Familia Marcum, Operation Ecuador: Carnaval

Isaiah 43:1-3, 7, 10-13

But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior... Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the earth—everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.... “You are my witnesses,” declares the LORD, “and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me. I, even I, am the LORD, and apart from me there is no savior. I have revealed and saved and proclaimed—I, and not some foreign god among you. You are my witnesses,” declares the LORD, “that I am God. Yes, and from ancient days I am he. No one can deliver out of my hand. When I act, who can reverse it?”

Isaiah 43:1-3, 7, 10-13

Sunday, February 14, 2010

Carnaval

For those who live in Latin American cultures, it is Carnaval time! Tomorrow and Tuesday are national holidays. There is a huge parade in Oruro with national dances. Traditionally, Carnaval is the weekend before the start of Lent, the Catholic month of fasting leading up to Easter weekend. Here in Bolivia, it is generally celebrated with a lot of energy, good fun and water fights for the young at heart... as well as, sadly because of the world's influence, a lot of drinking, partying, and sycronistic religious practices (like burning incense to Mother Earth).

We have tried to highlight the good aspects of the holiday. This year the youth had a scavenger hunt in the center of town and then lunch and a water fight at our house.

Fellowship and food... my batch of brownies sure went quick!

Rolando and Bruno face off on the capture the flag field.

Water fun! Even Michaela got in on the action... although she really didn't understand the rules of the game... she just tried to get everyone wet :)

The Thursday before Carnaval is known as Dia de Commadres... for lack of a better translation "Girlfriend Day". Generally speaking, ladies have the night out. We decided to celebrate with the sisters of the church by having a fun get-to-gether on Saturday. We dressed up, played games, shared snacks... and finished up with a full blown water fight. It sure was a lot of fun :)

We had some icebreakers to get to know each other better.