These first few photos are of the celebration Wednesday night at the church, which is called "Mount of Olives". Wednesday night was the eve of Mexican Independence Day. They celebrate the "eve" because that is when Hidalgo gathered the people into the church to organize the revolution against the Spaniards, crying out "Viva Mexico!!". (I think I have that right...) So after the church service was a huge party...everyone dressed in traditional clothing...tables set up with all different kinds of food...tacos, tostadas, tamales, jello (very popular here), and a sort of thick drink made out of corn and chocolate...reminded me a little of Malt-O-Meal. Also corn on the cob, on a stick, spread with mayonnaise, chili powder, and cheese. Um, different. :) Anyway, this photo is of El Monte staff member known as "G" smashing a hollowed out egg filled with confetti and flour, over one of the boys' heads. The egg thing is a tradition of Independence Day. Needless to say, we're still getting flour out of our hair! :)


At the celebration, LOTS of people got up and sang songs! There was also a contest to see who could shout "Viva Mexicoooooooo" and hold it the longest!


Kerra Wilson, Tim and Joe enjoying some DELICIOUS food, drink, and of course, Coca Cola!


This is a view of the town of Ticuman from a high point at El Monte. We spent a few minutes praying for the people in the valley. Between El Monte and the people at the Mount of Olives church (which is situated sort of up the hill on the other side of the valley) there is a fervent passion to make the Gospel known. At the church service on Wednesday, the pastor made the connection as they celebrated political freedom...that there is a need for spiritual freedom as well...libre! Mexico's history is wrought with "being conquered", and this permeates the culture in many ways I never realized. God has placed very passionate people here to share freedom in Christ.


Pictured here is G, David Mitchell, Paul Wilson, and Tim heading off to figure out some electrical issues.....holding up their coffee cups (real or otherwise...)


We are expecting hurricane Karl to pretty much pass right over us, which may mean loss of power and internet for a while. Hopefully not! If so, we'll be in our little house on the mountain with a few candles and hopefully not too many critters! By the way, we had a visit at our house by a tarantula today...pics to come.

Your prayers have been felt, because today I feel so much more at home and ready to dive into El Monte! Thank you so much!

Love, Teri