12.21.09 Cocal Gracias Update!

It has been several months since we communicated anything about the Cocal Gracias Project to all of you.  I apologize for my delay.  I will try and make myself give updates each month so you can feel a part of the work down here.  You are a part of the work down here.

The last time I wrote you all, I talked about an experience I had visiting a village church in the mountains.  I sent some photos of Pastor Juan and his ministry and some of you responded to the need he had for a motorcycle.  Over two months, we received $1250.00 additional for Juan’s motorcycle and I am proud to let you know we bought him one!  I have not had the chance to take a photo of it, but it is a black Honda and he is VERY happy!  He sends his thanks to those that donated.

This last month, Work and Witness from the Church of the Nazarene, sent money to start construction on a fence around the property in La Eperanza (the property where the Cocal Gracias School is).  I was asked to head up the project and have been consumed in my free time by buying materials, organizing workers, and getting permissions from the city to build.  I have once again learned a lot about how things work in Honduras and am enjoying it, most of the time.  The wall and fence are scheduled to be finished this January.  In February a Work and Witness group will come and put the fence up!

I have been notified that Cocal Gracias will be receiving a shipment of food this Christmas!  A church in….took the initiative and raised  over $10,000 to make food for the community and ship it to us.  I will be going to the port soon to take it off the boat.  I am told we will have enough food to do a feeding center in the school several times and feed everyone!  When I get the food I will be sure to send photos of the feast.

The last two months, Cocal Gracias has raised $2500!  We thank you for your support of the project.  We used part of the money for the website, and the majority of it will go to starting classes this January.  I have already confirmed the welding class, and we received a large donation of tools and electric supplies. My uncle who taught the electricity class has already mentioned that he wants to teach again.  I am also working to start a sewing class and a baking class for the women.  Rina’s sister has offered to teach pedicures and manicures at the school also.

In January we will start classes, Cocal will receive and distribute shoes for the public hospital.  A medical team will also come in January. The Baker City medical team is coming back to Puerto Cortes and we are so happy!  We will be holding clinics around town the third week of January. We have a lot coming up for 2010 for the classes and we could use your support and prayers!  If you would like specific prayer requests, please email me and I will let you know.  Thank you and have a wonderful Christmas this year!

Brian