Pray for Chile on Sunday, November 29, 2015

Lectionary Selection: Luke 21:25-36

Prayers for Chile:
In Chile, we are once again perplexed “at the roaring and tossing of the sea.” We know we live in a land of explosive natural energy hidden under majestic volcanoes. Though intellectually we understand we must face earthquakes and tsunamis, emotionally it is difficult to grasp the terror and uncertainty we feel in the wake of natural disasters.

While some may look for your coming in the eruptions, earthquakes and tsunamis, we look for you in the renewal of nature announcing the end of winter. Thank you for September, October and November, spring months in Chile! We know the kingdom of God is ever near us in the hope of cherry blossoms, the grace of returning birds, the butterflies promised by caterpillars. We yearn for that day in which we will “stand before the Son of Man,” knowing that all the pain and destruction contained in this world will melt away like a spring stream washing down from the mountain snows.

Pray for rebuilding in the forth region of Chile after the September 2015 earthquake.
Pray for those who have had to relocate because of volcanic eruptions and forest fires.
Pray for the Roots in the Ruins: Hope in Trauma program of the Shalom Center and the Pentecostal Church of Chile.

Mission Stewardship Moment from Chile:
My name is Marta Espinoza, and I am a volunteer at the Shalom Center of the Pentecostal Church of Chile. I was recently asked the question, “What motivates you?” and this is my answer.

My commitment is to changing the world, one person at a time, through education, inside and outside the classroom. I believe in education and transformation through experiential learning, as I learn best when testing theories against practical applications. I chose a career in teaching, because I believe that every human being has the capacity to learn and change regardless of physical, mental or emotional abilities.

My faith is the energy behind all that I do. My faith expands with each of the challenges I face, morphing into a deeper relationship with God. Because I believe in God and God believes in me, I can believe in myself while looking for the best in others.

As a teacher in a rural school, I have witnessed the economic, social and educational needs of my community. As a member of the Pentecostal Church of Chile, I have been able to respond to those needs implementing opportunities for recreation and creative development, and by cultivating emotional and spiritual resilience.

The Shalom Center has been a safe space for me to recover my sense of dignity after personal and community loss. Because I have experienced post-traumatic growth, I want to accompany others as they walk on their own path of healing.

Now it is my turn… What motivates you?

(Prayer and Mission Moment by Elena Huegel)

Mission Partners in Chile:

More information on Chile: http://www.globalministries.org/chile

Global Ministries Missionary in Chile:
Elena Huegel serves as a Missionary with the Iglesia Pentecostal de Chile (IPC). Elena serves as an environmental and Christian education specialist. Her appointment is made possible by your gifts to Disciples Mission Fund, Our Churches Wider Mission, and your special gifts.