The past 2 weeks were full! They were full in the sense that the schedule was intense and required a lot of logistical planning, as well as for the fact that we were with people non-stop. They were also full in the sense that we experienced rich community, learning, sharing across cultures, and mutual encouragement.
We participated in a weekend-long conference with over 100 participants from Latin America that focused on the legacy of Caty and Rene Padilla and their contribution to Integral Mission. The event was organized by CETI (a theological school out of Costa Rica that is virtual with students across Latin America) and Julio was part of the logistical team, helping with transportation and other details. We met together with participants from over 20 nations (including indigenous nations that were present) from North, Central and South America and the Caribbean. The panel discussions, small group conversations, and personal reflection time revolved around the theme of the Integral Mission, which understands proclamation and demonstration of the Gospel to touch every aspect of human life including family, profession, church and society. There was so much to take in and process. The stories of the participants were inspiring as they are living this out in their communities.
One of the highlights was reconnecting (for Julio) with people that he has known through INFEMIT and his doctoral studies, with another highlight was meeting so many special people for the first time. There was an immediate connection as we shared meals together and shared about our life and ministry.
Julio was also occupied before and after the conference with a group that is called Street Psalms and students who are in an urban ministry class with CETI. We were able to host a lunch with the students in our home and process with them their time visiting one of the Covenant’s ministries in a displaced community. It’s hard to put into words the beauty of meeting people from different nations and cultures. We were filled with God’s goodness.
