January 08 Newsletter

50th Wedding Anniversary: We almost pulled it off, keeping it a secret. But unfortunately someone told Dad that he "wouldn´t be able to make it to his party tonight". That gave it away, but we did at least keep it a secret until that day. We had a cake made with a picture from their wedding and then a recent picture. I was also able to sneak some pictures of them from way back and put them up behind their table. I asked everyone to bring a "funny or memorable" story about them to share. We also had letters from others who weren´t able to make it to the party. Everyone said it turned out nice and I think that Mom and Dad enjoyed themselves. It was a great surprise that my nephew Keegan was able to be there too. That made it even more special for my parents.

Graduation

As I´ve mentioned in the past we have a program on Saturday that is equivalent to our GED program. This is where the deaf who never finished school can come to our church and learn the basics. Right now there are only 3 levels, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade. We hope to increase the levels each year so please pray for more teachers. Our Wednesday group, Vision 2 Hear (V2H), performed for the graduation ceremony. 6 out of the 22 graduates are a part of V2H.

Day of Fun and Fellowship

The interpreters invited the Deaf to the park for a time of fellowship. We began the day with different games, from a balloon toss, to trying to draw a body one part at a time, to something like a sack race. After the games, there was a time of prayer request and a small devotional. For lunch we had a sandwich and a drink and everyone enjoyed themselves. I know that we´ll be planning another event like it for next year.

October News

Vision 2 Hear (V2H), the group that meets for practice every Wednesday afternoon at my church, had a performance in Opico. This is a small, poor village about an hour outside of San Salvador. On the bus, on the way to Opico, we started out with Bible Study and reflections of God´s Word, and discussed the order of the performance. Once there, we began with dancing/signing, dramas, clowns, piñatas, and interacting with the people. Tracts are passed out to the parents and bracelets with the salvation message are given out to all. Jorge, leader of V2H, got the chance to pray with one of the young boys and offer some counseling. It was a blessed time for everyone.

I met with my friends for our annual Thai Dinner at Bangkik Gardens. Scott, Polly, Wendy, and I meet at the same restaurant (my favorite) every time I go home.

A baby shower was given to Alma and Misel (both deaf) who are expecting their first child. It´s a boy and they´re very excited. Candy, another American that works here in El Salvador with the deaf, hosted the shower at her and her husband´s farm house. They prepared a huge spread for us. Delicious!

Day of the Deaf

September 20-28 is the National Week of the Deaf. There are three different celebrations. In the East, Central, and West part of the country. Each have their own celebrations. My church, Iglesia Bautista Miramonte, celebrated on the 20th at the church, with over 300 deaf in attendance. We had good food and great performances. Grisel, President of ASDICSSA, explained how the "Day of the Deaf" began. Our Vision 2 Hear group signed songs and performed dramas. Everyone enjoyed themselves.