Spying Out the Land

Today (Friday) we ventured onto the streets to prepare ourselves for our work amongst he street children next week. We had opportunity to meet those who co-ordinate the work, and spent much time in prayer as we began to realise the vastness of the task facing the team. Sharon Humphries and Joscelyn Bell recall the day...

Nerves crept in as we travelled to the drop-in centre, but they were quickly settled when we were greeted by the friendly faces of a few of the local Mexicans who run the centre. After a long walk we arrived to the first of the four sites we were scheduled to visit. We were greeted by visions of squallor and destitution. Everyone was in disbelief. We then found a clearing where Andrew Agnew led us in a time of prayer and meditation. A verse that touched the hearts of many of the team members was Lamentations 2 v 21: 'Young and old lie together in the dust of the streets; my young men and maidens have fallen by the sword. You have slain them in the day of your anger; you have slaughtered them without pity.'

We walked a little further and on the way to the second stop met two street kids begging on a crossing bridge. Andrew, who knew the kids, introduced us to the two brothers who had been living on the streets for around fifteen years. A third kid then asked the team why we had come to Mexico, and then answered his own question by saying that he knew that we had come to show them Gods love. Even though he knew these facts he still continues to live on the streets on drugs. Sharon asked the kid that, if he had one wish, what would it be. He replied saying that he would wish there would be no streets kids or violence towards them. While walking back to the centre we prayed individually, we had seen a lot and had much to think about and pray for.

After lunch we returned to the streets, and travelled by bus to an area near the Basilica which had been previously used by a group of street kids who were well known to the missionaries. Andrew explained that many of these kids had committed suicide and their friends found their loss very difficult. The missionaries had also struggled with this loss and recalled how they had been asked to provide support at a hospital or a funeral. This group originally went to the church in Santa Monica but have become spiritually hard and the two remaining members have moved away.

After more travelling on the Metro and by bus, plus lots of walking, we came to our last stop. This was fairly close to the drop-in centre and proved that " Those who sow in tears shall reap with joy" Psalm 126 v 5-6. Alex and Pati have been in contact with this group three times per week and have begun to see fruit for their labours. We met three friends. One had left the streets but had returned because of his addiction to drugs, the second is off the streets and says he will never go back. The third, who self-harms, has family who live nearby but he refuses to return home.

The group that these people belong to now attend the drop-in centre on their own inititive and it is very evident that Alex, Pati and the missionary team have built up a strong trusting relationship with them.

Before returning to the drop-in centre we prayed that more local Mexicans would make a long term commitment to providing practical and spiritual support for these kids. Andrew also asked us to pray that the kids would have the strength and grace to leave the streets, and they would realise that change must start in their hearts.

Reaching New Heights

Our time in Mexico City is flying by, and it's hard to believe that our first week is nearing an end. It has been a great blessing to us to know that you are partnering with us in our work, through prayer and your encouraging comments on the blog. Here two more team members share their thoughts on another day.

Laura Williamson
Today (Thursday) we took another trip out to see some of the Mexican culture. Around 30 miles northeast of Mexico City are the ancient city ruins of Teotihuacán. Construction of the city probably started in the first two centuries BC, and the civilization reached its high point between 350 and 650 AD. We also learnt from Margaret and Robin that the Aztec people used to drug captives at the temple and then make them walk the mile long path past the pyramid of the moon to be sacrificed at the pyramid of the sun which they believed gave them strength and power.

A few brave souls took up the challenge of climbing the pyramid to the sun (the tallest of the two pyramids). Meanwhile others stayed at the bottom and watched us precariously climb the two and a half football pitches in height parts of which were practically vertical steps (I don't think the Aztecs had heard of an even rise and run!). But it was well worth the effort when we arrived at the top to see the spectacular view.

The Afternoon was spent sharing a prayer time with the local full time missionaries. In the evening Elisa and Juan Ramirez made us tea and we had the privilege of hearing their testimonies through which God richly blessed us. Many of the team are feeling tired but are finding strength in Isaiah 40 v 29 - 31 'He gives strength to the weary and increases power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.'

Andrew Black
We headed to English Class, where the students were celebrating the completion of their course. Julia and Margaret were leading the class. We began by playing a game, where we sat on chairs in a circle, with one person standing in the centre. This person had to say something like "Anyone wearing blue jeans", and then anyone who was wearing blue jeans had to get up and find another chair, while the person in the centre had to try and get a chair before they were all taken. Once I was stranded in the middle and couldn't think of anything to say, so I eyed Mr Roycroft's chair and said "Anyone wearing no socks". All I can say is that I feel sorry for his chiropodist!

Maggie gave her testimony, which was translated into Spanish. For me it was a real source of blessing because it was so genuine and Maggie spoke completely from the heart. At the end of the class the students were given the opportunity to talk to us in English. One guy I spoke to has been saved for five years and is the only believer in his family. He said that it was a struggle, but that his faith in the Lord is strong. As we were saying good-bye he said to me "If we never meet again I'll see you up there (heaven)" .

There was a young boy to whom Carolyn gave a Man United top with Eric Cantona on the back of it- talk about leading him astray! His face was brimming with joy- priceless. Since being here I have been overwhelmed by the friendliness and warmth of the people. It really has touched my heart. My one regret is that I didn't learn more Spanish.

Building Excitement

The work of the team continues, with the workers getting their hands dirty in some practical labour over the past few days. Two more team members share their experiences...

Maggie Burrows

Yesterday and today (Tuesday and Wednesday) we were helping Margaret and Robin and some of the Mexican believers to prepare for their Holiday Bible School. Our task was to create "King David's throne room".

We felt completely out of our comfort zone as, when we asked Margaret what we were to do, she pointed to an empty stage and said "you can do what you want, you have a clean slate". We were provided with a large roll of white material, some paint, cardboard and wood and left to get on with it.

It was absolutely amazing to see how everyone worked together and used their talents creating curtains, torches, carpet and a decorated throne whilst "the men" even built a castle!

It was even more amazing that the passage of Scripture Pastor Andrew brought at devotions was the parable of the talents where the master gave his servants talents according to their ability and expected them to use them to produce more talents (Matt ch 25 v 14-30).

Sunday morning's sermon was also about Jesus being the Vine and we are the branches, and if we abide in Him we can produce much fruit (John ch 15 v 5).

I felt that as God called us to Mexico He also equipped us to do the job. We also had some craic and diversional therapy on the way.

John Humphries

"Your task for the next two days is to build a castle!" That was the brief from Margaret. "It is for the Holiday Bible School starting on Saturday night". Then it was questions- where? what with? have you a plan? Then we found that the castle was to be the entrance to King David's throne room but the materials that had been ordered had not turned up, and "no, we don't have plans!"

So the construction firm of Roycroft, Knipe, Black and Humphries were brought in while the ABC interior design team started the throne room. Hurried plans were drawn and passed by Margaret & Co. Then with the all-clear it was off to "Home Depot" for wood.

As we worked to complete our task it was rewarding to think that the team was doing something small to help spread God's Word amongst the children of Mexico City. We are not just building castles here on earth, but building the Kingdom of God.

Getting to the Heart of Mexico

Monday was a day set aside in our itinerary for some cultural assimilation and sampling of Mexico's rich past. It was a challenging, heartbreaking and thrilling day by turns. Three team members share their experiences of different aspects of their exposure to the 'heart' of Mexico.

Alister Knipe - The Basilica
Our day started with Margaret and Robin, OMS missionary school teachers and our hosts for these two weeks, giving a brief overview of the history of Mexico City and helping us gain an understanding of the religious beliefs and traditions of the majority of the population.



This set the scene for the day ahead, with our first visit being to the city's Basilica, where thousands flock to each year in search of blessing and healing. Even during the short time we were there we could clearly sense the sincerity of the belief of these folk, often paying significant amounts of money and going through physically punishing exercises believing that this would somehow win them favour. However we were equally moved by the emptiness of what we witnessed, and praise God that as His children we depend not on a religion, but on a relationship and know that our hope is secure.



Christine Dougan - The Catherdral and Plaza
We then went onto the Zocalo square and Cathedral. Inside the Cathedral were individual chapels and confessional boxes up each side. There were candles which people could light - at a cost. It was so heartbreaking to seethe Mexican people so sincere, in lighting the candle and then dipping their fingers into the wax and dabbingit onto themselves. I couldn't help but think - so sincere but so lost. On our exit from the Cathedral, justinside the door,a young, homeless man was lying up against the wall. Beside him stood a very well dressed manin a pin-striped suit, holding a briefcase. The two men looked so different on the outside but I couldn'thelp but think inwardly they were exactly the same.

We then came out of the Cathedral and walked a little. The Aztec Priests were 'cleansing' people on the streets.This again involved money being exchanged. The Aztec Priest would then dip his 'mop' into the incense and 'washaway' all evil spirits from the person. It was just so plain that the people were searching for somethingand trying to buy their way to Heaven.
A very moving experience.


Heather Hewitt - The Artisan Market and our Journey Home
After getting the cars out of the car park, which was another novel experience, we travelled to Ciudadela which was a little market place selling crafts and souvenirs. We bought a variety of gifts-all very reasonably priced.


As we were about to leave the rain started- just like home! It poured or "bucketed" for the rest of the drive home together with thunder & lightning. The distance home was approximately 20 miles but it took us 3 hours so you can imagine the "craic" was mighty with 7 of us in each car! To drive in such conditions and arrive safely home made us again thankful to God for being with us.
Dinner awaited us- we were tired and hungry. After a short debrief about the day we had a prayertime with Pastor Andrew and he read Psalm 4 to us. It was just what we needed after an intense and busy day.


Psalm 4 v 8- "I will lie down and sleep in peace for you alone O Lord make me dwell in safety."


This was a great comfort to 12 weary people as we got to our beds.

Arrived Safe and Sound

For the team, Saturday seemed like rather a long day. Having left Banbridge at midday and flown from Dublin to Madrid by evening time, we waited for several hours for our trans-Atlantic flight to Mexico City. We all bought baguettes in a little airport cafe and enjoyed a sit down after much waiting around earlier in the day. The time came for us to make our way to the departure gate, and it took a little while for us to walk through the enormous sprawl of gates, shops, and waiting areas that is Madrid Airport.

Somehow travelling in a group makes the time pass much quicker. The fellowship, camaraderie, and sheer craic being enjoyed by the team is wonderful. The halls of the departure lounge were occasionally electrified by twelve Ulster voices rising together in laughter. Most of the other passengers probably suspected our sanity, and this view was most likely confirmed by the three amigos in this photo, getting ready for Mexico by doing their best Zorro impressions!!

The flight to Mexico City was long, but on-time and uneventful. Most of the team tried to sleep during the journey, but found that rest only came in fitful moments rather than solid hours. Even during the journey we sensed God's providence as some of the team members got an opportunity to speak to a family (originally from Peru) who live in Mexico City and who have family who are evangelical Christians. They have invited the entire team to their home, but it is our hope to bring them to our accommodation and share with them. God is good.

We arrived in Mexico City at 6am Mexico Time (12pm N.I. time) and then went through the two hour process of immigration control, baggage reclaim and customs control. Thankfully there were no hiccups. It was lovely to emerge from arrivals and be greeted by three OMS missionaries bearing a little board with the single word 'Armagh'. Arriving in a new country can be a little disorienting, and to see friendly faces waiting for us to come through was a real comfort. After a short introduction to the three female missionaries (Margaret, Robin and Colleen) we were soon on the road to our accommodation.

The journey from the airport to the seminary where we are staying takes around an hour in clear traffic, and it was a blessing to the whole team to soak up the atmosphere, sights and sounds of Mexico City. Wide roads populated by a proliferation of VW Beetle taxis are bordered on each side by square built houses painted in mild lemon, terracota and red, all giving an impression of having permanently absorbed the scorching sun which beats down each day.

Our first impression of our accommodation was one of relief to have arrived, and gratitude to God for such a wonderful place to stay. Our digs are on the top floor of the Mexico Seminary building and consist of a self contained apartment with a series of bedrooms. There was not much time for sleep, however, as we had to get breakfast and then headed to the noon service of the church which is next door to the Seminary. The service was relayed to us in English via headphones, and it was great to meet Mexican believers and enjoy their fellowship.

Afternoon and evening were occupied by relaxing in the apartment, eating a beautfiul dinner prepared by the missionaries, and listening to Robin's testimony as to how God led her to serve Him in Mexico City. By 9pm we were ready for bed and headed to our rooms to try and sleep off the effects of having been awake for 44 hours, but with a rich sense of just how good God has been in bringing us to this place.

Long time no post

Sorry for the lack of posts over the past few days, but we have had our hands and minds full in justing getting settled to the place where we are staying and adjusting to life in Mexico City. The next few posts will give a snapshot of the wonderful things we are experiencing, and what God is teaching us through our time already.

Waiting in Madrid

This morning we caught the Aircoach from Banbridge to Dublin Airport to begin the first leg of our journey to Mexico City. Already we have known the grace and help of God in our travels, with a journey laced with God´s providential care. We had originally booked the Aircoach for twelve people at 12pm, but upon boarding the coach we found that the driver had no record of our reservation. With tickets in hand we waited to see if we would be allowed to board and travel on time. What did we find? There were twelve seats left! This may seem very small, but to a team stepping out in faith to go in the Lord´s service it was another token of His help and presence.
We were also deeply grateful to some folks from the Church who came across to Banbridge to wait with us and wish us well. Church elder Paul McGilton prayed with us which set us up for the day.

On arrival at Dublin Airport we were greeted by Stephen and Esther Williamson who guided us to our check in, dining hall (we all enjoyed roast dinner with gravy etc - this missionary work is already proving trying!) and departure gate with their customary grace and warmth.

Our flight to Madrid left on time (amidst an airport which was crammed with delays and cancellations) and we have had a smooth flight across to Madrid. Presently we are waiting on our Mexico City bound flight assured that the God of Psalm 121 goes with us on our forward journey.

Thank you for all of your prayers, it means so much to us to know that you are upholding us. Below is a little photo of the crew in Dublin Airport, including birthday girl Laura who is making the most of the fact that by crossing timezones she can enjoy longer celebrations than normal.