Seminar in Paxot II

The ladies classes in Paxot II began today. There has been a lot of preparation and planning..........now we are gathered to learn.

Mary Beth beginning the seminar in her Sacapulas corte. Her lesson is on the book of Ephesians.

Rosario translating for Mary Beth into K'iche'. The women participated in small group activities, singing and praying through out the day.

Mary Beth and Roasario wanted to teach us a song in K'iche'. One of the ladies knew the song and joined them after a few minutes.

Mary Beth was teaching that as baptized believers, we receive two great blessings. First, we receive the Holy Spirit and second, the forgiveness of our sins. She used this doll and changed it's clothes to represent our transformation when we become Christians. Many of the ladies wanted their photo taken with the doll after the class.

She also talked about how we always has access to our Father. She talked about the relationship that a child has with its mother. This point is well understood in this culture. We as Christians, can approach our Father at any time..........for all of our needs.

These ladies came Sacapulas, the area that Mary Beth and Roger once lived in. It was a nice reunion for them as they were able to speak in K'iche'.

Photos taken during a break.

Lunch was provided and as usual, it was delicious. Then men served the ladies a bowl which included steak, rice and salsa. The tamalitos were served in the baskets and they made sure baskets remained full. It is a lot of preparation and work to feed a group this size! There were between 60-70 people when everyone arrived.

During the afternoon we listened to more of Ephesians in K'iche', the ladies participated in some role-playing and then we enjoyed some singing.

This is Maury and her friend talking about what they learned in the class today.

This is the group of ladies from Sacapulas. They lead us in some singing.........in Sacapulteca style.
It does not matter the time or place........what year or what country........God's word remains unchanged. The letter of Ephesians and the teachings that it contain should be held close to our heart.

I want to point out one cultural difference. During the break, each family received a roll of toilet paper.......no explanation needed.......it was just a gift. Josefina and her mom with their gift.

I have a special prayer request. Some of the members of the South Fork Church of Christ are in the Ukraine for a mission trip. This group consists of Bill, Gina, Leslie, Crystal and Lauren. They left on the 15th and will return on August 2nd. Please pray that they will be effective in sharing the teachings of Jesus and that the hearts of those who hear will be tender.