Tuesday, September 27, 2016

The work still continues in Bocachica


 Many of you have heard us speak of Luis and Adriana Viracacha. They are our partners in the ministry in Bocachica Colombia. They have been with us for four years now, and are tent maker missionaries who work as well as receive support from others. We keep in touch with them weekly to hear the work they are doing, support them with prayers and to keep their spirits lifted as they live among hard conditions. Their language barrier of only speaking Spanish makes it hard for them to communicate with many of you.

 Luis and Adriana are natives from Bogota, the capital of Colombia. They have been missionaries in Bocachica for 4+ years now. They have been faithful to the work and are serving in all aspects of life on the island. They participate in hosting teams, building latrines, making filters, hygiene classes, tutoring students, and much more. On top of that they supplement their income by selling water to the locals in their neighborhood and sell cupcakes.

One issue we would like to point out is their need of more financial support. Living in Bocachica is more difficult because the lack of the opportunity. In the city there are better jobs,but the work requires them to be present on the island. So as missionaries it is important to partner with them so that they will not burn out try to make ends meet and serve in the work the gospel.  Please consider the possibility of supporting a Colombian national missionary. They are a trust worthy team that is willing to sacrifice their comfort for the work of the gospel. Any contribution makes a big difference. A monthly recurring gift would give them peace of mind, and allow them to more available to the community.
 If you would like to give please write the check to
   Antioch Community Church
  P.O. Box  40
 Elon NC 27244
 These can be tax deductible gifts.
Please note on memo line: Luis Viracacha

Recently we got an update from Luis and Adriana about a new way they are discipling the local boys in our neighborhood. Luis has taken 4 teens on our street and explained to them how a bank works. Why it is important for them to save their money vs. spending it once they have it. Luis came up with an idea. Adriana would make cupcakes and these four teens would sell them on the island daily. However, once they are done they would have to put their money in a piggy bank. Luis had each of the boys think of one big thing they needed or wanted to save for. They have a date set up in December when Luis will take these four boys to the city and they will purchase the things on their list. This may seem like a small praise, but remember the people on the island don't have access to a bank. Not only that, but the locals there don't think about saving their money. They spend what they make daily.  A simple thing that a parent should teach a child. But this simple skill is not even practiced by the adults living on the island. Adriana mentioned at first her and Luis thought these boys would be excited in the beginning, but by the end the thrill might wear off. To their surprise these four boys are still eager daily to help sell cupcakes and put away their money.
Piggy banks, one for each of the four boys + Luis, Adriana, and Juan
We are thankful that Luis and Adriana have a heart to go above and beyond the call of serving. They see many different areas they can serve. Many times wearing themselves thin, but they won't complain. It brings joy to them to see change. They know they are investing in a better future for the Bocachicans. To God be the glory.  We are proud to have had the privilege to serve with them.

Many blessings,
The Ariels