So, like I mentioned in my last blog, we made it to Costa Rica!
This month is all squad month, so all 32 of us are together at one ministry. The ministry we are staying with is called Ocean’s Edge. Ocean’s Edge is located in a town called Jaco, which borders the Pacific Ocean.
This ministry’s mission is to completely reclaim the city of Jaco in every way they can. In fact, Hannah, our host said “We want to connect the beach to the church.” Currently, this city is referred to as the Vegas of Costa Rica due to the culture that is so prevalent here, but Ocean’s Edge is out to change and challenge this paradigm with everything they do. And, honestly, one thing that truly sets this ministry apart is their true diligence and intentionality in each project they set out to accomplish.
Below are just a few examples of what I have worked on during my first week and a half here and how Ocean’s Edge is using each of these things to reclaim Jaco.
Park Construction
For the first time since the ministry’s beginning fifteen years ago, Ocean’s Edge is partnering with the government. This partnership is centered around building a playground in a neighboring community. A few people from our squad sat down and drew plans for the playground. Since then, we have three times gone to the site so far. We cleared out the area, fenced it in with tires and have even begun painting the tires and have raised money for the actual building projects. This project will set Ocean’s Edge apart as a ministry that truly wants to help the community and that desires to work with the government to do that.
#WeAre611
#WeAre611 or #Somos611 is a movement that Ocean’s Edge is pioneering that envisions the businesses of Jaco coming together to make a positive difference in the community. The name is derived from the area code in Jaco and the surrounding area which is 611. One way this is being cultivated is through a website called Jaco Beach Info. This website is run from volunteers who come to Ocean’s Edge and offer free marketing to surrounding businesses. We have had the opportunity to talk to business owners, take pictures of their merchandise and connect them to the website so that tourists and others in the area know who they are and where to find them. Additionally, Ocean’s Edge is hosting a business seminar for business owners this month that aims to bring these individuals into this vision together.
Pregnancy Center
Two individuals who are involved with Ocean’s Edge have begun a pregnancy center. This is a place where pregenant/new moms can come and take courses on parenting. Each course they take earns them points in which they can use to buy formula, baby clothes, etc. I got the opportunity to work with them for a full day and was able to clean up, fold the clothes in the store and watch the babies while their moms were in classes.
Night Ministry
Another way Ocean’s Edge reaches Jaco is through night ministry. Basically, this looks like prayer walking through the city in the evenings once or twice a week. Look out for a more in depth blog about this later this month.
I have also babysat for some of the missionaries here, attended the church Ocean’s Edge founded and helped one of the missionaries with editing and revising her college papers. There is honestly never a dull moment and I have fallen in love with this place, these people and this ministry.
Thanks for reading and staying up to date with what I’m doing on the World Race. I cant believe we’re already in month 2! Be sure to click the subscribe button if you haven’t already so you dont miss a thing.
Also, I’m still about $9,000 away from meeting my total goal which I have to have by the end of November. Prayfully consider donating or sharing my cause with those in your circles.
Thank yall so much again. I wouldn’t be here without all of you!
