Pat in Peru

2011-12-31T19:49:00.000-08:00

Youth social action

Almost forgot about the afternoon we spent visiting with food and gifts up on the hillsides The young people had been convicted to give rather than receive and many brought items which we put into bags and distributed to various families.

Visiting felicita and her daughter Jessica in their house with a food parcel and gifts

2011-12-31T19:16:00.000-08:00

Christmas day

After a lazy beginning to the day phoning family and friends n the UK and recouperating from all the previous events I went to Sarah and Paul Tester's for lunch. We were very impressed with the Queen's speech once it finally loaded! and then went for a nice walk in a local park.

Relaxation was cut short as we all had to go to churches for our Christmas day evening services.

I started with only a few but by the time we finished there were a number but many rushed quickly off as they still had visitors at home.

On Tuesday 27th we had a farewell service and party for Dimas who is going to work in Ica and Ayacucho to the south of Lima.

Dimas and Etelvina and the usual cake

2011-12-31T19:10:00.001-08:00

Yet another Christmas activity!!!

This time in Senor de Los Milagros on Thursday 22nd in the evening.

We had a lovely evening service with the participation of the children for the nativity play. After the service we had hot chocolate and paneton and the youth group led us in some singing.

Pray that we can start regular services in the community as from mid January.

2011-12-31T18:56:00.001-08:00

Shalom Christmas

On 19th December we had a grand celebration in Shalom to finish the year. The children who had attended the pre-school in the morning did a 'hora loca' (mad hour) dance and a presentation about an elephant.

The therapists sang a Christmas song
and everyone shared in the chocolatada with hot chocolate and traditional paneton.

Gifts were given to all the children and the staff also received their 'goody bags'.

Ghandira, Lizeth, Ruth, Milagros, Nelly and Luisa.

2011-12-31T18:38:00.000-08:00

Shalom News

On December 8th, a bank holiday, 70+ of the Shalom family went on an outing to the Lima Zoo.

arriving at the park

With Dr Townsend Cooper who is coming to work with us in January (he's the one in the cowboy hat)

Those with disabilities don't pay entrance fee and the person accompanying them pays half price so that helped with the finances and the August activity (BBQ cow hearts) paid for the bus.

As there were so many of us we didn't manage to stay altogether and some people managed to get separated from their lunch - but everyone enjoyed themselves.

There was this lovely nativity scene so a few of gathered for a photo

2011-12-31T17:56:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2011

Many activities, lots of fun and lots of blessings

The young people's activity on Saturday 17th saw the teenagers present various songs, drama and choreography as well as sharing the Christmas message and some food. I have to sort out my camcorder and software to be able to show the videos... here are a couple of photos in the mean time..

I made crackers - complete with bangers!

The youth leaders, Gian, Santiago, Nena y Beatriz with Dimas and I after the party!

The following day we had the sunday school party for about 60 children - it was a lot of fun!

Diana was great at coordinating the games!

2011-12-07T09:51:00.000-08:00

Health Bridges 50km Run

A bit of news hot off the camera. This morning representatives from the NGO Healthbridges, including Dr. Wayne Centrone a very good friend of the Anglican church, began a 50km run up in the shanty towns of Villa Maria. They had a great send off and we ran with them for a short distance and then stayed to visit in the area of Nueva Esperanza. Dr Wayne has organised this run, and a similar one he is undertaking in Arequipa later in the week, to highlight the difference in health care and provision between various districts in Lima.

Several local schools joined in as did the local mayoress. Also with us was Ines and her mother whose health issues started this link with the Dr and the community of Villa Maria via Rev. Aurelio Rodriguez of the Anglican church.

If you are interested in the runs please go to http://www.hbint.org/ or http://www.iamthebridge.org/

2011-12-06T19:15:00.000-08:00

Mum

I spent quite a bit of time looking after mum and enjoying being by the coast in Bournemouth especially during August. Thankfully mum was doing well when I left having put on some weight and overcome some health issues. Thank you for your prayers for her.

I had two very busy times of church visits, one based around Kent, Essex and Surrey and the other going up to Derby and then coming down again via many stop offs - I managed to drive 4,000 miles. I was encouraged to meet once again with link churches and share with many friends and contacts.

2011-12-06T19:07:00.000-08:00

UK news

Didn't realise that I had not posted anything about my time in the Uk. Will begin with the last event - the lovely wedding of my nephew Steven to his bride, Lucy. I was able to take part in the service and it was a very special day.

They married in St Ives and it was lovely to see the Cornish coast again - the weather was amazing - the day before and the day after the wedding - the day itself was not so good but we didn't really notice the weather!!!

2011-12-06T18:24:00.000-08:00

News from Peru again

Hi, well my time in Uk came and went and am now trying to settle back into life here. Living with some friends after my forced move and finding it hard to find a new base. Please pray.

It was great to see everyone again and I was please that things had gone well in my absence. The teenagers and youth had a good Alpha course and Shalom had continued with the therapies and all was working like clockwork - Praise God for the leaders, their dedication and committment to serving God.

The youth decorated the tree and church on Saturday so we are looking festive

We are now into getting ready for the christmas activities, Shalom has an outing to the Lima zoo on Thursday which is a bank holiday here. The last day of therpaies is 16th with the Christmas party on 19th. In Nazareno things start on Saturday 17th and we are busy each day until 24th!!

2011-07-17T07:07:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day in May

Yes, we have mother's day in May in Peru and as usual Shalom pulled out all the creative stops to present an all singing, all dancing afternoon of fun and laughter together.

The pre-school presentation

Milagros and Junior dancing extravaganza

No celebration complete without a large decorated cake.

In Nazareno we went out for an afternoon of 'retail therapy' Lima style, visiting a local shopping centre. We kept loosing people which added to the fun and gave us more time to look around!

2011-07-17T06:49:00.000-07:00

A few wet days in July

Hi there

In the UK and looking at the rain and realising I have been here for a couple of months and seen quite a few friends in link churches but haven't done well in keeping up this space. Not always easy to get onto the internet or have time whilst travelling around to be posting news.

So lets see what happened in Peru before I left ......and then what has been happening here since arrival...

April saw Easter celebrations and as always a busy week of activities.

Palm Sunday gathering in the park by Shalom

Foot washing Maunday Thursday

Teenage group making crosses

Good Friday walk

2011-03-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

New Location

I have moved flats to live with my Peruvian friend Karelia who lived with me for 2 years and who recently bought a new flat a short distance from where we used to live. I have 'down sized' considerably and am still trying to acclimatised and find things. I am on the 4th floor and have a clear view to the hills of the shanty town in Pamplona where I work and a shorter walk to the bus stop!

2011-03-29T11:23:00.000-07:00

Elections 2011 - Peruvian President

We are in the middle of presidental and congress elections with voting on Sunday 10th April. The streets are full of bill boards with smiling faces, campaign logos and numbers. We have 11 potential presidential candidates with 5 jostling for position and over 100 candidates for congress.

Please pray for Peru at this time, for wisdom for all those who will be voting and those who will be elected.

2011-03-28T13:50:00.000-07:00

Shalom pre- School

The morning school in Shalom has begun with just 5 children. We hope a few more will come. Nelly and Luisa are working with the children and the therapists are giving their recommendations to reinformce their work inthe afternoon sessions.

2011-03-28T13:35:00.001-07:00

Medical Campaign

Last week we were blessed to receive a team of 30 health professionals from Medical Ministry International (MMI) to run clinics in 3 of our Anglican parishes in the north of Lima. There were various specialities medicine, dental, opticians and physical therapy. Not sure how many people were seen but it was a time of action in the community and the opportunity to share with many in their health problems and encourage them with the gospel.

2011-03-28T11:33:00.000-07:00

New teenage group

We are now a month into the new teenagers group in Jesus El Nazareno Church. There is a committed group of 6 - 7 youth who have taken on this ministry. We meet each Wednesday to study, plan and pray together. Last week we went to a youth encounter with other groups from the Diocese. and we have had increasing numbers each week starting with 12 and then 23 went on Saturday. Praise God.

Making cushions with those arriving early

Gian explaining how to pray

Sharing refreshments together

Returning from the Diocesan youth event on Saturday 26th

2011-01-24T08:41:00.000-08:00

WOMEN'S OUTING

Due to various clashes of dates and activities around Christmas the women's group of AMA didn't have a Christmas celebration.This was rectified on Saturday 15th when 9 of us went along the coast in Miraflores to enjoy the sun and the sea.

On the cliff top

The ceramic benches in the 'Park of Love'

The women's group starts to meet again this coming Saturday when we shall be doing the bible studies for the World Day of prayer, this year organised by neighbouring Chile, 'How many breads do you have?'

2011-01-23T20:09:00.000-08:00

2011

Having flicked through the blog I realise that there were many other things from 2010 I hadn't published,... but another year has started so here goes in trying to keep up to date with happenings this year.

Therapies have started again in Shalom with the same team which is great.

Here is a picture of the staff at Christmas, from the left: Milagros, Luisa, Nelly, me, Ruth and Luis.

Shalom has also had a facelift thanks to the help of a team from Goshen college, USA here in Peru on a cultuiral exchange programme. With 14 of them, their leaders and Shalom helpers we whizzed through the painting chores; a new mural in the patio, giving us a 'inside garden'; the church/waiting area; the pre -school room and giving the outside of the building a make over with new light blue and repainted sign.

Thanks guys!!!

2010-12-27T20:38:00.000-08:00

Christmas Activities

The last 10 days have been rather busy so here are some of the moments...

First the Shalom Christmas party with special guests....

Winnie Pooh and the children

Singing competition with the mothers

Enjoying hot chocolate and panetone

Receiving gifts

The Nativity Tableau

2010-12-27T19:47:00.001-08:00

A quick trip to the UK

As my mother had been in hospital again in October I took a quick two week trip to the Uk at the beginning of December and met with snow and below freezing temperatures. Thankfully mum was back at home and we had a good time together celebrating her birthday during my visit and going on the Christmas outing with some of the people from her apartments.

2010-12-27T18:39:00.000-08:00

Physical therapy campaign with MMI (Medical Ministry International)

It was a very busy week at the end of November as Shalom hosted a medical campaign with therapists and students from the USA. After a last minute change of location Shalom was tranformed into a buzzing clinic seeing many patients, babies, children and adults who received treatment and mechanical aids, wheelchairs, crutches etc.

We started the week with church on Sunday

Luis getting fitted for new leg supports -

...and very happy with his new chair!

Sorting the leg supports

Nancy and Nancy with her new chair

2010-11-12T09:30:00.000-08:00

Another memorable day!

Another birthday loomed and was celebrated and was quite significant! I will say no more!

A fancy breakfast a couple of days earlier, morning coffee on the day and an all singing, all dancing party in Shalom with 'La hora Loca' Mad Hour, with all the children and families.

It was a good day!

2010-11-12T08:47:00.000-08:00

Nazareno Anniversary

As the weeks go by so quickly and there have been so many different activities I had forgotten a few. The church at Nazareno celebrated another year of ministry with a street party, games, activities and food.

It was a fun afternoon especially the games.

3 legs

In the prison

Musical chairs

2010-11-12T08:06:00.001-08:00

'Wheels for the World'

This week a team from the New Mexico branch of 'Joni and friends' joined a team gathered from churches here in Lima to give out wheelchairs and other equipment to those living with various physical disabilities. Once again I was translating and also once again I was convicted by God that this is where his heart is and that we need to minister and encourage these people.

Choosing,fitting and adapting the wheelchair

Naim fromShalom who was very happy to receive his wheelchair and walker

The week of 22 - 26th November we are partnering with a physical therapy team from MMI, Mision Medical International, to provide therapy sessions and also give out wheelchairs and aids. People from MMi were able to meet with the Joni and friends coordinators to see how best we can work together in the future and serve more effectively combining areas of expertise and resources.

2010-10-22T11:33:00.000-07:00

Another Shalom Activity

As part of the disabled network of the local government we joined forces with other agencies and special schools fromthe district for a street parade on Wednesday 20th.

Gathering before the march

Shalom group entering the park

Shalom also presented a dance as part of the entertainment

The dancers

2010-10-22T09:17:00.000-07:00

Outing for the Day of the Disabled

As Saturday 16th october was the International Day of the Disabled there have been severalactivities in Shalom. On Saturday 26 adults and 34 children fromShalom went to a local park to have a day of fun and relax together. The sun came out and we vivist with the animal, played on the swings and eat cake!!!

All together

Having lunch

Cutting the celebration cake

visiting the animals

Ederson with the horses!!!

Beatrice Magowan, founder member of Shalom, coincided her visit to Peru to accompany us on this special day

2010-10-11T10:58:00.000-07:00

Cross Project

No we are not all seeing how angry we can get!

The young people in Shalom are painting crosses in afternoon workshop sessions to raise funds for themselves and the project. I got the crosses cut in the centre of Lima and we are trying out different designs. We are also painting other items made from the same compacted wooden material, napkin holders and boxes.

2010-10-11T08:40:00.000-07:00

"Having the heart of Mary in a Martha's world"

This was the title of the weekend women's retreat for 100 women from the different anglilcan churches in Arequipa and Lima held just out side Lima. We were joined by a group of 12 of our sisters from Christchurch, Plano, Texas who helped in the reflections, testimonies and organisation. It was a valuable experience to have that 'Mary time' and try and gain insight and teaching on doing all we have to do as women with busy lives, and demanding family and work responsibilities as well as focusing on God and assuring that we are close to Him and practice his presence at all times - especially when we have too much to do!

The women from Shalom and Nazareno travelled together in a hired bus which made things easier in getting there together and not having to change buses.

here are a few photos of the weekend.

Nazareno and Shalom group

Gathering for the group photo

Praising in the Chapel

Please pray that as all the women go back to their situations they will remember how to be with God and rely on him to be their strength and guidance in all their experiences and tasks however routine they may be.

2010-09-19T20:15:00.001-07:00

Grand Anticuchada in Shalom

Cutting up the anticucho, the mum's came over Friday afternoon to cut up the 64kg of cow heart!!!

On the BBQ, Luisa frying on Saturday outside the shalom building

Angelita busy cooking with her son Marco in the background

2010-08-31T10:26:00.000-07:00

Friday crafts

Our first session of crafts went well on Friday afternoon, with mums and others beginning a patchwork class to make cushion covers and bags and the young people painting crosses.

Ederson and Junion painting

We need more chairs and tables!!! But we had fun and were grateful for this lovely space to be

creative together.

the women cutting out their patchwork pieces

2010-08-30T07:22:00.001-07:00

Visit to the Town Hall

Last Tuesday Luisa and I received official recognition from the local mayor for our work in Shalom with those with disabilities. We went to the town hall to receive a Diploma of Honour along with other teachers who work with children in inclusion in regular schools.

The Mayor, Edilberto Quispe

Luisa and me with our diplomas

with Luis Garcia the head of OMAPED (office for those with disabilities)

2010-08-30T06:22:00.001-07:00

Worcester Diocese Visit

It was great to have a visit from representatives from Worcester Diocese, we shared a few happy moments in Shalom and then went to Nazareno to see the sewing groups, judge a colouring competition and have a joint AMA and Mothers Union meeting. As always there was a large cake to be shared!

in shalom

in Nazareno

with the cake

2010-08-16T19:23:00.000-07:00

Birthdays in Shalom

On Sunday we had birthday celebrations in Shalom after the service, Nicol 4, Lucho 17, Antonella 6 and Candy 4. There was a fancy cake and plenty of fizzy drinks!!!

Nicol

Candy and Antonella

2010-08-16T18:54:00.000-07:00

Holiday with the Wilson family

Friends from St Matthew's Tunbridge wells came to Peru for the inauguration and to see the work in Shalom and Nazareno. We also went travelling to see some other places and have some relax.

In Pisco.

Celebrating Independence Day in Nazareno

Travelling to Cusco

Our last evening with cake and coffee!

2010-08-16T18:12:00.000-07:00

Team Visit from Diocese of Albany

Just before the inauguration it was great to receive a visit from a team from the Diocese of Albany who helped put the finishing touches to the Shalom centre, painting the Diocesan shield, painting chairs, painting a bathroom and several other pending chores which were great to get done before all the visitors on the 27th.

Painting the shield outside

The window team

Making signs for the doors with Brenda

2010-08-01T12:19:00.000-07:00

INAUGURATION SHALOM

On Tuesday 27th July friends and invited guests attended the official inauguration ceremony for the new building for the Shalom church and therapy centre. A red and white awning was erected in the street as we also combined celebrations for the Peruvian independence day which is 28th July. Various songs, poems and dances were presented and then Bishop William Gofrey gave a reflexion and officially opened the premises.

The ceremony began by welcoming guests and thanking all those churches and individuals in the Uk who had made the purchase and renovation of the new building a reality.

The children from Shalom singing to the guests

A traditional dance was presented with costumes and a lot of fun especially when guests were invited from the audience to join in.

For the official cutting of the ribbon I was dressed in traditional peruvian outfit, complete with plaits, having just danced with colleagues and some of the young people from Shalom.

2010-07-10T21:20:00.000-07:00

more on the move.......

me and Ruth, our physical therapist

refreshments

2010-07-10T20:24:00.000-07:00

The move

Today was Shalom moving day and thankfully all went well. One truck came and went as he said we had too many things and he couldn't do two trips. Then we got another truck and everything fitted in with the help of another car fromone of the father's. We went the short drive to the new house and got unpacked, after refreshments we carried on getting things into their places and helpers went home.

I went shopping with Karelia and volunteer Amanda to get curtain rails, light bulbs, mats and also refreshments for after the service tomorrow.

Then we went back in the late afternoon to help Luisa move her things and also got the church ready for the service - it looked good. Hope everyone comes.

There is still alot to do but there are no clases or therapies on Monday so we have time to get sorted and find a place for everything.

2010-06-18T09:26:00.000-07:00

The New House for Shalom

Well after much deliberation and much advice we have begun decorating and adapting the new premises for the Shalom project. The possibility of knocking it down and rebuilding to gain more space was just a not a viable possibility so we have been busy over the last 3 weeks getting a roof on, aluminium and plastic, redoing the walls and some ceilings, building ramps and now parents and friends of Shalom are busy painting and decorating. We have made great progress - the premises are so large!

Here are some photos of the happy volunteers!

Lidia

Nana

Bryan

Lilia and her husband

The ramp

We plan to move Saturday 10th July and have our first service on the Sunday 12th so pray we can get everything sorted by then. It is exciting but also daunting!

Thanks to all who have made this possible

God bless you

2010-05-09T20:28:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day in Peru

Outdside the church in Shalom

This weekend we have celebrated Mother's Day here in Peru. Festivities started on Friday in Shalom and continued through the weekend at both churches.

Mothers reading letters from their children

In the presentation

The children from the morning school preparing to sing to their mothers.

A mother singing a traditional peruvian song with Occupational Therapist Luis on guitar

Lizzet reciting a poem after church in Shalom

2010-04-10T11:01:00.001-07:00

Palm Sunday in Shalom

Just got the photos from the Palm Sunday service in Shalom taken by friends visiting for the Synod from Arequipa.

We began in the church then processed around the area.

The children praying before going into their classes

The Bishop celebrated the Eucharist

2010-04-03T05:55:00.000-07:00

Good Friday

A very sunny afternoon and the church gathered to do a Good friday walk around the parish of nazareno and down to Shalom to join with the church there.

Reading on the hillside

Arriving at the new Shalom house we sang outside with the neigbours and had a small service in the patio.

My nephew is visiting from the Uk so we had a very tall visitor! I think I am more Peruvian than British - especially if we go by height!!

As we were finishing the afternoon activities we gathered for a photo together.

2010-03-30T08:19:00.000-07:00

Palm Sunday in the Park

Palm Sunday evening we had thew service in the park at Nazareno. It was a lovely atmosphere. I don't think the photos do it justice.

In the afternoon the children in Sunday school made flags and went walking around the neighbourhood singing together.

2010-03-29T18:49:00.000-07:00

SHALOM SCHOOL

On Monday 1st March we started the morning school for the younger children in Shalom. They come for early stimulation and pre-school activities. We begun with 4 children and there are now 7, the youngest is just 9 months and the oldest 6 years. The teaching team are Luisa, Nelly and CMS volunteer Jessica. We are hoping for a few more children to help cover the staffing budget and other costs.

Jessica with Grace

Nelly with Katy

Luisa with Nicol

2010-03-29T06:49:00.000-07:00

More visitors to the new Shalom House

After a lovely Palm Sunday service in Shalom with Bishop William Godfrey we went to visit the new property. It was the Bishop's first visit tothe house and a great opportunity to get his advice and feelings about the decisions needing to be made.

others with us ; Judith, Bishop's wife, Karelia my house mate and her mother Lay minister Grimaldina from Arequipa and seminary student Manuel.

Two weeks ago we had other visitors - quite a gathering, the Rake family visiting the Diocese from Canada and the Cooper family from the USA. Dr. Cooper is considering mission service here in Peru.

Luisa from Shalom gave the tour and Susan Park acted as driver and guide for the visitors.

Please pray for the decision on the building, it looks more likely that we will have to demolish and rebuild for many reasons including safety and long term development of the mission and ministry of Shalom.

2010-03-29T06:22:00.001-07:00

Facelift for Jesus El Nazareno Church

Some time ago we removed some stone cladding from the church facade, also some local children or youths like to graffiti and putting up notices of different events had all contributed to a much needed paint overhaul. We had a small but dedicated team, children from the Sunday school very keen to help, with much supervision, and two of the local young people, Harold and Alex did most of the painting.

I think we can say that it looks splendid!

And in two weeks no one has marked it at all!!

Pray that it will stay looking resplendent in the community as a witness to Gods presence there.

2010-03-29T05:45:00.000-07:00

Medical Campaign

It was a blessing to recieve Medical Mission International to the Diocese to run 5 days of campaigns with the Anglican church in 3 areas of Lima during 15th - 19th March. Although there were no volunteers from overseas we gathered a good team of volunteers from Peru and attended 409 patients during the week in the areas of dental, eye and medical attention.

View from the clinic on the first day.

The clinic in Nueva Esperanza (New Hope) used the tents and a local building where Sagrada Familia (Holy Family) Mission worships. health talks in the open air to give orientation and advice to prevent illness and other problems.

Dentalcare with fillings and extractions and health education for both children and adults.

2010-02-27T17:03:00.000-08:00

Pat in Perú
Dear Friends February 2010

Almost coming to the end of the second month of 2010 and a letter is long overdue. As I write this our neighbour Chile has suffered an earthquake of 8.8 and there were warnings of a tsunami but thankfully for our coastline there was no significant after effects. We continue to pray for both Chile and Haiti suffering after these natural disasters.

Well Christmas seems such a long time ago and as usual it was a busy time of activities and celebrations in all the churches. Shalom had many blessings and visits and we enjoyed the games, presents, dancing and much more. In Nazareno we had the usual parties and in Señor de los Milagros we again celebrated with the children, mums, teenagers and youth and the community as a whole with a Christmas service.

I then made a complete change and arrived back into the UK on 30th December to move mum into her new flat. My sisters had already got the furniture in and all that was left was to get mum there and unpack. She was successfully installed and we had a family lunch to celebrate on 1st January. It is a lovely flat with two bedrooms and a sunny outlook very near the coast. She is doing incredibly well and it was good to see her so happy to have all her things around her again. We were a bit house bound due to the snowy weather but we had plenty to do with unpacking and sorting, it had been a year since mum was at home before her illness. I enjoyed looking after her and although we were busy it was a good rest for me and lovely to see mum so well and happy. Then it was all change again back to hot and humid Lima.

I expect most of you have heard about the purchase of a property for Shalom. It was incredible and all happened in less that a week before Christmas. Since then things have moved at a very slow pace and we are still in the planning stage. The other week we had a session of drawing and dreaming with the architects who are working with us on the adaptations to the new Shalom centre. We gathered in the current facility to identify what we have, how we use it, what we like, what we don't like and what we lack. Then we did some dreaming for the new premises.....quickly realizing that we would ideally like 2 ground floors!!! But as the architects are specialists in facilities for the disabled we are in good hands to overcome the problems and find good solutions for the building to cater for the needs and abilities of all those who come to Shalom. The day after the drawing session we went into the property with engineers and architects, and men to dig holes, to investigate the foundations and supports. There was a lot of sand around and not much else. The engineer still has to give us more details but we will need to reinforce the building which is not good news in terms of costs but good news in terms that we can change the existing walls and therefore adapt the spaces more appropriately. We have had some change in therapists, Lourdes our physical therapist left suddenly before the start of the January sessions, we have a replacement but she is only with us provisionally and we need to get a permanent replacement and so far we have not found anyone. Also our occupational therapist Teresa is leaving as she gets married next month. Thankfully last week we contacted a new therapist, Soledad, and this last week she has been coming along each day to get to know us and the children she will be working with. So it is difficult to have a new team of therapists so please pray that we can work together well and find a physical therapist soon. It is an important time as we are expecting to grow a lot during this year once the building is adapted and finished. Continue to pray for Luisa as she coordinates things and Nelly, who with Luisa and volunteer Jessica, will be working together in the morning preschool classes which begin this coming Monday 1st March. So far we have 4 children enrolled and hope more will come along. Two of the children who studied with us last year are now to be included in ‘regular’ schools’, which is good.
The church in Shalom is going very well, we have started a Sunday school and we have 6 children so far who come along with their families plus some from the community. Two women from Shalom were also confirmed last November and there are several baptism candidates who are in preparation.

We have two volunteers from the Uk here at the moment. Joanna Musker, here for 6 months through USPG, is working at the Compassion centre at San Juan Evangelista church in Pamplona Baja and Jessica Helyar, here for 4 months through CMS/SAMS , is working at the Shalom project for those with disabilities. Both young ladies are settling in well and getting to grips with the language and the different activities that they are involved in.

Parish life in both Shalom and Nazareno has been very busy. I finally found a few morning slots and have been doing some vacation bible classes with the children in Nazareno. I am grateful for the help of volunteer Jessica especially in preparing the crafts and thankfully she is becoming sympathetic and a collaborator of my recycling and very creative use of resources! The young people from Nazareno have been very busy this summer and have not had time to do much in terms of ministry in the parish. Only 2 young people are on the Diocesan camp this weekend which is very unusual for us, we are usually the biggest group. Please pray for the youth leaders and the youth group which usually meets on Saturday evenings.
In December the Bishop announced a move around of seminary students so they can get some different experiences. Lay Minister Jhonny from Nazareno went off to Villa Maria and Dimas and Manuel arrived in Pamplona. Manuel helps out on Sundays in Shalom and Nazareno and Dimas just in Nazareno as he has another placement elsewhere in the morning. Due to their seminary classes during the evenings in the week they only come on Sundays but it is a help, for instance tomorrow I do not have to preach but have to give them feedback and orientation. We have done some pastoral visits and I am hoping they can come along to the Sunday school which resumes next weekend to help out.
March proves to be a busy month, medical campaign 15th – 19th, visit of a Dr. who is considering mission service here in Peru, visit from Canadian contacts to the Diocese, Diocesan Synod and Easter and on Maundy Thursday my nephew and his girlfriend arrive in Peru which I am very excited about. They will be in Lima during the Easter weekend and then I will travel with them for a few days and see them again after their travels for some more time in Lima. During the Synod on 26th and 27th March we shall have elections for Assistant Bishops. I am on the electing committee and we have had a very busy month of interviews, deliberations and considerations. We still have to get the final list out so please pray for us as a committee this week and the elections during the Synod. This coming weekend we have the World Day of Prayer service, I am in the choir so looking forward to the service on Saturday 6th in our cathedral.

info. and more photos on: http://www.patinperulatest.blogspot.com

Prayer requests:
· Plans for the new Shalom house and the necessary funding
· Volunteers Jessica and Joanna
· New occupational therapist and finding replacement Physical therapist
· Pastoral work Señor de Los Milagros
· Seminary students Dimas and Manuel on placement
· New Sunday school in Shalom
· Start of the Shalom preschool Monday 1st March
· Selection of possible assistant Bishop candidates and elections on 26th March in the Synod
· Medical campaign and the visit of Dr. Cooper to Peru
· Baptism candidates for 3rd April

With much love and many blessings, Pat

Patricia Blanchard Artesanos 150#151, Apartado Postal #116, Lima 33, Peru
email:- pblanchard@anglicanperu.org

2010-02-24T04:21:00.000-08:00

Summer Classes

We finally found a few morning slots and have been doing some vacation bible classes with the children in Nazareno. I am grateful for the help of volunteer Jessica especially in preparing the crafts and thankfully she is becoming sympathetic and a colaborator of my recycling and very creative use of resources! The young people from Nazareno have been very busy this summer and have not had time to do much in terms of ministry in the parish.

The class on Noah and God's promise in the rainbow

Busy making the two tablets with the 10 commandments, toilet tube inners

Some of the finished "stone tablets" on display

And it's always good to have help clearing up after crafts!

Then games and activities after refreshments. How they love puzzles and bricks!

2010-02-22T07:01:00.000-08:00

....Then the structural investigations......

The day after the drawing session we went into the property with engineers and architects, and men to dig holes, to investigate the foundations and supports.

There was a lot of sand around and not much else. The engineer still has to give us more details but we will need to reinforce the building which is not good news in terms of costs but good news in terms that we can change the existing walls and therefore adapt the spaces more appropiately.

Paul Tester also accompanied us and helped with the measuring and the structural investigations.

2010-02-22T06:32:00.000-08:00

Workshop with the architect

The other week we had a session of drawing and dreaming with the architects who are workling with us on the adaptations to the new Shalom centre. We gathered in the current facilitiy to identify what we have, how we use it, what we like, what we don't like and what we lack. Then we did some dreaming for the new premises.....quickly realizing that we would ideally like 2 ground floors!!! But as the architects are especialists in facilities for the disabled we are in good hands to overcome the problems and find good solutions for the building to cater for the needs and abilities of all those who come to Shalom.

Our drawings

Nelly explaining her thoughts concerning the work with the preschoolers in the mornings

Etelvina explaining her drawing

Architect Walmolt clarifying ideas with Nelly.

2010-02-22T06:02:00.000-08:00

Volunteers

We have two volunteers from the Uk here at the moment. Joanna Musker, here for 6 months through USPG, is working at the Compassion centre at San Juan Evangelista church and Jessica Helyar, here for 4 months through CMS/SAMS , is working at the Shalom project for those with disabilities. Both young ladies are settling in well and getting to grips with the language and the different activities that they are involved in.

Jo and Jessie meeting with Luisa in Shalom

They helped at the teenage camp the other weekend and this coming weekend will attend the youth camp which is tobe held 3 hours down south from Lima in Mala

off to camp!

Please pray for Jo and Jessie as they continue to adjust to life and work here and also for all those attending the youth camp this weekend from the different church in the Diocese.

2010-01-26T10:58:00.001-08:00

Visitors to the new Shalom House

Dr. Wayne Centrone, director of Health Bridges International and a good friend and supporter, visited the new property for the ministry of Shalom on Friday 22nd January. Diocesan nurse Epifania accompanied us to have a look at the facilities and together consider the challenges on the health issues, ramps, medical attention etc.

Epifania, Wayne and I

Our therapists and teacher also visited to give opinions on their requirements for therapy space and classrooms

On Monday 25th Luisa and I met with the architect from Aynimundo to begin discussing ideas and investigate the structural aspects of the building and the list of needs and requirements.

Please continue to pray that God would give us wisdom in making decisions and agreeing plans for the benefit of all the therapies and activities we envisage happening in this new centre. Pray also for funds to be given to complete the purchase price and for the refurbishment.

Many thanks to those who have already sent donations to SAMS.

2010-01-26T10:12:00.000-08:00

Youth Activities

With the Diocesan Youth camps approaching in February the young people of Jesus El Nazareno Church are busy with their fund raising activities.

Dimas our Seminarian looking through the bazar items

Getting the tombola ready outside the church

Frania and Marie at the tombola

The first eager customer for the 'panchos',

Tito from the Sunday school with Frania

Sun setting and the youth continue with the cooking and sales

2010-01-26T09:55:00.000-08:00

The Family left in the UK

Mum, my sisters and me in the Uk.

and also friends.... Helen, Mary and Ian from Tunbridge Wells to came to visit despite the snow and terrible weather conditions that hit britain in January.

a snowy walk by the sea, snow on the beach and on the distant hillsides

2010-01-02T13:18:00.000-08:00

New Year Move

I arrived back into the UK on 30th December to move mum into her new flat. My sisters had already got the furtniture in and all that was left was to get mum there and unpack. She was successfully installed and we had a family lunch to celebrate. It is a lovely flat with two bedrooms and a sunny outlook.

2010-01-02T13:07:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day

Just a few photos from Christmas Day which I spent with SAMS Mission Partners Sarah and Paul Tester. Complete with stuffing, Christmas pudding and all trimmings.

2009-12-29T14:37:00.000-08:00

Games and a lot more!

Here are some fun photos of the children's parties before Christmas. There's alot you can do with teenagers, children and balloons!!

And of course - the gifts!!!!!

Even for the youngest members of the family. Here is Andres Junior with his turtle - all the way from the UK

2009-12-29T12:27:00.000-08:00

God's Christmas gift to Shalom

Dear Friends

Happy Christmas!

It is with great joy and much surprise that I can thank God for the best present this Christmas for the children and families of the Shalom Project in Lima, Peru. Last Wednesday I received the keys to a two storey property which we only heard was on the market last week. God moved everything so incredibly and it is exacly what we needed. It was built as a school so has lots of classrooms and great facilities, there are some modiciations to do, ramps etc but that can get organised later. Timing was perfect as I leave for the UK today(!!) and can go knowing that all is in hand.

Praise God!

Funds were available to use but we will need to raise the cost of the building and adaptations. The building cost $30,000, about £18,700, adaptations wil be additional. I will be giving out information soon about how you can donate to the Shalom building fund via SAMS UK.

I go to the Uk for yet another move with my mother into a warden controlled flat so it is all new homes and new beginnings in 2010.

May God's blessings continue to be a constant presence in our lives as witness to his great love for each one of us.

2009-12-29T11:57:00.000-08:00

Party with the Lion's Club

Shalom was blessed with visits, gifts, prizes and hot chocolate and paneton from the Lions club. Carmen, secretary at the Good Shepherd cathedral, made contact with me and it was a pleasure to receive her and some of the LIon's group on a visit in November to organise and get to know the children and their needs. Then thay came back to share with everyone - bursting through the door due to lack of space - to realise a Christmas party. It was a fun afternoon and the photos prove it!!!

2009-12-24T21:45:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all from me and my friends in Peru

2009-12-24T14:56:00.000-08:00

Nativities

In the various Chrsitmas activities we have dressed up the children and young people to tell the Christmas story. Here I present some of the tableaus of Christmas 2009.

Grace and Carlos

Nursery children - Senor de Los Milagros

Nativities from the Sunday service on 13th December in Victor Raul

Children - Senor de Los Milagros

Teenagers - Senor de Los Milagros

A Blessed and Peaceful Christmas to all!

2009-12-23T21:45:00.000-08:00

Christmas in Shalom

We have been very blessed in Shalom this year and the blessings prove to continue with special news which I will publish a bit later.

The nativity plays were especially wonderful and all the parties and activities were moments of joyous celebration together; The Sunday morning service on 13th in the community centre of Victor Raul; visit by the Lions club; end of year event for the young children, entertainment show and hot chocolate and other events.

Grace and Carlos

Candy ready for a dance

2009-12-23T20:20:00.000-08:00

AMA - Christmas outing for the women's group

Last Friday, 18th, a group of the women from Jesus El Nazareno went to the centre of Lima to see the city lights and eat pizza. We also exchanged gifts and ate rice pudding and mazamorra -peruvian purple jelly.

The Presidents Palace

2009-11-26T12:00:00.001-08:00

Advent Ring

In Shalom we have begun making our Advent rings with candles - all paper and recycled goods!

Diego helping Julio with the gluing!

The purple candles signifying penitence.

Naim finding another use for the candles!

Julio arranging the leaves which symbolise our hope and life in Christ.

Andres with his finished ring. The red bow represents God's love for us.

2009-11-23T14:05:00.000-08:00

Confirmations Sunday 22nd November

Celebrating the festival of Christ the King the churches in the southern part of Lima joined in a united service of confirmation with our Bishop William Godfrey in the church of Santisima Trinidad (Holy Trinity). There were almost 40 people being confirmed and it was a lovely celebration - even if a bit long! I presented 6 candidates from Jesus El Nazareno church and 2 from Shalom. Family and friends joined the candidates at this time of renovation of their baptisimal vows and Holy Comunion together.

The Bishop leading part of the service

Some of the people from Nazareno with the Bishop after the service

2009-11-21T07:26:00.000-08:00

Wheelchair Event

Once again @Wheels for the World@ came to Peru to donate wheelchairs to many children, young people and elderly, who are unable to get about due to disabilities, accidents and medical conditions. I was helping out during the week translating and with the medical team.

The wheelchairs waiting for their new owners

With Walter one our group from Villa Maria who has made great progress despite his disability. He regulary attends church and goes out and about in his neighbourhood.

Maria who is blind and unable to walk very much accompanied by her husband. They are also from the group in Villa Maria.

Please conitue to pray for all those who recieved their wheelchairs and walking frames, that they will make a difference to their lives. I give thanks for the opportunity to pray with all those who came, some struggling in their situations others with a strong faith which enables them to have hope for the future. Pray for those with limited resources who are unable to keep up with medication, especially those with epilepsy or diabetis. Pray for improved health care in Peru so that these conditions are covered and catered for within the healthcare system.

2009-11-18T09:25:00.000-08:00

DANCE FESTIVAL

As part of the activities for the day of those living with disabilities the local disabilities network organised a dance event - Dancing for the Diversity.

We had a fun morning watching dances from different special schools and institutions with their amazing costumes and enthusiasm. Shalom didn't participate, but we were there in number to support the other groups and meet friends and colleagues from the area.

We also had a stall to sell some things the young people had made.

Two people from the Christian fraternity group dancing - it was incredible - the energy and the movement they really threw their 'all' into it! and won a trophy!

2009-11-16T06:35:00.000-08:00

Medical Campaign in Ventanilla

Monday 2nd November saw a group of Drs., nurses and helpers from HealthBridges (health NGO from Portland, USA) work alongside the Diocesan team to provide health care and education to almost 100 people in the Parish of San Patricio. It was a busy day, from the early start to get team and equipment the 2 hours north of Lima, setting up the cllinic with sheets, tables and chairs and tents.

Dr.Wayne Centrone, who heads up HealthBridges, attending a patient.

I was translating and helping out

The intregrated health tent with nurse Fany and Rev. Gonzales talking to patients and giving advice and support.

HealthBridges also support individual patients who need specialsed care and attention. In Nueva Esperanza (New Hope) is Ines, mine and Wayne's God daughter who has a debilitating skin condition. Ines is improving greatly and has been attending school this year for the first time and she is really coming out of herself. We were able to visit her and her mother with Dr.Wayne and see her progress for ourselves.

Ines with mother Victoria

2009-11-16T06:17:00.000-08:00

Day of those living with disabilities

Here in Peru on 16th October we celebrate the Day of those living with disabilities. In Shalom we had a street parade, stopping the traffic, and a party. We all had a lot of fun together to celebrate this special day.

Out on the streets with banners and placards

The younger children acting out parable of the Lost Sheep - conplete with furry ears!

2009-11-16T06:02:00.000-08:00

Birthday Celebrations

Not quite the half century but almost there for the next one!

Had a busy week with several celebrations with the different church groups and friends.

2009-11-16T05:40:00.000-08:00

Floral Arrangements

In October AMA, Association of Anglican women, participated in a weekend of floral displays in our Anglican Cathedral, The Good Shepherd. Each church group was given an "I am " title to interpret. Jesus El Nazareno had John 8: 12, "I am the light of the word". I couldn't go and do the arranging but several went and I went on the Sunday to see the displays.

I am the Light of the World

The Good Shepherd

2009-10-04T22:35:00.000-07:00

Anniversary in Jesus El Nazareno

Sunday 4th October we celebrated the anniversay of Jesus El Nazareno Church.
We had a service and then all went upstairs to share some snacks, a big cake and the traditional fizzy pop in several colours and flavours!!

Singing with the cake

Betty with her son Saul and Gaby and Hans from the Sunday School

Frania, Vanessa, Alexandra and Melanie

We had found lots of photos of the past years so these were stuck on the white board and as you can see everyone wanted to have a look. The young people were particulary surprised as many of them were in the old Sunday school photos.

2009-10-04T22:18:00.000-07:00

Cooking in Shalom

On Friday we had a demonstation of the "caja maravilla' in Shalom. This is a system of cooking using two cushions filled with polysterene. The principle is rather like the old 'hay box' where you prepare the food in the normal way and then once boiling thoroughly is transfered between the 2 cushions. I had been telling the women about it but it wasn't until we cooked something that they saw the effect and realised how this could help them be more efficent in the home and also save gas.

Luisa serving the food

2009-09-25T12:21:00.000-07:00

Youth festival 2009

The lads from Nazareno

Beginning the football game which unfotunately

ended in defeat

The festival this year was held at Santismia Trinidad (Holy Trinity) Church and we filled the street with activities and people. In the afternoon there was sports championships with Football and volleyball tournaments.

presenting the "wedding game"

and marrying a few couples during the day...........

2009-09-21T13:45:00.001-07:00

Shalom Outing

To celebrate the anniverary of the Shalom Project we decided to take the children and their families on an outing out of Lima on Saturday 12th September to find some sunshine and fun together. The Lima climate in winter is very damp and dreary and this last month has been particulary bad. So we went 2 hours out of Lima and had a good day together, filling two big buses with 100 of us!

Luisa welcoming everyone on board!

Me and Luisa relaxing

Games with the ribbon sticks.....

and the parachute

No celebration complete without cake and fizzy drinks!

all the families enjoyed relaxing in the sun

2009-08-18T14:15:00.000-07:00

In the UK

From 1st May until 7th August I was in the Uk visiting my link churches and other contacts, bringing everyone up to date with the ministries in Lima, Peru and how God is blessing us and working in many peoples lives. It was good to catch up with so many friends and also to be at the New Wine summer conference and get filled up before returning to Peru.
It was also good to have a lot of time woth my mother and sisters in Dorset. Mum has done really well, now walking with her frame and getting out and about. We had several excursions in the wheelchair especially when the weather was nice.

The family in the garden

With Emmanuel Church, Chadwell St Mary

With friends from St. Jeromes, Hayes

One special day was with Mavis Crispin at Wimbolden.

2009-04-15T10:50:00.000-07:00

Renovation of Ordination Vows, Lima 8th April

Bishop William and clergy on the steps of the Good Shepherd Cathedral

( I am second from left)

2009-04-11T10:29:00.000-07:00

Crafts in Shalom

One very fun and creative part of Shalom is the craft class each Friday. I particulary enjoy it being a chance to work alongside the children and produce some exciting things. Here are just a few highlights:

candy and her clay plate decorated with shells

Leonardo and Antony enjoying their class

Junior varnishing his pot

Andres with his lizard being accompanied by his mother Nelly

Ruben with his bag puppet

Ederson's lion puppet

Rachel making Easter crosses.

Rachel will take over the craft classes in my absence and we have already planned together some exciting ideas for the children to make!

Antony and his lizard in progress

2009-04-10T10:54:00.000-07:00

Dear friends

Easter greetings to you all!

The months are whizzing by in 2009 and here we are celebrating Easter in 30 degrees in Lima. Apologies for not always sending out news but I am trying to update the blog, www.patinperulatest.blogspot.com, and hope this missle will inform those who feel uninformed!

January was spent flying across the atlantic to be with my mother who continues in hosptial following several falls and a couple of minor strokes. She is just about walking now but has other medical complications which means she is unable to go back to her home. At the moment my sisters are trying to find suitable accommodation for her. This is hard for my mother and sisters and for me being so far away. But thankfully I am due home in a couple of weeks on furlough so will be able to be close by although some what busy with church visits around the country.

I leave Peru on 29th April and arrive in the Uk on 1st May, quite a long journey but it was hard finding flights.

I begin visits on 7th May and am busy most weekends coming to you to let you know what's happening here in Peru in the different ministries I am involed with and other activities of the Diocese. For those who don't know when I am due to visit please contact your SAMS church link person who should have the details. If anyone gets this and hasn't organised a visit please email me and I can see how space is looking. I am grateful to Richard Crofts who has been helping coordinate visits as sometimes it is difficult to chase up different contacts from so far away.
I am around in the UK until beginning of August but do need time with mum and family at this difficult time of transition for my mother. I shall be at New wine as from 25th July so can catch up with many there.

Here in Lima things connitnue busy, this afternon we have a Good Friday walk from Nazareno down to the church in Shalom and a gathering there in the community. This evening we have a service in Senor de Los MIlagros the community in the invaded area near Nazareno. Tomorrow we have a baptism and then the usual Easter Day celebrations together in both churches. MOnday hopefully will be a day off.

Shalom conitues to be a blessing to all those who come for their therapies and the morning classes are an encouragement. 8 children come inthe mornings for their early stimulation and nursery classes. SAMS volunteer rachel Hovenden helps out with Luisa and Nelly. The therapies continue from 2 - 7pm each day Monday to Friday with therapists, Lourdes, Evelyn and Teresa.

The church in Shalom conitues to grow with new people coming and opportunities to reach out to the neighbours and those in the community of Victor Raul. We are having problems with moving things forward in terms of the land for building the new centre, a matter for constant prayer.

In Nazareno the work continues with a strong group of young people who I pray will rise to some leadership challenges in my absence. Priests from the local deanery are covering servies in my absence so pray that the other ministries will connitue under the leadership of the church council and other leaders in the congregation.

Well I had better get on as time passes and I need to get organised for the days activities.
Please pray for the items mentioned above and I look forward to sharing with you in person soon.

Many thanks to you all for prayers, support and encouragement in my ministry here.

Easter blessings, may we all know the power of the Living Lord in our lives, our families and our churches at this time.

With love Pat

2009-04-10T10:05:00.002-07:00

Easter Events

Easter greetings to you all!

I know we are only just getting into the Easter celebrations but want to catch up with what has happened already. For Palm Sunday the Sunday school children made decorated crosses and then we sang around the block with the instruments, finishing with a photograph together.

Then in the evening we had an open air service in the local park which again was well attended (we had a service there last month) and walked around the park with our palms.

Foot washing with the mums and children in Shalom was very special.

2009-04-09T14:29:00.003-07:00

Birthday's in Shalom

At the end of February we held a party in Shalom for all the children who had birthdays in January and February - there were a lot especially in Feb.

Junior was celebrating 26 years, here with his sister

There's always a cake!!! - for everyone together

2009-04-09T14:29:00.001-07:00

Summer classes

It seems a while ago now but will let you know about the summer activities with childrenin nazareno and Senor de los milagros. As the children have 3 month holiday we always organise classes for the children, also there is no Sunday school during summer. The youth helped plan activites for each day inNazareno, including drawing and painting, games and cinema, crafts, singing, bible and English. and once a week in Senor de los Milagros where I mananged to combine all things into a 2 hour slot!!

We had about 40 children in nazareno and 30 in Senor de los Milagros.

Singing together

working together Senor de los Milagros

Ariana and her monkey mask

Leo and Kevin building

Gabi reading

2009-04-09T14:12:00.000-07:00

Women's group Outing (AMA)

Having not had time to go on a Christmas outing the women's group from Nazareno finally escaped from family and other committments to visit the fountain park in the centre of Lima. 15 of us went with a few of the children and grandchildren and it was a thoroughly wet and interesting evening together. (sorry pics are a bit dark)

Lucila, me and Luisa

The other English looking person is SAMS volunteer Rachel Hovenden from Tunbridge Wells, working in Shalom for a few months.

2009-03-12T06:58:00.000-07:00

Shalom Nursery Classes

Monday 9th March saw the begining of the nursery school "Palomitas' - little doves - for the youngest children in Shalom for their Early Stimulation classes and nursery lessons. There will be 9 children ageing from 10 months to 8 years with a range of disabilities. Luisa will head up the team and we have recently contracted Nelly a nursery teacher with experience in special needs. Rachel Hovenden, a volunteer from SAMS Uk will be joining the team next week, Rachel is from Tunbridge Wells and will work in the Shalom project until August.

Mothers and children on the first day

Luisa and Rubi

Nelly with Marycruz and Carlos

Candy in her new uniform

2009-03-12T06:09:00.000-07:00

Diocesan Youth Camp

The weekend of 6th - 8th March 70 of us gathered out of Lima for a youth camp focusing on the theme of 'Holiness'. Talks were based around friendship, falling in love, boyfriends and girlfriends and keeping themselves pure for marriage. It was a good time and this year we took teenagers and youth together but split them in two groups for the talks so they were relevant to their age and experiences.

We arrived quite late on Friday - evening traffic in Lima but had a meal and a session on self esteem and then Saturday was packed full with talks, reflections and some 'free' time when the swimming pool became the centre of attention, especially for throwing people in!

With a bonfire on Saturday evening the days activites finished well.

Sunday morning we had a Eucharist service which included a time to make a pact with God about keeping themselves pure. We had given each camper a ring which they were then able to put on as a sign of their decision.

Then followed games which included lots of water and alot of fun.

2008-12-27T06:20:00.001-08:00

Christmas Outing Shalom

Once again the children and the families from Shalom went on an outing to a local park to celebrate Chrsitmas. We all packed into a big bus a drove the 40 minutes to Huascar Park. I took the tennis rackets and footballs and we had a lovely day together. We decided to cook lunch there so the BBQ ers were kept busy cooking the 80 chops, with the mums bringing rice and potatoes as well.

Brenda and Bryan

Marco, Felicita and Jessica

Beatrice cooking

Elena and Roy relaxing

Several took the opportunity to go horse riding and visit the animals.

Lucho and friends!

2008-12-27T05:56:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day

I managed to cook Christmas lunch, improvising with some breadcrumbs and an onion as the paxo didn't arrive in the post in time!! Anyway it was tasty, and we had a good time, Paul and Sarah Tester, David Gonzales and I. Christmas pudding was made by the ladies of the English congregation and we even had mincepies and crackers AND watched the Queen's speech on the internet!!!

I was able to phone my family and then we had a nice walk in the hot afternoon sun before going up to Nazareno to lead the service with the Sunday school performing their nativity story.

After the service we ate Paneton and drank some fizzy pop together, everyone took home ballons left over form the children's parties earlier in the week (still have to write about those).

2008-12-27T05:16:00.000-08:00

Oops!

Forgot about the birthday which coincided with a visit from SAMS rep. Richard Crofts.

A very large cake at church!

I went out for a tasty lunch by the sea in Lima with Richard, David and Bea then had a small party at my home inthe evening.

Richard accompanied me at various activities both in Shalom and Nazareno and saw other Diocesan work in Lima.

2008-12-26T12:06:00.001-08:00

Christmas in Shalom

Decided to go straight to Christmas other wise you will never get up to date news!! I am having trouble again uploading photos so hope this works.

Christmas has been busy and I got onto the TV! Due to a friend of Luisa (Shalom) having a contact with a national TV channel the Shalom Christmas party on 19th December involved a camera crew and several famous people - although I didn't know who they were!! They brought presents and a clown and other entertainment and we had a fun time together. The edited visit was shown on national TV on 24th and I recorded it with my camera although there is no sound. We hope to get a copy from the canal so hopefully you can see the all dancing all action version as opposed to the stills posted here (if I manange to !!!)

Luisa in charge of decoration with helpers Miguel Angel and Lidia

On Sunday 21st we had the Christmas service in Shalom with the children dressing up for the nativity story. Thankfully we had taken out the partition in the main room so we were able to fit everyone in - well at a push and with many standing.

After the servce we had the traditional hot chocolate and paneton provided by a friend Doris and some sweets and a Christmas mug for everyone.

I also attended a Christmas activity in the Sector Victor Raul, where we hope to build the new centre, and began to get to know some of the children and families living in our new neighbourhood. Shalom is moving premises in the new year as we are really unable to function in such a small space. We are going to rent all the ground floor of a house of one of the community leaders so we will have a bit more space for the time being. It is also a good move to get into comminuty life and start being a Christian presence in Victor Raul and encourage them to take some initiatives to improve their community. Please pray as this signifies a lot more pastoral work and my time is stretched already as you know!

2008-12-26T12:02:00.000-08:00

AMA Women's Retreat

The last weekend in October almost 100 women from the various churches in Lima and visitors from Christchurch, Plano, Texas, headed out of Lima for a weekend retreat, 'Healed to Serve'.
10 of us went from Nazareno and we had a very restful and positive time together.

I led the Sunday Eucharist and was also able to pray with several women during the reflective times over the weekend. It was great that so many of the women were able to attend, it is often difficult to get away due to family and work ties but God certainly blessed us for taking the time out to focus on him and share and learn together.

2008-12-26T12:00:00.001-08:00

Visits and Crafts in Shalom

In October Jill Gramann from Worcester Diocese came to visit Peru. She was particulary interested in the ministry of Shalom due to link with SCOPE in the Uk and spent some happy times with us. We had a craft afternoon and were busy making masks - it was scary!!!!!

2008-12-26T11:57:00.001-08:00

Light Party

As an alternative to the children roaming the streets on 31st October, as has become the custom here, we held our usual Light Party in Jesus El Nazareno with about 40 children attending. Nestor led the games and we had some craft time and then snacks and a video about sharing. The children had a good time and so did the helpers!

2008-12-26T11:51:00.000-08:00

Baptisms

On 8th October there were 5 baptisms and 6 first communions in Jesus el Nazareno. Although the families were from the Shalom ministry we had the service in Nazareno with much more space for family and church guests and also with the baptistry to hand. Maria Claudia is a child with cerebral palsy and her mother invited her sister and family to participate in the church and they have become regular members. It was a delight to baptise both the parents, Juan Carlos and Ana and their two children, Imanol and Estefani as well as Maria Claudia's mother, Maria.
It is great the way God is blessing Shalom and the church is growing.

2008-12-26T11:43:00.000-08:00

Nazareno Anniversary

The first week in October also saw the celebrations of the anniversary of Jesus El nazareno church. We had a street party with hot dogs, games and sale of bits and pieces. In the evening we had a talent night.

2008-11-13T10:37:00.000-08:00

Second Anniversary - Shalom

1st October saw a gathering of children, mums, friends, neighbours and families to celebrate the second official anniversary of Shalom. It was a honour to have Bea Magowan present and others to give thanks to God for the ministry amongst those with disabilities and also present various songs and dances to celebrate.

Luisa with the 3 - 6 year olds who attend Shalom in the mornings.

2008-11-13T10:18:00.000-08:00

Dear friends

Please bear with me as I get up to date with news and photos since the last posting earlier in the year. I will start in Oct and hope to catch up before the Chrsitmas activities are upon us!!!

Activities for the day of those living with disabilities

October 16th Oficial day of those living with disabilities. In Shalom we had a tea party and some games, conditions still very cramped. Bea Magowan and Rev. Tony Attwood joined us from Worcester Diocese.

On Friday 24th the local government network groups joined together for a parade through the streeets and a party in the park. It was a very happy time together.

Andres and Ederson

Carrying the Shalom banners

Children with the local Mayor (in pink cardigan)

2008-05-08T08:26:00.001-07:00

Pat in Perú
Dear Friends May 2008

Apologies for the delay in getting news to you. I have been updating the blog but the last couple of months have flown by – that always seems to be my excuse! Here in Peru winter has arrived rather abruptly and am having to find warmer clothes and re sort the wardrobe. Sunday saw the first overcast day and today is the same. Please pray that we shall not have such a harsh winter as last year, the situation is so difficult for many people in the shanty towns with inadequate housing. I am looking forward to coming back to the UK in a couple of months and hope to see some of you there. As I mentioned I will be at New Wine from 26th July so if you will be there as a church please make contact via the SAMS stall in the market place and leave a message.

This weekend is rather busy with Pentecost services and also celebrating Mother’s Day here. On Saturday we have a full day of activities with Shalom, the disabled ministry, anticuchos (cow’s heart), bazaar, selling other food and face painting with a service and presentations by some of the children. I really want to praise God for the great blessings we are seeing in Shalom. These last couple of months have been so encouraging in the ministry. In February we started a Sunday morning service and we now have over 30 attending and the space within the centre is too small. Mother’s come with their children and some local neighbours also. Many of the mum’s said they feel able to come along because the children are included; they play their instruments and join in. In other churches they have felt excluded because people complain about their special needs children who are not silent in the services! We also have a Sunday school class following the service and we have several in preparation for baptism and first communion, both mum’s and children. Luisa does a great job in the mornings with the very young children and in the afternoons coordinates those coming in for their therapies. Lourdes, Lourdes and Jesus are our 3 therapists and Ruth comes in once a week to oversee the professional side of the work, checking on therapy programs and activities for each child according to their disability.
I go two or three afternoons a week and am able to chat to the mum’s and pray with them and on Fridays I teach crafts, we have had such wonderful times together. Shalom has become a place where the families can come and feel accepted and welcomed without discrimination. The acceptance of children and adults with disabilities is not good within Peruvian society, there is a lot of shame and rejection and misunderstanding through ignorance and lack of integration.
We have not made much progress with finding a place for the ministry. The houses we have looked at are not adequate and would need a lot of adapting. I am praying that we shall be able to find some land and build something purpose built for the needs of those with disabilities. Please continue to join us in prayer for this.

The work at Jesus El Nazareno continues to develop especially with the youth and children. I am trying to delegate more and rely on them, especially as we now also the ministries in Shalom. I would like to see more integration with the members from Nazareno with Shalom, several have visited on Sunday mornings and hopefully on Saturday they will attend the activity. On Good Friday we had our walk from Nazareno down to Shalom and we gathered quite a crowd from the two churches. The women’s group is going strong, last Saturday 9 of us went to the AMA (Anglican Women’s) retreat and joined others form the different churches for a day of teaching and encouragement. The sewing groups are also busy with orders; Jean is away this month so I am doing a bit more coordinating on that. Pray for all the women involved and also those who sell items in the United States and in the UK, to enable the sustainability of the work.

The Bishop has now returned to Peru and although delicate in health he is getting back into things here slowly. During the recent Diocesan Synod I was elected to form part of a nominating committee to find an assistant Bishop, please pray for us as we meet to discern and consider possible candidates. We continue to have our regular deanery meeting for the south of Lima and last Friday we met in Nazareno to pray and share together. Pray for those who will cover the services in my absence. We are also planning a joint confirmation service for 8th June in Pamplona, due to the Bishop’s illness and then absence it has been decided to have a confirmation celebration together before he returns to the UK in June to attend some conferences. I have quite a few candidates so please pray for their preparation and the service, for a real blessing and outpouring of the Spirit in their lives.
During April I suffered from ill health quite a bit, first some virus and then stomach problems which had me in the clinic for an investigation. They have now put me on a special diet, no coffee, no chocolate (sob, sob!!) and other spices and things. I am having to cook more at home which is not my scene really but I am managing OK, although today I am not too well hence I have time to type this letter!! Then as the weather started to change I got my usual cough and bronchial trouble. In amongst all this I was supposed to get an essay finished for my MA. Whilst at home in bed I was able to pray and sort through priorities and have decided to put to one side my studies as I do not have time and when I sat and did my essay all I thought about was all the other things in my churches I should/could be doing. Once I made the decision and wrote to the seminary I felt a lot better and now feel able to concentrate on the things, and people, which are important here. We also had an NGO meeting last month and I am no longer part of the board of directors, due to a change over, but I did almost find myself being elected vice president, but thankfully was able to decline for the same reasons already mentioned above. One positive thing is that I have started playing squash again with Margaret on Mondays which is a good break.

Well I hope this has filled you in with some of the news and brought you up to date. I continually thank God for his many blessings here and for you all who through your support and prayers, accompany me in the ministry here.

Prayer requests:
· For all the mum’s and children in Shalom
· For the Sunday services in Shalom and this Saturday’s activities
· For land to build a centre for those with disabilities
· For Luisa and the therapists in their day to day work with the children
· For my health and the use of my time and resources
· For those in preparation for Baptism, First Communion and Confirmation
· For the churches and ministry during my absence July/Aug
· For the Bishop, especially his health, and the election of an Assistant Bishop
· That the Lima winter would not be too harsh

With much love and many blessings, Pat
Reg. Charity: 221328 Allen Gardiner Cottage, Pembury Road, Tunbridge Wells Kent TN2 3QU Patricia Blanchard Artesanos 150#151, Apartado Postal #116, Lima 33, Peru
email:- pblanchard@anglicanperu.org
info. and more photos posted on: http://www.patinperulatest.blogspot.com

2008-03-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

Easter Activities:

Good Friday Walk
It began more like a Sunday school outing on Good Friday as we gathered at Nazareno church to head off for our walk down to the Shalom centre. Then several adults and young people joined us and we set off with the cross pausing to read from Matthew's Gospel and pray together.

After walking 13 blocks we reached the Shalom centre where several families were waiting. We stood in the street and finished our readings and continued to sing together.

We shared the peace, greeting those we didn't know and the children from Nazareno gave out crosses they had decorated.

We then had a break with drinks and more singing before heading off around the block together before those from Nazareno headed back up the hill. We were over 60 in total and

I give thanks to God for the ministry in both Nazareno and Shalom and pray that there will be more opportunities to share together.

Baptism

On Saturday evening Jessica was baptized, the 1 year old sister of a special needs youth from Shalom. The family regulary attend church and it is great to see the fruit of this ministry.

Easter Day

On Easter Sunday also it was a Shalom moment when two families from the Shalom mission gathered with those 'early birds' from Nazareno to celebrate the resurrection and also the first comunion of Bryan and Frank. We then shared breakfast together and then Diana and I had Sunday school - It had been a busy morning!