We made it back from the jungle!
We spent the last four days in Shandia, in the jungle of Ecuador, with the Ecuadorian youth group from Quito. It was an incredible experience, with too many moments to share here. However, here are some of the highlights:
On our way from El Refugio to Shandia (a five hour bus ride around the mountains of Ecuador) we stopped in a small touristy town. We rode on a boat in the jungle river, checked out the stores, and had a couple encounters with thirsty monkeys (let's just say we're a couple juice bottles short now).
In Shandia we concentrated on building relationships with the Quito youth and the Shandia youth. A group worked on clearing the jungle around the seminary building while another group conducted VBS (Vacation Bible School) with the youth from Shandia. It was great being able to connect with the town in that way. We also had the chance to connect with the youth from Quito a lot - we taught them English and how to skip rocks, and they taught us Spanish!
One of the days we walked 45 minutes through the jungle (ponchos, rainboots and all!) which was a great - and different - experience. We walked to the town of Santa Rosa, where we put on another VBS with the local youth. The children really enjoyed it, and we loved spending a little bit of time with them.
After coming back to Shandia the youth from Quito invited the local youth (and some youth from Santa Rosa showed up) to a couple of youth services at night. It was great seeing the response and how the Quito youth led it.
We were able to visit Jim Elliot's house in the jungle, which was a neat experience. Our guide was an older gentleman that didn't know Jim Elliot, but he lived nearby and now owns the land.
One of the days the women of Shandia put on a market for us. They brought all the items they made - maracas, little spears, jewelry, etc.
The last day a few of us (Greg, Carl, Nate) were privileged to be able to participate in the service through Scripture reading and testimony while some others helped with the children. Afterwards we visited a museum in the town dedicated to the five missionary martyrs (Jim Elliot, Nate Saint, etc.).
It was sad to say goodbye to the people of Shandia and drop off the youth in Quito, but it was definitely four days we will never forget.
So glad that you are back from the jungle. Sounds like an incredible experience. Jaxon is doing great! We are so blessed to be able to keep him for you. He is a sweet little guy.
ReplyDeleteLove you both!