Folden Files- WEB edition

MOVING!

2010-09-29T19:53:00.000-05:00

Hello All!

Our blog has moved. . .click here to go to the new site. Thanks for keeping up with us!

De Rodillas- August 26

2010-08-26T14:13:00.004-05:00

Rob & Titus met more than ten years ago while serving at First Baptist Church in Forest Grove, Oregon. Two young visionaries, each with a passion to reach the lost, it was no surprise they became fast friends and dreamed of working together.

While the Lord took the Karch family to Quebec and ours to Ecuador, He has allowed us the opportunity to work together in a unique way.

This year Eglise Ecclesia in St. Jerome, Quebec (planted by Rob & Martine Karch and team) sent its very first mission team to Guayaquil to work with 60 boys and girls. The team put on five services, built a room in the new house for more boys at Shalom, scraped and painted at the girls home and hosted two QUEBECUADORIAN style birthday parties (phew!). Much of our time the last month was spent preparing for their trip and working alongside them. Their message "God made YOU and YOU are special" was well received and much needed! They were also able to share with us in Shalom's first baptism. The baptism, which was initially to be held at the home with a small backyard pool, was held at a local water park (which was donated for the afternoon). Thirteen boys "took the plunge" and we pray that each one will continue to deepen his relationship with Christ. While we know that the 60 children the team ministered to were impacted and changed, we also pray that this experience impacted the eight team members from Quebec, and that they in turn will return home to cast the vision to reach the lost all over the world, to their church. In addition to the pictures below, the team put together a short video of their time here. Watch the Video! [Rob & Martine Karch are also WorldVenture missionaries, you can support their church planting movement in Quebec, Canada by clicking here:Church Planting in Quebec.]

What's coming up:

We're going to be making a major transition in the upcoming month. While we'll maintain our relationship with Shalom, and continue with weekly services and jiujitsu, we will be turning our focus to what lies ahead.

David

Diego

Bryan

Pray:

. . . for continued growth in the Lord for the 13 boys who were baptized.

. . .for weekly services, jiujitsu and discipleship with the boys at Shalom

. . .for clear leading and open doors as we head a new direction

. . . that the Lord would raise up teammates to join us here in GYE

. . . for physical, spiritual and emotional health for our family.

June 2010 Update

2010-06-17T14:26:00.003-05:00

"I don't want to be here any more. I don't like people telling me what to do. My mom's new boyfriend says that I can come work for him in selling things in the Bahia and he'll pay me. Then I won't have to go to school and I'll have my own money to spend however I want."

"David, its important that you study. You and your brothers are safe here. You probably aren't going to get paid. He's just going to use you. Stay."

Too late. The bait had been cast and the victim took it, hook, line and sinker. There was no reasoning with David. He saw freedom. We see chains. David's mom has been involved in prostitution, he has 5 siblings two of whom lived with him at Shalom. Sadly we know that when the truth is revealed and when he realizes his home life hasn't changed, David will return to a life on the streets; perhaps taking his two younger brothers Misael and Axel with him.

This enticing offer is nothing new. It is cleverly offered to children and families all over the country every day. "Send me your child, I have a job for them. I'll pay them well, he's wasting his time at school, he'll have a better life, I'll send the money to you to help support the family." An estimated 7 of 10 of the children we work with have been exploited in some way for financial gain. Some are sent to the street to shine shoes, or sell candies, wash windows, or to beg. Others find themselves in the dark world of the sex trade with little hope of escape. Certainly not freedom, certainly not a 'better' life.

This months highlights:

Katie & Brady Bonnell and Stephen Folden (Titus' brother, sister and nephew) came to visit. We travelled to Loja for the dedication of the new church building for Semilla de Mostaza, planted by WV missionaries Leonardo and Lourdes Calva. It was an exciting time filled with many activities as well as time to reconnect with friends and fellow missionaries we got to know in our time spent living there.

Titus has been teaching a series on the Armor of God during his weekly youth services at Shalom, and it has been going very well.

There have been some hiccups in maintaining the discipleship groups for the boys who want to be baptized, but they're back on track now and the the baptism will take place some time in July.

Katie & Stephen put their gifts to work with the boys and enjoyed time playing soccer, teaching guitar lessons and teaching the boys about dental hygiene.

Sadly we've said goodbye to 5 of the boys from Shalom this month and not under good circumstances. Please be praying for David, Misael, Axel, Daniel & Marco.

There are 3 more lessons left in the Armor of God series, he'll continue with jiujitsu as well as with the discipleship groups.
Other stuff:
Please continue to pray for the situation with our neighbors. Pray that we will not grow weary in battle! We continue to build relationships with our neighbors, focusing primarily on two families, the Powcholongs and the Sanchez family. Please pray for the Holy Spirit to be at work in their hearts.

Family News:

We continue to battle illness, now the major challenge is thanks to the volcanic ash that continues to be in the air. Sofia continues to love school, and is facing some language barrier challenges. Please pray for her as she works through the frustrations of not being able to communicate what she wants to. Look out world, here comes Mateo! Mateo is walking everywhere now and into everything. Titus is extra warm with his soft neck brace that he'll be sporting for a month or so along with physical therapy for his herniated disk. We celebrated our 7 year anniversary this month and for an extra special treat got to go out in the evening with no children a few times while our visitors were here. (thanks Katie and Stephen!)

Shoes for Shalom

2010-05-18T10:01:00.000-05:00

Just a few pics from the delivery of shoes for the boys at Shalom thanks to the students and families of Emmaus Christian School in Cornelius, Oregon.

Jiujitsu

2010-05-18T09:32:00.000-05:00

Ten boys will continue with weekly Jiujitsu training in town. Jiujitsu gives a great opportunity for the boys to learn discipline, to respect authority, value themselves, self-control and to just plain have a good time 'rolling around.'

Wax on, wax off. . .

2010-05-18T09:22:00.000-05:00

In order to reach kids who have been neglected, abused and abandoned you must first develop a relationship of trust with them. They trust no one but themselves. It takes time and effort to do this. Many of you know that most boys aren't interested in sitting down and having a heartfelt conversation, but they do talk when they are working. . . work projects at Shalom are three-fold, they 1. help the home in a physical way, 2. teach the boys skills and trade and 3. allow opportunity of discussion, discipleship and 'counseling.' Below are some pictures of recent projects.

painting sealant on boards for bunk beds (anti-termite)

fixing some of the beds

Electronics. .. working on a busted stereo

Blessed is the man. . .

2010-05-18T09:11:00.000-05:00

But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the streams. It does not fear when heat comes its leaves are always green. it has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-9

Here are a few pictures of the weekly services at Shalom, focusing on the scripture above.

adding leaves to their trees

coloring the roots

the 'empty' plant with no roots

May 2010 Update

2010-05-18T08:51:00.003-05:00

"My mom brought me here because she couldn't keep me off the streets." Daniel, a 10 year-old at Shalom began. "She was working and trying to take care of all of us (kids) and my dad is in jail. I didn't have anyone telling me when to go to school so I just went out on the streets. Then my mom heard about Shalom and so she brought me here because she couldn't keep me from going out and she was scared."

Unfortunately Daniel's story is very similar to many of the other boys who are currently at Shalom. His dad is in jail, his mom can't make ends meet, his meager home is ravaged by neighborhood thieves and traveling vendors. No one is there to get him up in the morning, no one home to make breakfast, make sure he gets off to school. So Daniel, like so many others, took to the streets. The streets offer kids a false sense of freedom, they come and go as they please, they use drugs, go to bars, steal, cheat, and whatever else they can do to survive.

This months highlights: Titus resumed discipleship groups with 12 of the boys at the home. The groups are specifically aimed at preparing them for an upcoming baptism. Wednesday afternoons are our weekly church services, the last two weeks the teaching has come from Jeremiah speaking of character, and where are 'roots' are founded. There's never a shortage of projects to do around the home, in the last month our neighbor Nestor has joined Titus working out at Shalom on plumbing and electric projects. Nestor is not a believer, please pray for opportunities to share more about Christ with him! We're nearly finished with the "Shoes for Shalom" project made possible by Emmaus Christian School in Cornelius, OR. A total of 82 pairs of shoes have been purchased thus far for the boys (school, home and tennis shoes). It has been a great blessing for them and at an opportune time as school just began mid-April.

We continue to pursue a future project with girls, which at this point means a lot talking with many different people. We're still waiting to hear the decision about the house in the city that belongs to the British Baptist Mission. Please continue to pray for open roads for this future project and that the Lord would continually guide our steps, even though we can't see the end result!

Family News:May will bring us more visitors, Katie & Brady Bonnell & Stephen Folden will be visiting and working with us for three weeks this month. (PS if you don't know, they are Titus' brother and sister, and our nephew). Mateo has continued to be ill, which is frustrating. We've counted 5 days, give or take, that he's been healthy since the end of February. Sofia enjoys school, she goes three days a week and is also taking ballet. Her spanish has really taken off which was the primary goal of her being in school.
I'M TURNING 1! May 26th our little Mateo will be a year old. Everyday we are reminded of what a special blessing he is, and how miraculous it is that he's here with us. Thank you all a hundred times over, for all of your prayers for us during a very difficult time, and we are so very thankful that the Lord answered those prayers!
Blessings,

. . . titus, steph, sofia & mateo

April 2010 Update

2010-04-14T16:32:00.001-05:00

Who would like to live in the latrine?

During a recent service, Ana, the director of Fundacion Shalom posed the previous question. You can imagine that there weren't any eager volunteers, especially since over the last few months nearly all of the 28 boys have participated in digging a new latrine for the home. She continued, "the you feel about living in the latrine, is how God feels about sin." Ok, so not exactly the example I would have chosen, but, point well taken. During the service, which focused on Jesus' death and resurrection the boys were given the opportunity to surrender their lives to Christ. While one might be skeptical of the 10 boys (new to the home) who came forward to accept Christ (could it be peer pressure?), regardless of what took place in their hearts that day, we rejoice over the opportunity to continue the work through discipleship. Perhaps more encouraging were the handful of boys who came forward declaring that they would like to grow in their knowledge of the Word and relationship with our Savior.

Last Month's *extra* activities:

We hosted Marshall & Kelly McKean for 10 days. They were a great encouragement and help here as Marshall put his construction skills to work and Kelly helped to assess kids and taught about nutrition.

What's coming up:
In the next few weeks, Titus will begin meeting with boys interested in being baptized. It will be a unique and special time for the boys to learn more about God's word, their relationship with Him and His call on their lives. We'll keep pursuing the possibility of a rescue center for girls and be meeting with pastors, government officials, missionaries and a couple of lawyers.

Family News:

We're WAY under the weather! In the last six weeks there has been at least one sick person in our home. While the majority of it has struck Mateo, none of us have come out unscathed. Sofia and Mateo continue to be ill, compounded by parasites (which we're all being treated for now) and we're heading into week seven of illnesses. You can imagine that this has made things difficult and exhausting, please join us as we pray for strengthened immune systems! We spent a few days at the beach with two other missionary families and it was a great time to connect and just enjoy the beauty of the country we call home.

Blessings,

titus, steph, sofia, mateo

LA PLAYA

2010-04-13T16:59:00.000-05:00

A definate benefit of living and working in Ecuador. . . THE BEACHES. Now, if you're not a beach lover you may not understand, but as for the four of us, there's no better place for a small bit of rest and a whole lot of fun (unless you ONLY ask Titus, who's longing for snow). Here are a few pics from some recent trips to Manta and Ayampe.

March Update

2010-03-04T19:03:00.002-05:00

"I WANT TO STAY IN LOOOOOOJJJJAAAA!!!!" yelled 6 year-old Miguelito as we boarded the bus to return to Guayaquil after spending five days with 10 boys at a camp put on by Semilla de Mostaza, and our
WV teammates the Calvas. Despite our prodding and pleading, little Miguel continued to voice his desires for nearly the first hour of our trip home. He really DID want to stay in Loja. . . and so did the other 9 boys on the bus. For five days these 10 boys, along with myself, Matt (a college student studying abroad here) and Hada (Shalom staff) had a phenomenal time playing, learning, growing and singing. The boys had music and Bible lessons, we took day trips to Jipiro (a park in Loja), Vilcabamba and AguaMania, had a soccer game Shalom vs. Semilla de Mostaza; which, consequently was also attended by Jose Cevallos, Ecuador's goalie, who, based on the reaction of the crowd and the kids might as well have been Michael Jordan (although truth be told, I had NO idea who he was). We finished off the week performing at Semilla de Mostaza's Sunday worship service.

The most unique part of this trip was that each boy was welcomed into the home of a family. At first, they were hesitant, "who are these people?" But by the end of the trip these families had a TREMENDOUS impact on the lives of the boys. Imagine if you will growing up never knowing what it's like to be part of a healthy family, to have adults who care for you instead of hurt you, for people who provide, who listen, who love. Many tears were shed by boys and their host families as we departed. We couldn't have planned what took place in the hearts of the boys and of the families of Semilla de Mostaza. The Lord used the time to shape and change the boys, the families, and the church during our short trip. We look forward to doing it again next year. There are far too many pictures to post. . . please take a moment to watch the slideshow at the bottom of this email.

This month we celebrated high school graduation with three girls from a girl's shelter in the city. We dressed up and headed out to dinner. What an amazing time listening to the stories of these girls who we met 10 years ago. They have grown into mature and healthy young women. It amazed us that each of them was able to recount times we had spent with them, studying, teaching Bible lessons, the wordless bracelet and the class we gave on "true love." All of these things happened in our short visits over the last decade. What an awesome reminder that every little thing really does make an impact!

What's happening (right) now:

After a month of preparation for the trip, and an exhilarating, but exhausting trip, there has been much to catch up on, mostly planning for the next three months. The boys will be heading back to Shalom this month, and we have some special events planned for them before they head back to school. Thanks to the students at Emmaus Christian School in Cornelius, OR we'll have the priveledge of taking each of the boys to purchase *NEW* tennis shoes before school. Tennis shoes here are spendy, so this is a HUGE blessing for them.

What's coming up:

We'll be working to get back into a more "normal" schedule with the boys at Shalom and will resume discipleship times with small groups. We're hoping to have a baptism for the boys in the upcoming months, please be praying as we're teaching and preparing for that. We'll be heading to the beach to visit a rescue center as well as for a bit of R&R with two other missionary families. Friends, there's a lot to pray for, join us on our knees as we continue to seek the Lord's will here and minister many around us.

Family News:

This week Steph started teaching a mini-PreK for Sofia and another missionary girl. . . Sofia couldn't be more pleased. She continues to enjoy swimming lessons and will start dance (or soccer, she hasn't decided yet) in April. Mateo, ever the giant, is doing well, crawling (but backward) and eager to stand and take steps. Please continue to pray for his asthma and reflux, we're trying some new things to work on them this month.

Blessings,

T, S, s & m

A glimmer of hope, 2/11/2010 Update

2010-02-11T12:33:00.001-05:00

Last week we had the opportunity to go downtown and visit a home for girls who have lived on the street. Many of you will remember that this home is where Titus did an internship when he studied abroad here in 2000. It is also where we, together spent our summer in 2002 and 2005. It's safe to say that although we are not currently working 'full time' with this home, we are deeply invested in it. The girls fell in love with 'Tito' during his first visit and have been overjoyed as he has introduced his growing family to them (though each time we arrive, we are still greeted by 28 girls clamoring to the gate and shouting, "TIIIIIITTTTOOOO!!!!"). We have enjoyed watching these girls grow, learn, struggle and overcome adversity in the last ten years. There are ten girls who have been in the home since 2002, three of whom celebrated their graduation from high school just last month. There are a handful of girls around Sofia's age in the home currently, and it was a unique opportunity for us to watch her play with them. As I watched the girls dance around in a circle singing "arroz con leche" and fall to the ground laughing it reminded me of why the Lord has called us here. We are blessed to be able to offer a safe and secure home for our daughter Sofia. She has the privilege of growing up in a loving home with parents who care for her, protect her, and teach her about her Savior. These precious little ones don't have those privileges. At the tender age of 4 they have been beaten, abused, abandoned, and recently kidnapped by likely traffickers (I won't go into details here, check for a later blog post). In their few years on this earth they have been hurt in nearly every way possible. But, they are not forgotten, they are not lost, they are not without hope. Though the world has hurt them, we believe in the restoration and salvation for each of these little ones.

What's happening now:

The schools in Guayaquil are on summer vacation and many of the boys have gone to stay with relatives or family friends for the month. It's given Titus the opportunity to work on more networking around the city, as well as have time for planning and training with the staff at Shalom. One downside of this kind of work is the reality of living life from one crisis to another. In the last month, one boy was asked to leave the home, one voluntarily left, and two ran away and returned to the streets and have not been heard from since. Please continue to pray for the safe return of these boys.

What's up next:

At the end of the month, Titus and Ada (a staff member at Shalom) will be venturing to Loja with ten of the boys for a four day camp hosted by Semilla de Mostaza and WorldVenture missionaries, Leo and Lulu Calva. It will be a unique opportunity both for the boys and for the families of the church, who will host the boys in their homes. Please pray for safe travel, good behavior, and changed hearts for the boys and the families in Loja. March will be back to business as usual as the boys return to the home. Please be praying for the transition during this time. The first couple of weeks back are always very difficult.

Family News:

Its been a busy month and we're all a bit 'worse for wear.' Its sometimes difficult to find time to rest, but it is necessary and healthy to do so, we're working on that this month! The kids continue to do well, Sofia is looking forward to having a mini-preschool time with her friend Emily (which Steph will teach) beginning in March. Mateo is changing every day, growing like a weed, and still as feisty as ever :)

Our love to all of you!

. . . titus, steph, sofia & mateo. . .

It's not impossible. ..

2010-02-11T12:22:00.000-05:00

Thirteen years ago a group of women in Guayaquil had a vision; to rescue girls who were orphaned, from the streets and from abusive homes. These five women had the courage and wherewithal to pursue that vision despite adversity. Today the fundacion is home to 28 girls ages 3-18, a handful of whom came to the home in the first couple of years. This home, which is arguably the best run facility in the city, has the privilege of seeing three of their girls graduate high school this year, two of whom will continue on to university. As the home forges ahead, the question now is can the girls be successful and safe in life on the ‘outside.’ Each of them will return to living with family members, which is sure to prove to be a challenge. In a work that is seemingly one step forward, three steps back, the successful completion of the program is a great success, and a great encouragement. We believe that despite many setbacks, lives can be changed, renewed and restored. We know that with Christ all things are possible, and are blessed to see the fruit in the lives of these three girls.

* Titus worked in this home during his study abroad program in 2000. We worked with them together in subsequent visits in 2002 and 2005, and continue to visit the home as time allows.

Family Trip to Chile

2010-01-08T16:54:00.000-05:00

This December we were blessed to have had the opportunity to travel to Chile to spend Christmas with Stephanie's family there. Travel with little ones in always and adventure, and our trip had more than a couple of hiccups, but overall it was a great time to reconnect with family, introduce our kids to the family in Chile and have some R&R on the beach!

Vina del Mar

With Steph's uncle, cousin and two aunts

Starbucks was a treat!

Visiting Steph's dad & grandpa

Kids at the park

Merry Christmas 2009!

Christmas Services part 2

2010-01-08T16:40:00.000-05:00

Christmas is a busy time of year wherever you find yourself on the planet. For us, Christmas is always an opportunity (thanks to our generous donors) to bless the boys with small gifts and the home with needed improvements and in this year's case, appliances. Thanks to remaining funds donated by the HCC short-term team who visited us in October the home now has a functioning washing machine and refridgerator. Thanks to a family at NHCC who opted to replace certain presents to one another with charitble gifts to others, each boy recieved a Christmas present. We closed the year with a special service, music crafts and the gifts, reminding the boys that the greatest gift of all lies in our Savior who's birth we celebrate on Christmas day.

Folden Family Christmas Photos

2009-12-25T16:51:00.001-05:00

Our two kiddos made this years Christmas pics a challenge, but fun!

Cuencan Adventures

2009-12-15T14:17:00.001-05:00

This weekend we heading up the mountains to the city of Cuenca (third largest city in Ecuador) to visit a shelter started and run by Iglesia Verbo. The 3 1/2 hour jaunt up the mountains is always an adventure with windy roads and bliding fog. To add to this, the road is under construction, with areas of single lane traffic only. At one point in our journey both lanes of traffic were allowed to pass simultaneously, leaving us at a standoff to see who would traverse the mountainside to pass.

We visited La Esperanza a home for 20 boys and girls not able to live with their families. We were extremely impressed by the organization of the home, the care of the children, the rehabilitation process, and the list goes on. One particually IMPRESSIVE item is that the home is well staffed and funded by a local church.

We stayed with the Wuertz family in Racar and Sofia had a great time playing with their two sons. We went with them for part of a youth activity and attended their church on Sunday morning.

On the way home we watched the car in front of us flip, slide and crash going around one of the foggy turns. (sorry no pics, we were a bit preoccupied!) Thankfully everyone was ok. Titus helped to pull the car out of the 'ditch.' Moments after we stopped to help, Titus moved our car a bit further down the hill, praise God, because shortly after a truck came slidding down the hill and into the other cliff (which is where our car was). It was one of those crucial life dilemmas, to stop and help someone in need when you're putting yourself at risk. Praise God that no one was injured, including the driver and passenger of the car who wrecked!

Christmas Services part 1

2009-12-14T11:23:00.002-05:00

A couple of pics from last weeks service and angel craft and story from Luke 1:26-38 NIV

In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end.” “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”
The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be calleda the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God.” “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it be to me as you have said.” Then the angel left her.

MMM, Latrines. .. .

2009-12-14T11:08:00.000-05:00

Just a few pictures of the repair of the latrine at the home. . . inspires you to come help, right?!?

Jiu Jitsu

2009-12-14T10:52:00.001-05:00

Last week was the first day of the trial Jiu Jiutsu program for eight of the boys at Shalom. It was a good time for the boys to be able to be in a new situation with structure and discipline. Boris Yee (owner and instructor) did a great job with the boys and even had some of his other students in to help out with the program.

Shalom Benefit Dinner

2009-12-07T10:39:00.001-05:00

ast Thursday night Shalom held it's annual benefit dinner to raise funds for the home. Titus arrived with five of the youngest boys to perform a couple of songs they have been working on (the mini boys choir). The evening also included a time of testimony from each of the boys, and of course a traditional meal.

Happy 1st Thanksgiving in Ecuador. ..

2009-11-30T11:39:00.001-05:00

No really, this was our third Thanksgiving here in Ecuador, but the first that really FELT like Thanksgiving, thanks to friends and fellow Americans, and all the trimmings (including sweet potatoes brought in from Peru!). We had a great time of fellowship, and Sofia played until she literally dropped!

watching football. . . and food coma :)

Speed Scrabble

Enjoying dessert w/a friend

PATEA, PATEA, PATEAAAAAAAAA!

2009-11-30T11:27:00.000-05:00

Sofia has been enjoying her swim lessons (4x/wk) with a one-on-one instructor at a local swim club. She is growing not only in her swimming skills, but also her spanish skills as she kicks her way up and down the swim lane. Last week she swam by herself for the first time! Hooray for Sofia!

Directing Traffic

2009-11-30T11:20:00.002-05:00

Thanks to our daily electricity rationing, the stop lights are out all over the city. It is up to the brave transit officers to direct traffic in the dark. . . In this picture we are at the front of a line of cars, can YOU spot the two officers directing traffic?!?

Gather at the river. ..

2009-11-30T11:16:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we hopped into the car early in the morning and travelled north to Vinces to visit a new church plant. The church, pastored by Jairo Mena, is partnered with the ministry of Semilla de Mostaza (Leo & Lulu Calva, WV) in Loja. We attended the church's first baptism service by the river. It was a VERY warm day, and there was no stopping Sofia from getting into the (somewhat suspicious) river. A great time celebrating 'new birth' with a new church.

Mateo celebrates six months!

2009-11-26T16:43:00.000-05:00

Mateo's 6 month pictures. ..

The invaders are back!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-11-23T11:05:00.000-05:00

Our constant battle with the ants continues. . . this time in the playroom. UGH!

(post raid encounter) on the bottom of a box

All over the floor, the globs are the beginnings of their nest

Building contines up the wall

Sofia's reaction

The electric drill. . .

2009-11-23T10:55:00.000-05:00

Here in Ecuador, anything not built from cana (cane stalks) is built of concrete making a drill necessary for even the smallest of jobs. One thing we are working on with the boys is the growth of work skills that they will be able to use as they grow and eventually are out in the working world. Titus spent a day putting up a clothing rack with David and Lucho. . . quite and experience, one they'll never forget, in fact, they ask every day when they can use the drill again!

Kids being kids. . .

2009-11-23T10:49:00.002-05:00

Once and awhile when time allows, we take boys from the home on special outings. During the celebration of the independence of Guayaquil and Cuenca (which made for a 4 day weekend) we took the boys to a nearby pool for a time of just plain fun and an opportunity for kids to be just kids. .. and get a few 'flipping' lessons from Titus!

November Update

2009-11-12T09:31:00.001-05:00

It never ceases to amaze us just how fast time flies! Amazing that it is already November! Then again, with so much going on, sometimes it's even difficult to remember what day it is!

As we've been focusing on Shalom, Titus has been able to serve in a variety of ways. One being helping with the boys 'farm' project. Another missioanry has been working to establish a tilapia farm that the home could use both to feed the boys as well as to sell to the community. The system is a fine balance and all the animals that are currently at the home help to sustain it. Titus will be responsible for overseeing the project for the next few months.

We had a great time hosting our first short term group that came down from Helvetia Community Church in Oregon. Their message, "I am a son of God" is still fresh in the minds of the boys, who still sing the songs from the week long program. On the last day of the program an invitation was given to accept Christ and 9 boys recieved Christ as their Savior. It will be fun to see them grow in this over the next several months.

Today Titus is starting small group dicsipleship with three groups of three boys each, one of which is a group for non-readers. He will walk through lessons of the Bible with each group, once a week.

Chris and Crystal Ventura, visitors from Oregon, came to work in the boys home and explore missionary life. Chris was able to work on some computers while Crystal put her skills as an occupational therapist to work with the younger boys.

Last week Titus took a unicycle out to the home for the boys to try out. It is an adult sized cycle, so only the older boys are able to use it. Cristian and Alex have put the unicycle to good use.

We continue to pray for Marlon's family and specifically for his brother Moises who has not returned to the foundation, and no one has been able to locate him.

Ecuador is experiencing a nation wide energy crisis that has called for rolling black outs all over the country on a daily basis. We're without power for 4-8 hours a day. The state of emergency is estimated to last until the heavy rains come (we're praying they come early this year!).

On a personal note, we're doing well. Sofia is still struggling with spanish, but she is much less frustrated. She has 'schoool' with Steph for about an hour a day, and is very excited about learning (and writing her name, which is popping up all over the house!). Mateo still has asthma issues, but we don't expect that to change. He is doing very well and is a whopping 18lbs!

Blessings,

. . . titus, steph, sofia & mateo

One Wheeled Character Building

2009-11-09T13:24:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Titus' Aunt Mary & Uncle Chuck Strauss, (and to the HCC team for their packing) we were able to bring a unicycle down to Ecuador. Titus rode the unicycle in parades (dressed as a clown) as a child and has been putting those skills to practice with the boys at Shalom.

Isn't it amazing how one simple tool can produce a wide range of character building opportunities? Cristian, who is known to be the 'smartest' of all of the boys generally masters any new skill before anyone else. The unicycle, however, has proven to be a challenge for him. In fact, one of the older boys, Alex, has taken to riding very easily; much to the chagrin of Cristian. Ana told us that the other night, the two boys were up most of the night practicing their unicycle skills, and Cristian had to rely on Alex's help instead of the other way around. Character building upon one wheel :)

Home Sweet Home. . . for awhile.

2009-10-10T16:05:00.000-05:00

October 10, 2009 Update. . .

Our first three weeks back in Ecuador has been quite a whirlwind! The next three months are shaping up to be hectic (no suprise there!). We were able to get back into our home, get things somewhat unpacked, reconnect at Shalom and prepare for our first ever short term team, who are here working now. They will be with us until the 15th. . . at which point we may have to make a quick trip to Loja to get Mateo's national ID card (but we're praying we can do it here in GYE). At the end of the month we'll be hosting a young couple who are interested in overseas missions. . . and we plan to move to a different neighborhood at the end of December/early January, along with the regular ministry activities. But for the moment, we're just thankful to be back, and excited for what God has in store for us in this season of service.

There are 10 new boys at Shalom (which means about 10 who were previously there have moved on), mostly young boys who are learning the ropes, so to speak, at the foundation. Many of you have seen the video clips on our DVD, and may remember Marlon. About 10 days before we arrived back in Ecuador, he was found dead in his home (some of the boys go home on the weekends), hanging from his mosquito net. He was found by his 6 year old brother, Moises, who also lives at Shalom. By the time Marlon was discovered, cut down and his family was able to find a way to take him to the hospital, he had died. It's no suprise that this has been a immensly difficult not only for the family, but also for the boys at Shalom. Please pray for the boys as well as Marlon's family. We hope that the Lord uses this tragedy to bring them into His arms.

Leave it to our kiddos to get sick our first four days in country. . . . Sofia came down with a nasty bug and still has a residual cough, but is doing very well. Mateo will likely be headed in to see the pediatrician Monday (barring a very quick recovery over the weekend) he's not rebounding as easily as Sofia did. . . please pray for health for the both of them!

Blessings,

. . . titus, steph, sofia & mateo

The adventure begins. . .

2009-09-24T23:23:00.001-05:00

WE'RE HERE! We wanted to let you all know that we arrived safely (though not without a hitch, story to follow) in Guayaquil this morning. Looking back on our preparation to leave and travel, we were reminded that we are truly on a great adventure, here's a short recap of the last two days. . .

On Tuesday we received an email from Raquel, who has been taking care of our home, letting us know that some work needed to be done on our house. She wrote saying some tiles in our bedroom has lifted and they were going to have to replace the entire floor, which would take about a week, and the house would be uninhabitable. "What?!" We quickly wrote our friends and asked if we could stay with them at least our first night back until we could figure out what was happening. . .

Wednesday morning we were up at 2:30AM preparing to head to the airport, 3 hours early as advised by the airlines. We arrived shortly after 3:00AM to find that PDX doesn't open until four (grr!) but it did give us enough time to properly tag all of our luggage! When we were finally able to check in there was a problem with my (steph) passport. Well, the truth was there was a problem with the new system being implemented by Homeland Security. An hour later I still didn't have clearance to fly. They printed a "fake" boarding pass so we could all go through security and told us to home the DHS would return the airlines call requesting clearance. Five minutes before boarding clearance was given for me to travel (phew!)

We arrived in Dallas with no problems, but our flight from Dallas to Miami was delayed. They told us that we would likely be missing our connection from Miami to Guayaquil, BUT, after running (literally) to our connecting gate in Miami we found out that the flight was delayed and were able to make the connection (phew again!). We boarded the flight to Guayaquil about an hour late, took off and were on our way. During the middle of meal service, the captain announced that there was a malfunction on the plane and we'd be heading back to Miami. We don't know what was wrong, but we were glad to be on the ground again in Miami, and even happier to hear that they had another aircraft "ready" so we could continue our journey. Hours later we took off again for Ecuador. We arrived in Guayaquil at 3:30AM this morning. We had a bit of trouble with immigration since Mateo had never entered Ecuador before, and were suprised by the thermal screening that greeted us (looking for H1N1 virus carriers), but we made it through customs, out the door and into the car with NO PROBLEMS, Praise the Lord!

Today we headed to our house to see what was happening and were shocked to see that the floor was finished! However, the workers have not reinstalled the door leading to the patio, so the house is still not ready for us. We were told it would be finished today, but the workers never returned after lunch. Hopefully it will be taken care of tomorrow and we'll be able to go home to, as Sofia puts it, "our other house in Guayaquil."

We're staying with another missionary family at least through tomorrow, and we'll begin setting up again, but it will take some time. We WILL NOT have regular internet access for awhile, so please don't worry if our response is slow. We'll work to get our cell phones up and running tomorrow, but at the moment we don't have a contact number.

Having said all of that we are doing well, not too worse for wear and heading to bed for the night. We thank you all so much for your prayers!

Blessings,

. . . titus, steph, sofia & mateo

September 1 Update

2009-09-07T20:07:00.000-05:00

The time for us to head back south is drawing near. Our flight has been booked leaving Porltand, Oregon at 6:00AM, September 23rd. With a date in place, we begin with the seemingly endless list of things to do to prepare to leave the country once again. Aside from the goodbyes, the packing, the immunizations, a major "to-do" is to raise the remaining $650 of our monthly support. We have been blessed to have had some new commitments as well as some existing supporters increase their giving. We are praying we will reach 100% commitment level before leaving the country. Our support is directly related not only to how we can do ministry, but to our personal salary as well. A large deficit of support can also lead to us needing to prolong our stay here in the States. We know the Lord will continue to provide for both the ministry in Ecuador and our family. We know that we are in a tough economic climate, and so we approach you humbly when we ask, whether you are a current supporter, or prayer partner, to prayerfully consider making a new commitment or increasing your current commitment of support to the ministry in Ecuador. You can do so by clicking the following link
https://worldventure.com/CommitmentForm.aspx?id=13751&aliaspath=/Give/Make-A-Commitment

In family news, we are praising God for the good report that was given concerning Mateo's kidneys by the pediatric urologist. He has given him a clean bill of health, with a couple of warning signs to watch out for, but he believes it will not cause any problems. We'll have a repeat scan done the next time we're on home assignment to make sure his kidney continues to be stable.

After tracking down paperwork between Ecuador and Oregon, we (finally) received Mateo's visa, so we are now all legally ready to head back!

As always, we are continually grateful to all of you for your prayers and support.

Blessings,

. . . titus, steph, sofia & mateo

August 11th Update

2009-08-11T21:58:00.000-05:00

We hope this finds you all well and enjoying what's left of summer. It has been a hectic couple of months for us as we have been meeting with supporters and churches (and trying to figure out how to manage two little ones!). We've had a great time getting to see everyone, and are encouraged by what the Lord is doing in the lives of those around us here in the US.

We are planning to head back to Ecuador at the end of September. We are still waiting on one appointment for Mateo, who will see the pediatric urologist next Tuesday to talk about implications of his pelvic kidney. We are also currently under supported by $900 per month. It is no surprise that given the current economic conditions we have lost support as individuals and churches had reevaluated budgets. While the number can at times seem daunting, we know we serve a Lord who provides for all of our needs and trust Him to do so as we continue to seek to serve Him in Ecuador. Mateo's visa application also seems to be MIA between Ecuador and Forest Grove, yet another of the details that need to be sorted out prior to our departure.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support!

Blessings,

. . . titus, steph, sofia & mateo

April 13th Update

2009-04-13T14:51:00.002-05:00

We are extremely grateful to be back in Oregon. We come back because of complications Stephanie was having with the pregnancy knowing that if anything went wrong we would have access to better health care and better support from friends and family. Last Thursday night Stephanie's water broke and we were admitted to the hospital. The baby is currently at 28 weeks gestation. The doctors are doing everything they can to keep the baby in the womb as long as possible. You can find a link on the right hand side of the page to follow the latest updates with the pregnancy.

Titus, Stephanie, and Sofia

March 20th update

2009-04-13T14:45:00.001-05:00

We arrived back in Oregon safely and more or less in one piece two weeks ago. We're beginning to settle into our new "home" and adjust to time changes, weather changes. . . and driving changes (yes, red lights DO mean stop in the US!).

Steph has been seen twice by doctors, and had an especially good appointment with the specialist a week ago. The baby is doing ok, and so is she. She'll see the specialist again next Friday, the 27th.

We appreciate so much the welcome we have recieved on behalf of many of you, and your help in getting us "set up" here in the States. We hope to have the opportunity to see you soon, and appreciate your support and prayers.
Blessings,

Titus, Steph & Sofia

Monday is the day!

2009-02-26T17:56:00.001-05:00

The time has come, and as usual, has come very quickly! We're leaving Monday March 2 from Guayaquil to Portland, Oregon. By the time we arrive in Forest Grove it will be around 19 hours of travel time. Please be praying for us during our journey, for safe arrival and settling in.

We had an encouraging visit from our International Ministry Director and Field Director the last couple of days and are now in the process of saying our many "goodbyes."

Yesterday was our last visit to Shalom, we know so much will have changed by the time we get back, though we're praying that all the boys are still there when we return! Ana shared a bit of the story behind the three newest boys in the home, David (10), Mishael(7) and Arcides(5), we'd like to pass that on to you. The boys come from a single parent home of 8 children. Each of the children has a different father, some know their father and others don't. They mother works as a vendor, though Ana suspects she's actually a prostitute. The boys were left completely alone for over a week when the home was informed about their situation. They have been at Shalom for 3 months now. Please be praying for them, for their adjustment to schedules and schooling and that they will be open to the Gospel.

Our internet will be disconnected as of tomorrow morning, so we'll be out of touch for awhile. We appreciate your prayers and support and are looking forward to seeing many of you very soon!
Blessings,

Titus, Steph & Sofia

Special Outing

2009-02-06T17:57:00.006-05:00

Summer vacation has just begun here in Guayaquil, and Ana (Shalom's director) has sent most of the boys to be with a family member for 2-3 weeks while she does family visits. There are six boys who have no family connection to speak of, or their family situation is too dangerous to return to, so they remain in the home. It was a great opportunity to take a small group of them out for something special and we had some remaining special funds from our home church HCC to use up. Today Titus and the 6 boys visited the Historical Park, which is a zoo, and cultural center, you'll see from the attached pictures they had a great time as he chased them around the park. . . they finished things off with a trip to McDonald's. . . a first for all of them. Opportunities like these really impact our relationship with these boys as they see us (in this instance) Titus outside of the orphanages environment.
Please continue to pray for the 30 boys at Fundacion Shalom.

February 2009 Update

2009-02-06T17:57:00.001-05:00

Most of you know the problems Steph has been facing with her current pregnancy. We knew before we left for Ecuador that if we ever had another child we'd have to come back Stateside for a bit. We were planning on holding off until May to return, however, based on the complications we have been facing and recommendations from both doctors here and the States, we've moved our timeline up dramatically. We'll be leaving Guayaquil for Forest Grove, OR on March 2. Steph will have her first doctor's appointment on March 5. We're continuing to pray for a miracle in the life of this little one. Our time back in the States will first and foremost be to take care of the health needs of Steph and the baby. Seondarily we will be doing stateside ministry and meeting with churches and supporters as circumstances allow.

The next few weeks we'll be wrapping up details here, and continuing to work at Shalom home for boys. Please pray with us as we make another transition, for health and safety of Steph & baby, and safe travels for all of us.

Past the Danger is Opportunity

2009-01-15T09:47:00.004-05:00

Last week we stumbled upon a 60 minutes (CBS) episode featuring rapper Wyclef Jean and his organization's projects in Haiti. Wyclef, a successful rapper who himself was a Haitian refugee has high hopes of transforming the impoverished, war torn country. During the interview Correspondent Scott Pelley asked Wyclef two questions regarding his work in Haiti that we ourselves frequently hear and we really resonated with Wyclef's answers.

Q1. "But you know what people say about this. This is the poorest neighborhood in the entire Western Hemisphere, maybe one of the poorest in the world. It's too dangerous. You can't do things here," Pelley said.

A1. "My response to the critics is that, you know, past the danger is opportunity," Wyclef replied.

We couldn't have put it better or more clearly. Are the areas we're working in and have future hope for dangerous? Yes, albeit more tame than this particular Haitian neighborhood. All the same, those willing to move past the danger have tremendous opportunity to reach the people who live in these communities.

Q2. "You know, as much as is being done, the needs are so much greater. And I wonder whether you worry that you're really not gonna be able to make much of a difference. A dent, maybe. But perhaps not a difference," Pelley remarked.

A2. "What I plan to do is I'm gonna make a serious dent," Wyclef vowed. "And I'm hoping that after I make this dent, those kids behind me could help break those walls."

The bottom line is a dent is a difference. We can't approach the world, our work and our problems with an overwhelmed, defeatist mentality and give up before we start, feeling that making a "real" difference is hopeless or impossible. We can't change the world all at once. But we can help to change hearts and lives, one dent at a time.

*find the whole Wyclef story at: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/01/08/60minutes/main4707723.shtml

Get in line. . .

2009-01-06T09:37:00.002-05:00

The other day we were driving into town and we (unhappily) suprised by all of the traffic. There was an ENTIRE lane of traffic stopped, vendors selling juice, water, cola's and various snack foods. There were police walking up and down the line of cars who's drivers were out chatting, or sound asleep behind the wheel. We looked at each other and thought, "What is going on?!" It turns out this 7KM long line of cars began at the city's car registration center, crossed a river and much of our part of town. This happened to be the last day to register your car without penalty. Yet another reason not to procrastinate!

Merry Christmas from Guayaquil

2008-12-27T12:15:00.004-05:00

This year we had the opportunity to partner with a good friend and fellow WV missionary to bring a bit of Christmas "cheer" to the kids of two local orphanages. The "Ecclesia" church of St. Jerome, Quebec (planted by Rob & Martine Karch & team) sent about 60 packages filled with goodies for kids here in Guayaquil (more on this in our next newsletter). Below is a slideshow of the Christmas parties and delivery of gifts. We hope everyone had a very merry Christmas!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Special Prayer Request

2008-12-20T17:02:00.001-05:00

We hope this finds you all well as you're gearing up for Christmas. We have a special prayer request to share with you all, and ask that you'd join with us in lifting this up to the Lord. We're expecting again. Sharing this news brings many emotions for us, we are overjoyed and concerned all at the same time. Stephanie is in her 13th week of pregnancy. She has already experienced significant complications and has been on bed rest for the better part of the first trimester. As you can imagine, this brings a tremendous amount of stress upon all of us. Two weeks ago, the diagnosis looked bleak, but the most recent doctors appointment was a bit encouraging. There is a large clot in the right side of the uterus, baby on the left (steph's uterus is divided nearly in two). The danger of the clot is that the body will try to expel it since it doesn't belong there. In the last pregnancy we were in the same situation. We're hoping the baby will make it through the process this time. By request of friends and family we've created a special blog where you can keep up on what's happening with the pregnancy, and so we don't flood your email inbox with every update. You can find it at:
http://foldenprayerjournal.blogspot.com

We love and appreciate you all.

Blessings,

. . . titus, steph & sofia

November Update

2008-11-11T20:15:00.000-05:00

We hope this finds you all well and enjoying the beginning of the holiday season. Here in Ecuador, people break out the Christmas decorations in October, so we're beginning to see trees, lights and ornaments all over town!

We've been blessed with two sets of visitors in the last two months. Titus' parents Dan & Joyce Folden were here in September, just in time for Sofia's second birthday. It was a great time with family and opportunity for them to see what Ecuador is like.

Our Pastor Bryan Austring and mentor Chris Schaus came to visit for ten days, they finished up their time with us last Friday. It was a great time showing them possible projects and areas of ministry. We were very encouraged by their visit!

Sofia is growing quickly, and speaking more spanish every day, she has recently opted for shouting "AYUDAME!" instead of "help me".

We continue to spend time at Shalom home for boys and are still exploring possibilities with Mision Alianza regarding a community center.

The next couple of months we'll be in high gear helping out with various "holiday" projects. Please continue to be in prayer for us as we seek the Lord's discernment.

Blessings,

. . . titus, steph & sofia

Sofia's 2- In Photos

2008-10-05T17:48:00.004-05:00

We just finished taking Sofia's 2 year pictures. . . thought we're share a few.

She is growing up so fast!

Still working on just 2 fingers!

Just one chance, a story of hope

2008-09-30T21:38:00.008-05:00

“When I was 12 years old I was hanging out with friends on the streets gomeando (huffing glue) and the police came over and just started beating me, hitting me in my head and kicking me. I got so mad, I wanted to kill the police. When they finished beating me I got a gun that I had hidden nearby and started shooting at them. They shot back and bullet when through my knee. With the help of a friend I hobbled over a fence to get away.”

This was Julio’s response when I asked if he had ever had any trouble with the police. He responded with a chuckle, as if to say

“You have no idea.”

Julio left for the streets when he was six years old because he was beaten by his father and his mother was unable to protect him. Last month he turned fifteen. The oldest fifteen you have ever encountered. Fifteen, and filled with hope, which is perhaps something that he has never experienced before.

Julio has just completed two months at the “patio.” I was privileged to get to know Julio before he was transferred to the next level of the program because of good behavior and attendance. I only had two weeks with him before he left, but in that time he let me inside his world and shared his hardships of living on the streets and the pain of being alienated from his family.

In one of our many conversations Julio told me that, “Nothing good ever happens living on the streets, everything is bad. I learned to rob people, steal, do drugs and do bad things to protect myself.” Julio is very excited about being about to go to school and learn carpentry as the next phase of the program includes schooling and learning a trade. “I might be dead already if I wasn’t here at the ‘patio’” Julio said.

Julio shared with me his hope in God and his hope for his family to be reunited. We talked about Jesus being our hope in this world and how we are able to trust Him, even when we can’t trust anyone else around us. I may never see Julio again, but I know that God brought us together for this short time for a reason. Julio encouraged me in my own faith. His story is heart wrenching and inspiring all at once. I can only hope and pray that the encouragement was mutual, and that he now has a greater understanding of who Jesus is because of my time with him.

Sofia turns 2!

2008-09-22T09:22:00.005-05:00

We celebrated Sofia's second birthday yesterday with fellow missionaries and Ecuadorian friends as well as special visitors Dan & Joyce Folden (Sofia's grandparents). A fun time was had by all!

Just one chance

2008-09-18T21:49:00.002-05:00

(september update)

Just one chance is all you get. Only one moment, one coversation, one opportunity, and its gone in the blink of an eye.

Crisitian is a 12 year old boy from Duran, a suburb of Guayaquil. He and his brother (9) live with their mother who works late; or so he says. His appearance suggests otherwise. He sneaks into the restaurant, careful to avoid the eyeshot of the nearby guards as he approaches the table.
"Please. Will you give me some of your food?" he says. We look at one another. This is our one opportunity what we say and do will make a great impact regardless of what we choose. We ask him to join us and by the time Titus goes to order for him the guard approaches the boy, gun in holster and orders him to leave, he's not allowed to be there. Titus informs the guard that we've invited this boy to eat with us. The guard, confused, takes another look at Cristian, then at us and goes on his way. Tonight Cristian was able to sit at a table and eat, not someone's half eaten meal, not something out of the garbage can, but his own meal (and in air conditioning no less, a BIG treat here). He ate happily and told us about his family (as we carefully prodded), seemingly ignoring the stares of those around us wondering (as usual) "what on earth are those crazy gringos doing?!" and at the same time very concerned for his little brother who hadn't made it past the guards. We told Cristian about the Patio, and hope to see him there, but only time will tell, and it's likely that was are one opportunity to show this boy that despite what society and his family have told him, he is valued, and loved.

In the next three weeks more "just one chance" stories will be posted to our blog. . . subscribe on the right to receive notifactions of new postings.

. . . titus, steph & sofia

Pray, Jesus?

2008-09-02T23:00:00.006-05:00

I (steph) have to say one of the most amazing things about being a parent is watching as your precious child learn about the ways of the Lord. How it blesses me when Sofia asks to read her Bible, talks about baby Jesus, and Jesus her friend, and even when she reminds US that we needed to pray. . . "pray!" she says.

A couple of days ago we were playing together and I was listening to an audio sermon preached by our "maui dad" and dear friend, Kit Lauer, who is battling leukemia. In the middle of her play, Sofia set down her toys, bowed her head and said, "Pray mama?" She waited for me to clasp my hands and bow my head. Then she watched me expectantly and said, "Pray, Jesus?" So we prayed for "Uncle Kit" and his family. When the prayer was finished it was followed by a hearty "amen!" from Sofia who promptly went back to her toys.

What a special moment and what an amazing gift God has given us in our little Sofia. . . who at the young age of (nearly) 2, teaches us so very much.

Life on the patio. . .

2008-08-17T00:13:00.006-05:00

It's been a crazy week here, just schedule wise, very full. I spent five hours at patio mi pana, a shelter/halfway house for kids on the street this morning and will be there tomorrow most of the day. I am going to the patio and then as a group we will go to the other location on via daule, a major highway, for a celebration for the man who started the salesianos, a ministry of the Catholic church. The salesianos run the ministry at the patio. Today I had my first experience with the gomeros or glue sniffers. Those of you who have read "When Invisible Children Sing" will remember that many street kids medicate by huffing bottles of glue. There were about five gomeros who came to have lunch, but only two of them ate. The other three would not give up their bottle of glue to the staff. The patio does not permit kids to be sniffing inside of the building. They are able to do so on the property outside but not inside, so it was interesting to watch the interplay between them, the other kids, and the staff. They would sneak in at times, and then be escorted out, each time being asked to hand over the glue, and their response always being that they did not have anything. So, they did not eat. I spent a long time with one of the boys who I was told is about to move over to Duran, a city outside of Guayaquil, because of good behavior and time at the patio. Last monday I was invited to go out on the streets with them looking for kids to invited then to the patio. Unfortunately, I was unable to go because the car alarm was randomly going off every couple min, and I had to take it into the shop so they could fix the sensitivity levels. I probably adjusted it with out knowing with my foot, acidently making it more sensitive. I'm planning to spend at least three or four days at patio next week, along with doing another culto (service) at shalom, the home for boys, doing concrete work out there, and installing the dryer with curtis, another missionary. I'll go to sauces to work as well. I invited David Crow, our landlord to come and help with the culto next week. Pray for open doors. . . tito (for S&s too)

Aunque no entendemos, vivimos con paz

2008-08-07T16:47:00.006-05:00

Steph here. . . read something in my morning devotional that spoke so clearly to my heart as I am struggling to find "understanding." I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. . . PS thanks a ton T, and thanks to Natalie for the pic!

From "Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young

(emphasis mine)

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Rm. 5:1-2

Understanding will never bring you Peace. Understanding. Human beings have a voracious appetite for trying to figure things out, in order to gain a mastery over their lives. But the world presents you with an endless series of problems. As soon as you master one set, another pops up to challenge you. The relief you had anticipated is short-lived. Soon your mind is gearing up again: searching for understanding (mastery), instead of seeking Me (your Master).

The wisest of all men, Solomon, could never think his way through to Peace. His vast understanding resulted in feelings of futility, rather than in fulfillment. Finally, he lost his way and succumbed to the will of his wives by worshiping idols.

My Peace is not an elusive goal, hidden at the center of some complicated maze. Actually, you are always enveloped in Peace, which is inherent in My Presence. As you look to Me, You gain awareness of this precious Peace.

Proverbs 3:5-6; Romans 5:1; 2 Thessalonians 3:16

E-News July 20th

2008-07-20T16:39:00.001-05:00

Can you remember the last time you were REALLY frustrated? I mean, really, REALLY frustrated?? Join us in the following (condensed) dialogue:
T: (opens car door)
<<>>
S: What was that?
T: I don't know
S: (walks to side of car) Someone hit us! Ugh, that's the second time this month! Now we have a dented door, a cracked bumper and a cracked winshield. (keep in mind we've had the car a total of 6mo)
T: What?? The alarm didn't go off! I can't open the door.
S: Just pull off the plastic. Ask the guard what happened.
T: (moments later) He said he didn't see anything.
S: What? He's right there!
(an hour later, leaving a foundation)
T: It really smelled in there today
S: I know, it's because the kids were eating rotten bananas.
T: Really?
S: Yes. AND. . . Do you know there were three adults sitting in the office while the kids were locked inside there beating on each other? I feel helpless.
(another hour later)
T: How much was our electric bill last month?
S: $30, why?
T: Because this month's bill is $135.
S: $135??? That's impossible.
T: I think someone is stealing our electricity.
S: Great.
T: And our water bill doubled.
S: What?
T: I think the workers are using our water to make their cement while we're gone.
<<>>

We shared these stories with some friends of ours who have been missionaries here for 17 years. They laughed. Amazingly enough, we laughed too. This is our life. The frustration will never go away. Sometimes it's better, sometimes its worse, but it's always there. The big question is what we will do with the frustration. Will it make us bitter? Angry? Depressed? Or will we chalk it up to living in a country that's not our own, in a language that's not our own, in a corrupt system, where survival is the key to life, and laugh at our "misfourtunes" knowing we're where we're God has called us?

We'll begin exploring community centers in Guayaquil in the next two months. We'll be spending time talking with the directors, community members and children; as well as visiting possible sites for a new center. We'll also be talking with a couple of potential ministry parnters. Please be in prayer for the Lord's continual guidance and wisdom in these matters!

By His Grace,
Titus, Steph & Sofia

cangrejo criollo

2008-06-30T13:03:00.002-05:00

Last night we headed out to the "Red Crab" (yes it's really called that, IN ENGLISH), for a true Guayaco experience. We ordered six cangrejo criollo for the four of us to share, at $2.75 a crab, who could just eat one! We had an excellent time smashing open our crab legs, and licking our very messy fingers. Sofia was a riot, perhaps we should incorporate wooden mallets into all of our mealtimes. :)

E-News June 28th

2008-06-28T14:45:00.003-05:00

We hope that this finds you well and that you're enjoying the beginning of summer! We are enjoying some cooler weather here in the city. Keep in mind cooler is about 90 degrees and still humid, but not as sweltering as the more "wet" months here.

We've committed to working at Shalom home for boys. Sauces (sah-ow-sez) home for kids, and at the "comedor" in Isla Trinitaria twice a week each for the next month. The goal is to pursue the possibility of further partnership with these organizations. Please be praying the Lord would clearly guide us as we work with these children, their families and the directors.

Steph's sister Hannah is staying with us this month as well, and has been a real help getting things prepped for the homes as well as with Sofia. Sofia is so excited to have "Havah" here with us, one more person to play with! Her cast was removed last night, she's very excited, though it still hurts a bit. The doctor says that can be expected for the next two weeks.

We continue to be blessed by messages and letters from you, your ongoing financial support and of course your prayers!

By His Grace,
Titus, Steph & Sofia