Pastor Jeremy - Somoto, Nicaragua

Hello Peninsula Grace,

First, my appologies for not blogging sooner. In Managua, the Project HOPE base is well equipped to stay connected with the outside world. However, in Somoto, we must visit a local phone & internet hub in order to connect to you all. At times, this local hub is packed with locals or the connection is poor. Regardless, I am connected now!

To report on the building projects, they are going well. I have become quite efficient in laying brick and to be honest, I quite enjoy it. It has been hot, but not terrible. There is always a nice breeze in this area of Nicaragua, which makes the work a bit more enjoyable. To comment on the houses, I feel that we achieved quite a lot, considering our group size. This being said, don`t worry - we left the Peninsula Grace group lots to do!

As for my specific role in Somoto, I spent two of the days, helping Marvin (Project HOPE Staff Member) run a soccer program for the street-youth and it went incredible! In the end, we had to run two tournaments, in two seperate barrios because the youth in these two areas do not mix. Gang territories among the street youth are very prevelent and could cause problems within the tournament.

Within the two days, we facilitated two tournaments in the two seperate barrios. It was amazing! We were able to share the gospel to each group before and after the tournaments. As well, building relationships with many young people during the games. Out of our ministry this week, a couple community leaders will be starting a league to connect the barrios and unite the city of Somoto - all under the Biblical principles of loving God and loving your neighbor...even your enemies!

I think that is all I have to report. I will try to attach some photos, once we get back to Managua tomorrow. Thank you for your prayers and I`ll see you all soon enough!

Jeremy