Balsapuerto Continued

Playing "Ni'ni ni'ni mayo" (Duck, Duck, Goose)

This team was an amazing one. Even with the language barrier they made themselves understood. Everyone understands the language of love. Not only was there love shown to the many Chayahuita all around, but also to each other. I'd like to share some of the many experiences of the week with you.

See how the Chayahuita live to know better how to minister to them and experience the everyday obstacles (boat travel, hiking in mud) etc. to know how to pray for them.

The team saw first hand how the people in the village lived. Even though Balsapuerto is different than most villages, they saw their reality. One of the coolest things we got to do was go house to house to visit and see the different crafts the women make step by step. This had been prepared ahead of time to have, for example, the pottery in various stages of completion so we could see the whole process without waiting for 4 days. It gave opportunity to see what they make, visit many people in a short time and it let them see the value of their crafts.

Weaving a skirt

There were many things that we got to experience apart from everyday life. The boat ride was an eye opener, even though it was a big boat, it was comfortable to sit for hours on end. They also so the concern they men have for the level of the river, the dangers of rocks and fallen trees.

We all went on a hike together with the intention of reaching archeological find. We were told it would take 3 hours to get there. Ken and I knew that they had told us what it takes them to arrive so we figured 4 hours or so. We had walked for 3 hours and we were nowhere close to where we were headed, so I asked how much longer should it take and we were told 2 more hours. In a 1 1/2 hours I asked how much farther and we were told 1 1/2 hours.

At this point we decided to stop only at a waterfall close by and eat lunch and rest. The whole problem was that there was so much mud on the path that it was difficult at best to walk, the bridges (usually logs) were also badly decayed and the terrain was hilly and rocky. We still had to return back to the village and that would take the same amount of time. Most of us are not seasoned hikers and by the end of the trip of walking 10 hours we were exhausted and our feet were sore.

After the walk we talked about how this is the main source of transportation for the Chayahuita. They walk for hours and days to get to their destinations. During the annual conference in January many walk for several days just to hear the Word of God and to have fellowship. Their feet and legs are incredibly strong!

And the most important: Get to know the Chayahuita and form friendships to be an encouragement

Pastor Rosendo and family

All of the members of the team: Scott Fischle, Liz Hanson, Suzi Herbka, Pete Malouff, Pam and Ariane McQuain, Mike Russell, Kim Schweitzer and Jeremy Simpson had no problems in forming friendships. From day one they enjoyed getting to know the Chayahuita. They were all a very big encouragement to them. Men and women smiled as they saw them playing games with their children. They encouraged them in the time of worship together, by asking about their culture but most importantly just by being willing to spend the time and effort to be with them. They also took time to share Bible stories and the Gospel with them.

This is a remarkable and diverse group and each will be remembered by these people for many years to come. Take time to ask each of them about the experience. I know they would love to share with you! See the slides below. There are many funny moments, but you'll have to ask about them to hear them!