(Below: Tungurahua erupting)
Through January and February, the volcano Tungurahua, which means "throat of fire," increased its activity, shooting columns of ash into the air. The volcano is about 140 miles from where we live in Quito, far enough away that we are safe. However, we do ask for your prayers for the several thousand people who had to be evacuated from their homes. For a video of HCJB Global's response, follow this link.
Torrential rain has also been causing problems for thousands of Ecuadorians, particularly on the coast, where flooding is severe. The president declared a national state of emergency and HCJB Global has been coordinating with other ministries and churches in relief efforts.
(Below: Donations ready to be packed at HCJB Global in Quito)
Along with sending health care workers and community developers (specializing in water projects), our mission has been collecting food and toiletries to make relief packages that can sustain a family of five for a week. Trucks from our mission, each carrying tons of goods, continue to drive down to the coast. For a really terrific video of the relief work (created by fellow HCJB Global missionary, Martin Harrison) follow this link.
(Below: Relief packages await transport)
Finally, we are relieved that political tensions have eased after a successful regional summit of Latin American leaders in early March. The crisis was triggered after a raid in which the leader of a rebel group, Revolutionary Armed Forces of Columbia (FARC), was killed on Ecuadorian soil by Colombian security forces. We are so grateful the dispute over sovereignty was peacefully resolved and we ask your prayers for continued peace in our nation here and throughout Latin America.
FAMILY NEWS
As the nation has been dealing with various crises, we've faced a few challenges of our own. The entire family has been battling illness for the last month, including a respiratory infection that landed Luke in the emergency department twice.
(Below: Luke gets some TLC from Tia Rachel)
Fortunately, Beth's sister, Rachel, was visiting from the U.S. during the worst of our illnesses, so we had extra hands to help out. It wasn't the vacation Rachel had imagined, but it sure was great timing for us! And fortunately, we were functional enough to squeeze in a little sightseeing and fun.
(Below: Rachel stands on the equator at Mitad del Mundo)
(Below: Beth & Rachel enjoy the view at Pululagua)
