Ruth starts her classes in medicine next month and she has already registered. Since there was a 20% discount for those who pay for all 10 semesters up front, she decided to pay for her education in one payment. She’s committed and we’re excited for her! Thank you to all of you who are praying for Ruth and providing the funds she needs to excel at home and at school. Beyond her studies, Ruth has been attending a couple of youth groups at church. We’re happy to see her integrating into her church family. Please pray that she can continue to grow in her faith and strengthen her friendships with other believers. 

Todd and Graciela Spence, along with Todd’s brother’s family (Tim, Amy, and Brynn) came down to Bolivia on a short term mission trip through Calvary Community Church to serve at Talita Cumi. They also took an afternoon to meet Ruth, Helen, and Raquel (Regina is currently visiting her family in Germany). We conversed while sharing a snack and coffee. This was the first team to come down to visit Ruth’s House, and I hope that more will come in the future!

Helen has only been at Ruth’s House for a few weeks and she’s taking it in stride. I’ve been encouraged by how she’s decided to keep attending the church where the Talita Cumi children go and she eats lunch at the children’s home after the service. Beyond that, she’s advancing well in her gastronomy course at night. Here is a picture of what she prepared for her midterm exam:

One of my prayers has been that Helen and Ruth would get along well. So far, that seems to be the case as they enjoy chatting together often and sharing meals. Please pray that they can continue to grow in friendship.

In addition to the Calvary Community Church team, Dave and Angela Pang came down separately to visit the children at Talita Cumi, especially Ana, the girl that they sponsor.

I had the pleasure of taking the Pangs out with Ana and one of her younger sisters, Kiomi, so they could get to know each other better and see the main plaza. We took pictures by the cathedral and then ate sandwiches and açaí. During our lunch, Ana told us that she wants to live at Ruth’s House. She turns 18 years old later this year, so she wouldn’t enter in until January of next year, making her the fourth girl to participate in the ministry.

The children at Talita Cumi are currently on their winter vacation, which typically lasts 2-3 weeks. Please pray that they can make the most of their rest and recreation during their break. Here is the most current photo of all of the children at the home with the Calvary team that came down:

Thank you for your prayers. Thank you for supporting the children and Ruth’s House.