LIFE IN THE VILLAGE

LACANJA...A CHURCH DEDICATION
SIBAL...BACK IN TIME
YAXOQUINTELA...FAMILY TIME

These villages have been important in the life of this mission.  And also ve ause they represent the hundreds of other villages that are impacted by our presence, and that of missionaries and people who have gone before us.
Also, because Janet has been with us, the impact of founding fathers, literally, has been important.  Janet comes to renew her ties, and reminisce with the people here who remember her as a child, her parents and the countless others who have left a mark here.
Even though I feel I have done little, i am honored by the natives who are just touched that I have just come.   Frequently, we are made to stand up, be introduced, our histories and stories shared amid nods and smiles, and treated as dignitaries.  It is humbling.  No matter where we go, we are housed, fed, and cared for.
The church dedication was inspiring.  For 5 years the little congregation has worked and saved and gotten to the point of building this beautiful edifice. It was a grand celebration!  1000 people attended, the ribbon was cut, the beautiful wrought iron doors were opened, and people streamed in singing “Come to the Church in the Vale” and “How Great Thou Art”.  Pablo gave thanks to the Lord and to the faith and persistence of these folks. 2 1/2 of worship!  3 cows had been killed.  The beef and rice was delicious.  Choirs and Mariachis provided lots of music!
Sibal is like a step back in time, as are all these rural communities.  Life is like that of our ancestors.
Dirt roads, outhouses, wood huts, wood fires to cook, men and boys on horseback, fields of corn going up the hills being tended by hand.  It is peacful, beautiful and quite functional. The lake in the jungle is stunning.  The water is low, and islands of Mayan ruins are above water.  National Geographic moments.
And Yax is a family village.  To some degree where it all started.  Missionaries bringing the Gospel and health care.  The extended family, etc.  It is sweet to visit.
Someday you can accompany me!  You must see to believe...