Independence Day and the Palms

        I have been continuing to go out on Saturdays to a batey called Concho Primo and just recently I was thinking about how much has changed and what progress I have seen since I first visited last year in April. The kids are better behaved and attentive while Michael or Nicole are teaching the lesson (for the most part J ). Before we were having problems with them talking during the story or constantly walking in and out of the room, but now they will sit there focusing on what is being said. Sometimes, if they are acting out, we ask them if they want to leave and they instantly correct behavior because they don’t want to leave! Also, the Dombrowksy’s and Nicole have developed a good schedule for us to follow every week that makes it easier for us to control the kids and gives us an opportunity to follow up with the children, asking them questions about the lesson. The boys and girls are learning and memorizing bible verses and well as recalling the stories we have discussed and at the same time having fun singing songs and doing silly crafts! Nicole and Annie have even made some progress with the women in the batey, which is huge, by doing some homemade crafts with them. On Saturday, they were able to pass out the necklaces they made that week and we all noticed how much more open the women were to us and were excited about their necklaces. One woman even asked what they were going to make next! I am really just a very small part of the ministry in Concho Primo, but I am excited to help out in the little ways I can and praise God for the work He is doing there.

            February 27^th was also Independence Day and that meant tons of flags and celebrations! On Wednesday, we had the wax museum at school, which is when selected students from each grade come dressed up to school as a specific famous Dominican. They have to memorize a little speech about the person they are portraying and two times during the day classes and visitors can go outside and listen to them as they share.   Then on Thursday, I got to watch the parade from outside my apartment as all the schools in San Pedro had selected students to march down the main street in our area (Calle Independencia) carrying flags, banging drums, or doing a little choreography. Later in the day, I went over to school for a church picnic where we were able to play games, swim or just chat. It was a very relaxing day and it was exciting to be able celebrate the country’s independence for my 2^nd time!

            The school has been changing so much (in a good way) and we have many prayer requests. One is for teachers for next year. We are in desperate need of teachers for the following year. Currently, the school is looking for teachers for 1^st grade, 5^th grade, 6^th grade. So if you know anyone, let me know! Secondly, since our school is growing every year, we have run out of space again and our administrators are currently looking into several different options and would really appreciate your prayers about this financial strain. Thirdly, if you can pray for the students, that they would not only grow mentally, but also spiritually, including those who have currently not placed their trust in Christ.