Hey family and friends,
It’s time for an update! Beware it’s a long one! My team and I had a great first month of the world race! We lived in Quito Ecuador and worked with kids at a special needs school called Camp Hope. It was extremely challenging, but very fruitful. The Lord taught me so much through it and I definitely learned the rely on Him! We lived in one big house with our whole squad of 51 people. Mabe and Fabe were our ministry hosts and everyday these sweet people would cook us breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And it was delicious! They continuously loved on us and cared for us. Next to the house there was a small tienda (store) where we got fresh bread from a man named George. We did lots of exploring and bus riding and met many incredible people in the city of Quito and enjoyed getting to serve along side Camp Hope and other ministries. I learned how much Jesus loved these sweet kids we worked with and I got the privilege of seeing them through his eyes! We had one week of debrief where we got to go to the city of Banos. Which a beautiful place that very much reminded me of Colorado. There was tall mountains everywhere with a tropical feel to it. We went through spiritual training and healing. We were able to go on adventures like whitewater rafting and zip lining. We also got the opportunity to pray for lots of people, two of which were professional soccer players! It was a fantastic week! We now are at our newest ministry in the lovely city of Latacunga. Which looks like Grand junction with volcanos. It is a beautiful city surrounded by farming communities. We are living and working with an organization called Para Sus Niños. Which is an orphanage for kids with both normal and special needs. And I love it!!! These kids have not just stolen my heart but the hearts of my team mates as well. The caretakers (called Tias) and kiddos surprise me everyday with the love of Jesus. So far we help with meal times, take kids on walks to the river, and plan fun activities for them daily. On Thursdays we also help at a building where the local elderly come and dance. It’s quite the party! So far I love this ministry. The Lord has been teaching me so much and I’m excited to see what else he’s got for me and my team. Thank you so much for all your prayers, support, and love from home! Keep praying that Abba continues to give us boldness to share his love and truth with everyone we come in contact with. You all are great! Thank you so much!
-Jess Johnston
jessjohnston.worldrace.org
