Despedida: ( farewell) Festa de despedida: (leaving party) It was a party indeed! I expected the evening to be embarrassing, overwhelming and very sad. Yes, it was awkward to have so many friends snapping photos all evening and humbling to listen to folks say all the kind words, but the service and fellowship was uplifting, fun and full of laughter. I was so blessed to see and hear so many members of the congregation using their individual talents in such a creative and unified way to bless everyone who attended.
One of the highlights of the evening for me was the presentation of "Carry the Light" by a choral group from the Church, because the singers have come such a long way from the days when we were training them to stay on pitch and sing with faces that reflected the words.
The children from the congregation presented a song with a mission theme and as you can see each one dressed to represent a different country.
Even my cat, Alegria was featured in an original show put on by the puppet team from the church which included puppets representing Geny, Alana, Ana and myself.
Everyone involved with the service did a fantastic job and it was encouraging to see the results of everyone working so hard together for a common goal. My prayer for them is that they will continue to work in unity and use their creative gifts to bring the Gospel to their neighbors and friends, minister to the residents at the rehab center, and mentor the children from the Casa Lar.
My "Sweet" banner.........Homero, Nelci and Alesandra.....special gift from missionaries
The evening ended with food, of course...including a huge cake with chocolate icing and strawberries...yummy! I had to be first at the table and apparently did not take enough food because Geny took my plate and added about 5 more "salgados!" It was a wonderful evening...one I shall always cherish in my heart.
...at the end...one more surprise.. "now a few words from Loretta...." pretty sneaky..but no time to get anxious!...Loretta with the puppet team and puppets.
1 comment:
What wonderful memories! Looks like everyone really cares about you.
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