Sandy and I have enjoyed several mission trips to Honduras but I believe this year had some truly memorable experiences. The Bible program had a number of children from previous years, and some of them were helping new children to get acquainted with the program.
The optical team provided 187 pairs of glasses and saw 233 patients. All received sun glasses, eye drops, and hats to help them deal with the bright sun shine. One of their clients was given progressive glasses and couldn't adjust to them. He saw us when we were out walking to visit with two nearby families, and since Pastor Guadalupe was with us, we were able to understand his problem. We asked him to come back, and with regular bifocals he was very, very happy!
Our sewing team was able to provide a baby carrier made from 3 T Shirts for her to carry her 15 day old baby with real comfort and security. They also taught a number of women and one man how to use our five sewing machines to make some of their own clothing from donated material, zippers, and other notions. One of the daughters of one of our professional construction team was able to make four items with beautiful design.
Our volunteer construction team was able to sand, caulk, and paint three of the six bed mission rooms (each have their own bathroom, shower, and toilet) to provide hospitality for mission volunteers like us. These rooms are just one important factor of this third floor of the five story facility. In addition, we utilized donated funds to purchase a number of tools including a 12 foot Warner fiberglass step ladder that made our work far more possible. We also purchased more sandpaper, extention sanders, paint brushes, caulk, and other hand tools to prepare the rooms for our painting. We are so grateful for all you've donated to make our work possible.
It is so exciting for us to see the degree of progress for this essential effort of our UMC Volunteers In Mission. This major multi-year project will provide a large regional church, housing for the pastor, office space for the pastor and superintendent, and guest facilities for those attending conferences and other events that reach out to the community.
All and all, we have found this mission trip to be filled with delight, lots of fun, inspiration, our awareness of God's living presence among us, and the privilege of doing what Jesus told us do do: "Go therefore into all the world making disciples." We feel very fortunate to do this important work. Thank you for your prayers and support!
In gratitude, Ron Retherford
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