Costa Rica Missions

La Carpio - Sanctuary For A Lost Generation

2008-01-16T23:07:00.000-06:00

La Carpio (the Grandaddy of the Barrios) can be many things to many people. To the "Ticos" (Costa Ricans) it is a dangerous and forbidden place. It is separated from the Ticos by one road that leads to a quarry. The road is narrow, there are buses, autos, bicycles and pedestrians all trying to squeeze into the lane littered with burning trash piles, garbage and unnamed things. You are certain where the dividing line is between "the haves" and the "have nots"

It is also a place where the "Nicas" (Nicaraguans) scratch out a meager existence and just try to survive to the next day. Where the day brings hunger and the night, danger. There are almost 40,000 Nicas living on a patch of ground that is basically a garbage dump. The "streets" are barely passable, and children and animals are everywhere.

But in the middle of the chaos, there is a small rectangle of hope in the form of a Community Center. Here the lucky few have a safe place to play, learn and worship. It is still a place that is unfinished but progress is evident. To some it looks like a place to play soccer but, if you look closer into the faces of the children, it is a place where the Lord protects and nourishes his children.

It is a place where the children received medical care. It is a place where they learned the story of a loving Saviour. It is a place where there is hope to break the shackles of their existence.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
The kids had a blast as they sang, busted the pinata, and listened to stories of the Bible.
One of the highlights was Ramon telling the story of Noah. As they listened to the story, some children had to pretend to be certain animals and the rest of the children had to guess what the animal was. It was hilarious to watch them make sounds and guess!

MEDICAL CLINIC
Dr Rita and the Team were amazing! Even on the last day, everyone maintained the highest attention to the children and making sure every person recieved the same amount of care and concern as the first one. We are soooooo blessed to be here.

David

We are here!

2008-01-13T22:05:00.000-06:00

We arrived safely yesterday. We made it through customs great! After checking into the hotel we traveled to La Carpio and prayer walked. Those of us that were courageous made the trek across the bridge over the river. The community center has changed alot and looks great!

Today we finished our first day of ministry. The clinic and the bible study went well. We fed 100 kids. I was reading the Bible this morning and found the memory verse for today.

"A wicked messenger falls into adversity, but a faithful envoy brings healing." Proverbs 13:17

Johnathan

The Clinic saw over 90 children and adults. It was encouraging to see hope in the eyes of those we were serving! Lalo (Steve) has done a tremendous job of advancing the Lord's presence here. We were truly blessed! Tomorrow, we expect to see twice the amount. The Clinic team is truly amazing.

David S

It's quite incredible the diverse talents that God brings together to be his hands and hearts for a mission trip. This is my first mission trip and I am blessed by the heart, generosity, and love that God has brought to bear on the people of this small town in the middle of Central America in middle of January, 2008. It's always His time and place. There is great comfort in knowing that when you are with people who want to do God's bidding, Satan cannot bring words, or feelings, or situations that can't be turned to understand there is great joy in serving our Lord. My goodness, what knowledge, what surety, that provides!

I watched Dr. Rita, as her small, nimble and gentle hands, guided by a strong God-given intellect, diagnose the well and the sick. I couldn't help but think that our job here is to show that healing has as much to do with knowing that your loved. Knowing that your loved is the surety that Christians have, that we can count on. Even if you don't speak the same language, the language of caring, of love, is felt through our hands and through our eyes, as we reach out to make a connection. Whether or not its Dr. Rita's hands, or one of our's on the shoulder of a young child caring for her siblings, in the crook of an arm of an old woman who managed the hill outside the clinic, or a hand to the community, as Lalo, our resident missionary, extends to those he loves here. Love comes through as a bearded, tall gringo cavorts and hands out Bible messages from his pockets to children who circle him. Christ's perfect love comes through as a young Latin American doctor, who is aiding our mission, tends to every patient with what can only be described as a heart that knows of gentle Grace.

So just like everything God does, there are way more blessing here than what we might have thought we would be delivering in our mission. It's my heart that was blessed last night as I thought about no matter the human condition, God's creation thrives when He is acknowledged.

JS

Monday, October 23, 2006

2006-10-23T21:23:00.000-05:00

We completed the work phase of our mission trip today at the children's home. Dr. Rita examined the children and found them all to be in great shape. The family houses look great and are well maintained. And the children are doing super with their house parents.

While Dr. Rita was examining the children with Laura Shook's assistance, the rest of us was working on the fence around the perimeter of the property...and hanging out with the children.

We have had a great trip. God has supplied our needs abundantly...to the point of providing extra workers from the language school that Steve Edward is attending. Because of the extra man power we were able to accomplish much more than we anticipated!

We will leave San Jose Tuesday morning for our trip to Arenal. We are anticipating a leisurely travel day on Tuesday and a great day of relaxation on Wednesday at the Tabacon.

We will return to San Jose early on Thursday morning to catch a 1:00 PM flight. Please pray for travel mercies as we spend several hours on the bus traveling mountain roads. And for speedy departures from San Jose and a safe arrive to Houston. There is always potential to spend hours in lines in customs and immigration, etc.

Thank you, Champion Forest, for being a generous people. God has extended His Body through your influence in Costa Rica.

This will be our last post until after we return to Houston.

Sunday, October 22, 2006

2006-10-22T23:24:00.000-05:00

We completed the LaCarpio leg of our mission trip today. Today in LaCarpio the doctors saw many patients. We also feed 150 children a lunch of PB & J sandwiches, bananas and Tang. In the Bible clubs today, we taught the story of Jesus feeding the 5000.

It has been a great trip and we have dozens of photos to share. There are a few from today published below.

On Monday, we will travel to the children's home. Dr. Rita will have the opportunity to examine the new children. We will also be available to do some light construction. Several of our team have not had the opportunity to visit Coronado, so it should be a great day. And there are new children that none of us have met.

Please continue to pray for our safe travel and to stay healthy. Also, pray for the children you see in the pictures. I realize that you don't know their names, BUT God does. The future of these children is dependent on your prayers and support.

"He who refreshes others will be refreshed" (Proverbs 11: 25b)

Dr. Rita Lakes

2006-10-21T22:46:00.000-05:00

Another day another praise. Our team is one of gifted prayer warriors who look forward to God's wonderful provisions. 1Cor. 12:7: Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. A bevy of helpers from the community, language students, retirees, and my favorite Carlos, (age 12) all helped in our clinic. The disease de jour at La Carpia has been streptococcus in many forms. We have seen its manifestation as sore throats, impetigo, scarlitina and strep skin infections after chickenpox.

It is wonderful that God placed us there just in the midst of the public health crisis. In addition, we have treated wonderful pathology and met many patients who we have treated on and off for the past 4-5 years.

Dr. Mark Barhorst

2006-10-21T22:29:00.000-05:00

Christian Sylvan is a desperate young man, living in La Carpio, with his wife and two children separated from him by divorce. Life has been hard for him. Severe depression and possibly schizophrenia make it difficult for him to function in what is already a tough place to make it in life. Demon drug use may have played a role in his mental illness too, but he's clean now. He lost his job and soon after his family a year ago, and that's when drugs got him, in a moment of despair, of weakness, he succumbed. Without a job he can't afford his psych meds, which has him severely depressed at this time.

Yesterday we prayed with Christian, told him what his name means(he had no idea), and got him several months of his meds to help him get on his feet.A Bible you all provided him has his name written on its inner cover now.

Please put him in your prayers too.

Thanks to you all, and to our savior Jesus Christ, for putting me here to reach out to the people of La Carpio.

Dr. Mark

Laura Shook

2006-10-21T22:20:00.000-05:00

I am so glad to be back in Costa Rica, and especially in La Carpio! It is always exciting to see the same children return to the clinic that we have seen for several years, and to see how they have grown, and to see the new little brothers and sisters that have been added to their families! We've had two full days of seeing patients. One special thing that happened today is a set of new 4 month old twins who came to the clinic! They were beautiful babies, and it was such a special priveledge to be able to pray for them as they are starting out in life. Dr. Rita and I have a special assistant - Carlos - a great young 14 year old who we have fallen in love with! He has been so much fun and it is obvious that he is very intelligent and has so much potential! Please pray for Carlos that God would continue to teach him and grow him in the wisdom and knowledge of Him. Thank you for praying for us while we're here! We depend on your prayers! - Laura

Kristina Farmer

2006-10-21T22:12:00.000-05:00

Last night I read this devotional that really hit home. The first is by Elizabeth Elliot and it talks about the loaves and the fishes. Jesus asked for ALL and then Mrs. Elliot quotes a woman she heard in chapel saying, "If my life is broken when given to Jesus, it is because pieces will feed a multitude, while a loaf will satisfy only a little lad." Wow! My saving grace has been Mark 10:13-16. Jesus asks the children to come and touches and blesses them. That has been me. The reason this has been so powerful is because my espanol is no bueno, but I can smile, touch and bless in the name of Jesus. Thank you to all who are praying.

Friday, October 20, 2006

2006-10-20T22:15:00.000-05:00

We arrived in San Jose safely late last night after a 2 hour departure delay, but thankfully immigrations and customs went very smoothly.

We had a great day in LaCarpio today. We focused our time this morning getting everything unloaded and the clinic up and running. We saw 88 patients in the clinic...the most "exciting" was an injury for a machete fight.

In the afternoon, we hosted Bible clubs for the children (of all ages). During the Bible club the children hear the story of Noah and the ark.

Tomorrow we will continue the clincs and the Bible clubs. We will also feed the children lunch.

Please continue to pray that we will have favor in the community and God's blessing on our work. Also, pray for us all to stay healthy.

Hopefully, we will have more on the blog tomorrow night from our group.

Thanks for checking us out.

And we're off...

2006-10-17T15:11:00.000-05:00

It's time for our next trip to Costa Rica! We will be departing IAH on Thursday, October 29, 2006 at 5:55 PM and arriving in Costa Rica at 8:39 PM.

On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, we will be conducting medical clinics in LaCarpio. In addition to the medical clinics, we will be feeding the children lunch, and doing Bible clubs during the afternoon.

On Monday, we will travel to orphanage for a visit.

Tuesday and Wednesday will be for traveling and sighseeing.

Please be in prayer for us and for the people in which we come in contact.

The team is made up of Dr. Mark Barhorst, Mark Craber, Marcus Carber, Stacy Craber, Martha Eusse, Kristina Farmer, Dr. Rita Lakes, Stephen Ramsey, Bonnie Ritchey, Laura Shook, Janie Wills, Nathan White, and Morris Horner.

You can send us comments through the blog and we would love to hear from you.

2006-03-13T23:21:00.000-06:00

The posting from Monday will likely be the last until we return to Houston. We appreciate your prayers and thoughts. I will post more information and photos in the near future.

Blessings, Morris!

Work Day in Coronda--Children's Home (Monday--Part 2)

2006-03-13T22:11:00.000-06:00

Monday's blog will most likely be our last entry until we return to Houston on Thursday. Thanks for reading and responding. We appreciate your thoughts and prayers. I will post more information and pictures when we return.

Blessings! Morris

LaCarpio:
I think of a carp, a fish which feeds upon the bottom, considered by most a trash fish, if caught it is thrown over the bank to rot. When I tried to find LaCarpio on the map before the trip I could not find it. It does not exist. I was told there could be 40,000 or more people there. They do not exist.

But they are there. I have seen them; they exist. Modern day lepers; gangsters, drug addicks, prostitutes, diease ridden, down trodden, dirty, the "po" (like Voddie Bachum says, "to poor to afford the "r", these people could not afford the "o" either and had to scrounge in the trash for the "po". But know thndey are people. "Healthy people don't need a doctor-sick people do." Lk 5:31-32

Yet there is a light. "I have come into the world as light." Jn 12:46

They are people; parents, children who smile and play. "Let the children come to me. Don't stop them!" Mt 19:14

There are those who work each day here. "...I am sending you to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from Satan to God." Acts 26:17-18

There are those who come to help; to heal, feed, quench thirst, to be a friend, to set free. "For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home.I was naked, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me."Mt 25:35-36

"Let's get dirty, let's get used" - Audio Adrenaline

I am amazed at my own response. A feeling that I must rely on God... there is so much to do, so little time, so little ability to do all the things that need to be done. "Do you believe I am able to do this?" Mt 9:28

YES!

Noel thanked us for having patience with the people of LaCarpio. One of my prayers is to thank my Christos (and the people of LaCarpio) for having patience with me to respond. While I have a feeling of guilt, Christ gives me peace again. "...don't worry about how to respond or what to say. God will give you the right words at the right time." Mt 10:19-20

So many faces, voices, smiles, and names. All to be planted, watered, harvested, and sent to do the same. "One plants and another harvests..." Jn 4:37-38 "Come follow me and I will make you fishers of men" Mt 4:19

Pray for the people of LaCarpio; "God blesses those who are poor and they realize their need for Him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs" Mt 5:3

Pray for the discipling of the boys, make them Jesus Freaks, that Steve is working with; that they will not fall prey to the gangs and drugs, that they become solid men, leaders who will change their, the, world.

Pray for God's Centurions leading from the front line, by example, Steve and Antonio. They are doing His Work. Pray Christs well refreshes them constantly, for wisdom and guidance, for safety, and to reap a bountiful harvest for the never ending Glory of God.

I am the way the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me." Jn 4:16

What will I do in the future? Return, how could I not!

What will you do, where, when will is your LaCarpio to be?
*do something

Pablo Stirling

Just when I think I have been blessed more than I can imagine, God graciously shows himself again. I found myself in the midst of rolling hills covered with lush greenery. As we rounded each turn the view was greater than the previous. Then the greatest view of all came into sight, the orphanage. I long awaited this venture with God. I met six beautiful children. All full of grace, hope and childhood. All of which was once forgotten. We sanded and painted the new edition to the orphanage which will be a home for hopefully eight more children. The work was hard but I would not have missed it for the world. Later, as we were in the middle of working on the house and at peak exhaustion, God surrounded us with his presence and clouds floated across the area. It was cool, peaceful and stirring. When we least expect it, God speaks to us. We need only take the time to stop and listen. Today, I stopped, I listened and I will never forget his message. "You have done well my child and I am pleased" What a blessing to be still and know God.

Danielia Mickan

Work Day in Coronda--Children's Home (Monday)

2006-03-13T21:36:00.000-06:00

The beautiful thing about Coronado besides the mountains, hanging clouds and lush scenery is the sweet hearts of the children in our home there. Presently, there are six children who have developed more wonderfully than we knew how to ask or think. They ha ve been loved back to health and the sparkle in their eyes is a clear look into their little hearts. Their progress is one that cannot be explained by psychotherapy or medicines but the agape love of the house parents and directors Roxanna and Noel. They have become attached and secure in their environment. This is evident by their wonderful behavior and progress in school and community. Their interaction and love of the dogs and pig is just great to witness. Emmanuel, our failure to thrive kiddo is thriving just great, thank you!!! This was so very rewarding to see. Thank you Champion Forest!!! and our fearless leader Morris.

Dr. Rita

have you ever seen impatiens growing wild up and down mountainsides? today's trip to the orphanage was simply beautiful, especially in contrast to where we've been in la carpio. there is so much potential to reach and disciple many children,one-by-one, through the orphanage, a plan/ministry that will really actually change lives and send these little ones back into their world with a heart for God. it is truly living out Jesus' scriptural precedent of caring for orphans. amazing!

i've been thinking about it, and i've narrowed it down to only about six kids that i think i need to bring home. is that o.k., duane? (see you thursday!)
becky

March 12, 2006

2006-03-12T22:53:00.000-06:00

Today was our last day in LaCarpio. On Monday, we will travel to Coronado to do some construction work on the next family house at the children's home. Since I've added a lot of pictures tonight.

Please keep praying. Thousands of seeds have been planted.

Morris

2006-03-12T22:48:00.000-06:00

Theresa has a new friend. I'm sure her face is etched in Theresa's heart!

2006-03-12T22:47:00.001-06:00

Becky in action.

2006-03-12T22:47:00.000-06:00

Roxanna & Becky get ready to paint the little girl's fingernails at the carnival.

2006-03-12T22:46:00.000-06:00

Paul may need to come home early? Any suggestions?

2006-03-12T22:45:00.000-06:00

Emily and Tiffany Sedate preparing for the carnival.

2006-03-12T22:43:00.000-06:00

Steve leads the children in a blessing before lunch. Steve Edwards is a member of CFBC. He is currently serving as a missionary in LaCarpio. Please pray for him as he faithfully serves God in Costa Rica.

2006-03-12T22:41:00.001-06:00

Ronald and Haley get the Tang ready for lunch.

2006-03-12T22:41:00.000-06:00

Jonathan, Haley, and Johnathan take a break from the Bible clubs for a quick photo.

2006-03-12T22:40:00.000-06:00

Johnathan, Nelson, and Jonathan.

2006-03-12T22:39:00.000-06:00

The whole group on our last day in LaCarpio.

2006-03-12T22:37:00.000-06:00

Antonio, one of God's servants in Costa Rica. Please lift him up to the Father each day as he serves in LaCarpio each day.

2006-03-12T22:35:00.000-06:00

Behind the scenes of the puppet show.

2006-03-12T22:34:00.000-06:00

A teddy bear makes you feel better regradless of how sick you are!

2006-03-12T22:33:00.001-06:00

Let's do Father Abraham one more time!

2006-03-12T22:33:00.000-06:00

Dr Mark is looking pretty tired at this point!

2006-03-12T22:31:00.001-06:00

Yummy! This is good stuff!

2006-03-12T22:31:00.000-06:00

Kiddos lined up for the pb&j.

2006-03-12T22:30:00.000-06:00

I think Paul has a new little buddy. Look out Cheri...I think he fits in Paul's carry on!

2006-03-12T22:29:00.001-06:00

Wonder what Lorraine did that she ended up in jail?

2006-03-12T22:29:00.000-06:00

The Sedates clean up after a hard day of Bible club.

2006-03-12T22:28:00.000-06:00

Theresa and Becky planning for the next group of kids at the Bible club.

2006-03-12T22:27:00.000-06:00

Johnathan and Jonathan gets the Tang ready.

2006-03-12T22:26:00.000-06:00

How much peanut butter and jelly does it take to feed 150 kids? Ask Tricia!

2006-03-12T22:25:00.000-06:00

How much peanut butter and jelly does it take to feed 150 kids? Ask Tricia.

Day 3 in LaCarpio (cont.)

2006-03-12T21:53:00.000-06:00

hi everyone,
i was praying for you guys at home this morning early -- hope preschool sunday school at church went smooth. jonathan i. and i (that sounds funny) are trying to memorize a scripture every morning on the bus on the way to la carpio. this morning we worked on romans 5:11 - but also we joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we now receive the atonement. we concentrated on the joy part all through the day, believing the Word of God is trustworthy and powerful. the bible story today was Jesus and the children, my favorite, and we made these little stickers with scripture on them, to put on all the kids crafts everyday, so they would be taking the Word into their homes. Cindy, one of my little ten year old girls i have been working with, invited me into her home this afternoon to meet her mother. Steve Edwards went with me, and afterwards said it was really cool because no one has ever been invited into one of the homes before. i showed cindy a picture of her that i am keeping, and told her that i would be praying for her. we hugged and i told her i loved her. please pray with me for cindy and her future-- that in spite of the poverty and conditions she lives in that she would come to know Christ and be kept pure.
becky
ohyeah--the carnival was pretty crazy. i had the fingerpainting booth and have never painted so many seriously grimy little fingers in all my life!!!

Today was excellent! I was very sad to leave La Carpio. Little hands were grasping mine and kisses from every direction as we left. Very heart warming knowing that God had moved here. Today a small group ventured beyond our boundaries and found a new understanding of faith. We went on a prayer walk to bless the homes and people of La Carpio. I was a little scared as this was to be a little dangerous. I went boldly on a leap of faith and was greatly blessed for doing so! Little hands were sent by God to calm my every fear as children from La Carpio surrounded us at every turn. It was great for the children to be able to show us their homes. Amazing what hope comes from such devastation. Sweet little hands, beautiful little smiles....Thank you God.

Danielia Mickan

Day 3 in LaCarpio

2006-03-12T20:45:00.000-06:00

Hola! Como Estas? That's about the extent of my spanish, but my gesturing has become much more fluent. Seriously though, this has been such an amazing trip. Being with this amazing group of people and seeing their different gifts being used for God is trully a special thing to witness. I just wish that everyone at home could be experiencing this special time with all of us. We covet all of your prayers for us...but more importanly, please be praying for these sweet children that we have been with the past three days. The joy on their faces when they see a simple smile or get a hug is almost too much to take in. Several have burned their smile in my heart. Pray that the touch that we've given will last and will remind them of the touch and love of Christ. We miss you all soooo much!! Gracias!

Jonathan Inabnit

"Para tras, por favor" (Please Back up) may be the phrase I have used the most today. There has definitly been a language barrier between us and the children, but love is a truly an international language. We may not understnad all of the words but when you see how the children react to our touch and attention, you realize that all our differences don't matter. There are so many faces I will remember forever. Nelson, the best helper you could ask for, and Alan the sweetest and most joyful little boy I have ever meet. These two and many other have touched my life so hat I will ever be the same. There are so many things in their lives that could cause them to loose hope, and rightfully so, but i am amazed at how much hope these children still have. Please continue to pray for the people of La Carpio! Pray for protection, hope that can only be Found in Christ, and for health. I pray that the time we spent with these people will not be remembered as work of people but the work of Jesus Christ. Hasta Luego! Miss all of you.

Johnathan Siefert

And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which we have been called...Col.4:3. This prayer is being answered by many of the saints who are intercessing for us right now. Before the trip, the Holy Spirit directed the purchase of a nebulizer for our trip. As a gadget person, I felt that this was extremely indicated. With two liters of nebulizing medicine given by a local pharmacist and numerous treatments later, it was obvious why we needed it. The Lord provides even when we do not know why. I saw two patients with respiratory distress and many with their lungs filled with wheezes. After seeing myriads of patients with a number of interesting illnesses and conditions, God's greatest blessing was when a patient came from the carnival with a picture of himself that he had received as a special gift. He brought it to me so that I would not forget him. What a moment of blessing. God always surpasses our giving.

Dr. Rita

today was such a BLESSED day----GOD is sooooooo good----we saw a woman that was barely breathing because of a reaction she had to a medication she took and because of GOD'S
direction to bring a nebulizer we were able to act quickly and give her a treatment to open up her airway-----there were so many BLESSINGS that occured today i can't begin to tell them all
but after seeing 300 people here over a three day period i know GOD is REAL and ALIVE-----thank you JESUS for sending me here

lorraine

2nd Day in LaCarpio (continued)

2006-03-11T21:42:00.001-06:00

Words are not enough to describe the condition that the people of LaCarpio live in. My heart is specially touched my the elderly. Please keep this special group in your prayers. Their bodies ache from so many years of living a hard life. They however tend to their grand children, as their own. Pray that God becomes real to them, through hope and love. Many appreciated the bibles, however few can read them.

Irma Alvarez

wow--today was long--long---but worth every minute----we saw double the number of people
and my heart was touched by the babies (10 and 12 year olds) bringing in babies ( 2-6 year olds) for treatment----i pray that GOD give us the grace to see even more people tomorrow---please pray for the children

lorraine

We're at the end of our second day - and we're tired, grimy, and very happy (kinda like middle school camp). Every child is a unique treasure from the LORD - no less here than in Houston. The kids here are sweet (mostly), well behaved (sometimes), friendly (always), and quiet (ok - almost never...they are kids after all). I have difficulty in communicating because I never learned any Spanish (I took Latin in high school because the teacher was nicer). Tomorrow we will be saying "adios" to La Carpio. It will be difficult to leave these sweet children. Someone told me that "Ad" means "to, toward, or near" (from the Latin) - and "Dios" means "God". If you will please pray for the children of La Carpio as we bid them adios tomorrow. That they would be nearer God than before. We are grateful for this opportunity and those that have planted seeds before us. Thanks and God bless you. Adios.

Sonny

2nd Day in LaCarpio (continued)

2006-03-11T21:42:00.000-06:00

Day 2 in LaCarpio

2006-03-11T20:54:00.000-06:00

it's been another long, but productive day. emily and Trey are doing great here and are helping out a lot. Emily has been helping with the singing and puppet shows...Trey has been helping stuff goody bags for the carnival and tried his hand at puppet shows as well. Sonny and I have been busy organizing kids into groups for Bible lessons, crafts, and games. it's really hard to only let in about 40 kids at a time to do a session...especially when there are 30 more waiting outside to get in. we got to feed about 150 kids lunch today...peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, bananas, and Tang to drink. Trey's favorite thing is to play catch with kids over the fence, Emily's favorite thing is to sing for the kids, Sonny's favorite thing is playing with the kids, and I love sitting with the kids during craft time and trying to talk to them...with Spanish and English all mixed together. keep praying for us!!!
Tiffany Sedate and family

the most excrutiationg thing for this preschool minister is being in a room full of kids and not being able to talk to them! why didn't i take spanish in high school??? or college, for that matter. someone hold me accountable here, i've GOT to learn how to communicate with these beautiful little ones.
for His children,
becky marshall

tommorrow (Sunday), is the carnival for all of the LaCarpio kids. I think I've made a friend,but I can't understand a WORD they're saying, so....So far, this whole trip has been a blast! I still can't believe I'm in Costa Rica. The people in LaCarpio are so poor, it makes me think how we should be thankful for everthing we have. They have open suage, rusty iron houses, and barely (so far that I know) have any clothes. Our pool in our hotel is...woah, brrr! It also is very shiny...@_@ This trip(so far) has been my favorite ever!
emily ^_^

My little friend's name is Miguel...I wish I could talk to him..I became his friend by tossing (tirar[Spanish for a tossing]) a balloon back and forth to him now I throw a hackysack to him and some of his buddies across a fence....he doesn't talk very much but I guess that's because he finally figured out that I can't speak Spanish....It's fun to be a "gatekeeper" and keep the kids there occupied and keep them from coming inside when there should be no mas ( no more) kids inside. This is a really fun trip so far and I have no doubt that it will be throughout the rest of the trip....Adios!
-Trey Sedate

What an experience! It is hard to describe the feeling of being with all the smiling faces and the hope that these children have in the midst of their poverty. They are ministering to us. Rita and I have been seeing the children in the clinic here and they are precious! Their parents are doing such a wonderful job in such difficult circumstances. Please pray for these faces that you see here. The Holy Spirit is at work here.
Lisa Rand

Urgent Prayer Request: Clemente visited our clinic today. He is an addict and his desire is to come out of the direction. Please pray that God will direct him to the perfect place for the help he needs.

First Day in LaCarpio

2006-03-10T21:13:00.000-06:00

Halo from San Jose,

We arrived safely in San Jose very late last night. After a brief nights sleep, we hit the road early for our first day on the field. For those of us who had been before, it was so exciting to get on the bus knowing we would renew friendships with everyone.

It has been an incredible day. But, I'm going to let others tell you about it.

P.S. We had God's favor as we passed through customs...although we had some close calls and did lots of praying as we walked through. It's amazing what a stuffed animal can do!

Morris

Thanks for all your prayers while we had our first day here at LaCarpia. We had a wonderful day with the medical clinic going on upstairs and bible school going on downstairs. We had two sessions of bible study, did a puppet show, did craft projects, played games and had an incredible time of worship. It was good for me to see some of the kids I had seen when I was here two years ago. They have grown up a little but they are still as beautiful as they were before.

Tricia Burns

Today we have a very productive day at the Carpio, the two doctors and help saw about 60 people with all kind of problems. Also today was the first time people asked for Bibles, we gave away perhaps 30 of them.I feel the AllMighty is helping our efforts and ministry.

Cesar

today was our first day in the clinic and we saw alot of moms and babies--there's always several babies that just grab my heart and today it was the baby we saw with spinabifida----he was gorgeous and had a beautiful smile--even though he had a cast on his leg to straighten his club foot and a shunt in his brain to keep fluid from building up----something as simple as pre-natal vitamins could have prevented this awful disease----i pray that the moms we are seeing now and providing the vitamins they need will be blessed with healthy babies----i love being here and i wish i could bring these precious babies home with me

lorraine

La Carpio was the most heart touching place I have ever been in! There were so many beautiful faces of children. They were so loving. We treated many of them in clinic today. One little girl in particular captured my heart! I took her picture and showed it to her in return. She smiled and gave me a kiss. For the rest of the day she continued arriving by my side to give me a hug and a smile. No language barrier there...God is truly at work here. Thank you for your prayers.

Danielia Mickan

2006-03-10T21:12:00.000-06:00

Emily leads us in worship as we sing "Here I Am to Worship."

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Dr. Rita checks out a little one as Lisa translates.

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Dr. Mark checks out Antonio as Cesar looks on.

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Danielia checks a patients blood pressure.

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Johnathan, Carolina, and Theresa share the Bible study.

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The kiddos enjoying the puppet show

Add New Team Member To Your Prayer List

2006-03-06T14:50:00.000-06:00

We have a new addition to our mission trip. Please add Irma Alvarez to your prayer list. The trip is only 3 days away. And there is much excited and lots of last minute preparation.

Please pray that we use the last days wisely as we prepare for the trip.

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Caroline Bell and Theresa Gomez are giving Johnathan Siefert a hard time over something!?

2006-03-06T14:49:00.000-06:00

This group looks a little tired of planning...maybe its been a long day. From lower left: Johnathan Siefert, Stephen "Ram" Ramsey, Haley Rand, Lisa Rand (in background), and Tricia Burns.

2006-03-06T14:47:00.000-06:00

We are having a lot of fun planning our trip. Paul Stirling, Theresa Gomez, and Caroline Bell

2006-03-06T14:46:00.001-06:00

The medical team has grown. From lower left: Lisa Rand, Lorraine Hibbert, Cesar DeVargas, Dr. Rita Lakes, and Dr. Mark Barhorst

2006-03-06T14:46:00.000-06:00

Planning from a different angle. From lower left corner: Tricia Burns, Sonny Sedate, Tiffany Sedate, Paul Stirling, Theresa Gomez, Caroline Bell, Johnathan Siefert, and Haley Rand

2006-03-06T14:43:00.000-06:00

Children's Bible Clubs planning is underway! From lower left corner: Caroline Bell, Johnathan Siefert, Lisa Rand, Tricia Burns, Sonny Sedate, Tiffany Sedate, and Becky Marshall.

2006-03-06T14:41:00.000-06:00

How many discussions do they need to have? Lorraine Hibbert, Cesar DeVargas, Dr. Rita Lakes and Dr. Mark Barhorst.

2006-03-06T14:40:00.000-06:00

Dr. Rita Lakes and Dr. Mark Barhorst are making a list and checking it twice!

2006-03-06T14:39:00.000-06:00

Lorraine Hibbert and Cesar DeVargas listen as the medical team makes plans for the upcoming trip.

March 2006 Team

2006-02-20T11:06:00.000-06:00

The people making up our March 2006 Team are: Dr. Mark Barhorst, Carolina Bell, Tricia Burns, Cesar DeVargas, Theresa Gomez, Cassie Hibbert, Lorraine Hibbert, Jonathan Inabnit, Dr. Rita Lakes, Becky Marshall, Danielia Mickan, Ronald Ramsey, Stephen "Ram" Ramsey, Haley Rand, Lisa Rand, Emily Sedate, Sonny Sedate, Tiffany Sedate, Trey Sedate, Johnathan Siefert, Paul Stirling, and Morris Horner.

Our tenative schedule:
March 9--Depart Houston
March 10 - 12--Bible Clubs, Feed the Children, and Medical Clinics in LaCarpio
March 13--Light Construction at the Children's Home in Coronado
March 14 - 15--Travel and Vacation Day
March 16--Return to Houston

March 2006 Trip

2006-02-15T12:51:00.000-06:00

Thank you for taking the time to read our pre-trip information. As the date for our trip approaches we will provide you with information through our blog.

Currently, we have 22 people going on this trip. Beginning tonight we start meeting to plan what we will be doing on this trip to strengthen our connect to the people there. Please pray that we will have clear direction as we plan the Bible lessons, music, and activities we will do with the children to present the foundational trusts of the gospel to them.--Morris

2005-08-15T23:25:00.000-05:00

Dr. Mark after day 1 in the Clinic

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Yum, this is pretty good !

2005-08-15T23:24:00.000-05:00

Ram, Jena and Darleen makin PB&J, and more PB&J

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Rita, Kathy and patient in Clinic

2005-08-15T23:23:00.001-05:00

Gun shot wound x-ray in clinic

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Laura, Dr. Kellar & patient

2005-08-15T23:22:00.000-05:00

LaCarpio Team 2005

2005-08-15T23:21:00.000-05:00

Amy @ the Pharmacy

Monday 15 August 2005

2005-08-15T21:54:00.000-05:00

Hola everyone !

End of our 3rd day in LaCarpio - and it's been a wonderful three days. Steve Ramsey, Jena Takemura, Morris Horner made 200+ PB&J sandwiches while Steve Edwards and our friends in LaCarpio (Luis Carlos, Leonel, Nelson, Jose, Randall, etc). organized 200+ children in the church for lunch. We were unsure if the children would like PB&J, but they absolutely loved the food - and it was truly a blessing to see how much they enjoyed it. What really touched my heart was to see our friends (Luis Carlos, Leonel, etc) serving others and teaching their friends to serve. Today they even spent time picking up trash around the church. Of course we also had time to play - daily games of soccer, basketball, and Steve even introduced them to dodge ball. 4 ruptured dodge balls later and thankfully no injuries :). One of my most fond moments was Vanessa, a sweet little girl (about 5 years old) that has a smile that lights up all of LaCarpio. As I was leaving, she ran up to me, and gave me a kiss on the cheek. Another blessing from God that you could never put a price on.

As always, it's fun being on mission with God, with others. Each person with special gifts from God - and serving along side our dear friend Noel. I am truly amazed and touched each time I come to LaCarpio, and see Noel's love for the people here. Three amazing days passing so quickly, but full of moments and memories that God so thankfully shared with us. - Michael Takemura

The past three days have been incredible! We have seen over 300 people in the clinic, and we've seen lots of exciting things this time! We treated one young man with a knife wound, and a 15 year old gang member with a gunshot wound he received last night. I think we have earned the trust of these young men so that they feel comfortable coming into the clinic now. Of course, like always, we have treated many sick little children. It has been neat to see familiar faces of mothers and children that we have treated the last few times we were here with the clinic. It is rewarding to hear them say how thankful they are that we are there and that they are grateful to God for sending us to la carpio.

Yesterday we treated a lady who is 114 years old! She was fascinating to talk to. She just sat down and began telling me the whole history of the area and all the changes she had seen in her lifetime. Her daughter invited Dr. Keller, Kathy, and me to visit their house. We went there today. She was so proud to show us her house, the beans and lemon grass planted behind her house, and to share with us a dessert she had prepared for us. It was very humbling to sit inside their house - dirt floor, tin roof and walls - and come face to face with the reality that this is how they live every day. We treated seven family members from this family in the clinic. They were very grateful that we were there and are waiting for us to come visit next time.

Thank you Champion Forest for being a church with a heart for reaching the world, and thank you for giving us the opportunity to minister on your behalf in la carpio!! If you've never gone on a mission trip, you need to go! - Laura Shook

Sunday, August 14, 2005

2005-08-14T21:25:00.000-05:00

Hello all!

We are in Costa Rica safe and sound. For those of you I gave the "special" prayer request...we made it through customs! PTL!!!!!

We have completed 2 days of medicals clinics having seen over 200 people. We fed 150 people on Saturday and 235 today.

Sorry, we haven't posted more, but the hotel has had computer systems problems....HOPE TO BE ABLE TO POST MORE SOON!

Morris

Thurday, August 11, 2005

2005-08-11T14:49:00.000-05:00

Thank you!

Wednesday during the prayer time at our worship service, our mssion team was surrounded by praying people...it was an incredible experience to feel the hands as they were placed on us...but nothing can compare to the concert of prayer that filled each of our ears!

After the service, we packed the trunks. There are eleven trunks of supplies for the trip. Pray that we get through custom without a search. The customs people can confiscate anything, basically. We are carrying things that will be a blessing to our medical clinic, if we can get into the country with them.

We depart from IAH at 5:50 PM on Friday, please pray for a safe and timely flight...Houston weather can sure throw kinks in travel plans.

Please pray for the team to have a good night's sleep tonight. It is easy to get excited and not be able to sleep...been there, done that.

We look forward to hearing from you folks while we are gone.

Morris

2005-08-09T15:53:00.001-05:00

Streets of La Carpio

2005-08-09T15:53:00.000-05:00

Community Center at La Carpio

Tuesday, August 9, 2005

2005-08-09T15:19:00.000-05:00

WOW! Just a couple of days until we are off to Costa Rica.

Our team this time is made up of: Clayton Barhorst, Dr. Mark Barhorst, Steve Edwards, Dr. Rita Lakes, Dr. Glen Keller, Kathy Keller, Dee Knippers, Amy Morales, Stephen "Ram" Ramsey, Laura Shook, Sarmen Staten, Jena Takemura, Michael Takemura, and Morris Horner.

Starting bright and early Saturday morning, we will be setting up our medical clinic. Pray for our medical staff. Pray for discernment, clarity of thought, and the ability to communicate through translators, etc. Pray that the Great Physican will work through our medical team.

After the medical clinic is up and running, we non-medical people are going to try to feed the flocks. God in His faithfulness has supplied us the resources to attempt to feed the hungry folks of LaCarpio. Pray needs for the feeding: God will multiply the food and help us to realize that when we have done all that we can do, we have done all we can.

Please respond to our blog...it is encouraging to hear back from you as we are away from home.

2005-03-01T11:31:00.000-06:00

The sunset goes down on our day at Coronado.

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Man...that trim paint really stinks!

2005-03-01T11:29:00.000-06:00

Time to clean up...

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And more paint...

2005-03-01T11:26:00.000-06:00

And more paint...

2005-03-01T11:25:00.000-06:00

Praying and painting?

2005-03-01T10:39:00.000-06:00

Lovely shade of blue! Did you pick it out, Ram?

2005-03-01T10:37:00.000-06:00

Not sure who is having the most fun...the gringos or the children

2005-03-01T10:36:00.000-06:00

The rain forest...right behind the orphanage

2005-03-01T10:35:00.000-06:00

I'm not sure who is having the most fun...the gringos are the children

2005-03-01T10:34:00.001-06:00

Helping the children get ready to start school

2005-03-01T10:34:00.000-06:00

Help the kids prepare for school

2005-03-01T10:33:00.000-06:00

The pictures says it all!

2005-03-01T10:32:00.000-06:00

Dr. Keller and 2 of the boys...

2005-03-01T10:29:00.000-06:00

On the way to Coronada...PJ, Roxeana, and Chaco

Back to Houston

2005-03-01T10:13:00.000-06:00

We arrived at the airport at 11 AM on Thursday to discover that our flight was delayed...3 hours! So we spend the next 5 1/2 hours talking, eating, sleeping, walking, reading, worshipping, and anything else we could find to do...

Departure on this trip was much different from previous trip---for the first time I was ready to leave Costa Rica and return to Houston. I believe many of us was faced with some realities on this trip that we had not faced on prior trips. So, I encourage you to continue to pray for us as we process those realities over the next days and weeks.

I believe everyone came back very tired, so I encourage you to pray for everyone to have renew strength. As each one served out of the overflow of God's spirit working in them, it was a challenge to keep full...pray that we will be renewed spiritually--full and overflowing.

Thank you for taking time to read our website. Your encouraging words have been a blessing to us. And thanks for the prayers!- Morris

Final Day in Costa Rica

2005-03-01T10:09:00.000-06:00

On Wednesday, February 23, we took time to sight see and shop. We travel to a volcano about an hour from San Jose. It was very cloudy that day, so we couldn't see the craters. However, the walk to the top was incredible. It was a tropical wonderland.

After we left the volcano, we stop for a traditional Costa Rican lunch. YUMMY! I love the food there. The fact that I gained 3 pounds testifies to that fact...

Our afternoon was spend shopping...the native crafts are incredible. I think everyone's suitcase came back much heavier. - Morris

Painting at Coronado

2005-03-01T10:01:00.000-06:00

I apologize for not updating the website on Tuesday and Wednesday. I think everyone was trying to process the trip mentally, spiritually, and physically.

On Tuesday, February 22, we travel to Coronade to see the children in the first home and to paint the inside of the activities building. I can't tell you what a blessing it was to see the home with children living in it. I had imagined what it would look and feel like since June, 2003. The reality far exceeds my imagination. It is obviously a place where love dwells.

Dr. Rita, Dr. Keller, and PJ gave the children a good medical exam. And found that they were thriving in there new environment. God is so good.

Noel was very happy with the amount of work we completed at the activities building. Basically, all of the indoor painting is complete. And it is beautful. I sense the building will be a blessing to the community and will honor to our Lord. -Morris

2005-02-28T10:52:00.000-06:00

Noel with all the guys.

2005-02-21T22:38:00.000-06:00

Jena and Vicki

2005-02-21T22:37:00.002-06:00

Is there a NURSE in the house?

2005-02-21T22:37:00.001-06:00

Martha and Chrisitian

2005-02-21T22:37:00.000-06:00

Dr. Rita and PJ at work...

2005-02-21T22:36:00.001-06:00

Sick baby with pneumonia