Men and women could be seen searching every face, anxiously awaiting the arrival of loved ones. Children, grandchildren, moms, dads, grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles were overjoyed to be able to see family members. “Dia de los Niño’s” (Day of the Children) was a big event held at the Ensenada Prison. Families of inmates joined together to celebrate the day packed with exciting activities including jump houses, food and fine fellowship. It was a day to remember! One man’s eyes welled with tears when he saw his young daughter. How long had it been since they had seen each other? For some inmates it is weeks, others it is months and then there are others that do not see their family members for years.
Dias de los Niño’s was one of many events held in the Ensenada Prison this past month. Each event carries a message of God’s love. Each person is given the opportunity to get to know God personally. How beautiful to see people recognize their need for our Heavenly Father. A father that reaches out, encouraging his children to walk a path that will lead them to peace in the midst of their surroundings. I can’t imagine how some withstand the conditions in a third world prison with out His love and support.
Lorianne, Silvia, Cheryl, Jose Luis, Barb and Liz kneeling-Ensenada Prison
We are thankful to those that continue to join us on Vision Trips. Liz, Ruth and Lorianne spent an adventurous week with us in El Faro. The week consisted of two Prison Ministry events (10 people came to know Jesus personally during these events), a Cultural Day in downtown Ensenada, serving lunch at a breakfast feeding program in East Tijuana and spending time with children at two different orphanages. I am sure the women returned to Canada exhausted, but I assure you they left a piece of their hearts behind in Mexico. Great job ladies!!!!
Liz, Ruth and Lorianne after a busy week of ministry
During one of the many Prison Ministry events this past month, a prison guard shared the story of one of the inmates in our program. All the guards know her story and agree she does not belong in the prison. Jasso is in prison due to false accusations. In the bible there is a story similar to Jasso’s story. A man named Paul goes to prison because he is a believer in Jesus Christ and becomes a great encouragement to the other inmates around him. Jasso is the most incredible women I have ever met! Her heart to serve and mentor the women inmates never ceases to amaze me. She is a true example of a servant and follower of Jesus. She is the prison chaplain, shepherd and care giver to those around her.
We are thankful for Jessica (college student and summer intern for YUGO) for setting up a shoe drive at the Point Loma College in San Diego and collecting tennis shoes for the male inmates. The Director of the prison continues to share with us the desperate need for new or slightly used sneakers for the male inmates. Colleges, schools and running clubs are great places to gather sneakers. If you can help in collecting sneakers for the male inmates, feel free to contact us!
On top of an adventurous month of ministry, we are pleased to share that the twins have arrived! Jessica delivered Gabriel and Isabelle on May 7. Mom and babies were released for the hospital Mothers Day. The twins are wonderful addition to the family. We can’t wait to meet them when we return to Canada in August.
Rebekah walked down the aisle with her cap and gown after four semesters with the LPN course. Rod and I a grateful my parents John and Gerry were able to attend the celebration.One more semester and Rebekah will complete her LPN training and go through her Pinning Ceremony. We intend to be there to cheer her on.
Gerry (gramma), Rebekah, Eric & John (grampa)
