The month of May we have been privileged to host several visitors from the States. Early in May Meagan Gillan, the Executive Minister of Women Ministries, joined us for our staff retreat and was able to visit several of the ministries here in Colombia that work with women. There was a woman’s gathering and over 30 women came out to hear a teaching from Meagan, as well as to share how they are impacting their communities and churches for Christ. As a staff, we were ministered to by Meagan during our retreat as she challenged us to get away with God and to find times of solitude. It is easy to get in the mode where I am continuously going and so sometimes I need to be reminded to stop and get quiet.

Mission staff with Meagan

Also this month we were visited by Klyne and Phyllis Snodgrass. Klyne is a professor of New Testament at North Park Theological Seminary and has had a profound impact on both Julio and I in our faith formation. Phyllis and I worked together in Chicago and so it was a joy to be able to share with her, as Julio, Klyne and Gary traveled to different cities and towns meeting with pastors and leaders. Klyne’s teachings were focused on the centrality of the word of God and the interpretation of Scripture. The pastors and leaders appreciated the opportunity to be able to dialogue and ask questions of each other and Klyne. Phyllis shared with the women of the Hands with Hope ministry in Medellin and helped Katie make some tasty treats for the various small groups and English conversations groups throughout the week. One of the highlights for Julio and I was to have our small group, along with others who were interested, come together to talk about sexuality and the Bible. Klyne led an important discussion and it was so encouraging to see people engaged and asking questions.

Teaching in San Carlos

Teaching in Medellin

Small group conversation

We are thankful for the various ways that people from the USA partner with the ministries here in Colombia. It reminds us that we are all part of the same family, the same body in Christ. How important to learn from each other and encourage one another!