We returned to Bogota, Colombia to make new friends and see some friends from past projects in this beautiful country. We focused only providing leadership training for pastors, church leaders and business people. We worked with a wonderful missionary family, the Ridpath's. They have partnered with churches in Colombia for over 15 years. They are great hosts, set up all of our meetings and provide excellent translation help. We are very thankful for their help.
The first group we worked with planned to have about 50 people attend the training. On the Sunday before the training (which began the next night), more people showed interest in the training. By the night of the training, over 90 came to the session. The pastor and staff busied themselves making copies and putting together snacks for the group. Everyone laughed, worked together, learned new principles and experienced many eye-opening moments. The groups were lively and involved in the learning process. It is always a great joy to help people learn and understand leadership in fresh new ways.
The next group met at one of the oldest churches in Bogota. On the way to the first training session, we had the pleasure of meeting the daughter of the man who started the church years ago. This precious lady told some stories of the old days and some of the things God used her and her husband to do. Spending time with people who have served God in many places always brings joy to our hearts.
Our next training went well with people attending from several different churches. While almost 70 people attended the training the first night, most had to work the next morning. With the business people at work, we focused more on church situations and specific things pastors and ministers face on a weekly basis. At the end of the training, we learned this church is undergoing a time of change and making important decisions to move forward into the future. We were told our time with them was just what they needed at just the right time. As always, everyone enjoyed the training and learned allot. Once again, we shared materials with the leaders and some plan to use the materials to teach others.
We had the opportunity to minister in a couple of different churches on Sunday. We got to visit our friend in Tocancipa again. This is the third time we worked together. The church is in the midst of great growth since the last time we were there. They have multiple services on Sundays and have expanded the church building. The church continues to add on to their building to make room for all of the lives God helps.
Thanks for all of the prayers and support we received as we traveled to Colombia. God touched many lives and your help made it all possible. We can't wait to see what God does in the churches and lives of people who participated in the trainings.
