"Whoa! it really looks different!" 

"I cannot believe this is where we where working!"

"How exciting to see the clinic finished!"

These were just a few of the comments as the Matthews OPC team returned for a second year to Parque Industrial. Many warm welcomes were shared as they greeted old friends and were encouraged to see the progress. Last year they worked tirelessly on a ditch so that plumbing and water could be run to the clinic for bathrooms. This year, they used those bathrooms as they worked beside the clinic again to lay foundations for future work. The construction team worked at Parque Industrial and continued to store up treasures in heaven as they worked on the adjacent church. 

This multi-faceted team also ministered through word and deed as they cared for young and old in medical clinics in communities around the Wichanzao Clinic. During these clinics, the group of 3 doctors and a physical therapist were able to help many patients with physical ailments while another group was outside sharing the gospel and evangalizing children and parents as they waited. The Lord used the group to reach many people and even provided the opportunity for one doctor to perform a much needed, albeit small, surgery for one of our pediatric patients. 

Like this team, all short-term teams are multi-faceted. Some may have only one work project, but all acheive several goals. A team not only completes the immediate work they have come to do, but also are a huge encouragement to the local church and our mission team. This year, the team played soccer with Pastor Percy in Parque Industrial and were able to encourage him and support his ministry there outside of the construction project. Matthews OPC is also a very dear and special team to one of our families, the Davenports. This is their home church and it was an especially sweet time for their family to spend time with this team and receive that unique encouragement that comes from your church family.

We are so thankful to our brothers and sisters from Matthews OPC who are faithfully praying for our work and returning each year to be a part of it! May God bless you and your efforts to further His kingdom at home and afar.

                   Muchos Gracias Christina, Sam, Dr. Jeff, Kevin, Pastor Trice, James, Allison, Isaiah, Londa, Henry, Catherine, Zachary, Emily, Trae, Chris, Pam, Justin, Hannah, and Andy!

Each morning started with a devotion led by Pastor Percy in Parque Industrial.

Working on the foundation of the new sanctuary in Parque Industrial.

Patients lining up to see the doctors in Los Pinos.

Christina face painting (and sometimes hands)!