Green, Apples, And A Lot Of Teenagers...

For the past month or so we have been enjoying Phase 4 (Green) of the Pandemic.  This is the longest we have stayed green since the Pandemic started over 2 years ago.  Kids are back in school full time, mandates are being lifted and life has seemed to return back to normal.  We just started Semana Santa (Holy Week) or Spring Break.  Who knows what changes that might bring with all the vacationers, travelers, etc.  But for now, we are absolutely enjoying the beauty of green and the weather.

Last month we had to say goodbye to one of our dear workers, Meny.  We have had the honor and privilege of working with Meny for almost 7 years.  He has been a “MacGyver” type individual who seems to be able to fix anything and build everything.  He always has a joyful attitude and a smile on his face.  Meny is engaged to my cousin Leticia and soon to be married in the fall.  He received an amazing job offer to manage and run a large apple orchard.  One of those type of offers that you can’t really refuse.  Apples are one of the biggest products and job providers down here in our area.  Although we are sad to see him go, we are very excited for this new opportunity and thankful that we can still serve alongside him at our church.

Life has returned to our campus once again in the form of 70 + youth and leaders.  Churches from all over the state of Chihuahua have gathered here for a 3 day youth retreat.  What a blessing it is to be able to use our facilities and property to accommodate and bless these young individuals.  My role for this week is working in the coffee shop and leading worship. I have always loved coffee and have worked in the coffee industry since high school. However, I was definitely pushed to the limit this afternoon making 80 or so iced lattes, mochas and americanos. Thankfully I had a wonderful team of people to help.  The highlight of my day has definitely been the worship times. Singing together in a room full of young men and women has been such a joy and very powerful.

Please be praying for us over the next few days, the youth, leaders, speakers, cooks, servants and volunteers.  It takes quite the effort to run a youth camp.