Agua ~ Donde? ~ Aqui ~ Mas Mezcla ~Arena ~Hablas Ingles? ~ Cuanto Cuesta?
These are just a few of the vocabulary words the members of the class of 2008 and their chaperones put into practice over the course of a week working, serving, and enjoying Reynosa, Mexico.
Reynosa, Mexico is a border town located just across from McAllen, TX that served as home for 27 youth and 7 chaperones from FPC-Nashville. Our youth joined two other churches at Faith Ministry and the First Presbyterian Church of Reynosa in working on homes in the community.
The weather was nearly always sunny and we soon learned why coming in from the afternoon sun has become a long-established tradition in Mexico. Not deterred by scorching temperatures, these youth worked diligently to mix concrete for floors and roofs and lay blocks on homes in various stages of construction. Throughout the week, a vacation bible school was held each day to share the message of Jesus' love with neighborhood children through song, games, and craft.
Each day began bright and early as we headed off to our assigned tasks learning the construction craft from our Mexican tradesmen guiding us. As we traveled through nearby neighborhoods, we saw poverty beyond compare with our expectations. Yet each resident with whom we worked was filled with the joy that can only come with the peace of God's presence. We were awed and amazed at the generous spirits with whom we worked each day.
Our trip ended after four days of hard work with a day of bartering and buying at the nearby Progresso market for our staple of souvenirs to bring home to family and friends. We learned much on this trip; especially that indeed we are blessed to be a blessing to others.
We thank each of the youth who gave of themselves to be of service to others over the week, to their parents for entrusting us with them, to our church for its generous financial and prayerful support, and to God for His amazing love for all of His creation.
Peace and Prayers,
Patricia Heim, Debbie DeVries, Becky Callaway, Trey Wince, Skip Stevens, March Christofersen, and Jerry Monds
"Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart,
and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
Matthew 11:29-30 | 
