I was impressed with the parish leaders who kept the mission trip on track including: Cordelia Gelly, Susan Martin, Tom Napper and Steve Petrie. They shepherded over 30 parishioners (mixture of adults and youth), assuring that we were all safe, well cared for, and that the project moved forward seamlessly. We also took care of each other as a group with our Reverend Scott Stoner sarenading the American and Mexican parishioners helping us find a common ground of communication, music. What joy it was to see people from two different cultures singing and dancing together at the Fiesta.
The group of parishioners worked very hard painting and cleaning a generously sized chapel including interior and exterior surfaces in addition to the pews. It had only been painted once since it was constructed in the 1950s. This was no easy task. Even so, I felt that I didn't work hard. It reminded me of when I gave birth to my two beautiful daughters, Adrienne and Natalie. After seeing each baby's face, like the new face of the church, I forgot about the "work." What a moving experience it was for me to see the beautifully painting white and light blue church. It has the impression of a sky from heaven.
The Bishop from the Anglican Archdiocese in Cuernavaca, Mexico concluding the renewal of the Church with a dedication service. He said the mission was a "miracle from God" and repeatedly said gracias, gracias, gracias to all the dedicated parishioners who gave wholeheartedly to make this project a success.
Gracias, gracias, gracias to St. Christopher's Episcopal Church, the Anglican Archdiocese in Cuernavaca, Mexico and the Lord our God for offering me the opportunity to participate in this unforgettable experience that has deepened my faith more than I could have imagined.
-dte
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