Sunday, 6/14

After a long day of travel yesterday, we spent the day today getting to know the community we're serving and the people we're serving with. This morning during worship we shared a little bit about us and our lives, including the trials and joys we've been experiencing recently. Afterward, we took a walk through Chilca to learn about and see firsthand what this area is like and how people live here. We used multiple forms of local public transportation to make our way around the city to Pucusana, including combis (smaller buses the size of 15-passenger vans) and mototaxis (three wheeled, covered taxis that fit 2-3 people). We shared lunch at a restaurant in Pucusana and tried traditional Peruvian dishes, including lomo saltado (beef stir fry) and fresh fish, and those of us who were interested took a boat ride on the Pacific ocean and saw some beautiful cliffs and animals. The sea lions and penguins were especially fun.

Overall, today was a culture shock for some and a reminder of blessing for all. As we walked around the city we noticed how resourceful people are with what little they have, and how much community and relationship seems to be present, which is something we often miss out on or take for granted at home. We were also reminded of how much we've been blessed with. It's clear that Esperanza de Ana is a very special place, and we already feel so loved by the staff we've met. We're looking forward to meeting the kids tomorrow and getting our hands dirty working around the center. Please continue to pray for our team as we serve alongside our Peruvian brothers and sisters in Christ.

-- Brooke Person