September


September has been filled with lots of celebrations. 1st the kids started school so that made us all happy to get back into a routine of activities.  As much as everyone enjoys the break, we are all equally excited to return to some structure.


Then the Pan de Vida Church celebrated it's 17th anniversary of ministry.  It was a time to reflect and give thanks to God and His provisions.  The worship team played songs from the previous years and each Sunday School class did a presentation through skits.  Dario, the Director, shared a testimony on how the church began and testified to God's faithfulness in sustaining not only the church but the Orphanage.  The ladies of the church then blessed everyone with a wonderful lunch that allowed everyone to continue the praise to God and His goodness.


On Sept 16th, we then celebrated Mexican Independence Day.  This continues to be on of the major events of the year.  The auditorium was decorated in the Mexican colors of red, white and green.  Everyone, from the youngest to the oldest dressed in traditional clothing for the celebration.  There were games, activities, dance presentations and food tables.  So not only do we rejoice in the freedom of Mexico but we parallel the event to the freedom we, as Christians, have through Jesus Christ.  We continue to give thanks to our Heavenly Father for allowing us these continued blessings and time of fellowship.

Soldiers of the Spirit


The Pan de Vida youth group rounded up their summer with a 4 day camp as "Soldiers of the Spirit."  It was based on Romans 8 challenging them both physically and spiritually.


The leaders made this a real boot camp experience for them with early morning runs, conditioning exercises, construction of forts, obstacle courses, hikes and more.  As the youth transformed into soldiers, they were also divided into squads with the leaders as sergeants.  The message being that they are more than conquerors in Christ (Romans 8:27).  As soldiers, they are preparing for battle and it requires obedience to the Lord and they will encounter suffering but they will be victorious.


Their instructions came through daily devotions, prayer and messages from their leaders.  After the intense boot camp, everyone felt a great sense of achievement as they persevered through the challenges.  It gave them the feeling of unity through teamwork, a respect for soldiers and an understanding of perseverance.