Guest written by: Jeanette and Lori Lewis
Today we ventured out to the tiny village of Palmito, with a population of 93. While it was still a rough ride, it is much closer to our home base of Galeana, and only required about a one hour ride to get there. The church there is small, old, and in need of repair, but it is stout and has stood the test of time. The local Pastor, Ruben, is 85 years old and still going strong. Lori and I have a special place in our hearts for him as he is extremely patient and loving, and he helps us increase our Spanish vocabulary. He is one of those people that radiate peace and understanding…one that we are fortunate to know.
Pastor Ruben walked around the area to announce the arrival of the True Path Ministry and the Iglesia Getsemani team. Soon families from all around the area began to arrive on foot. The little church was packed! Evangelist Ramiro preached the sermon today, and we had another separate service for the children led by our newest team member, Rosita. She taught them songs and we did a candy cane craft… and of course the local dogs had to come help the kids! If you read the poem below, you will see that the candy cane relates to Christ as a Savior and a Shepherd…
Look at the Candy Cane, What do you see?
Stripes that are red, represent the blood that was shed for me
White is for my savior, who is without sin and pure
“J” is for Jesus, my Savior who is safe
Turn it around and you will see a Shepherd’s Crook
Jesus my Pastor, come back for me.
After the church service, we gave the children the donated gift boxes, and as you can see from the photos, they were very pleased with the gifts. The women that attended received donated blankets and sleeping bags. Whole families benefited from our short time there today.
This is at least our 4th time to come here and help Stephen and Tonyia with their ministry. I cannot even express how much work goes into getting everything prepared, loaded, transported, etc. However, the blessings are tenfold. These people rejoice over the simplest of gifts and remind us all what is truly important. If you have ever thought of coming to assist here, I can wholeheartedly tell you that you will not regret it. My heart is full of love for the people here, and they are truly Mi Familia en Cristo…My Family in Christ.
Pastor Ruben services as the local preacher (click on a photo to see it larger)
Pastors Reynaldo was part of the service too
Evangelist Ramiro preached a powerful message
Ramiro prays with this lady for healing
Pastor Ruben sang a moving song along with a family member.
The small church was full of worshipers.
A group of local folks brought us food, everyone walked to the service.
Kids got a candy cane with an attached sheet explaining the meaning of the candy cane.
Prayer time is always part of the kid’s service.
The kids enjoyed getting the Christmas gifts
there was a kid’s service too
Pastor Reynaldo’s son Abdiel handed out the boy gifts
Jeanette helped give out the girl gifts
Each family got a blanket
Palmito is named for the short trees that grow there
the road into Palmito is pretty (click on a photo to see it larger)
