Whitefield Academy Ecuador Mission Team: June 9

The teams unite in prayer following the game.

On a gravel field, in the midst of Carmen Bajo, un barrio de Quito, the annual match between Whitefield and Amor y Esperanza was played today. In goal for the USA was Nkosi, while Ali, un professor del sexto grado, played goalie for Ecuador. The USA had hope of a win this year with William in the midfield. But with Pancho at striker for the opposing team, and some good defense from his teammates, Ecuador came out on top 3-1. Halftime of the game was forced when the soccer ball went over the fence and a neighborhood dog headed it, caught it in his mouth, and took off down the street. The girls from the school said that this is the third ball that the dog has absconded this year. After finding another ball, the game continued with one more brief interruption when the dog returned and had to be chased off the field.

Nkosi makes a save for the USA.

William challenges Matteo, a 10th grade student who is
applying to IB programs in the city for next year. 10th grade
is the last grade that Amor y Esperanza is able to offer in
their current building.

During the soccer game, these girls enjoyed cheering and playing
games in the stands with Bailey. Michelle stared into Bailey's eyes
and said, "Sus ojos son como el agua." They were entranced with
her blue eyes!!

Despite the loss, the team remains in good spirits and is both excited and sad about our last day with the children of Amor y Esperanza tomorrow. Both yesterday and today, we have had afternoon clubs with the children in addition to our morning teaching. Tomorrow, we will have a science fair where each of the classes will be able to present a science project that they have been working on throughout the week. Following the fair, we will have a farewell ceremony with the children and a party to honor the teachers who work diligently throughout the year to not only educate but also to disciple the children in the school.

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." Philippians 4:12

I do not mention this verse in reference to myself or to the Whitefield team here. We are witnesses. We are here to see the glory of God through some precious saints who we have had the privilege to meet, to serve alongside, and to know in the Spirit of Christ.

One of these saints is a mother of four whose children attend Amor y Esperanza. She worked alongside the team in repairing the roof of the home for the family who has moved here from the coast following the earthquake. She worked tirelessly, removing roofing tiles, consulting with and directing William in what needed to be done, moving the heavy ladder, continually with a smile and without a complaint. On other days, she served in the school and I observed her, again with a smile, carrying food for the lunches, cleaning, or lending a hand to others in their work. Yesterday, we took a walk through Carmen Bajo to see the neighborhood in which the children at Amor y Esperanza live. Pancho pointed out this mother's home to me. She is a single mother of four, and lives in a single room near the school. I am humbled. I now have seen what it means to live out Philippians 4:12.

This is a picture of her home.

Not only have I seen God's spirit at work in the adults here, but also in many of the students of the school. Yesterday, when we held clubs for the students, a young man named Henry came to "dancing". While the other older children who were there sat back and wondered what on earth Nkosi and then Bailey were doing, Henry entered in fully. He enjoyed the moment. He tried whatever type of dancing we threw out there, from the Panda (something I don't think I ever thought I would do before this trip), to the Whip, to classic swing dancing. After dancing, he attended art. The students stood before the class at the end to present their work -- a paper with their name and things they enjoy. Many said, "I like futbol," or "I like music." Henry came to the front of the class and said, in English, "My name is Henry, and I love my life." He showed me joy -- the kind of joy that you can see in a person's face, and feel in their spirit. Again, I was humbled.

A view of homes in Carmen Bajo, near Amor y Esperanza.

Beauty in the midst of poverty -- just like the sweet spirit
of Christ that we were able to witness in the saints here.

Afternoon Clubs

Daniel and Maggie Leigh teach guitar to a rapt audience.

Hair and nails!!

Mrs. Davis takes a turn painting finger nails.

Nkosi and Malcom tirelessly led an hour and a half of dance.
The other teachers and students rotated out, except for this little
girl who danced the whole entire time and wanted more today!