Looking back over 2019, our family is thankful the Lord has allowed us to continue to do ministry work both in Bocachica, Colombia, and right here in our city.
It's hard to believe we broke ground on the school only two years ago. Since then the school has grown beyond what we thought would take place in this short amount of time. We currently have 5 classrooms, 2 multi-unit bathrooms, a staff office, and a kitchen to service the school kids. Last year we had 58 children who received a quality education while hearing about the Lord daily. Once school starts again in January they will have 78 children in attendance.
Nate and I went Bocachica in March. It was incredible to see the school and see the progress that has taken place. During this trip we also had meetings with the engineers about the next phase of the school. It was a fruitful trip being able to see what's ahead for the school. For me it is a blessing to see Nate's construction knowledge brings forth fruit even in Bocachica.
I was able to take my oldest son with me to Bocachica in October. We hosted a team from Bogota and helped them with a sports clinic, with a vision of Emily and Ausberto to open a sports center in 2020.
Nate, along with a couple from Canada, went to Bocachica in December. They had the opportunity to visit the school and hear what the future holds for the school. While they were there they had the privilege to see the 2019 kindergarten class graduate. They heard testimonies from the locals about the joy and thankfulness they have with their children attending the Christian School of Bocachica.
It has been rewarding to know the Lord has used us in ministry here in our community as well. Nate and I have a desire to serve no matter where we live. When we came back to the states in 2016, my husband started coaching my girl's soccer team and did so for 2 years. This year, Kristen made it on a travel soccer team. Which made our schedule full, and not leaving us time to continue coaching. However, we wanted to continue to have opportunities to met with the girls and their families on a regular basis having times of fellowship and outreach.
In June we took the soccer girls to see a professional soccer game in Charlotte, NC. October we had the girls and their families over for a cookout and a pumpkin carving contest. November we took the group to an all night evangelism outreach with Word of Life Ministries. And in December we spent a day baking Christmas cookies to share with a family or friend. The parents of the kids have asked that we continue to keep the girls together and mentor them. It is nice to know we are as important to them as they are to us.
As you can see, we have a lot to be thankful for. Thankful that our time doing mission work didn't stop when we left the island. The Lord has been gracious to us giving us a way to continue to help the locals of Bocachica and to continue to serve right here in Alamance county. We are so thankful for our family and friends who have supported us. Thankful that you believe in what we are doing in Bocachica. The locals give praise for you often. They are grateful that you are helping them make their dreams and desires come true. With your support, you are changing the lives of many.
If you would like to help us with the next phase of the school and want to send a tax-deductible donation you can do so by using Paypal at: www.paypal.me/JuntosColombia
Remember 100% of donations go to the school building project. We are currently raising funds for the next classroom.
Also, if you want to do a short term mission trip please let us know. We are in the process of putting one together for 2020. I would be more than happy to share details with you.
We hope you and your loved ones have a Happy New year!