for our help and offered us a lamb as a thank you gift. After our goodbyes, we began the five-hour trip back to Cochabamba. 

As we drive through the dusty and winding mountain roads I had time to reflect on the two families we had spent time with. What struck me was how they worked together. They didn't have much in terms of material wealth but they were rich in their sense of family. They had a common goal in the preservation of their home. This was something they work for day and night. It was beautiful to see.

The weekend was our chance to see Cochabamba. We visited the market and had lunch at a local sandwich shop. Then at night, we went to the young adults' group at Villa Galindo. We played some get-to-know-you games and then I shared with the group about Transformation. Bruce was able to share a testimony and by the end of the night, we felt a deep connection with our Bolivian friends.

On Sunday, I preached in the morning service. I spoke on Psalm 23 and how God is always with us through the different seasons of life.

Sunday afternoon we went to see a soccer game. The crowd was very enthusiastic and it was as much fun to watch them as it was to watch the game.

Monday and Wednesday were spent at Casa de la Amistad playing with kids who have parents in jail. They were all very excited to have us there and weren't too shy to try out their English on us. 

Tuesday we were at the Seminary getting to know the students and doing some painting. Week two seemed to go by very fast and we were all a little sad when Thursday arrived and it was time to say our final goodbyes. 

We flew to Santa Cruz this evening and now begin the long journey back to Toronto via Panama City.

We are all looking forward to sharing more stories with you in person.

For now, Dios te bendiga!

Pastora Abby