Time Out of our Regularly Scheduled Post

With Thanksgiving approaching, I wanted to take time to say how much we appreciate each one of you who make it possible for us to serve here at El Refugio. Each day we are reminded we could not be here with out your faithful support.
I wanted to share with you about God's faithfulness to us. I know the economy is bad and we pray for you as you weather the storm surrounding all the financial issues. I want to encourage you to remember God knows each and every one of our needs and is ready and willing to meet those needs. I share this testimony to encourage you.
Last spring we received a substantial amount from one of our supporters. Then a couple of months later, from the same supporter we received another large donation. To be honest, at first we entertained the idea of purchasing a piano. We went and looked at pianos, in Ecuador they are very expensive. Pretty much like a car, they not only hold their value, they increase in value. Anyway, we did not purchase a piano and the money has just sat in our account at International Teams. This month, we had to have our car worked on so we could get it "Matriculated" (equivalent to DMV tags). Much to our dismay, the bill grew larger and larger. Something about the head and valve guides. When all was said and done, do you know the amount it cost for us to get our car repaired was exactly the amount of the two donations we received "last spring". God knew and had prepared in advance for our needs.
I hope this encourages you. We feel privileged to see God work through each one of you.
Happy Thanksgiving

Summer Tour 2008 "El Reto"

Just when you thought you could basically figure out what ministry looks like at El Refugio, we'll throw a twist into the mix. Right in the middle of summer we hosted one of the Ecuadorian adventure races called "El Reto". The race consisted of three parts, the first was literally running up and around our mountain (quite an achievement when you remember we are at 10,000 ft.) bicycle riding and then orienteering. We hosted the event to develop some good community relationships. Even with all the craziness with the racers, every once in a while it's fun to have a change in pace. Below racers take off from the starting line.

Loved the contrast in this picture

Racers poised against the horse backdrop

Summer Tour 2008 "Father Son Team"

Program Director Juan Carlos Cevellos

Each year the emphasis for the Father/Son Team shifts from climbing to jungle adventure. The cool thing this year was the group included three generations, Grandfather, father and son. The time was spent reconnecting with each other, but more importantly with God. Juan Carlos is shown above chatting with the Grandfather from the three generation group. Plans are already underway for the Father Son Climb for the summer of 2009. Any Father and Son combos interested can contact us and we will get you signed up.