A short term mission team from McEachern UMC just returned from Punto Fijo, VZ Our week there was focused on ministry to the children in the community, both church members and others in the nearby community. We were able to try something new, an "Upward" styled sports camp each morning. Our presence alone drew many curious children to see what was going on. They joined in the fun playing ultimate frisbee, soccer, American football, and many other games. They even taught us a few of their games. We held VBS each afternoon. The kids did crafts, each with a lesson about Jesus or the Cross. Of course, we had worship service each evening and managed to make some "building improvements" in our spare time.
It was a wonderful experience for everyone, including a guest on our team from Iglesia Metodista de Mayaguez, another of our partner churches in Puerto Rico. We were also able to participate in our own worship service at McEachern on Sunday morning courtesy of a video Skype call and some wi-fi technology.
Unfortunately, Pastor Juvenal was in the hospital the entire time. He had an acute infection in his right leg above the ankle. We were able to visit with him the afternoon we arrived. We anointed him and others in his room with oil and prayed over each. Praise God, Juvenal is now home, recuperating with his family and doing much better.
In just a short visit, the Spirit of God can be seen moving in this humble church. They have a faithful congregation and devoted leadership. We long to see them grow in their faith and understanding of the Gospel, and to continue to be a beacon of hope to the community.
You can read more about our trip on our blog site, http://mceachernmissions.blogspot.com
conference room is much higher than that, as you can see by the picture of participant Walter Omar Villagra from Paraguay. Leaders came from nations ranging from Mexico to Argentina. They represent a wide range of denominations. Some are local pastors with great potential to train people locally and nationally, while others are national church leaders with hundreds of thousands of people under their leadership. Some are young and others are older and seasoned men and women of God.
session on Intimacy with God. She reminded all of us again of the need to slow down and let our relationship with God to be priority in our lives. As usual, her teaching was very well received by all. She brought a strong bible study on the real meaning of knowing God. I was translating her and felt God convicting me of often focusing more on knowing about God than knowing Him in an intimate sense. 
