And so it begins...

 

Map of Formosa.  Each X is a branch or group of church members.

We finally made it to Ibarreta in Formosa province, and now it begins (referring to the work of course).  It's only been one week here but it seems like much longer.  As many former missionaries can attest, the days seem like weeks and the weeks like days.  So much happened this week that it's hard to believe it was only one week.  

We visited with members in four different areas: Ibarreta, Ensanche Norte, Bartolomé de las Casas, and Estansilao del Campo.  Oh, and a pit stop in Fontana for a baptism.  No, not Fontana, California but a pueblo called Comadante Fontana named after the military leader who founded the city of Formosa. 

Most of our work will be with the members living in las colonias (the colonies).  These people are descendants of the original groups that have been in this area of Argentina and Paraguay for centuries.  They are referred to as "originales" because they are the origin of the people in this area.  The colonias would be similar to the American Indian reservations in the United States.  The people are very humble and loving.  They accepted the gospel in large numbers but have dwindled over the past 20+ years.  Several of the colonias have church buildings that were made in the early 80's.  We are excited to begin working with them as they strengthen the areas where they live.  

Also this week, on Friday, we attended our first multi-zone conference.   This is a meeting of all the missionaries in two areas/zones.  A grouping of about 20-30 missionaries in a close geographic area is called a zone.  Here they combine multiple zones for a conference because the area is so spread out.  It was great to see all the young missionaries and the desire and enthusiasm they have for preaching the gospel and inviting people to come unto Christ. 

Well, that's about it for now.  A lot more we can say but it's too much to write in this brief blog post.  As always, if you want to know more about our experiences just drop us an email.  You can also give is a call on WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.  We can have a video chat anytime!

WhatsApp 626-695-7171

Always eating!  This is at the multi-zone conference in Formosa city.  Lunch was shawarma, soooo good!  Yes, Middle Eastern food in Argentina. 

August birthday club.

Baptism in Fontana for Luis.  This is a family from the colonia Bartolomé de las Casas.  Abuela is a long time member.  They are super kind.  

Members in Ensanche Norte (another colonia).

Meeting house in Ensanche Norte.  

Aranda family of Ensanche Norte.  They are the heart and soul of that area.  Very strong and faithful members. This day was Hermana Aranda's birthday (Arcelia).