.mulege.

Well Im back from our adventure and trip to Mulege/Santa Rosalia. Our team of 9 from EOC headed out Monday to Friday to help with hurricane relief and support the needs of these communities in any way we could. We all kind of felt like a team that we host here at EOC. We were reminded of what it was like to travel together, to a new place, with new weather (HOOOOT weather!!), new routine, new culture, and new needs. We were humbled. We were stretched. We worked hard. We sweated (did I mention it was hot?!). We laughed. We enjoyed fantastic hospitality. We partnered with new brothers and sisters. We built new roofs, new rooms, and even a few small one room houses. We connected with pastors as well as government officials (including the president of the municipality). Doors have been opened to see how we can continue to partner with our new friends in these areas... where the needs are great - and not just b/c of the hurricane. Imagine a family already struggling to get by, living in a shack for a house, when a giant storm comes and destroys there home. They barely can pull together enough money for water and food, not to mention another home. It was hard sometimes to think "there is so much more that needs to be done... isn't there more we can do?!". Yes. There is more. And we are excited to explore those possibilities.

It was encouraging to hear of the testimonies of some of our new friends. Hearing how these communities were buzzing about a group of volunteers (from ensenada, us, canada, and locally) that were going around helping people. They shared this was the first time a team had come and offered aid like this. This is exciting - not b/c of wanting any praise, but to see how quickly the impact is felt. In just three days we were able to help with 15 projects... 15 families lives were impacted and some relief offered. A team of volunteers from 2 local churches joined us every day and it was so encouraging to hear of their excitement as well to carry on. This was new for them as well - to reach out, to share the love of Jesus... in action. I am confident the ripple affect will carry on in these beautiful communities.

It was also special to share this time together as an eoc team. The joys (and trials) of travelling, living, and serving together were a highlight as well. Laughing over a meal, tackling a project together, or sharing thoughts and stories under a night sky, are all moments that have brought us closer together as a team.

Look forward to hearing updates on the status of Mulege and pray with us as we seek to determine next steps to help and serve our friends in the Mulege area.