The Chapmans in Peru

1527 days

2011-09-28T10:47:00.000-07:00

July 25, 2007 we stepped on a plane and moved to Peru. We have now lived 1527 days without a car. It has become abundantly clear to us and all of our advisers that we now need one in Peru. We have found an incredible opportunity for a car that will suit all our needs, but we don't have all the funds. If you have any questions please contact us.

-john and heather

Tax Deductible Donations to www.egmworld.org click donate now, select the Chapmans.

New Photos of Jeremiah- 4 weeks!

2011-09-14T10:21:00.001-07:00

Trey and Aunti Jen visit highlights!

2011-09-14T10:18:00.001-07:00

Aunt Jen showed up with a surprise! Her son Trey!

We had a great two weeks together!

Josiah's Birthday!

2011-09-14T10:05:00.000-07:00

Josiah is 5. 5 is our BIG Party year. Here are some highlights!

The family together on his special day!

A friend of ours does the "show" for children's parties. She was awesome, including the first song was a kids praise song.

Josiah Ready to blow them out. Loving the attention with us all singing to him!

Singing songs!

Trey was the special guest from the US!

It was clear Josiah had a great time!

With a few of some GREAT friends!

Ready for the party to begin!

Cake made by mom!

Four of his best friends from School. (Rodrigo is missing)

I found out what HOPE is.

2011-08-31T08:24:00.003-07:00

Last Saturday was amazing. I went out to Santa Rosa, a very new community at the edge of Lima Peru. I have been there many times, but this time we went to find this boy that wants to tell the world his story of life change. His story you will have to wait for, but for now I will tell you of what I learned.

We had the chance to talk to many people, the pastor, his wife, some moms, grandmas and kids. The stories were always very similar. The story always started with: before I was timid, before they were timid, before my son was timid, before the entire family was timid...etc. The word timid is a direct translation of the word they were using. Timid? I thought- why does it matter that someone was timid! Then it began to dawn on me. Timid is what you see in the eyes of someone down on their luck, lost, without any future or desire to continue or HOPE.

HOPE is what these people have HOPE for a life with joy and love. Love from Christ and His people. Community in a local Church and community with fellow believers. Hope with a future. Not only a future beyond death, but a future now. Hope is my word for the week and I don't think I have ever experienced in my life how Hope can change a life. They are poor, working hard to have food for today and electricity. Working hard to advance their life. Most missing a true physical father in their life. Most living in a one bedroom dirt floor wood house, with no possibility of getting out of where they are at. That is not the Hope they are looking for. They are looking for the Hope in Christ.

This little Girl is the same age as Michaela. She is full of Hope. She was in my arms the second i arrived and did not want to leave my side. I have heard she has asked numerous times, when will I return. Her mom was at church because her other daughter (5 years old) insisted that they go. They were dressed in their best clothes having just bathed. Church for them is a place of Hope and special place of love.

These girls and I became attached in just a few minutes. They where full of smiles and joy. It is as if they lived for the moment to be together in the children's meeting where they could learn of the love Christ has for them and experience it through the community in the meeting.

Eliana asks for help?

2011-08-19T11:07:00.001-07:00

Yesterday Eliana (6 years old) came to me with white copy paper cut into 4x5inch squares. She announced she was going to "Help the Ministry!". She then asked for the ministry stamps (that we had used for the recent conference in Peru). She took the two stamps with the ink pad and stamped all 25 of her papers. Then wrote the message at the top (photoed below). She came to me and said she was going to sell these to raise money for the ministry.

Nos ayudas con el ministerio? means "Help us with the ministry?"

Is it that simple? Has the passion and devotion that we have for the ministry seeped into my 6 year old? I can only pray that Eliana feels as much a part of the ministry in Peru as I do. I desire that she knows that the unknown sacrifices that she is making are for the ministry of helping the children in Peru learn about Jesus Christ.

Her message is my message. If you have been on the edge of thinking that you want to join us in helping children in Peru, Chile, Argentina and other South American Countries learn about the amazing love of Jesus Christ, I leave you with this question:

"NOS AYUDAS KON EL MINISTERIO?"

Jeremiah Emory Chapman Announcement

2011-08-16T06:32:00.000-07:00

Jeremiah Emory Chapman

2011-08-15T05:28:00.000-07:00

August 13, 2011
4:19 pm
8lb 14oz 21 1/4 inches

Fiestas Patrias

2011-07-25T08:10:00.000-07:00

July 28 is Perú's independence day. It is a BIG deal with flags and banners everywhere, big sales at the stores and two days of vacation!

Josiah and Mica had a photo shoot at school. They brought in traditional clothing and dressed them up. I love them and wanted to share.

Josiah with Tali, our neighbor and at times his best friend!

Homemade Donuts

2011-07-24T07:27:00.000-07:00

July Prayer Letter

2011-07-18T13:01:00.001-07:00

Greetings from gloomy Lima, Peru. Yes the gloom has arrived, what in the past has been a 7-9 month period of no sun and no rain has given us a few surprises already this winter. We have seen more rain then ever before (not too much) and the sun has graciously shown its face a few times too. We’d like to share with you some things to pray about; if you would like to receive this in email form only, just let us know at mail@johnandheather.com.

One of this month’s most significant highlights is the Emerging Leaders Program. Two young ladies (20 and 23 years old) have been living with us for 3 weeks now and will finish their time in Perú on the 29^th of July. It has been a blessing to take them through Bible studies, book studies and new experiences in cross-cultural ministry. They will depart just before Heather gives birth to our final addition to the Chapman family - a little baby boy (Due August 9).

With the arrival of our new baby boy we also have an influx of exciting visitors, Nonnie (Heather’s mom) July 27-Aug 25, Grandpa (Heather’s Dad) Aug 2-15, and Auntie Jen (Heather’s sister) Aug 18-31. Wow, that is going to be a full, fun house! Plus Daniel Watts and Rick Fortier for the Conference in Peru! We are very excited to have the visitors.

Ministry wise we are moving forward with the ministry in Argentina, praying about a key leader there who will do all the footwork for founding EGM-Argentina. John has been able to work with a number of contacts during his trip to Argentina the first week in June, and in September he will return for the training of this key leader.

The ministry in Peru is keeping us all busy as well. EGM-Peru does not have a fulltime director and they are waiting to see how their major fundraiser will turn out August 4,5 and 6. Please pray as we have finished the distribution of 12,000 flyers and 1500 posters to churches all over Lima. We are praying that 1,000 children’s workers will come to the three day conference and learn about EGM, be encouraged in ministry and finally be excited to learn how they can receive support in the future.

Chile is an amazing place with hundreds of children’s workers being trained and supported over the last quarter. John will participate via Skype at the Board meeting on July 30 and return to Chile in September to help with a new Board training.

God continues to provide for our finances, however our travel and ministry plans are all tentative, pending the arrival of the funds we need to advance the ministry work.

We are all dependent on our Heavenly Father for His provision and we are humbled as His people continue to respond to the need. We are still short of our monthly giving need, please continue to keep this in your prayers.

As this comes to a close, we ask for prayer for the birth of our precious baby boy. That his brother, sisters, mother and father will all be prepared to receive this special gift from God.

Serving His Children,

John and Heather Chapman

Now we see change

2011-07-12T12:40:00.001-07:00

Peruvian children at a camp last February.
The story below is not related to the above photo, except that they are all children in Perú.

David* was a troubled little boy. At only nine years old his mother would say of him, “He’s hopeless! He never obeys. I can’t control him.” She had resigned herself and so had he. Most days he left for school in the morning and never got there, wandering the streets aimlessly during school hours, “making trouble.”

The EGM-trained children’s ministry leaders from the church in his village started noticing him around on the streets. They would stop to talk to him, take an interest in his life and question why he was not in school. David began coming to the church’s children’s ministry programs. While there the leaders would hug him, show him affection and tell him that he was a GOOD boy and that he was truly wonderful. To this he would look up into their eyes and ask outloud, “Really? Are you telling me the truth?”

After a while it came to the church’s attention that one of the reasons David never wanted to be at home was because of the severe physical abuse he received from his father. At home it was a downward spiral of shame, abuse and increased disobedience. But at church, he heard about and experienced a love that saw through all of that. David heard for possibly the first time that someone loved him no matter what mistakes he had made.

His children’s ministry leader says, “Ahora vemos cambios.” Now we see change. Is it really that simple? Is it possible that to see Christ transform a child’s life, it only has to begin with a hug and a smile?

(*we always change children’s names out of respect for their privacy.)

Another calling realized

2011-07-03T04:45:00.000-07:00

At the age of 20, I (John) experienced one of the most significant experiences in my life, an experience that would shape me forever. 5 weeks in Poland, studying, ministering and serving. Since that day I have felt the call to repeat the program for other young leaders. This week that has begun.

The Emerging Leaders Program has begun!
Two young ladies arrived at our house last Monday, June 27. Jill and Joy. Sunday night I told Heather, "I am not sure who is more excited, these girls who are visiting Peru for a month or me!". It has been an incredible time. We have started a bunch of different aspects of the program, starting to read a number of different books, studying different themes in the Bible, looking at leaders in the Bible, having a reflection/journal/prayer time each day and have grown closer as a community. Finally they are on their first adventure this weekend. Visiting a pueblo joven (young town) in the north of Lima. They are sleeping with dirt floors with no showers, seeing a ministry led by incredible Peruvians to minister to a very poor and forgotten group of people. We can't wait for them to get back tonight to tell us all about it and start another week of studying and reflection.

Joy in the patio for her hour every morning.

Jill at the park for her hour every morning.

Pray for them and us as we grow in the knowledge and wisdom of our Lord Jesus Christ!

May Prayer Letter

2011-05-25T10:01:00.000-07:00

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ! We are initiating something new to communicate better to all of you – a good, old-fashioned prayer letter! If you’re on this list, you have participated in our ministry life since we moved here to Peru with Every Generation Ministries. Whether by praying for us, sending one-time gift or being part of our regular donations, you have invested in God’s work here and it’s our honor to keep you better informed of how God is using you. If you would like to receive this in email form only, just let us know at mail@johnandheather.com.

We have so many exciting things happening in our ministry and home life to share.
NATIONAL MINISTRY TEAMS: John just returned from Chile working to advance the ministry there. In Peru, ministry is moving forward as the Board of Directors of EGM-Peru (with Heather) is working hard to host the largest event ever organized by any EGM ministry. The Interdenominational Children Ministry Congress will host 1,000 children’s workers and Christian leaders to hear from Founder and President Daniel Watts in a ministry launch on August 4-6, 2011. Please pray with us for this event.

NEW MINISTRIES: John took his first trip to Argentina in April to meet all EGM’s past contacts and is making plans to go back in June 7-13th to advance the ministry there. Although many Argentine leaders are eager to start EGM-Argentina, we need your prayers as we search for THE person who will spearhead the work and drive the ministry forward. We are also praying for God’s leading on the other two countries (currently unknown) that ministries will begin to move forward in the coming year. Please pray with us!

On the Home front, Heather is doing well, as we anxiously await the arrival of our new baby boy on August 9th (yes three days after the major Peru event!). Eliana is enjoying 1st grade in her new school. Josiah is playing “Super Heros” at school. Mica is now 2 1/2 and working hard to get potty trained!

We had a rare opportunity to have a get away without the kids in May for our 10th wedding Anniversary celebration (Actually in July, but Heather would not be able to travel at that point). It was an amazing time to be together and see the Iguassu Falls in Brasil.

Please continue to pray for our ministry finances. We’ve expanded our ministry this year and it requires significantly more money than we were needing in the past. Our goal is $3000/month of new giving and we have reached $1200 so far. We are praying for another $1800/month. We know it is a huge amount, but also know that God has called us here and He is able. Thank you for your prayers about finances.

Winter has come upon us in Lima, the sun is now hiding and we will miss it for the next 6 months or so but we remain cheerful, grateful for your partnership with us here in South America.

Serving His Children,

John and Heather Chapman

Argentina Shirts from John's Trip to Argentina!

Heather and the Kids at the end of Summer, when there was sun. No more sun until November!

Is there hope?

2011-04-14T09:22:00.000-07:00

Im sitting here this morning praying for Sara.

Sara is 11 years old. There are a lot of reasons why Sara's life should be without hope.
She lives in a small shack with a dirt floor, a straw mattress and one blanket to share with her mom, and her 14 and 2 year old sisters.
She is sullen and downcast, too timid to make eye contact for long.
She has been forced by her mom to exchange sexual favors for food.
She recently started showing symptoms of hepatitis.
She has no money to go to the hospital, and has no birth certificate to apply for the free insurance.

Yet I believe there is hope for Sara.
Despite all her wounds and pain Sara comes every week to "Children of Jesus" the children's ministry of her local church, seeking relief and a short escape. The EGM-trained children's worker there knows her, loves her, knows her life circumstances and can help.

I dont know in what way God will lead His people in that church to act; I don't know how long Sara will live in the valley of the shadow of death or if she will climb out of her pain, her suffering, her poverty or her illness. But I know that there is a glorious future that is only being glimpsed now. Glimpsed when her church leader holds her hand, when she stays up all night searching for the best solution to Sara's medical needs, and when the women of the community gather to strategize a plan and to pray.

Psalm 6:2-4 Have mercy on me, LORD, for I am faint; heal me, LORD, for my bones are in agony. My soul is in deep anguish. How long, LORD, how long? Turn, LORD, and deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love.

*Names are always changed out of respect for those mentioned.

Where's the Beef?

2011-04-14T09:01:00.000-07:00

What's the goal of children's ministry?

Most children's workers here in Latin America would not understand the question because it would be assumed that the entire point is to transmit information about the bible to a child so it will serve them later in life, or in order to gradually form "Christian character."

Recently I was assisting our Peruvian team in a training, teaching on the part of the lesson in which children actually RESPOND to the word of God. Suzanna asked why this is never included in her "teacher manuals." She showed me the one she was using. It included: a title, a bible passage, a narration of the passage, and a closing prayer. She explained that in an effort to be concise, people usually cut a lesson down to "the meat."

Unfortunately, the children present at that church service 1) will have no way to bring their real life into what they're hearing, 2) will have no way to bring what they learned mentally down into their heart and 3) will not be given an opportunity to respond to the word of God they have heard.

If your goal is to give data that will help a child in the future, by all means - cut it down and don't forget the beef.
But if your goal is to see real-life transformation for each child - now, while she is still a child - children's ministry cannot be about information.

EGM shows children's workers a way of ministering to children that:
Is based on RELATIONSHIP
Connects to real-life EXPERIENCE
Teaches the TRUTH of God's word
Uses DISCUSSION to connect real life to the truth, and
Culminates with a RESPONSE.

That's some tasty beef.

Relational Ministry

2011-04-14T08:38:00.000-07:00

Education in Peru is really traditional. When we searched for a school for Eliana's first grade, we had very few expectations - we simply wanted a school that did not lecture at her for 6 straight hours and then send home 2 hours of homework.

Unfortunately, as the name implies, "Sunday School" is often the same. People are creatures of habit, so when a church member is given the responsibility to lead a group of children, they do what was done with them. What results? A Sunday school class-room where the teacher lectures, children listen, information about the Bible gets memorized, and efforts are made to diminish the inevitable boredom.

EGM shows children's workers a different way. A way that is evidenced in scripture and practiced by Jesus himself. A way that results not so much in the transmission of information, but in the transformation of a child's life.

It all starts with Relationship.

EGM shows children's workers in every country where we serve that the foundation of all ministry is relationship. 1)our relationship with God 2)our relationship with the child. If a child doesn't feel loved and accepted by his leader, nothing the leader does can break through to him. If a child doesn't respect and admire her leader, nothing the leader does can make her want to follow that example.

An EGM-trained children's worker was at church one Sunday and 8-year-old Sebastian didn't want to go in. He pouted, refused and defied his parents. Finally he entered, but only to dramatically throw his bible to the ground every 5-10 minutes. Every time, the children's worker picked it up and calmly returned it saying, "Here you go, buddy. You must have dropped this." And every time the leader squeezed his shoulder or showed him some affection and said, "Im so glad you're here today." Time after time this was repeated. By the end of the service, Sebastian was smiling, participating in class and hugging his leader goodbye.

What changed? Relational ministry teaches us that love breaks through to people. Not information. Not stories. Sebastian was given the opportunity that day to hear from the word of God, apply it to his life and respond to Him - because his leader thought that loving him was more important than anything else she was doing.

This idea is new to a lot of children's workers here in Peru and throughout South America. But every time we see that lightbulb go on in the eyes of a children's worker, we know that more children are about to experience Christ's love. More children are about to have the opportunity to really hear the word of God and be changed by it.

Fatherless

2011-04-14T08:21:00.000-07:00

In a taxi last night the talk radio was discussing the Peruvian reality that more homes than not are fatherless. Divorce, abandonment, rape, poor working conditions... too many factors that lead to children never knowing the love of a daddy.

One EGM-trained children's worker tells of a poor mother and her two-year-old daughter, Mariela. When asked about Mariela's father, she averts eye contact and states, "She has no father." Rumors in the town spread that this mom prostituted herself in exchange for a small shack to live in, and 9 months later Mariela arrived.

Gratefully, this EGM-trained children's worker knows that what the mom said is not true. Mariela has a heavenly father who is longing to embrace, love and care for her.

So in His name, this children's worker is doing so. Mariela may never have a father who pays the bills, puts her to bed at night and buys her a teddy bear for Christmas; but she has something greater.

Thanks to this EGM-trained children's worker, she'll know Him. She'll be loved by Him. And her life will be different because of it.

Summer Ministry at a Glance 2011

2011-03-15T07:25:00.001-07:00

The ministry of EGM-Peru is moving forward with the greatest answer to prayer then we could have ever asked for. The ministry is depending on its own leadership to lead the ministry. The attitude is that this is their ministry given to them by God and that Heather and I and EGM in the US is here to help them. This was our number one goal when we moved to Peru. That a group of Peruvian leaders would catch the vision the help every church in Peru with their ministry to children and figure out how to do that.

Board meetings:
There have been 4 board gatherings already this year. Heather is serving on the Board and loving it.

Church Visit-
The highlight of our ministry is seeing teachers in action. These two teachers had attended a EGM training and were implementing the new ideas in their class. I was able to talk with them for 40 minutes after class. Encouraging them in their attempts to make the Bible come alive to children in their every day life. They talked about one of the first stories in the Bible when Daniel decided not to eat the food of the kings table but of the Food that God had told them to eat. The conversation with 10-13 year olds turned to peer presure and the things that God tells us not to do and how can we not listen to the same music as our friends or not watch Terror movies....
It was amazing to see how God's word has something to do with thier lives today.

Volunteer Training:
The Board got together to take the lead in taking 5 attendees of trainings on the journey to be the first 5 volunteers with EGM-Peru. EGM-Peru's vision is to make their impact in the country through volunteers like this. We were excited to host them at our house.

Some faces you might recognize. Pastor Daniel is the first in the row, I have visited his church.
The third from the left is Lisset, again there is a previous blog about her church visit. 4th from the left is the director of the Sunday school of the teachers from the Church visit above. 5th from the left is Arlette- sweatest lady ever, directs her kids in an underground Garage on Sundays.
Then you have the Board with Charo, Heather, John, Christina, Marcos, and Samuel.

Camp was fun for the family but also amazing for the ministry. We saw two board members lead the EGM model in a camp setting.

I, John, was invited up to share about how God calls us to serve from a young age and we can answer that call. We have to be ready to go wherever HE leads us.

Trainings are happening and being planned. We are excited to have Board members who not only lead the ministry but are skilled at leading the material with teachers as well.

Summer in Lima Peru 2010

2011-03-15T06:38:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it has been since December 17th that we have written on our blog. I am sorry. We have had a very busy summer, yes summer. Three kids at home and all the activities associated with that. We have had some visitors come through town, had the chance to spend a week "house sitting" in Lima with some other friends that we took as a Staycation. It was a nice relaxing week. Gymnastics, a wedding, and camp. Here are some photos

Kids in Summer Clothes!

Gymnastics!!!

We were invited to visit a childrens camp for two days. Eliana and Josiah made friends and joined the red team. They had their "best friends" and talk about missing them ever since. Ian connected with Josiah and cared for him like a little brother. Yoshia (female of Josiah?) was Eliana's friend.

The 2 hours each day in the Pool was the highlight. Josiah being cared for by Ian, Mica wanting to kick, kick kick. After all the kids left Eliana almost swam the width of the pool with no help.

The Wedding. Yes Tali and Josiah are officially married, by the older sister Isa.
They dressed up, were not allowed to see each other before. "Hugged" the bride and then found a baby with a stroller and pushed it around. Clearly marriage causes a baby in their world, we will leave it at that.

Eliana had her fist day of First Grade at a new school. It is amazing to send her off each morning in the "Bus" a mom who goes around and picks up a handful of kids on her way to school.

First day of School for Josiah, here photoed with Tali our upstairs neighbor. Josiah is in the 4 year old class this year and he loves his school. He likes his friends and teachers and speaks all day in Spanish with no complaining.

This past weekend was not only a highlight of our time this summer, but a highlight of our life in Peru. Dear friends David and Dorthy with their three children Ana, Constentine and Salomae visited. We met them in Language school and manage to see each other about twice a year. They are German Doctor missionaries from a hospital just outside Cusco. The kids play in spanish, we parents use english.

Final days of summer are upon us. Kids are at school, sun is diminishing and time outside with no shoes and playing in the water will soon come to an end. We are blessed by our life God has given us in Lima, Peru.

Update Letter

2010-12-17T12:18:00.000-08:00

I got a facebook message from my 5th Grade Sunday School teachers. They said, “So proud of you as you serve the Lord”. It started me thinking. What if I didn’t have David and Tina Smith as my childhood Sunday School Teachers? What if they didn’t have curriculum to help them teach me God’s Word? What if they had had no support, training or personal experience to help them minister to me? What if their only experiences when they were children consisted of listening to lectures in straight silent rows? What if they didn’t have chairs for me to sit in, a roof for me to be under, a place for us to meet? What if David and Tina Smith’s passion for kids had died in the church pew because they had no support, no resources, and it was just too hard to change a child’s life for eternity?

Would I be here? Would I still wake up every day with the fire in my heart to reach the thousands upon thousands of children who need the Lord? God has asked me to help countless children in the world have someone in their life like my Dave and Tina Smith. That work has started already in Peru. Now we are setting out on a project. A project that with God’s provision and guidance will impact thousands of children with His love - transforming the lives of children all over the continent of South America. A couple months ago you got a mailer from us reporting on our first 3 years and asking you to join us for our next project – expanding our mission from just Peru to all of South America. (Please find all the details at www.johnandheather.com)

We also have to let you know that the financial situation of our ministry fund is putting these plans on shaky ground. In order for us to continue following God’s leading, reaching more and more children throughout South America, our ministry fund needs $3000 per month more than what supporters are giving now. That means that this next 3-year project in South America requires $100,000 of additional giving. While the enormity of that number is daunting to us, in our hearts it’s balanced by the enormity of the need and our calling to it. We believe that God will continue to show His faithfulness to the children of South America through you.

We’ve been thinking about what it means to be in need. We find ourselves in need of a large increase in ministry funding. Even as we consider our own need, we are continually humbled by the need around us. Children all over South America are in need of the Lord and the Life He offers them. They need Every Generation Ministries to equip and empower their church leaders to minister to them and see their lives transformed. A little child is vulnerable, needy, completely dependent. Christmas reminds us that Jesus chose to enter into that reality and now, I’m sure, never has forgotten what it’s like to be a child in need.

We come to you, humbly sharing our need, to ask that you would partner with us as we stand with the Christ child and with children all over South America. Thanks for reading, and know that we’ll be praying for God to provide for all of your needs as well.

Serving His Children in South America,

John and Heather Chapman

Financial Support:
Every Generation Ministries / PO Box 891179 / Temecula, CA 92589
www.egmworld.org (Click “Donate Now” then “Ministry Purpose: Support an EGM Missionary: Chapman”)

Personal:
John and Heather Chapman / Valle Riestra 556 / Pueblo Libre, Lima 21 / PERU
949-226-8553 / www.johnandheather.com

Meet Katy

2010-12-09T10:07:00.000-08:00

I haven't told you about KATY!!!
She is awesome. I am continually amazed by the dynamic and gifted teachers i see in Peru.
Katy grew up in the Children's ministry at her Church. She is now a young lady and LOVES to serve the children at her church. Her church is a small storefront, her pastor is an amazing servant of God who has attend numerous trainings of EGM and implementing them in his work with his Sunday School teachers. Katy has never attended and training but is learning from her pastor and making a difference.

Despite her obvious God given gifts to work with children, she is still struggling. She struggles with a basic outline of how to structure her time with children. She doesn't just want to read the Bible, sing a song and color a coloring page. She wants to learn new ways to make the Bible real and alive to the children in her church and community. that is why we are here. That is what we are doing. Helping teachers like Katy to make the Bible come alive to the children that she has contact with.

Leadership Program Summer 2011 in Peru

2010-12-05T10:40:00.000-08:00

Pass this info along to someone who might be interested. Only 4 spots!

New Mailing Address!!!

2010-12-05T10:28:00.000-08:00

We have moved! We still live in Lima Peru, but in a different house!

Address-

John and Heather Chapman
Valle Riestra 556
Pueblo Libre, Lima 21

We love mail! We love Christmas cards!

Amazed by God's People

2010-11-17T09:05:00.000-08:00

We received maybe one of our most humbling gifts in the last month. It has taken us a while to get our hands on the actual invite, but here it is.

Please step back and enjoy the awesome service of a precious child. This little girl sacrificed the opportunity to have fun gifts for her birthday because she wanted to help reach children in South America with the love of Jesus. Yet another confirmation of the famous driving statement in my heart. "Children are not the future of the Church, they are the Church NOW."

God used this precious young lady to make an impact around the world for Christ. I am blessed and humbled to have Cheyenne on my team, as I serve the churches of South America. I am not a big numbers guy when it comes to amounts but in this case i am going to share it. $350 was raised. Thank you Cheyenne for listening to the call of God on your heart and responding.

EGM's Impact in Punta Piedra

2010-10-21T09:02:00.000-07:00

Puente Piedra is a “pueblo joven” (young town) on the outskirts of Lima whose residents live at a very low socio-economic level. Parents work in the city long days and children are often left without supervision or provision. In this town, one of EGM-Peru’s volunteers leads a children’s ministry of a local church. Lisset is an energetic woman who is passionate about serving among the poor, who (in her words) live “another reality.”

Every Saturday, Lisset and her team of volunteers minister to children who would otherwise have nowhere to go. Following EGM’s ministry model, they build a strong relational foundation with each child, having real conversations with them and group discussions. They teach the Word of God in an experiential way and always provide an opportunity for the children to respond to God.

Last Saturday we were visiting Lisset’s church to continue her volunteer training by observing and supporting her. An eleven year old boy in her class arrived late. When Lisset sat to ask him about it, he humbly confessed to her that he was late because he couldn’t pry himself away from the internet café. He cried as he explained that he feels horrible about what he’s seeing and he thinks he has an addiction. Eleven years old.

As an EGM “Model Teacher,” Lisset didn’t skip a beat as she and another boy prayed with him, talked and wept. It is because of the relational ministry that Lisset practices that this boy had someone to turn to. Rather than living in guilt, fear and addiction, he can find in Jesus a Life of forgiveness, restoration and true joy. That day Lisset’s lesson was on 1 John 1:1-4 “...concerning the Word of Life.” She taught about our “joy being complete” through fellowship with the Lord and each other.

EGM’s national ministry teams are equipping children’s workers to have ministry with children that, like Lisset’s, is biblical, relational, experiential and results in lives transformed by Christ. This little boy and many others are finding Jesus and beginning to live the New Life that He offers.

How was Project Two born?

2010-10-21T08:59:00.000-07:00

At the start of 2010 we felt ourselves at one of the inevitable lows of missionary life. We were unsure, unsettled and feeling the losses that previously had been cushioned by the many joys of our ministry here. We spent some months just putting those feelings on a shelf, looking to the Lord for direction, and trying to be more objective about our next steps in ministry. It was working and we had a fantastic season of ministry, culminating in the completion of Project One.

Then suddenly we encountered a series of personal losses. John’s grandmother died. We suffered a miscarriage. Heather’s aunt died. John’s uncle died. And we realized with surprise that there was no emotional reserve to cover it all. We had been depleted like a quietly leaking tank and were left tired, empty, without vision and without the energy to pursue one. While we didn’t regret anything about our three years in Peru, we weren’t seeing or feeling any renewed calling to continue here. It seemed that our time in Peru might be coming to an end.

Then, in the same quiet and gradual way, we found ourselves healing and rejuvenating. During our visit in California, there were ministry conversations that affected our hearts like the prickling heat after your leg falls asleep. There were quiet moments before the Lord that felt like a heating pad on sore muscles. And little by little and with much surprise, we found ourselves dreaming again about South America.

EGM confirmed those dreams and dreamt with us of what we could do with another three years in Peru – the intimacy we could bring to our ministry partnerships, the careful guidance and training we could offer to the national teams, the new teams that could be formed with our coordination – so that more and more children could live a new life with Jesus. The Jesus who was, at that moment, healing, filling and inspiring us, giving us hope and joy in Him.

So Project Two was born.

OUR BIGGEST NEWS OF THE YEAR!

2010-10-21T07:39:00.000-07:00

We’re so excited to tell you that our ministry is expanding!

After three years in Peru, we’ve completed Project One. It entailed first language learning and then facilitating the start-up of a Peruvian organization that partners with EGM: led, envisioned and funded by Peruvian Christian leaders who shared our passion for children. WE DID IT! We’ve found the right people, trained them and walked beside them as they discovered God’s vision for EGM-Peru. EGM-Peru is now established and working to see Peruvian children be transformed in Christ through His Church. The volunteer team is already providing leadership development events that cast vision, train and initiate a long-term relationship with children’s ministry leaders who also long to see children’s lives touched by Jesus. So we have to take a moment with you to stop, remember and celebrate what God has done!

And now God is expanding our vision to all of South America.

Project Two will entail:

· Encouraging ministry growth of EGM-Peru

· Supporting EGM’s established ministry team in Chile

· Taking the next steps of ministry team start-up in Argentina

· Facilitating ministry expansion into new South American countries

Our great desire has always been to see EGM’s ministry reach more and more countries so that more and more children will be transformed in Christ as a result of effective children’s ministry. We want to be a resource, a support, a spark for the flame that God will fan! Now, after seeing the start-up of EGM-Peru and the many children who are already being impacted by this baby ministry, just imagine the thousands of children who will be touched by Project Two – not only in Peru but in Chile, Argentina and beyond!

To do what God is calling us to do, we need additional financial resources.

Project Two is going to require $3,000 per month in addition to the monthly and annual gifts of our current supporters to fuel our new ministry and sustain our family.

We are completely aware of the fact that $3000 more every month is an outrageous amount of money, when there have already been so many who are giving sacrificially and consistently to fuel Project One. We would be happy to share with you the details of why this project is going to require such increase in funding. For this space, we’ll simply say -

There is no way we can ignore or deny the fact that God is calling us to be here, to stay here and to embark on this new journey. So without being able to see the road, we step out into the fog, holding our Jesus’ hand, believing that the bricks will materialize beneath our feet.

We’re thanking the Lord for giving us this new project and asking Him to call others to join us in prayer and finances.

Sunday School teachers

2010-09-28T12:24:00.000-07:00

Sunday night I was invited by Pastor Daniel Leon Cuenca, one of our future volunteer trainers here in Peru, to come speak to a group of Sunday School teachers from his area. It was amazing. He had advertised on his one-hour daily Christian radio program and 50 teachers came!

I get these requests all the time and truthfully, i say no. I say no for so many reasons, but mainly because i want to empower Peruvians to do it. Because he is a future trainer of EGM-Peru, i wanted him to see me do it. I also wanted to give another Board member the chance to share about the ministry. So we went!

It was an incredible evening. The teachers were great and received the information very well. We announced EGM-Peru's big conference in March and they cheered. The begged and invited me to come to their individual churches to help them and I was once again reminded of the need that far too few people are addressing. There are thousands of teachers who want and need help. It was an encouragement to why we are here in Peru.

These are Pastor Daniel's kids. He has dedicated himself to ministering to children. He teaches values education in schools as an outreach and focuses his church ministry on children. He has a service of adults on Sunday nights and leads the ministry to children on Sunday morning. His church building is a small storefront that seats 6 people across. He lives with his wife and children in the one room above the church. It is humbling and a blessing to see his heart for children.

There are so many people who are dedicated to children, and they do so making huge personal sacrifices, with or without any support, encouragement, training or materials. It is these kind of people who are an inspiration to us and to our team at EGM. Our hearts beat to support them, help them and cheer for them! Making their ministry to children more effective, more long-lasting, more life-transformational - so that more and more children will know Jesus and live His New LIFE.

Toilet Paper

2010-09-18T18:31:00.000-07:00

One of my most difficult jobs is trying to explain to all of you what i do. So here is another try:

Have you ever gone into a public bathroom and after you completed your business, found that there was no toilet paper? (That happens here all the time and here in Peru we have to carry our own.) What happens when you REALLY NEED something and its' just NOT there?

That is a question we get every day. (Not people needing toilet paper,) but needing desperately something that they don't have.

Imagine standing in a room with 30 children with only a Bible in your hand. My mom would say, "easy, no problem." But most of the rest of the world would be lost. Most people would be desperate for help, (remember that desperate feeling I mentioned above?)

Many children's workers take for granted things we consider basic: materials that the church hands us to lead a Sunday School lesson, or the internet that we can go to and find help and resources for teaching Sunday School, other people around who have experience and confidence in children's ministry...

Did you know that some crazy number like 85% of the worlds materials for Sunday School teacher are for the Western World (US and Europe).

Children's workers all over South America are sitting alone in their bedroom on a Saturday night with a bible and a pencil in their hands, wondering what to do on Sunday morning, how to reach the children's hearts for Jesus. Alone and without resources or training, they have that desperate feeling.

it doesn't have to be that way.

Robi and Elita - why we are here

2010-09-18T17:57:00.001-07:00

Robi and Elita are our best Peruvian friends. We spend Christmas and new years with them, we helped them through one of their sons having a tumor in his nose, two of their teenage kids have been john's language-helper. We love them. They are dear to our hearts.

I am going to talk about them more and more, not only because we love them and are grateful for them, but because they ARE the perfect example of why we are here in Peru.

They are a family, Elita (mom), Robi (dad), Jimmy (20 year old son), Tito (17 year old son) and Elsa (16 year old daughter) who LOVE kids. They love leading meetings for kids, loving on kids and investing in the lives of kids. They have started a club on Saturdays in a poor neighborhood on the outside of Lima, because they love kids. Robi has built a church in the area to primarily do ministry kids, because they love kids. This poor town is OVERFLOWING with kids. Parents leave for sometimes 14 hours to work for the day, leaving kids to fend for themselves. One 10 year old girl was in charge of her twin 3 year old siblings, because dad was at work and mom had abandoned them.

Robi and Elita have a heart for these kids in this area, BUT THEY DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO! They have no materials and little effective tools to minister. The entire family is coming to a private training in our home on Mondays for four weeks. They want an effective way to share the hope, joy and love of Jesus with these children. THEY are why I am living in Peru. Thousands upon thousands of people in Peru want help. They love kids and want to share Jesus with them, but don't know what to do. Every pastor or teacher I meet with wants more.

THAT is why I live here! questions? ASK!

Back in the Swing of things

2010-09-08T18:03:00.001-07:00

We are Back in Peru and back in the swing of things.

Josiah turned 4 years old!

Josiah posing with his new Conductor Dress up from Mimi and papa!

Spent the day bundled up at the zoo.

Climbed our first tree (it is pretty hard to find a tree to climb in Lima).

Got to see a Parade with traditional peruvian dancers.

Had some great visitors! Cameron and his two girls - Grace (6) and Christiana (4).
Talk about an adventurous dad!

We have also had some great ministry meetings and are working toward some great ministry events.

A first...

2010-05-25T10:41:00.000-07:00

Charo teaching teachers

Last Sunday afternoon marked an amazing first for the ministry here in Perú. The first workshop taught entirely by trained volunteer Peruvians. After attending an 8 week course in Feb and March of this year, we extended an invitation to 4 people who truly showed an understanding of the philosophy and a desire to volunteer with the ministry in the future to help Sunday School teachers in Peru. One of our Board member, Charo who also attended the training, decided to use the Model Teacher material with her teachers at church. She is hosting a 5 week course for her teachers and asked us to participate. Two of the five weeks are over, and Heather and I are done. I presented a little on the fist Sunday training, and the second training was done entirely by Peruvians. Daniel Leon, a pastor, experienced children's worker, and overflowing passion for children and their importance, jumped at the chance to lead the group through the first half of the Seminar. Charo took over for the second half and finished off the evening. Heather was sitting blessed and amazed as she saw the Peruvians lead in the ministry.

Below is Pastor Daniel Leon

Mother's Day photos

2010-05-13T08:15:00.000-07:00

At the kids school they put on a large mother's day show each year. These are the kids performing in their numbers. Jail house rock, Sandy from Greece, and Mambo!

Mother's Day Videos

2010-05-10T07:11:00.000-07:00

Ministry Photos

2010-04-27T08:07:00.000-07:00

Click on this link:
http://gallery.me.com/thechapmans/100009

Eliana 5th Birthday

2010-04-24T10:03:00.000-07:00

Have you ever done anything for 8 satudays in a row?

2010-04-14T09:56:00.000-07:00

For 8 Saturdays we had a Teacher Training. We had a group of almost 30 teachers who completed the training and are ready for the next step to become Trainers themselves. Most of the 30 were had picked and have extensive experience doing training for Sunday School Teachers. They are excited to see how god can use them in this new ministry in Peru. The Chapmans had a great time teaching, we started bringing the kids towards the end as well and gave them jobs of passing out and collecting papers, taking pictures and assisting in other ways. It was an incredible time for us to return to the world of teaching teachers and we felt the impact on teachers here in Peru. For those of you who pray for us we are grateful for your part with us in this ministry.

The teachers spent 7 weeks learning about how to make their own Sunday School lesson and then finally presented in small groups to the entire class on the final week. We had a wonderful time and loved the experience. The testimonies were amazing and the teachers truely grew in their ability and understanding of their ministry to children.

Teachers trying to write with their feet, as they are doing an activity to help them feel uncomfortable.

Teacher's acting out the application of a Bible Story for preschool ages students.

Teacher's singing a song and memorizing a verse during another lesson presentation.

Two teachers.

Heather teaching Sunday School Teachers.

Heather with two Board members. They hadn't coordinated their outfits.

Teachers working in small groups discussing as they learned and processed the new ideas and information.

We believe will one day impact thousands upon thousands

2010-04-09T07:35:00.001-07:00

Is it strange to feel like one room is SOOO significant. This room (photoed above) is a very significant room for me. It started back in December of 2006. Heather and I with Josiah 3 months old (Eliana stayed in CA with family), and Ryan and Kelly Callaghan were visiting Peru for the first time, to get a feel for the need of a ministry like EGM. Our first Children's Ministry that we ever visited was right here in this room.

On returning to Lima in 2008 we began to attend this church.

In May of 2009 we had our first EGM work with teachers right here in this room. Where 100 Children's Ministry Workers from different churches and denominations came together to hear about the work of EGM.

In August of 2009. Nancy Matossian and Kathleen Chapman (my sister and mom) came to speak at this church, in this room (and other rooms) to 600 Children's Ministry Workers. And I taught to another group of teachers, in Spanish.

And after many meetings and conversations with a small group of key Christian Leaders, on MARCH 15, 2010. A group joined together (planned for another room, but they were cleaning it that day) to meet. We met in the only room available, a room that could seat 250 people, but we set up a table, a white board, and 8 chairs to start a ministry that we believe will one day impact thousands upon thousands of Children's Ministry workers in Peru.

I also have the privilege (when time allows) to go and volunteer in this Children's Ministry. On a Sunday morning I see 15+ Children's Workers give some of their lives to share the love of Jesus with a group of 75+ children. It is a blessing to just be in their presence.

EGM Publication Focus on Peru and Chapmans

2010-03-23T08:36:00.000-07:00

You should get one of these in the mail, but if you don't, you can check it out here!

Catching Up: Christmas & NewYears

2010-03-21T08:30:00.000-07:00

Our Christmas season started slow and contemplative, celebrating Advent as a family every Sunday.
Then we had the pleasure of hosting our friends the Gonzalez's (missionaries we met in Colorado and who now live in Ecuador).

As per Peruvian custom, we celebrated Christmas at midnight with gifts, fireworks and Christmas dinner (3 kids and all!) with our Peruvian friends the Castros.
Christmas day we stayed home, ate Mexican food, opened gifts and then went to dinner at the Langley's house. We are so grateful for the friendships we've developed in the last 2 1/2 years in Peru!
Dress up stuff- so fun :)
Tutus from Nanny and Uncle Mark!
Josiah with his preschool class dancing "Little Angel Rock." He spent most of the time trying to get the attention of the girls on stage.
Eliana was the star of the show in her end-of-the-year performance. She loves dancing. As a baby she had excellent clapping rhythm and now we can see she's 'still got it'!
(Doesn't she look so old in this picture?)
...always the cutie.

Eliana's 5th Birthday

2010-03-21T07:55:00.000-07:00

What could be better?
A party with friends from school at an amusement-park.
A purple polka-dotted dress from Mimi.
A Pink Princess birthday cake.
Loud music, dancing, balloons and a "show"

Nonnie & Grandpa Visit: Feb11-21

2010-03-21T07:48:00.000-07:00

We're always so amazed and grateful when our family and friends can make it down to Lima to visit and share a part in our Peruvian lives.
Heather's parents came for a week and a half. Grandpa re-acquainted with Michaela instantly (see below!) and was there for Eliana's 5th birthday party. Then we relaxed at the beach for a few days, which pleased the soul of their california-hearted mother. ( :))

Summer Time - Ministry

2010-01-22T07:39:00.000-08:00

We are in an incredible place in the ministry. We are in the middle of an Orientation Plan for the Board of Directors that we have designed and are implementing. We have small group meetings planned for the coming weeks, including a trip to Huancavelica - to meet and visit with the representative from there.

To say everything is going as planned, is not the case, but we are confident that God is at work. Our Board Candidates are committed and showing that by their significant work to fill the first 8 week Teacher Training Course starting February 1st, that they are ready to start this ministry.

The Huge need for teachers exists all over the world. There are people with a heart to share the love of Jesus with children and disciple them, but they don't have what they need to do it. We are here to help them, and it is happening in Peru.

Pastor Juan Jose. A member of the Board of Directors for EGM-Peru. Is a pastor from Huancavelica Peru. The poorest region in Peru. He has an incredible story of coming from a Christian family, turning away from the Church and returning. He has 7 children who are grown and knows the need for a equipped children's ministry. We are blessed to have him on the Board and get to visit him this coming week.

Summer time - Family

2010-01-22T07:18:00.000-08:00

Yes it is summer time in Peru. Thought the sun is not showing its face every day. It is said that it is a "EL Niño" year, which occurs about every 7 years and keeps the sun at bay for most of the summer.

Swim Lessons
The kids have swim lessons twice a week. Photoed are Josiah with Heather in the water, but just yesterday Josiah moved up and class and Heather did not get it with him! Next week Michaela might be going to the baby class with Heather!

Gymnastics!
Josiah and Elian also have gymnastics three mornings a week. They are having a great time, and it is good to have them both develop their physical coordination a little more.

We got away for a couple days with some friends in early January and we are looking forward to the visit from Nonnie and Grandpa (Heather's parents) for Eliana's 5th birthday (not really, but that is the day they arrive).

Michaela (Mica) is growing. Still not walking, but we think she is waiting until February when Nonnie and Grandpa are here. Though she still appears to have NO hair (from the front) she has been know to actually have "messed up" hair at times. And it is coming in blonde like here moms.

This picture is not only cute, but added to show a little hair!

Michaela is One!

2009-12-22T17:22:00.001-08:00

One Month

Two Months

Three Months

Four Months

Five Months

Six Months

Seven Months

Eight Months

Nine Months

Ten Months

Eleven MonthsTwelve Months on December 17, 2009!

Class Pictures 2009

2009-12-16T10:09:00.001-08:00

Josiah attended school three days a week for most of the year in the two year old class. These last few weeks he was attending every day in the two year old class. Next year (starting in March, after the summer) he will be going full time in the three year old class (8:30am-1pm).

Eliana is in finishing the Four year old class. She has had the same teacher for two years and will change for the 5 year old class (8:30-1:30). The five year old class is her last class at the local Pre-school. Registration starts for her First Grade class in the schools before she even starts her five year old class. We have actually begun the process of looking at schools.

New Christmas photo for 2009!

2009-12-14T12:42:00.001-08:00

we LOVE Christmas Cards

2009-12-12T05:04:00.000-08:00

Did we mention we LOVE getting Christmas cards?
We got our first last week and love it. Thanks Amanda!
We put them up and keep them up year round in our office.
If you are sending them out, we would love the love!

Address:
The Chapman Familia
Jr. Mercurio 540 MzH Lt6
Urb. Los Cipreses
Cercado de Lima, Lima 01

It is $0.98 for postage, sorry.

Board Event Last Weekend

2009-11-26T07:59:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all of you who prayed for last weekend. I am excited to pass along some photos and share a little of what happened. The desire for the two days was to take this group of people down a path of thinking and applying the Bible in ministry that EGM has done over the last 15 years. It was a challenge in front of us, but we truely believe that God worked through us and His word to bring this group one step closer to the mission that he would have to ministry to his children in Peru.
Here are some photos. We cleared out the coach, borrowed extra table and chairs, and removed the wall hangings. Basically tore apart our house to make it a kind of conference room.

One of my favorite moments is when we were teaching a Bible study and had the Board members stand up and put all their clothes, shoes, watches, rings on backwords. Then standing in the living room, i said now we are going to walk down the street. They all gasped. We walked backwards down the sidewalk, they were very imbarrased (that was the point).

Next we took a list of cards and put them in a Pyramid, what is the most honored in our world that we live in and what is the most undervalued. Children were placed at the bottom with many other things, widows, poor, uneducated, etc.

Next we turned the Pyramid upsidedown. Explaining how Jesus Christ the most honorable lowered himself to be the least honorable in our world, making the least honorable in the world to be the most honored in the Kingdom of God. It was amazing to see there minds work, the point was to show our model of teaching - with an experiencial activity, creative way of presenting the Bible, a real discussion and finally a response that the Word of God demands. Really it was impactful and amazing, even for us.

We wanted the walls to be colorful, so at one point we took stories form the old and new testament that demonstrated this idea of the Upsidedown Kingdom and posted them on the wall.

Another important point for the two days was to help the Board to understand the idea of coming along as a support with the teachers and helping them in the entire process of their development as teachers. This was grasped more strongly then any other Board i have experienced. They really want to come along side the teachers and not only supply them with information. It is a philosophy that the education world uses that can be seen in the life of Jesus. It was amazing the the leaders grasped the vision and started talking about how to implement it.

Another hot topic. Is helping people understand that we are trying to disciple children and not educate them the way the school does. It was another beautiful process as we saw Board members challenged by the idea that we need to help transform the lives of the children through discipleship and not through education.

Here is the group. Two of the Board members were unable to make it. We are praying that we can share the information with them and that they are able to be more committed in the future.

Though not all the families could attend, we invited them to dinner on the Friday night. We went to a Rotisserie chicken place and were joined by three members and their families. Michaela was a big hit, as she was cared for by everyone but us!

You have to have the picture of the Inca Kola- bubblegum tasting stuff that every Peruvian loves!
Thanks again to all those who prayed with us. Next are individual meetings in January with each Board member and on to a final group orientation at the end of February before the ministry officially starts.

Lion at the zoo

2009-11-08T16:22:00.000-08:00

Lion at the Peruvian zoo. Fun for the visitors, sad life for the lion.

Michaela crawling

2009-11-08T14:38:00.000-08:00

Hair, exercising, and dancing

2009-11-08T14:31:00.000-08:00

Josiah singing Honey Honey

2009-11-08T12:57:00.000-08:00

October Ministry

2009-11-02T13:57:00.000-08:00

Few pictures were taken this month, but we had a lot of activity. We invited 13 individuals to the come together to form a Board of Directors to form a new ministry here in Peru. After today (Nov 2) we have completed 3 "Day 1" orientation meetings.

John had a trip to Ayacucho that didn't go as we had hoped, but did move the ministry forward.

Our heart continues to be burdened for the churches of Peru with thier ministry to children. We are blessed to be charged with this burden.
John also got a fun invite.This past Sunday was the 20th aniversary of our church. Our church has one of the most developed children's ministries in Peru. It had a 3 hour party with 300+ children. John shared a 15 minute lesson in Spanish about King Josiah. There is lots of room for improvement in his Spanish, but it was fun and a great experience.

Family October...

2009-11-02T12:44:00.001-08:00

Michaela is growing - completing 10 months!

Our Best Peruvian Friend - had a birthday, it was a surprise party!

A little slobber is shown on the shirt, teeth are on there way!

Mom and Dad snuck out for a date to the ONLY Mexican restaurant in Lima. Dad would eat there every day, but it isn't quite a california mexican food.

Peru had a holiday and we spent it with some Peruvian friends that we don't see very often. They were at our school, but then moved to another part of the city.

Eliana, Anita, Josiah and Gustavo (not really wanting to be in the photo)

Family pic -1, went to the zoo and the baby wanted to sleep at home.

Josiah got a summer haircut!

We are sad to have the hair gone, but it is a lot cooler for him. This is his "take me out to the ballgame" jacket. Papa he needs the size 4t of this same jacket. This one is almost too small!
Max is great with Mica (Michaela) - he lets her explore, pull and pet him.

Michaela started to want to walk this month. Still doesn't walk, but loves to be held standing.

Miguel the neighbor turned 1. They, as well, are short family in the city of Lima, so Heather made a cake and we had a little party.

Eliana decided it was time for her bike, so she stopped sucking her fingers while sleeping!

Eliana has a couple friends in the park. We see them a lot in the afternoon, we think their mom thinks its better that they are in the park when she running an errand then in the house alone... can that be right?

Dad with a couple of the youngins

Josiah got a bike too (photoed on his sisters bike) it is the same but black. He stopped using a pacifier on the same night Eliana stopped sucking her fingers.

Final days of the warm hat.

The dog and his ball. When holding his ball, you are his master. Two other families around our park have gotten a yellow lab in the last year. Ones name is Rocky and the other is Stone (pronounce Estone).

Salome came to visit. She was not alone! Her and her familiy live in the mountains of Peru. They are German missionary doctors who were at our language school with us. Salome is one month older than Michaela.
Constantine is a few month younger than Josiah.

The six kids and their parents crammed into our house for a few days and they passed through town. We visited the zoo, the water fountain park and spent much time talking and encouraging each other. We only wish we lived a little closer and got to see them more then one time a year.

Family Pics

2009-10-21T19:14:00.000-07:00

Michaela: 9-10 months

2009-10-21T19:10:00.000-07:00

First Orientation!

2009-10-16T14:09:00.000-07:00

We're so excited! Today was officially the beginning of forming the Peruvian Board of Directors of EGM-Peru!!

The orientation process consists of 2 board meetings of the whole group and 2 additional sessions that we are doing on an individual or small group basis. Today was the first individual session with a pastor from a remote region of Peru who came in on a 10 hour bus in order to meet with us.

We sat over our kitchen table from the time we picked him up at the station at 6am, through lunch until he left the house at 3:45! Much was accomplished - he's stoked about EGM and one step more ready to lead the ministry here.

We're exhausted and feel like we cannot speak one more word of Spanish for a week (unfortunately we have plans tomorrow morning!)

Praise the Lord that He is getting the ball rolling.

New Bikes

2009-10-14T10:33:00.000-07:00

John has always told Eliana that when her callus from sucking her fingers while sleeping goes away she will get a bike. Well two weeks ago she stopped sucking her fingers and Josiah stopped using is pacifier... so they got Bikes. Josiah was taking a nap during this video, so he hasn't learned yet, but we are excited when he does. Here is Eliana in her first 10 minutes. We need to get them helmets!

Lets do some praying

2009-10-06T13:35:00.001-07:00

Well we are at a turning point in the ministry. We are in the process of inviting 13 Peruvian Christian Leaders to come together to form EGM-PERU. We have invited about half and are patiently (sometimes not so patiently) waiting as they pray and seek the Lord in this decision. We have a few more meetings important meetings this week. Please pray for the following list of names, sorry there isn't more information about them, but this is after all a blog.

Luis, Charo, Crisologo, Marcos, Christina, Rodrigo, Robi, Samuel, Juan Jose, Edwin, Edit, Gustavo, and Carlos.

Thanks!

On the family front:

2009-10-03T10:44:00.000-07:00

I think every Christian family struggles with finding the right way to teach their kids about service, about the kingdom of God, about the realities of the world. It's the same for us.
We have recently been so excited about the opportunity to come alongside our friends in a ministry project they are involved in in El Paraiso de Santa Maria. They are ministering among the poor and we have had the chance to accompany them a couple Saturdays and holidays. Below are some pictures of a day when we shared about Jesus with the kids in the public school and then fed them lunch. We got to meet the 4 teachers who teach full-time, being paid only by small offerings from the parents who, themselves, are struggling to survive. They are trying to give these kids a future, a way out of poverty. Thank the Lord for them! And thank the Lord for calling our friends, Robbie and Elita, to minister in this community.

Family Pics

2009-10-03T08:20:00.000-07:00

El Paraiso de Santa Maria

2009-10-03T08:04:00.000-07:00

Our friends' ministry in "El Paraiso de Santa Maria," (which by the way is far from a paradise) has given us the opportunity on a couple occasions to teach the kids about generosity. We tell Eliana that we are going to go visit some kids who have very few toys, and since she has lots of toys, maybe she wants to give some to them. She carefully and joyfully selects them and then passes them out to kids when we go.

On this trip, Robbie and Elita had planned a "de-parasite campaign" of distributing pills. For many people in this community, the cost in gas or firewood to boil the water is just too high, so they end up with parasites that cause severe malnourishment, especially in children.

Here's me and Elita with her uncle and her mom, in front of her mom's home.

Preschool: Ballet and Taekwondo

2009-10-03T07:13:00.001-07:00

We just had the most amazing meeting.

2009-10-01T16:54:00.000-07:00

We are in the process of inviting members to the Board of Directors of EGM-Peru. Some are people we know well and are already invested in EGM and ready to get started. Others will be representatives appointed by denominational leaders who have committed to support the ministry in that way.

This afternoon we went to meet with the head of the largest denomination in Peru. Pastor Rodrigo had already expressed his full support and we went today to receive his recommendation for the board. However, instead of giving us a recommendation, he asked to be considered himself. This is a leader who is responsible for 5,000+ churches among various other ministry responsibilities and he said that it would be his great joy to serve with us in EGM-Peru. The phrases that he repeated over and over included, "for the children" and "unconditional support."

We are floored, humbled and so excited.

God is evaporating our fears and building up this ministry by His own hand - His own calling on Peruvian Christians who love children and want to see churches reach and disciple them.

Newest Mailing... coming to your house next week

2009-10-01T13:17:00.000-07:00

Hi. If you are on our mailing list, you should get this next week in the mail. If you want to see it in color, here it is!

Grateful for friends

2009-09-29T08:44:00.001-07:00

I was flipping through our photos of the last month and very grateful for friends. I thought I would share some highlights!

Tito and Elsa (2 of Robi and Elita's kids) with the kids on a little field trip we had.

Our best Peruvian friends: Robi and Elita with Eliana
Elsa with Josiah!
Elsa with Michaela!

Jimmy (Robi and Elita's third) with Michaela!
Harvik (Robi's cousin) with Michaela
With Josiah
Josiah and Marco's Friend (That is all i could get out of Josiah. This guy and Marco's go to school together, but Josiah can't remember his name right now)
Elsa on her 15th Birthday with all the kids.

Michaela with Manuel- the neighbor boy.
Isa- with Michaela (Isa and Tali are the kids to Brian and Rachel)
Naomi and Leah with Michaela- German friends we don't get to see enough.
Jacob and Naomi with Josiah.
with Eliana.
Brian and Josiah.
Josiah's B-day with Tito, Elita and Moma
Josiah and Tali!
Elita's mom and .... yes... Michaela taking a nap.

Had to get this in. Had Pet day at school. We brought in Max, he obeyed great and Eliana and Josiah loved the visit. Also- Max is an important friend!

Amazing things

2009-09-16T14:48:00.000-07:00

We are in an incredible place that we can't wait to see what is going to happne next. We have been given permission to move forward with the next step of EGM-Peru. In the coming weeks we are meeting with church leaders and officially inviting them to be the Board of the new Peruvian ministry here in Peru. We can't express our excitement that we are expierencing in the ministry.

Pray with us as we meet in the coming weeks with Christian leaders, that we communicate clearly and that they discern the calling to a part of the ministry.

Pray for the coming Board Orientation, in the coming months. That we can prepare properly and God will prepare the hearts of the Board to be open to the new ways of thinking and doing ministry.

Thank you for bering on this journey with us!

Oh Peruvian things...

2009-09-11T10:51:00.000-07:00

So I was reading a Popular Mechanics Magazine. My parents pass along magazines, because some times it is just nice to read something out of a magazine and they are a little difficult to get here in Peru. I tend to return to the same magazine a number of times to see if there was something I missed or forgot that I had read, and want to read again. So I opened this December 2008 issue of Popular Mechanics probably for the tenth time to the article on Recycling and as i glanced at the large pile of Plastic bottles ready to be recycled i was shocked to discover a plastic bottle of INCA KOLA. Now Inka Kola is the national drink of Peru and I have found it in the US in the rare small Latin Food store, but never did i imagine that there would be a bottle visible out of hundreds of bottles... and that it would be at the top of the pile. Then to my GREAT suprise, on further review, i noticed not only one, but four Inca Kola bottles. Well for all those out there who have just a little love for Peru it is a great day that Peru's reach has entered the world of US recycling at such an incredible rate. I suppose it is probably a fluke, but the odds that four plastic bottles (that are only distributed in the US in this type of bottle) of Inca Kola are at the top of the pile shows something.

My discovery today...

Josiah is three...

2009-09-03T09:38:00.000-07:00

Josiah turned three on September 2nd! We are blessed to have him in our life and he brings Joy and laughter to our family!

His New scooter and outfit!

Friends Elita and Son Tito came by to have cake!

This is the group that we sang with! Mom is taking the picture.

Blowing out the candle with the help of Big sister.

Michaela getting some love from Tito!

The Kids went to Coney Park - a place with rides for younger kids. They had a couple hours of running ride to ride. Josiah went on the roller coaster for the first time!

Josiah got a soccer ball! - The yellow sticker on his forehead was from school, yes he had lunch, slept, went to Coney Park, dinner, gifts and cake, without taking it off.

US Trip Summary

2009-08-28T09:18:00.000-07:00

Wow. We returned for our US trip one month ago. It has been a full time getting settled back in Lima and hosting visitors.
Our trip started with a 24 hour delay in Miami. Not an easy time with three little ones and no assistance from the American Airlines staff to help with the little things.
The kids are troopers and made it through.

We had some incredible times here are just a couple highlights (No one gets feelings hurt for not being included! :) )

with family (John's eldest niece Sophie)

First Baseball Game!

Time with Papa (John's Dad)

Time at the Beach with friends
Sleep overs with cousins
Annual family photo with the Chapman family!
Time with Mimi and cousins!
Time at Grandpa's Office (Heather's Dad)

Zoo with all the cousins!... okay petting zoo in San Jaun, but still a zoo!Petting Peruvian Cusine!
BEACH!

Camping with Uncle Mark (John's brother)

Visiting the Truck in Storage. (John's Truck)
Using Car seats? Yes, they made us use these in the US.
Visiting Churches and knocking Pastor Todd in the privates right before his sermon. (sorry Todd)

Fourth of July waiting for fire works.
Getting Earrings!!!
Getting a new Niece- Linnaea Sather - with Aunt Jen (Heather's Sister)
Licking some great friends
Being able to celebrate a 30th birthday with great friends.
Hanging with cousins
Michaela met Aunt Nancy - John's Sister
Eliana's first VBS - with Daddy's friend, Dean-o!!!!
Time with Mimi - John's mom
Mica met Grandpa!!!! Heather's Dad

Time with Nonnie - Heather's mom
Celebrating Uncle Mark's and Aunt Anne's 10th anniversary with them.
Meeting Elijah Hunt - John's great friend
Time with great friends
Family nights in the backyard
First Smores!!!!
Time with Family
More time with family
Time with friends- Also known in our house as the Tickle Guy
Time swimming with friends
New Cousins being together
Time with Uncle Mark- john's brother
Chapman/Kunkel Reunion... first day of the trip!
Time with Nonnie and Grandpa, and Trey and Dax

Me and Dax... He does like me.
The photos could go on... We had an amazing trip. Full of time with supporters and family. Thank you all who had the time to be with us, if you didn't see us this year, there is always next! Or you could come visit!

Nancy and Kathleen left Peru but their impact continues

2009-08-25T07:48:00.000-07:00

It was an amazing trip to have Nancy and Kathleen here. They were here for a short five days, but made an amazing impact. It was a three evening conference with over 500 Sunday school teachers and pastors who came out. It was the first conference of its kind that focused on Worship and Prayer for children. Saturday was a children's Praise and Worship event that filled the 2000 capacity church.

Nancy taught two workshops each evening and then spent the final hour with a group of 25 children who lead the children in three worship songs on Saturday.

Kathleen captured the hearts of the entire conference and teaching 4 workshops and 2 Main sessions. Her heart and passion came through as she challenged the Sunday School teachers to rethink the meaning of worship.

Irma Chon also came from the US to teach at workshops and one main session on children in Prayer. Her passion for prayer challenged to teachers to understand that the prayer of a child in just as powerful as a prayer of an adult. Challenging Peru to start a prayer movement.

Heather and John were also able to share about the ministry and recieved many interested people. We look forward to the followup to see the doors that have opened as we move forward here in Peru. The response is always that same, the people are excited to see how EGM will train and develop Sunday School teachers in their region.

Finally we are blessed for the prayers that surrounded Nancy, Kathleen and Irma as they traveled and taught. We are blessed for God's provision in protection, health and comfort for the conference and surrounding events.

Peruvian Committee photoed with the speakers of the conference.

Lima Conference with Kathleen and Nancy

2009-08-22T07:07:00.000-07:00

Kathleen Chapman and Nancy Matossian Coming to Peru!

2009-08-17T08:22:00.000-07:00

We wanted to pass on some incredible information and ask you to pray!

August 19-21 the Christian Missionary Alliance Church in Peru is putting on a conference on Worship and Prayer in Children's Ministry! We as EGM were asked co-Organize the conference, which is an incredible opportunity for the ministry here. We are the speaker liaisons for the three Keynote speakers from the US- Kathleen Chapman (john's mom) Nancy Mattosian (john's sister) and another contact through the Christian Missionary Alliance - Irma Chon.

The Peruvian conference committee has a vision for 1,000 teachers and made a budget expecting 800. They had invited the three speakers from the US with all intentions of covering all of their expenses under the budget. Unfortunately the registrations have been down. It is two days before the conference and 200 teachers are registered. We are working hard to help our Peruvian friends by getting the word out to our contacts as well, to have as many teachers attend as possible.

Because of this low registration we decided to open up the opportunity for people to join Kathleen, Nancy and Irma in this great Ministry to Peruvian children's workers. EGM's office in the US has graciously decided to step up in this situation and create a short term ministry account to accept Tax-deductible gifts on behalf of this trip. In this way, friends in the US can participate in this ministry in Peru by giving financially to support their trip and lower the deficit for the budget of the churches in Peru.

PLEASE PRAY-
We ask that you pray for the attendance at the conference.
We ask that you pray for Kathleen, Nancy and Irma as they travel to Peru.
Their time here, for safety, and impacting ministry.
We ask that you pray for us, John and Heather, as we also prepare and teach at workshops.

We ask finally that you pray for the funds to come in to help. Pray with us that God will provide $2600 to cover the majority of the costs for Kathleen, Nancy, and Irma.

Financial Gifts-
Please write Kathleen Chapman in the memo line and mail gifts to Every Generation Ministries PO BOX 891179 Temecula Ca 92589.

IN THE US : OPEN HOUSE!

2009-07-21T15:53:00.000-07:00

OPEN HOUSE!!!!
The Chapmans want to see more poeple while he is in the US. Come to our Open House: Saturday July 25th, 4-8pm. 24921 Sausalito, Laguna Hills 92653

Peruvian snacks, Peruvian items to purchase, fun people to see!!!
New Chapman to meet!

New look for the site

2009-06-14T08:35:00.000-07:00

Well we settled on a new look. Thanks to template download and some help to adjust some things, we are pretty happy with the new look. Hope you enjoy and we LOVE to get comments! Let us know that you have visited and read!

Early Morning

2009-06-03T04:45:00.000-07:00

Life sometimes gets us up early. More and more that has been the case around here. With three children under 4 years old, nights tend to be as adventures as daytime. Winter has come - causing coughs, cold weather, and dry throats. A mid night trip to the bathroom (for the two oldest, Josiah wears a diaper at night be frequently doesn't want to go in it) is not uncommon, and at six month the third has had a strong desire to nurse twice every night for the last month (before that sleeping 10-12 hours). Also the calling for a pacifier that has fallen or the rare need to change the sheets on the upper bunk bed is not the most welcome call in the middle of the night. But as i "complain", would i really want it any other way? Putting aside all the sleepless nights and hectic days, i couldn't enjoy more the life that we are living. Loving to wrestle, loving to play, loving school (i think it is the social life at 2 and 4), loving pink and purple (funny how a two year old boy loves the favorite colors of his 4 year old sister), and truly missing each other when they are apart, to just mention a few. It is a joy to be on this adventure.
If one sacrifice I must make is not sleeping through the night, for the life i have now, i am in. You are going to talk to Heather if you want her opinion.
As the sun is rising i hear "even if we are miles and miles and miles apart" "All i want to do is be with you!" (song, highschool musical 3) being sung at the top of her lungs from the top bunk.

Kid Pics

2009-05-27T14:31:00.001-07:00

Michaela - 5 months

2009-05-27T14:20:00.000-07:00

Lima Conference May 16, 2009

2009-05-17T07:32:00.001-07:00

Well. It happend. It was incredible. We had 95 teachers, we had two very powerful Peruvian leaders step up and present the core of EGM. We had an incredible committee who worked very hard to have everything come together. We had 16 student leaders show up to volunteer. Here are some photos...

Michaela went with us, can you find her in this photo?

Michaela was loved by all.

95 teachers... running to find their partner... lets just say they had an amazing time!

Wandering around church campus in partners, one blind, one could see.

Yes, 95 people running from the back of the room in Red Light, Green light!

14 of the 16 student leadership team at the church who served all day!

Banners on the wall of our Model Teacher philosophy pictures.

Charo - is our first children's worker contact in Peru from 2006! The conference was at her church and the Student Volunteers are her leadership team!

The Students lead a song to demonstrate how Kids can lead and participate!

Thank you EVERYONE who joined us in prayer before and during this conference. It was a day that glorified God and was just another reminder of the realization of God's call on our lives to serve His children and His churches.

Quick shot of mothers day

2009-05-12T12:55:00.000-07:00

So Saturday, the day before mother's day, Josiah and Eliana's pre-school had a performance for all the moms. John had to run back to the house for the camera and missed Josiah's song. Josiah is at school two days a week, and when performing with his class became quite upset, but continued the motions. Our friends caught this with their camera...

Complicated

2009-05-07T15:14:00.000-07:00

Today I went to get Michaela immunizations.
I paid at the cashier, put my name on the list and entered the waiting room full of kids and parents. After an hour the doctor hadn't shown up and I was an hour further down on the list. So after asking around I waited outside the Immunization office until it opened (30 more minutes). I was told that Emergency room pediatrician would agree to see us. Again to the cashier. Finally an appointment with a doctor. A prescription for vaccinations. To the pharmacy. Where I was $10 short for the $70 vaccine. Back home 3 hours later with no immunizations and a tired baby.

Ministry is HOPPING!

2009-04-29T08:16:00.000-07:00

After a lot of encouragement we decided to move forward with a Lima Conference. May 16 is the date and then we needed to invite people. It has opened AMAZING meetings and we are moving forward quickly to make some incredible conections with churches. We have had the honor of presenting the ministry and and invitaiton to the conference to: Pentecostal Evangelical Church of Jesus Christ of Peru, Asemblies of God of Peru, Presbiterian church of Peru, and today the Pentecostal Evenagelical Church of Peru. We have also been able to have contact wth: Christan Missionary Aliance Church of Peru, World Missionary Movement, Evangelical Church of Peru, Faith Cathedral, Salvation Army and SO many others. God is moving and inspiring us with every meeting, as the ministry is being recieved with HUGE open arms. Continue to pray with us as we reach out to other denominations across peru.

Michaela - 4 months

2009-04-19T12:10:00.000-07:00

Easter Eggs!

2009-04-19T12:03:00.000-07:00

It's never too late for an Easter egg hunt! Yesterday we had a week-late egg-dying and hunt with our friends the Langleys. What fun!

Easter Sunday

2009-04-19T08:55:00.001-07:00

Time

2009-04-18T12:56:00.000-07:00

It's obvious moving to Latin America that a North American will encounter conflicts with Tasks v. Relationships and the way we view Time. Most of the time I can change my perspective and approach the situation Peruvian-style. Today was not one of those times.

We're in the middle of planning a conference for children's ministry leaders and have spent the week delivering packets of invitations for our key contacts to distribute. I felt worn out and really in need of a Saturday. And although meeting with these key contacts was the highlight of my work-week, I was disappointed that one of them would be "stopping by" on Saturday.

Expected to be here at 10am, I wasn't surprised when he rang the bell at 12:45. We had had a lively morning: the house was obviously less-than-perfect, cooking and left-overs all over the kitchen, the kids were in their underwear just out of the bath and sitting with lunch on the table, Michaela was ready to nurse and quite tired, and we were in the middle of plans for the afternoon.

So I muster my relational energy to speak professionally in Spanish with household chaos going on and find (once again not to my surprise) that the "stopping by" to pick up some things in fact would turn into an hour long visit (really, a 3 hour long visit that was cut to an hour due to all of the above!). For every sentence out of his mouth there were three tasks that I had been interrupted from, screaming for my attention. By the time the meeting had ended I was completely exasperated.

I know that in Peru, the fact that you came is more important than what time you came.
I know that our key contacts are involved with our ministry on a volunteer basis, using their free time on Saturdays to serve with us.
I know that spending time with people shows that you value them.

But my internal mechanisms still fight against these cultural norms.
I want appointments that are on-time and efficiently brief.
I want a clear division between work life and personal life, for each to be protected from the other.
My drive is to accomplish tasks and be productive.

Although nothing was abnormal about today, some days I just fail to be as "Peruvian" as I need to be. Days like today I feel like a fish out of water.

Easter Weekend

2009-04-16T15:49:00.000-07:00

Where to start. With two days off in Peru we had a four day weekend. We went on a bus ride to a small beach city where some friends of ours are serving as missionaries.

Starting with 4 hour bus ride each way.

The beach was fun for all.

Tim, our friend, was in the kitchen a lot of the time and it was appreciated. We had incredibly planned and executed meals that we didn't know could be done in Peru.

Hannah, our other friend, and a shot of one of the few times we actually helped in the kitchen. :)

The beaches were beautiful. When the tide is high, this is an island. Tim, two of the kids, the dogs, and John walked around it, while Hannah and Heather sat with Michaela in the sand.

The kids loved playing with Tim.

Walking is how we traveled in town. Small town, not really too much walking.

Michaela getting some time being loved.

Josiah playing on the beach, his molers are coming in, this was one of the few times he was really happy.

The dogs of Tim and Hannah are a hoot. Taza (the white toy poodle at 10lbs) loves playing with Ellie the 160lb. that is right, 160lb. Mastiff.

Tim (with moral support from John) got this rat in the kitchen, we guessed 14inches with tail... I posted it Hannah!

Ellie the dog and Michaela the 3 1/2 month old, had some play time.
A little twister, with a 160lb dog?

This baby was born the same day as Michaela... you wonder why the Peruvians call our daughter- "Peeled" - it is endearing...

Most of the time was hanging at the house relaxing, with great food and even better company. Thanks Tim and Hannah!

Kid Videos

2009-04-08T15:19:00.001-07:00

For you, Mimi and Papa and Nonnie and Grandpa!

Michaela's 3 month old noises.

Josiah is more expressive every day. Here are a couple examples of his stories.

Michaela - 3 months

2009-04-08T15:10:00.000-07:00

Josiah

2009-04-08T15:07:00.001-07:00

Josiah has started preschool 1-2 days a week and LOVES IT! ..wants to go every day.

Potty-Trained! Loves his Elmo underwear (Thank you, EGM staff!)

Loves "Biki" (Baby Mica), and struggles not to love her too roughly!

Is always a bit dramatic.

Eliana

2009-04-08T15:03:00.000-07:00

She loves playing with her brother!

She loves her ballet class at preschool.

She loves the beach and all the dirtiness and adventure it provides!

She loves her friends at school!

Three Kids!

2009-04-08T14:55:00.000-07:00

On our way to the beach!

Our friend Elita carrying Michaela Peruvian-style,
with each of the big kids carrying their own babies too!

This week I took a morning with Mica and walked along the coast.
Silence (a relative term), but for the sound of the waves.
Paradise for an hour!

Monday April 6th...

2009-04-07T16:36:00.000-07:00

It was a long day... starting at 1130pm on the 5th, i got on a bus. At 6am i arrived in Huancayo, Peru. Picked up by Javier (photoed below) and taken to a bed to sleep. I slept for about an hour and then went with 4 new Peruvian pastor friends to eat chicken soup from a street vendor...for breakfast. Then we went for Juice. Then back to the office, where we hung out for about an hour before the others arrived for the meeting. At 10am i went to a 1 hour meeting with the Board of Directors from the Iglesia Evangelico Pentecostal de Jesucristo. That is the Evangelical Pentecostal church of Jesus Christ, I met some pastors from this denomination in Huancavelica and they connected me to their National Office . After the explaining the ministry they asked how they could help. They are preparing to find a Representative from their Denomination to recommend for the Board of Directors of EGM. God was there and in this. They see that we love their churches and love the children in their churches and want to support them in their ministry to children. I then went to the bus station at caught the 7 hour bus ride back to Lima. Arriving at home at 9pm. 23 hours... 18 hours in a bus, taxi or waiting for a bus... 5 hours in the city of Huancayo... 1 hour of a meeting... Incredible trip, Incredible meeting, Incredible future with this denomination, An Incredible God.

The Nacional Office of the Evangelical Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ.

Top left window is where i slept for an hour.

A pastor who is very interested in us coming to his church to train teachers.

Javier, the secretary of the denominational office and an asociate pastor at a church.

They were moving a couple sheep and them tied up and put on a Moto (three wheel motorcycle).
I thought it was interesting.

AT 12,500 feet

2009-03-22T12:53:00.000-07:00

Huancavelica Peru was our newest ministry stop. After the 11 hour overnight bus trip and trying to get used to the altitude change, I was able to share on Christian local Radio to announce the meeting, attend the Pentecostal pastor meeting to invite them to the meeting, share at a leader meeting on Friday and a Teacher meeting on Saturday. The response was amazing. They are very anxious to start working with us in the ministry and are hungry to have the resources to minister to the children of their church and community.
The poorest region in Peru, the capitol of the city is surrounded by incredible mountains.

Alpaca is there number one income.

Clyde took me on a driving tour to a Veiw point (almost 14,000 feet) of the City and to the only tourist attraction, an old Mercury mine, that thousands of Peruvians died in, while mining under Spanish rule.

My contacts in Huancavelica, who set up the entire thing. Dr. Robert and Vilma

Me leading the teachers in a game. Is it hard to see that I am significantly taller then most?

Daisy and Jose brought their 6 month old girl to both meetings. She was wrapped in 12 layers of clothes, because it was so cold... no heating.

I taught with a translator. This helps me primarily communicate the HEART side of my work. My strength is not teaching, it is my passion for helping children and Churches.

here today gone tonight

2009-03-18T07:44:00.000-07:00

We got back Monday morning and John leaves tonight, Wednesday, for another 4 day trip with a 10 hour overnight bus ride each way. Pray for John as he is traveling and sharing the ministry alone. There is a Christian leader meeting on Friday and Short teacher conference on Saturday. Pray for his communication and that his heart can been seen for the kids of Peru.

Ayacucho- 4 days

2009-03-18T06:09:00.000-07:00

10 hour overnight bus ride, four of five of us where sick in bags.

A beutiful city

Kids everywhere

Teacher conference and Christian Leader meeting

Sunday School Classes

New Friends

Michaela Pics - MORE!

2009-03-11T15:56:00.001-07:00

12 weeks

10 weeks

9 weeks

Perspective

2009-03-11T15:47:00.000-07:00

One of our hopes for our family in living in Peru is that we gain a different perspective on wealth, need and plenty. Last Saturday John and Eliana had the opportunity to go with our friend to visit some acquaintances she had made. They took the bus as far as it would take them, then walked over sand dunes to a small cluster of 5 by 5 foot shacks. They had no electricity and no water (and no water-holding tanks). There, Eliana gave three little kids some toys that she had selected for them from her own room. That afternoon they came home and washed off the dust in a warm shower while the family they had visited cooked a soup over an open flame in the dirt. In many ways, true gratitude is only possible with the right perspective.