This past Sunday was "New Member's Sunday" at Paz de Dios, but all the preparation began on Saturday. At 6:00 Saturday morning, 25 of us (mostly men) got together, and drove high up in the mountains to hunt a wild bull. The family of one of the elders owns large areas of land in the mountains and lets their cattle run wild. Roping the bull was quite uneventful (as far as roping goes), and then we butchered and quartered the bull right up on the mountain. It was neat to see all the talents in the church at play. The cowboy went and rounded up the bull, the butcher directed butchering the bull, and the doctor helped bandage the butcher's hand when he cut it.
Unfortunately, about an hour after we arrived, it began to rain. By the time we were ready to leave, the road into the ranch was in bad shape. It took us over an hour to get all 6 cars past the first mile. There were times when 8 men pushing could not get the car out, and to top it all of, one tire went flat for a sharp rock. It was not fun changing the tire in the cold pouring rain and mud. All in all, everyone was great sports and we certainly made some memories together.
On arrival to the church with the meat, all the ladies were waiting for us and began to cut up the meat. It tasted so good the following day bbq'ed with Ecuadorian spices. The meat in the states just doesn't quite match up with the flavor and spices they put on the meat here.
On Sunday, the church received new members during the church service and then eat the meal together. After that, a PE teacher who attends the church, organized the games. It was so neat to see his creativity and how he included all ages. After his games, we played soccer, volleyball, and basket together. It is such an encouragement to see the church's growth and unity. I feel so blessed to be able to be a part of if.
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