This document introduces David Ernst, a missionary living in Venezuela with his wife Luz Maria. They operate a Lutheran preschool called "Rays of Light" on the property of their home in La Caramuca. The document details the construction of a new building for the preschool, made possible by donations from churches in the United States. It describes the opening celebration for the new preschool facility and Luz Maria's vision to establish a Lutheran church and school to serve the community.
This is the presentation I made for my final project at Product School for the Product Management course. I graduated on January 2016 and I highly recommend the school!
This is the presentation I made for my final project at Product School for the Product Management course. I graduated on January 2016 and I highly recommend the school!
Propuesta para un fondo en apoyo del ministerio diaconal de la Iglesia Luterana de Venezuela.
Misiones: (Ya establecidas o nuevos grupos)
¿Que aspectos pueden ser atendidos?
-Transporte.
-Refrigerio.
-Recursos o material de trabajo.
-Acondicionamiento de espacios, entre otros.
Misericordia.
Beneficiarias.
-Diaconisas consagradas, activas o cursando el programa de estudio diaconal.
-Familiares en primer grado (cónyuge, padres, hijos, hermanos).
Información para la Ofrenda:
Zugeimar Aranguren C.I.: 13.855.2950.
Teléfono: 0424-5667723
BNC; Banco Nacional de Crédito.
Fui inspirado y animado a seguir una carrera misionera por Philip Bickel, pastor de misiones en la Iglesia Luterana St. Michael de Bloomington, Minnesota, y ex misionero en Venezuela. Aquí está su consejo en español para aquellos que están considerando el ministerio público.
Volunteers from Woodbury Lutheran Church of Woodbury MN and St. Michael's Lutheran Church of Bloomington MN visit the eastern Venezuelan state of Monagas in August 2002.
Hecho y presentado por Luz Maria Henriquez de Ernst en CEIB "Las Delicias", La Caramuca, Barinas, Venezuela, para el comienzo del año escolar 2015-2016.
Introducción: Reflexión sobre la inauguración deñ tanque de agua.
Para inaugurar el tanque se habia solicitada que cada familia del poblado, depositará en el tanque un barril de vino, a alguién se le ocurrio que si depoitaba agua, nadie no notaría. El gran día de celebrar llegó, abrieron la llave ay ¿adivinen que salió¡? Agua. Todos habian pensado engañar un poquito a los demás.
Concepto de valores: son los principios que rigen nuestro comportamiento y son: amor, respeto, tolerancia, empatia y otros.
Donde se fundamentan: En el hogar, el contexto de la comunidad y la escuela.
Donde se originan: Podriamos decir que en nuestra mente y corazón.
Sin embargo, la Biblia nos dice que nuestra mente y corazón pueden prostituirse. Un ejemplo: "los bachaqueros" ó revendedores . Ellos se aprovechan de la necesidad del prójimo; su prioriad o valor es la ganancia de capital.
La Biblia es la norma, dada por Dios para nuestra conducta. En los mandamientos o ley moral, Dios establee nuestro compartamiento.
¿Podrían decir los mandamientos? Este es el problema, hemos dejado de lado la voluntad de Dios, no la conocemos.
La buena noticia: Tenemos las Escrituras, Cristo en la cruz pagó el precia de nuestra desobediencia. En su resurrección no concede la victoria. Ahora Cristo nos ayuda a mostrar a otros su amor, su perdón, su paz.
Conclusión: Dios nos regaló est institución CEIB "Las Delicias"; ¿Cual será mi contribución, mi comportamiento para celebrar? Si; veo en mi prójimo la imagen y semejanza de Dios; El ambiene donde convivimos y laboramos será de armonía y bendición. Dos nos bendiga. Amén.
Explicación del programa diaconísa de la Iglesia Luterana de Venezuela para los encuentros regionales de la Sociedad Luterana de Damas Venezolanas (SOLUDAVE). Por Luz Maria Henriquez de Ernst.
Una presentación para acompañar una comparación de la exposición en el libro por Sergio Fritzler, "El Oficio Pastoral" con la exposición en "Dogmatica Cristiana" por Juan Mueller.
Se realizó el último acto de grado del Centro de Educación Integral Nutriniño "Mi Pequeña Lucecita" el 11 de julio de 2.013. Se reabrirán en el próxmo año escolar como el Simoncito Comunitario "Mis Pequeña Lucecita." Los niños que pasarán al primer grado son Yuliannys E. Ascanio; Luís Rivas M.; Nazareth Zambrano P.; Eduar J. Garrido S., Angela I. Pintero R.; Ximena V. Barrueta Z.; y Ailyn T. Noguera S.
The Tierra de Gracia project (2000-2010) attempted to establish a working farm to generate funds to support a national pastor for impoverished rural parishes in eastern Venezuela and to provide emplyment and job training.
La mariposa tiene tres fases durante su vida: la oruga, la crisálida o capullo, y la mariposa. La oruga sólo come entonces se símbolo de la vida terrenal cuando la gente está preocupada por el cuidado de sus necesidades materiales. La oruga se hace girar en una crisálida o capullo, parecida a la tumba. La mariposa sale del capullo, que representa la resurrección y la nueva vida gloriosa, libre de las limites de este mundo.
"Así también es la resurrección de los muertos. Se siembra en corrupción, se levantará en incorrupción; se siembra en deshonra, se levantará en gloria; se siembra en flaqueza, se levantará en poder; se siembra cuerpo natural, resucitará cuerpo espiritual. Hay cuerpo natural, y hay cuerpo espiritual.2 1° Corintios15.42.44
The Good News, newsletter for June 2024 is hereNoHo FUMC
Our monthly newsletter is available to read online. We hope you will join us each Sunday in person for our worship service. Make sure to subscribe and follow us on YouTube and social media.
What Should be the Christian View of Anime?Joe Muraguri
We will learn what Anime is and see what a Christian should consider before watching anime movies? We will also learn a little bit of Shintoism religion and hentai (the craze of internet pornography today).
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Propuesta para un fondo en apoyo del ministerio diaconal de la Iglesia Luterana de Venezuela.
Misiones: (Ya establecidas o nuevos grupos)
¿Que aspectos pueden ser atendidos?
-Transporte.
-Refrigerio.
-Recursos o material de trabajo.
-Acondicionamiento de espacios, entre otros.
Misericordia.
Beneficiarias.
-Diaconisas consagradas, activas o cursando el programa de estudio diaconal.
-Familiares en primer grado (cónyuge, padres, hijos, hermanos).
Información para la Ofrenda:
Zugeimar Aranguren C.I.: 13.855.2950.
Teléfono: 0424-5667723
BNC; Banco Nacional de Crédito.
Fui inspirado y animado a seguir una carrera misionera por Philip Bickel, pastor de misiones en la Iglesia Luterana St. Michael de Bloomington, Minnesota, y ex misionero en Venezuela. Aquí está su consejo en español para aquellos que están considerando el ministerio público.
Volunteers from Woodbury Lutheran Church of Woodbury MN and St. Michael's Lutheran Church of Bloomington MN visit the eastern Venezuelan state of Monagas in August 2002.
Hecho y presentado por Luz Maria Henriquez de Ernst en CEIB "Las Delicias", La Caramuca, Barinas, Venezuela, para el comienzo del año escolar 2015-2016.
Introducción: Reflexión sobre la inauguración deñ tanque de agua.
Para inaugurar el tanque se habia solicitada que cada familia del poblado, depositará en el tanque un barril de vino, a alguién se le ocurrio que si depoitaba agua, nadie no notaría. El gran día de celebrar llegó, abrieron la llave ay ¿adivinen que salió¡? Agua. Todos habian pensado engañar un poquito a los demás.
Concepto de valores: son los principios que rigen nuestro comportamiento y son: amor, respeto, tolerancia, empatia y otros.
Donde se fundamentan: En el hogar, el contexto de la comunidad y la escuela.
Donde se originan: Podriamos decir que en nuestra mente y corazón.
Sin embargo, la Biblia nos dice que nuestra mente y corazón pueden prostituirse. Un ejemplo: "los bachaqueros" ó revendedores . Ellos se aprovechan de la necesidad del prójimo; su prioriad o valor es la ganancia de capital.
La Biblia es la norma, dada por Dios para nuestra conducta. En los mandamientos o ley moral, Dios establee nuestro compartamiento.
¿Podrían decir los mandamientos? Este es el problema, hemos dejado de lado la voluntad de Dios, no la conocemos.
La buena noticia: Tenemos las Escrituras, Cristo en la cruz pagó el precia de nuestra desobediencia. En su resurrección no concede la victoria. Ahora Cristo nos ayuda a mostrar a otros su amor, su perdón, su paz.
Conclusión: Dios nos regaló est institución CEIB "Las Delicias"; ¿Cual será mi contribución, mi comportamiento para celebrar? Si; veo en mi prójimo la imagen y semejanza de Dios; El ambiene donde convivimos y laboramos será de armonía y bendición. Dos nos bendiga. Amén.
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1. Welcome to La Caramuca Lutheran Mission, Jesus loves you.Welcome to La Caramuca Lutheran Mission, Jesus loves you.
2. My name is David Ernst. I have lived in Venezuela for three years as a volunteer missionary.My name is David Ernst. I have lived in Venezuela for three years as a volunteer missionary.
3. I am working toward certification as a theological tutor by the Lutheran Church of Venezuela.I am working toward certification as a theological tutor by the Lutheran Church of Venezuela.
4. This is my wife, Luz Maria, a deaconess in the Lutheran Church of Venezuela. I have come to share
her dream of a Lutheran church and school in western Venezuela.
This is my wife, Luz Maria, a deaconess in the Lutheran Church of Venezuela. I have come to share
her dream of a Lutheran church and school in western Venezuela.
5. We were married here in Venezuela.We were married here in Venezuela.
6. We live in the state of Barinas in western Venezuela. We are about four to five hours
from the Colombian border.
We live in the state of Barinas in western Venezuela. We are about four to five hours
from the Colombian border.
7. Venezuela covers roughly twice the land area as California.Venezuela covers roughly twice the land area as California.
8. Venezuela is home to about 26 million people. We live in a less highly populated,
rural part of the country.
Venezuela is home to about 26 million people. We live in a less highly populated,
rural part of the country.
9. Caracas, the nation's capital is also its largest city, with about 4 million people.Caracas, the nation's capital is also its largest city, with about 4 million people.
10. Venezuela boasts hundreds of miles of Caribbean coastline.Venezuela boasts hundreds of miles of Caribbean coastline.
11. Going to the beach is a favorite pastime for everyone in Venezuela.Going to the beach is a favorite pastime for everyone in Venezuela.
12. There are also misty mountain peaks...There are also misty mountain peaks...
13. ...and exotic rainforests as in Henri Pittier National Park near Maracay....and exotic rainforests as in Henri Pittier National Park near Maracay.
14. Wild parrots are among the many species of birds.Wild parrots are among the many species of birds.
15. This looks like a turtle, but it's really a morrocoy, a reptile found only in Venezuela. This
country has many unique species of animals and plants.
This looks like a turtle, but it's really a morrocoy, a reptile found only in Venezuela. This
country has many unique species of animals and plants.
17. So do roses. There is much natural beauty here.So do roses. There is much natural beauty here.
18. Venezuelans appreciate the beauties of nature and human arts, especially music.Venezuelans appreciate the beauties of nature and human arts, especially music.
19. In addition to the harp, the guitar is a favorite instrument.In addition to the harp, the guitar is a favorite instrument.
20. Venezuelans have their own type of four-stringed guitar, called the cuatro.Venezuelans have their own type of four-stringed guitar, called the cuatro.
21. Sometimes the cuatro accompanies a violin instead of a harp.Sometimes the cuatro accompanies a violin instead of a harp.
22. In addition to natural beauty and creative people, Venezuela is blessed with abundant
energy sources: oil, coal, natural gas and hydroelectric power.
In addition to natural beauty and creative people, Venezuela is blessed with abundant
energy sources: oil, coal, natural gas and hydroelectric power.
23. The Rio Orinoco, the second-largest river in South America, provides hydroelectric power
and transportation for the mineral wealth.
The Rio Orinoco, the second-largest river in South America, provides hydroelectric power
and transportation for the mineral wealth.
24. In the midst of all
these blessings,
why are many
in Venezuela
unhappy?
In the midst of all
these blessings,
why are many
in Venezuela
unhappy?
25. In part because many Venezuelans cannot afford basic necessities. The country has
deep-rooted economic problems.
In part because many Venezuelans cannot afford basic necessities. The country has
deep-rooted economic problems.
26. National unemployment is around 10 percent and nearly half the population lives below the
poverty line. The roads and streets are full of selling whatever they can: fruit, coffee, music
or trinkets.
National unemployment is around 10 percent and nearly half the population lives below the
poverty line. The roads and streets are full of selling whatever they can: fruit, coffee, music
or trinkets.
27. For generations, Venezuela's natural wealth has not been managed for the benefit of all
and there remains a wide gap between rich and poor.
For generations, Venezuela's natural wealth has not been managed for the benefit of all
and there remains a wide gap between rich and poor.
28. But there is spiritual
hunger as well as
physical suffering in
Venezuela. Many pray
to something other than
the true and living God.
But there is spiritual
hunger as well as
physical suffering in
Venezuela. Many pray
to something other than
the true and living God.
29. Belief in magic and divination is common throughout Venezuela.Belief in magic and divination is common throughout Venezuela.
31. Muslims are gaining Venezuelan converts. So are Mormons and Jehovah's Witnesses.Muslims are gaining Venezuelan converts. So are Mormons and Jehovah's Witnesses.
32. What do Venezuelans need the most? The hope of the Gospel as found,
for example, in Ephesians 2: 4-5.
What do Venezuelans need the most? The hope of the Gospel as found,
for example, in Ephesians 2: 4-5.
33. Luz Maria was impressed
by our 2005 visit to
Concordia Seminary,
St. Louis, Missouri.
Luz Maria was impressed
by our 2005 visit to
Concordia Seminary,
St. Louis, Missouri.
34. Her vision of a Lutheran school in western Venezuela, was strrengthened by the story of the
seminary's origin as a log-cabin school for 6-10 children.
Her vision of a Lutheran school in western Venezuela, was strrengthened by the story of the
seminary's origin as a log-cabin school for 6-10 children.
35. Luz Maria has a high level of theological training. She is shown here with most of the
leaders of the Venezuelan church at a church history seminar in Caracas taught by
Dr. David Coles of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Luz Maria has a high level of theological training. She is shown here with most of the
leaders of the Venezuelan church at a church history seminar in Caracas taught by
Dr. David Coles of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana.
36. We hope to see her dream realized in Barrio Las Lomas, La Caramuca, Barinas.We hope to see her dream realized in Barrio Las Lomas, La Caramuca, Barinas.
37. Here in La Caramuca, where children play on unpaved streets with kites made from
castoff garbage bags.
Here in La Caramuca, where children play on unpaved streets with kites made from
castoff garbage bags.
38. Many familes here can scarcely afford school supplies. Alfonso Torres and his children
are grateful for materials donated Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church, Brighton, MI.
Many familes here can scarcely afford school supplies. Alfonso Torres and his children
are grateful for materials donated Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church, Brighton, MI.
39. So is Argenis Morales (the girl in the middle) and her two brothers, Efren and Carlos.So is Argenis Morales (the girl in the middle) and her two brothers, Efren and Carlos.
40. Boys like these frequently drop out of school after sixth grade to look for work. Wages are
low and, without proper guidance, their problems in life may be compounded by alcohol
and drug abuse.
Boys like these frequently drop out of school after sixth grade to look for work. Wages are
low and, without proper guidance, their problems in life may be compounded by alcohol
and drug abuse.
41. Girls often start having children of their own as teenagers. Single-parent households headed
by the mother are commonplace.
Girls often start having children of their own as teenagers. Single-parent households headed
by the mother are commonplace.
42. The proposed site for our church and school is property that Luz Maria owns. We live in
this house which was once a public school.
The proposed site for our church and school is property that Luz Maria owns. We live in
this house which was once a public school.
43. The property (180 square yards) is L-shaped with the house in the small leg of
the L at the top of a hill.
The property (180 square yards) is L-shaped with the house in the small leg of
the L at the top of a hill.
44. There is a well at the bottom of the hill.There is a well at the bottom of the hill.
45. We would like to build a parking lot with gate to the paved road outside here.We would like to build a parking lot with gate to the paved road outside here.
46. Tropical fruit, such as bananas, grow in our backyard.Tropical fruit, such as bananas, grow in our backyard.
47. We also have oranges, lemons and grapefruit.We also have oranges, lemons and grapefruit.
48. Sometimes eagles fly down from the mountains to visit us. There is a beautiful song in
Spanish based on Isaiah 40:31.
Sometimes eagles fly down from the mountains to visit us. There is a beautiful song in
Spanish based on Isaiah 40:31.
49. There are beautiful flowers on our property, too.There are beautiful flowers on our property, too.
50. It is a peaceful, tranquil setting without the distraction of the busy city.It is a peaceful, tranquil setting without the distraction of the busy city.
51. In 2003, Luz Maria opened what had been her living room to a government-funded
preschool program providing hot meals to children ages 2 to 6.
In 2003, Luz Maria opened what had been her living room to a government-funded
preschool program providing hot meals to children ages 2 to 6.
52. The program also provides visiting teachers to instruct the children.The program also provides visiting teachers to instruct the children.
53. Luz Maria left the preschool in charge of her adult daughters, Yepci and Charli, while we
moved to Tierra de Gracia Lutheran Farm in eastern Venezuela.
Luz Maria left the preschool in charge of her adult daughters, Yepci and Charli, while we
moved to Tierra de Gracia Lutheran Farm in eastern Venezuela.
54. We lived in the state of Monagas for about a year, learning how to administer a mission
project. Luz Maria developed Chrisitan education programs for women and children.
We lived in the state of Monagas for about a year, learning how to administer a mission
project. Luz Maria developed Chrisitan education programs for women and children.
55. In fall 2004 we returned to Barinas with a plan for integrating Christian instruction into the
preschool program. Luz Maria discussed this with the public school teachers.
In fall 2004 we returned to Barinas with a plan for integrating Christian instruction into the
preschool program. Luz Maria discussed this with the public school teachers.
56. They were not familiar with Luther's Small Catechism, but liked what they read. In
Venezuela, religious instruction is permitted in public schools.
They were not familiar with Luther's Small Catechism, but liked what they read. In
Venezuela, religious instruction is permitted in public schools.
57. We became an official mission project of the national church and Corpus Chrisi Lutheran
Church in the city of Barinas, capital of the state of Barinas.
We became an official mission project of the national church and Corpus Chrisi Lutheran
Church in the city of Barinas, capital of the state of Barinas.
58. Corpus Christi is the only church in the entire state that is affiliated with the Lutheran Church
of Venezuela and in fellowship with the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod.
Corpus Christi is the only church in the entire state that is affiliated with the Lutheran Church
of Venezuela and in fellowship with the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod.
59. Corpus Christi is a tiny congregation with a total membership of about 20 people.Corpus Christi is a tiny congregation with a total membership of about 20 people.
60. Like most of his parishioners, Pastor Edgar Brito is quite young.Like most of his parishioners, Pastor Edgar Brito is quite young.
61. Despite its small size, Corpus Christi in 2005 hosted the annual convention of the
Venezuelan Lutheran women's organization.
Despite its small size, Corpus Christi in 2005 hosted the annual convention of the
Venezuelan Lutheran women's organization.
62. We began a weekly Sunday school in La Caramuca.We began a weekly Sunday school in La Caramuca.
63. An old covered patio was the facility we had at hand.An old covered patio was the facility we had at hand.
64. Like the house, the patio had been standing for many years.Like the house, the patio had been standing for many years.
65. Its roof was not in the best shape, but it provided shelter from sun and rain.Its roof was not in the best shape, but it provided shelter from sun and rain.
69. Once the patio served as a stage for Paco the Clown (Frank Janssen, president of
Venezuela Lutheran Mission Partnership, an accredited LCMS mission society.
Once the patio served as a stage for Paco the Clown (Frank Janssen, president of
Venezuela Lutheran Mission Partnership, an accredited LCMS mission society.
70. Many children showed up for Paco's clown ministry.Many children showed up for Paco's clown ministry.
71. Elias Isaac Montoya,
Yepci's son, was
baptized under the
patio roof.
Elias Isaac Montoya,
Yepci's son, was
baptized under the
patio roof.
72. Then we had a tree by the patio removed, but things did not go exactly as planned.Then we had a tree by the patio removed, but things did not go exactly as planned.
73. The roof was crushed by the weight of the tree falling in the wrong direction.The roof was crushed by the weight of the tree falling in the wrong direction.
74. Thanks be to God, no one was harmed in the accident.Thanks be to God, no one was harmed in the accident.
75. But the patio badly needed repair.But the patio badly needed repair.
76. But the Lord provided generous donation from the United States for this work.But the Lord provided generous donation from the United States for this work.
78. A new roof was put in place.A new roof was put in place.
79. Soon the patio was as good as new and ready for large gatherings.Soon the patio was as good as new and ready for large gatherings.
80. But our major work of construction was that of a new preschool facility as an annex to the
house. We now call our preschool “Rayitos de luz” or “Rays of Light”.
But our major work of construction was that of a new preschool facility as an annex to the
house. We now call our preschool “Rayitos de luz” or “Rays of Light”.
81. We began with this roofed but otherwise open area.We began with this roofed but otherwise open area.
82. There was an outdoor washbasin and toilet..There was an outdoor washbasin and toilet..
83. Luz Maria's son, Pedro Santana, was responsible for most of the construction.Luz Maria's son, Pedro Santana, was responsible for most of the construction.
84. Pedro spent long hours laying masonry....Pedro spent long hours laying masonry....
87. ...building an extension of the patio outside and much more....building an extension of the patio outside and much more.
88. New walls and windows began to take shape.New walls and windows began to take shape.
89. A sliding metal door was installed.A sliding metal door was installed.
90. The preschool was to have a complete kitchen.The preschool was to have a complete kitchen.
91. In keeping with Venezuelan custom, ironwork was installed in the windows.In keeping with Venezuelan custom, ironwork was installed in the windows.
92. Ventilation was an important consideration.Ventilation was an important consideration.
93. Buidling of the preschool was made possible by donations from St Michael's Lutheran Church,
Bloomington, Minnesota, and Venezuela Lutheran Mission Partnership.
Buidling of the preschool was made possible by donations from St Michael's Lutheran Church,
Bloomington, Minnesota, and Venezuela Lutheran Mission Partnership.
94. A new backdoor ensured both access and security for the kitchen.A new backdoor ensured both access and security for the kitchen.
95. It was a great day when there was finally running water in the kitchen.It was a great day when there was finally running water in the kitchen.
96. And also when the bathroom and shower were finished.And also when the bathroom and shower were finished.
97. The new preschool was ready for the opening of a new school year.The new preschool was ready for the opening of a new school year.
98. A special meal was prepared for the children.A special meal was prepared for the children.
99. Parents of children enrolled in the preschool were invited to the inauguration.Parents of children enrolled in the preschool were invited to the inauguration.
100. Representatives of the community and the state department of education also were present.Representatives of the community and the state department of education also were present.
101. After a prayer and
Bible reading, the children
were served.
After a prayer and
Bible reading, the children
were served.
102. Luz Maria was very happy with the opening of the preschool.Luz Maria was very happy with the opening of the preschool.
103. Thanks to a donation from St. John's Lutheran Church of Vancouver, Washington, we also
able to build a water storage system to compensate for frequent shortages of water.
Thanks to a donation from St. John's Lutheran Church of Vancouver, Washington, we also
able to build a water storage system to compensate for frequent shortages of water.
104. Pedro and his helpers excavated and built an underground concrete tank.Pedro and his helpers excavated and built an underground concrete tank.
105. The tank was sealed and lined with tile.The tank was sealed and lined with tile.
106. A concrete lid was put in place.A concrete lid was put in place.
107. A valve allows the tank to automatically fill with municipal water.A valve allows the tank to automatically fill with municipal water.
108. Water is pumped
from the underground
tank to a plastic tank
where water can flow
to the preschool
through force of gravity.
Water is pumped
from the underground
tank to a plastic tank
where water can flow
to the preschool
through force of gravity.
109. We also put a concrete lid on the well for safety's sake. Our plan is to connect the well to our
water system, but we are wating for a dry spell to clean it.
We also put a concrete lid on the well for safety's sake. Our plan is to connect the well to our
water system, but we are wating for a dry spell to clean it.
110. Christian instruction has been incorporated into the preschool program under Yepci's direction.Christian instruction has been incorporated into the preschool program under Yepci's direction.
111. Yepci conducts a class for the children once a week.Yepci conducts a class for the children once a week.
112. The lessons have included basic Christian doctrines such as the creation of the world, and the
incarnation and resurrection of Jesus.
The lessons have included basic Christian doctrines such as the creation of the world, and the
incarnation and resurrection of Jesus.
113. Basic Christian concepts of morality also have been covered.Basic Christian concepts of morality also have been covered.
114. ofof
Mari, Pedro's wife, is in charge of cooking. The children receive two nutritious meals, breakfast
and lunch, as part of the state-funded preschool program.
Mari, Pedro's wife, is in charge of cooking. The children receive two nutritious meals, breakfast
and lunch, as part of the state-funded preschool program.
115. Charli, another of Luz Maria's daughters, also helps with the Sunday school.Charli, another of Luz Maria's daughters, also helps with the Sunday school.
116. Sunday school opens with prayer and songs folllowed by a Bible lesson.Sunday school opens with prayer and songs folllowed by a Bible lesson.
117. Sometimes the children have the opportunity to recite what they have learned, as Angel Arturo
Angulo demonstrates during Holy Week.
Sometimes the children have the opportunity to recite what they have learned, as Angel Arturo
Angulo demonstrates during Holy Week.
118. Pastor Edgar Brito visits the Sunday school at least once a month, accompanied by Mariel, his
wife, and sometimes other members of Corpus Christi Lutheran Church.
Pastor Edgar Brito visits the Sunday school at least once a month, accompanied by Mariel, his
wife, and sometimes other members of Corpus Christi Lutheran Church.
119. Following the lesson, the children work on crafts that illustrate what they have learned.Following the lesson, the children work on crafts that illustrate what they have learned.
120. Often the craft project is as simple as coloring with crayons.Often the craft project is as simple as coloring with crayons.
121. No matter what it is, the children enjoy the crafts session.No matter what it is, the children enjoy the crafts session.
122. Sometimes they work on something more elaborate, like a collage of God's creation.Sometimes they work on something more elaborate, like a collage of God's creation.
123. Here is the finished product.Here is the finished product.
124. Crafts are followed by some type of contest or game.Crafts are followed by some type of contest or game.
125. The children are full of youthful exuberance.The children are full of youthful exuberance.
127. We try to involve their parents in our activities as much as possible.We try to involve their parents in our activities as much as possible.
128. We have had
special events
such as this one
featuring a
piñata in
honor of a
Venezuelan holiday...
We have had
special events
such as this one
featuring a
piñata in
honor of a
Venezuelan holiday...
131. ...and even a swimming party....and even a swimming party.
132. Extending our ministry beyond La Caramuca, Luz Maria alternated with LCMS missionary
pastor Ted Krey of Maracay, in teaching confirmation classes at Cristo es Amor Lutheran
Church. Cristo es Amor is located in Barquisimeto, a city about three hours north of Barinas,
and at that time needed confirmation class instructors.
Extending our ministry beyond La Caramuca, Luz Maria alternated with LCMS missionary
pastor Ted Krey of Maracay, in teaching confirmation classes at Cristo es Amor Lutheran
Church. Cristo es Amor is located in Barquisimeto, a city about three hours north of Barinas,
and at that time needed confirmation class instructors.
133. We used Spanish
translations of Luther's
Small Catechism donated
by Christ Our Savior
Lutheran Church, Freeburg,
Illinois.
We used Spanish
translations of Luther's
Small Catechism donated
by Christ Our Savior
Lutheran Church, Freeburg,
Illinois.
134. Since the congregation was renting a storefront that it could use only on Sunday mornings,
the confirmation class often met in a city park.
Since the congregation was renting a storefront that it could use only on Sunday mornings,
the confirmation class often met in a city park.
135. Luz Maria often had help from members of the Cristo es Amor (Christ is Love) congregation,
such as Miguelangel Perez and Nancy Mora.
Luz Maria often had help from members of the Cristo es Amor (Christ is Love) congregation,
such as Miguelangel Perez and Nancy Mora.
136. Three girls completed the course and were confirmed during the 2005 convention of the
Lutheran Church of Venezuela in Barquisimeto.
Three girls completed the course and were confirmed during the 2005 convention of the
Lutheran Church of Venezuela in Barquisimeto.
137. Luz Maria had the opportunity to talk about what the Bible teaches about marriage and family
life at a nursery school in La Mula, a town near La Caramuca.
Luz Maria had the opportunity to talk about what the Bible teaches about marriage and family
life at a nursery school in La Mula, a town near La Caramuca.
138. Luz Maria has also taught adult Bible classes at various locations. Recently she had 26 adults
enrolled in a basic doctrine course. Six completed the course and one was confirmed after a
reaffirmation of faith at Corpus Christi.
Luz Maria has also taught adult Bible classes at various locations. Recently she had 26 adults
enrolled in a basic doctrine course. Six completed the course and one was confirmed after a
reaffirmation of faith at Corpus Christi.
139. We brought our Sunday school children to the main public preschool in La Caramuca where
they presented the story of the Exodus to 100 other children.
We brought our Sunday school children to the main public preschool in La Caramuca where
they presented the story of the Exodus to 100 other children.
140. The children told the story of the first Passover.The children told the story of the first Passover.
142. It was fun to portray hardhearted Pharaoh.It was fun to portray hardhearted Pharaoh.
143. We initiated Bible studies for children and adults in the nearby town of Punta Gorda as well.We initiated Bible studies for children and adults in the nearby town of Punta Gorda as well.
144. These are some of the approximately 20 children in Punta Gorda..These are some of the approximately 20 children in Punta Gorda..
145. We took the Sunday school children from La Caramuca to Punta Gorda so they could share
what they had learned there.
We took the Sunday school children from La Caramuca to Punta Gorda so they could share
what they had learned there.
146. In return, the children of Punta Gorda sang songs for the group from La Caramuca.In return, the children of Punta Gorda sang songs for the group from La Caramuca.
147. In July 2006, a group of volunteers from Minnesota, sponsored by Venezuela Lutheran Mission
Partnership, visited La Caramuca.
In July 2006, a group of volunteers from Minnesota, sponsored by Venezuela Lutheran Mission
Partnership, visited La Caramuca.
148. They led vacation Bible school for the children and Bible studies for adults.They led vacation Bible school for the children and Bible studies for adults.
149. We brought children from Punta Gorda to La Caramuca for the volunteers' visit. Everyone had
a wonderful time.
We brought children from Punta Gorda to La Caramuca for the volunteers' visit. Everyone had
a wonderful time.
150. Our long-term vision is for our church and school in La Caramuca to become a training center
for pastors, teachers and evangelists. We are strategically located between two geographic
regions in Venezuela: the Venezuelan Andes and the country´s vast plains.
Our long-term vision is for our church and school in La Caramuca to become a training center
for pastors, teachers and evangelists. We are strategically located between two geographic
regions in Venezuela: the Venezuelan Andes and the country´s vast plains.
151. The states directly west of us, Merida and Trujillo, are home to the highest peaks in Venezuela
with altitudes over 9,000 feet above sealevel.
The states directly west of us, Merida and Trujillo, are home to the highest peaks in Venezuela
with altitudes over 9,000 feet above sealevel.
152. In this coldest region of Venezuela, you still can find ethereal natural beauty.In this coldest region of Venezuela, you still can find ethereal natural beauty.
153. But the Lutheran Church of Venezuela is not represented by any congregations in this region
and there are people in need of the Gospel.
But the Lutheran Church of Venezuela is not represented by any congregations in this region
and there are people in need of the Gospel.
154. The same is true if you travel east across the Llanos, or Great Plains of Venezuela.The same is true if you travel east across the Llanos, or Great Plains of Venezuela.
155. These central grasslands are the heart of Venezuela's cattle industry and its rich tradition of
cowboy stories and songs.
These central grasslands are the heart of Venezuela's cattle industry and its rich tradition of
cowboy stories and songs.
156. The Llanos region has its own kind of beauty, too.The Llanos region has its own kind of beauty, too.
157. The people are proud and independent, as in the American West. But they also are in need of
the Gospel.
The people are proud and independent, as in the American West. But they also are in need of
the Gospel.
158. We have only taken our first steps with the children of La Caramuca. Our thanks to everyone
who has supported us for we have needed every bit of it. We hope and pray that more
people will support in the future.
We have only taken our first steps with the children of La Caramuca. Our thanks to everyone
who has supported us for we have needed every bit of it. We hope and pray that more
people will support in the future.
159. And remember...Jesus loves Javier and all the rest of us.And remember...Jesus loves Javier and all the rest of us.
160. For more information:
Visit our page on the Lutheran Church of Venezuela Web site:
caramuca.ilv-venezuela.net
Or my personal blog:
venezuelaview.blogspot.com
To find out how to contribute financially, contact:
Venezuela Lutheran Mission Partnership
venmission@hotmail.com
For more information:
Visit our page on the Lutheran Church of Venezuela Web site:
caramuca.ilv-venezuela.net
Or my personal blog:
venezuelaview.blogspot.com
To find out how to contribute financially, contact:
Venezuela Lutheran Mission Partnership
venmission@hotmail.com