Kid's Ministry Relaunch

We relaunched our kids ministry at the church, Im-Pacto de Fe, on Saturday.  There were 35 kids and 10 adults there!  Our team put together a great time for the kids: a clown, a drama about the lost sheep, sandwiches and pizza for after the lesson with sodas, and songs to which the kids could dance and sing.  We also had some of the kids come up front to lead a few songs (with help) and to pray for their community, family, and friends.

Baptism Service

Today, we had our first baptism at the Río Reyes.  It was a great Sunday service!  We also had a barbecue (cookout) after the baptism to celebrate!  We thought we would share some of the pictures and one of the videos... Enjoy!

Praying for Brussels & Pakistan

As our world continues to experience the terror of bombings, our family continues to pray for the countries, people, and friends all over the world.  This picture is a us praying for some good friends in Brussels (and their kids).   Please pray with us for peace, safety, and for God to do something good with what seems to be only a tragedy. 

Mortuary Blanket (Death blanket)

In Argentina, especially in certain provinces, it is required by law for each vehicle to carry a Mortuary Blanket.  This is in case you come across a dead body, so that you can cover it.  My kids call it the death blanket.  It is considered part of your Emergency Roadside Kit that you cover, which includes: a fire extinguisher, flares, reflective triangles, reflective vests, jumper cables, first aid kit, etc.  Now you might be thinking that you can carry any blanket, but sadly no.  You must have a certified mortuary blanket.  Some provinces do not have this law and others do not enforce it.  But we have heard that there is one (Entre Rios) that will fine anyone not carrying it and require them to buy it (on the spot) or have their car impounded.  Do you have a death blanket??

3 Finger Blessing

Our largest Catholic church has these two large statues.  Many people have asked what they mean.  

Well, I guess that depends on who you talk to.  Most people would tell you that it is a blessing or a sign of blessing. (If you want to read more about the history, I suggest that you start HERE.)  Others have speculated that it has to do with one finger for apostolic succession and the other for temporal power (which is why the pope kisses the ground when he visits a new country).  Others believe that it stands for the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). 

Regardless of when it started or where it came from, this symbol has deep meaning: we all want to be blessed.  Religious people here in Jujuy also have a custom of making the sign of the cross (a sacramental), with a kiss on their fist, when they pass any Catholic church.