DR-- Living Water!

It was our last day of ministry today and what an interesting one it was! We began by heading out to La Canela again to actually begin the water purification process with the small portable system, 2 250-gallon drums (tinacas), and a cup of salt. The children soon surrounded the familiar bus of gringos while we were coming but today we couldn't stop to play. They watched in amazement and confusion as Simon (the believer who is heading up the community cooperative to bring both pure and LIVING water to his neighbors) and his children were learning how the process works.
The excitement came when the local firetruck came into their narrow road to fill up the tinacas of water with our very own Robert(o) and el Pastor Ken mounted on top! While they were on their firetruck adventures, the team was able to share with Yalissa (one of the 3 teen leaders/Simon's children) some encouragement about the importance of having a daily devotional and a small group Bible study. We then shared One-Verse Evangelism visual illustration with Romans 6:23 on the sand in Simon's workshop which became an improptu yet clear presentation of the Gospel with a crowd of onlooking neighbors! Praise God for these unexpected opportunities!
We left La Canela and went to the local Monumento here in Santiago of the founding fathers of the Dominican Republic. We got to see and pray for the entire city from the top and soak up some of the beauty of the history and artwork of the country. We also had a quick opportunity to visit the local market as well.
In the evening, we returned to La Canela for the inauguration ceremony where the team shared the skit again, a few songs (which were a big hit) and the stomp. Most importantly, we were able to partner with Simon, local believers and Marsha to not only present pure water but LIVING water through Christ! It was a joyful time followed by lots of hugs, kisses (it's a Dominican thing!) and some sad goodbyes. La Canela has certainly made an impact on us and we pray that the Gospel message has made an impact on them!
Tomorrow is beach day and any last minute ministry things that need to be wrapped up before getting on that plane! You are all in our thoughts and prayers! We can't thank you all of you enough! Dios les bendiga!