Man alive. I have two really fun events to share with you all.
First of all, two nights ago Elizabeth and I went to Catholic Church with her Ecuadorian mom and dad. We came home very hungry for dinner and enjoyed a delicious grilled cheese sandwich around the kitchen island. After showering we hopped in the car, clad in our church attire and were excited and nervous for the coming adventure. Once at the church we greeted every person in our path and immediately felt welcomed in this new environment. The service was an interesting hybrid combining Catholic rituals with a comfortable and more modern atmosphere. Sitting in plastic chairs in a room with 100 people we sang, participated in prayers, and listened intently to the sermon. Much to our surprise we understood what was going on and what was being preached. The sermon was about hope and begged the question- what is your hope in? Is it in your appearance, your job, your spouse, your career, money, your future, your studies, your boyfriend, your friends? The pastor encouraged us to put our hope in eternal life through Christ, the only thing we can put our hope in that will not let us down and that has infinite value and worth. It was a powerful message with an animated delivery. At one point during the two hour service there was a time of prayer during which Elizabeth’s adorable mom prayed for her American guests—a very moving gesture. Communion was served in true Ecuadorian fashion—lots of bread. I somehow managed to get the whole piece in my mouth and then spend the next three to four minutes chewing, careful not to choke. The members of the church made sure there was no bread left and served some people two pieces while everyone meticulously licked their finger and made sure to get every last crumb off of their hand. At the end of the service the congregation joined in a circular dance with a box step in unison. Naturally, Elizabeth and I jumped right in. the whole night left us beaming from ear to ear as we were able to see how the Christian Community spans across cultures, nationalities, and languages. While we have many differences we worship the same God.
Sunday morning I arose at 6am to throw on my hiking gear and quickly enjoy a delicious breakfast mi mama insisted on preparing. I walked to town, climbed on a bus, and was driven an hour away with the majority of interns and an eclectic crew of Ecuadorians ranging in all ages and athletic ability. All 54 “trekkers” participated in some interesting but effective warm up stretches combining yoga with squats and air circles. We then began our what would end up being seven hour climb from one small rural town to another through the muddy mountains. We had to stop at least every 30 minutes to let the people in the back catch up which was frustrating but allowed for great conversations. We were passed by indigenous peoples on horseback, by passed sheep, cows, and walked through pastures, on the ridge, and through trees. It was absolutely gorgeous. For at least an hour and a half we were strategically making our way through muddy paths where one wrong step resulted in sinking a foot deep. Despite the circumstances we only had two interns fall and ended the hike with some mud soaked pants and boots. After the hike I rushed home to catch a movie with my Ecuadorian brothers but no one was home. I guess my communication is not quite as good as I had originally thought. However, I was able to enjoy dinner with some friends. What a day. Ecuador is so wonderful.
Hasta luego,
Cate
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