The Tide is Turning
For living on an island, I know embarrassingly little about tides. They have something to do with the moon... There's a term that comes up often in crossword-ese ("neap" tide) - no clue. And in Charleston, SC, over Christmas and New Year's (stay tuned), I learned about a phenom called a "king tide" that basically floods the entire downtown multiple times per year. Huh?!
What I do know is that the metaphorical tide is turning in terms of the DR missionary team. For awhile, it felt like we were bleeding people left and right. That's stopped for now, but we're still a bit of a skeleton crew. As soon as next week, though, and continuing into the summer months, a reversal is at hand. A few others are rumored, but I can say for certain that we're expecting
- an Argentinian pastor along with his deaconess wife and their three small children;
- a veteran couple transitioning from Mexico;
- a pair with a dual call to serve as Regional Business Manager (him) and DR Volunteer Coordinator (her);
- and a pastor from ID, his wife, and their 2 boys.
(3) came for a pre-orientation field visit in mid-December; I helped host them and open their eyes to what #missionarylife looks like.
One night, some colleagues and I took them out for yummy Italian food, but not without first introducing them to the quintessentially Dominican tradition of neighborhoods going ALL OUT to decorate using recycled materials. The city's art museum sponsors a contest with a RD$200.000 (~$3,400 USD) prize for the winner. Last year's champ, Calle 9, came in 2nd in 2023, but one of the residents pointed us in the direction of this year's, Calle 15.
"OUR PLANET IS IN GOD'S HANDS"
Approaching the entrance of Calle 15's display.
Fruit stand.
Presidente can Christmas tree.
I have to hand it to the judges: Calle 15's lechón (whole roasted suckling pig) was better than Calle 9's.
A different day, I took them to - where else? - the botanical garden.
And finally, we made a quick trip to the mall on their last night in Santiago before heading to a resort to debrief, and my last night in the country before Christmas vacation.
I can honestly say I think each of these families will be a positive addition to our corporate culture. I also remember well the various stages they're in now and know they could many prayers for peace, patience, and perseverance!
Until next time, blessings in Christ!
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