Sunday

Sunday at El Hogar is always very special but today even more so than usual. After a relaxing later breakfast (8AM) we prepared to leave for the service at St. Mary's Cathedral in downtown Tegucigalpa. Driving through the city is always an adventure, passing many sights we don't usually see. But with large advertisements for fast foods and businesses just like home while also passing many simple structures housing outdoor fruit and flower stands which provide livelihoods for many.  As you can see our van is loaded and we fit in a few of the kids as well.

As we entered the church, we were greeted by friendly faces and welcoming words. The sounds of marimba band music prepared us for the joyful celebration of the Eucharist. Today was a celebration of the African Garifuna community which was first settled 217 years ago along the coast. The music, singing and dancing definitely made "a joyful sound"!

Once again the peace was amazing as almost everyone shared the peace to each person in the congregation. So much love. Another highlight was during communion when the children processed in from Sunday Sunday school. So much happiness on their faces. It was very special to have St. Luke's sponsored El Hogar students with us at the Eucharist.. Sergio, Oscar, Edith and Brendy and two another boys, Rene and Moises.  In the picture, older Rene is helping Oscar find his place in the service.  (That was after he was helping us older, but non-Spanish speaking folks find their places!)

Afterwards, there was a refreshment time in the courtyard, which was a fundraiser for Cinco de Mayo Youth Conference next year. We all supported the efforts by purchasing and enjoying nachos and Coke Cola.

After picking up Chinese take out, we journeyed on to Santa Lucia,up in the mountains. Enroute we passed many roadside stalls with special features like roasting corn, garden centres, chicken restaurant and bakeries too.  It is a beautiful drive even though  it is so dry and brown.

Arrived at the gate to warm welcomes from the girls who were waiting for us.

There were lots of smiling reunions, hugs with these teenagers who had been part of the El Hogar family through the years.

We served the girls and their teachers their Fried Rice and soft drinks and all enjoyed sharing this meal together.

Afterwards there was some singing and dancing in the living room, with CDs just like anywhere!

The fun moved outdoors where the activities ranged from Monopoly,to a card game, to skipping,to a building block completion much like tiddily winks.  Jane is enjoying a game of Jenga with Maribel.

The girls were also grateful for the treats we brought to them.

Our farewells were very affectionate and joyful, mixed with some sadness at leaving, but we did have time for a group picture with the girls.  It was fun to be with them. 







Upon arrival back at El Hogar, we had dinner, then played outside with the children, as they enjoyed colouring, skipping, soccer and playing with bubbles, and playing catch with Frisbees and balls.

At our sharing tonight we talked about the special joyful day we had as we had extra time to be with the teenage girls and of the special worship service this morning.  We thought of you all back at St Luke's.

Tomorrow our work tasks begin and so hopefully another good night's sleep tonight.

S