We can’t believe we arrived more than a month ago. We are still learning exactly what our jobs consist of and are learning more everyday what our responsibilities are here within the mission. We knew in coming down that we were in for some roles that would stretch and grow us. We are constantly being reminded that we in ourselves can do no good, but desperately need Jesus to be able to fulfill our roles here. There is so much going on. We would love to share a bit about the bigger picture...
Peru Mission has many faces down here in Trujillo, and praise be to God, each of its ministries are maturing and bearing fruit.
Churches - There are three presbyterian churches that the mission has invested in, and their aim is to work by parishes, or neighborhoods. It’s really encouraging to see how the church truly roots itself in and ministers to its individual, surrounding community. These churches are growing, developing, and maturing. There is solid, theological accountability and well organized programming for their members.
Seminary - Peru Mission has its own Reformed Seminary here where it is training up pastors and offering encouragement and support to existing pastors of our churches. We have some really sharp men here - American and Peruvian alike!
Clinics - We have a small clinic consisting of a physician, nurse, obstetrician, nutritionist, laboratory, and pharmacy. We serve in an extremely poor area and offer very inexpensive healthcare to those who could otherwise not afford it, often donating services to those who cannot pay. A much larger clinic is in the works as more funding comes in, and will serve a much larger percentage of the needy population.
Synergy - The mission started a micro-financing program that gives small loans to qualifying women in surrounding poor communities who currently run small businesses of their own such as selling food from ‘bodegas’ in their home, etc. They help to meet the women’s physical needs, teach them about financial management, and encourage accountability among each other in paying off their loan.
Wood Shop - The mission runs a wood shop giving jobs to several Peruvian men. They make exquisite furniture and export products to help boost the economy here. This ministry is in its beginning stages but has great potential to grow and provide many employment opportunities in a land where jobs are scarce.
University Ministry - The mission also ministers to the young people here through a Peruvian version of RUF or university ministry. They have gatherings once a week and have a presence on the local campuses.
SALI Language Institute - One of the most thriving ministries of the mission. We teach English classes to a range of ages, and students come in from all over to study at the school. With small class sizes, christian teachers get to build true friendships with their Peruvian students and share in their lives. The school continues to grow seeing record enrollment numbers each month!
