February in Paraguay

We finished our first full month in Paraguay. We have enjoyed the work and spending time with the members. Last year, we were focused more on young families. This year, our focus has been on marriages, along with outreach and visitation.

February Church Retreat

There are three congregations of the Lord’s church in Paraguay. They enjoy gathering on occasion. In this case, one church member has a family farm just outside of town. A place with lots of shade and facilities for hosting the church. This was on a Sunday, so we had Bible class and worship. For the Bible class, we broke into small groups and studied the Good Shepherd from John chapter ten.

When the church gets together, we have to eat. Here in Paraguay, it is often BBQ or, as they call it, asado. Meat is much cheaper in Paraguay than in the US. It makes it easier for everyone to contribute a little money and have enough to feed everyone.

Working With the Church in Mariano

About four years ago, the work in Mariano, Paraguay began. This is a neighboring city of Asuncion. Cesar Gadea, pictured below, far right, is the local preacher there. I have been working with him during the week. Every Thursday, we are out in the street for four hours. This means we are talking with people who will receive us or study with people whom Cesar has been visiting for some time. We always end our time with a study with the couple below. They have visited the church several times and even came to the church retreat.

I have also been preaching and teaching classes to give Cesar a break. He is the teacher, preacher, and song leader for the church in Mariano. It is nice for someone to come in and help out when you are the only one working in an area.

Couples Group

There is a group of young families that have been getting together to focus on marriage topics and the family. They asked us to join them and provide some helpful teaching on marriage. It has been fun working with this group. Last year, many of them were involved in the children’s classes we were helping them start.

Looking Forward

We are excited about the month of March. We have a Marriage Seminar coming up, and our daughter is coming down to visit. We will also travel back to the States and start making our way out West.