"I've never been swimming before..."

This was the words spoken by a 13 year old boy, Gabito. He was one of about 50 kids and 15 moms that we took swimming to a local public pool from the Cadereyta. You could easily tell the Americans from the Mexicans. You see, the kids and moms we brought went swimming in their clothes while the American group changed into their swimsuits. That was the only difference I saw as I glanced over the crowd of people who were splashing, swimming, smiling, gigling. One girl that we have been praying with each week, Nuri, seemed brighter that day. She has had a hard life and now finds herself 15 and pregnant with twins. Her usually downcast faced showed a twinkle in her eyes. Everyone was refreshed. After a few hours in the pool, the group put on a VBS and dinner was served. Hotdogs and watermelon was the only thing some of them had eaten all day.
Praise God for placing the idea of a different kind of outreach when we brainstormed at our retreat last May. God is faithful. Pray for more special times to relate and share Jesus' love with these women and children.

Thank you Pleasant View Church

Recently we received a couple of care packages. One being from our home church, Pleasant View Church. They sent so many fun things for the boys to share with others. We were overwhelmed with the amount of toys, activities, and yes, candy that was sent. They were especially touched by a skateboard from their friend Robbie. In that package was a note stating that PVC was praying for ways the boys could share these things. We have been able to include our boys in ministry when we can. Now more than ever they are thinking how they can be apart and share what they have and God's love with others. Thank you Pleasant View for your prayers and support.

Some photos of our day at the Rio

God is good all the time. The group that went to the Rio was so caring and loving. They immediately held babies, made crafts, told Bible Stories, colored and played games with the kids. They related to moms. It was a great day. Praise God that He is faithful when we just get out of the way.

Proclaiming her own faith

Greg enjoyed baptizing one of the daughters of Bill and Heather Merrill (staff here at Back2Back). Greg has felt blessed to take part of this as we and other staff witnessed Jenna's proclamation of her faith.

Tomorrow is a first for me......

I could use more prayers. First of all thank you for your prayers as God has carried us and continues to carry us through a flu like bug. Interns, Group members and staff alike. It can be so difficult to switch people around. God is good. This week we have 120 people here. Four groups and we are excited.
Tomorrow is a first for me. I am the head staff, leading an outreach to the Rio tomorrow after church. I will have two teens, Cesar and Junior, with me. They are great guys and will be of great help to me. Please pray that God will do great things and that I would get out of the way. I am proclaiming Ephesians 3:20 " Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."
Thank you. I love knowing we have friends that will pray. Sorry I didn't give you much notice. I'll try and do better next time.
Cathy

Prayers needed.....

Would you join us in praying for the ministry here. We are battling illnesses from the group, interns and staff? Not sure if its the flu or something eaten but it has kept many from participating. God continues to work but I think Satan would love to slow us down or take us out. Please pray for perserverence and patience. And for God to be glorified in it all. Thank you.
Cathy

Happy Father's Day, Honey

I have been trying find a way to post this picture. This is how Greg wanted to spend his birthday last year. He and the boys face painted their faces and Big Time Wrestled in the family room. My husband is a great Dad. When we were first married, he used to say I can't wait to see how my kids are embarrassed about things I will do. Well, I'm not sure they are embarrassed (not yet) but they adore their Dad. Happy Father's Day Honey.