Headed to the USA

This is the day that the world reminds dads how special they are to us. I would like to say Happy Father’s Day to all the EMT dads. There is a spot in God’s heart that only you can fill. He loves you tremendously and as his representatives here on earth it is my wish that you continue to fulfill his purpose for you as an individual and most importantly as a father according to his purpose. In the church service today at Carmen Bajo the preacher spoke along those lines. He exhorted the fathers listening to him to stand up and be the head of household that God would be proud of so that our children can grow to know Him – the Way, Truth and the Life. Janey translated for us again and although this message was more complex in its delivery, she worked well at the translation and conveyed the message clearly.

After church many of the kids gathered around us with smiles and hugs that conveyed such a closeness that it really hurt to separate from them. One little kid said “no te vayas” (don’t go) as we were climbing onto the bus. As the door closed another one shouted “ take me to USA with you”. Each time we have to go away from them it is painful for us but I imagine more painful for them and for that reason they quickly mention the fact that they will see us next year again J. Our group sang “Open the eyes of my heart” as a part of the praise and worship. The kids participated well with actions and sang along with us. It was a sweet time in fellowship. We served God and the people of Carmen Bajo in a way that you would be proud of these past few days.

We are now in the apartment just waiting for Pity and Pancho to return. They will pray with us and have a devotion before we depart for the airport. It seems that we are all packed and ready to go. Everyone is doing well. Some of the group members are playing cards, some are making jokes and others are just relaxing. It is raining cats and dogs at the moment. I am glad it did not rain while we were doing all our outdoor activities earlier this week. Well, I want to say one more big thank you to you our parents. Many of you have partnered with this organization for two and three years. Others have joined us this year and you may agree to continue in the future. Either way you have invested time and talent in a small section of the Kingdom of God. At least six kids have been added to the Whitefield Academy sponsored kids list. Your efforts will be rewarded!

Thanks also to Dr. Banke, Tyrone Johnson, Rebecca Brown, John East, Jan LeCraw, Sage Dining, Jason Bilotti, Kyle Gutteridge, Fiona Witharana, Kindergarten teachers – Jeanne East and Adrienne Miller, Stacy Rutter, the entire US and MS for buying biscuits all year and wearing jeans on Wednesday. I cannot fail to mention the Whitefield Family who is supportive consistently of our service here in Quito. God bless you all and we will see you in Atlanta!

Opal Anderson-Curling