Mission: Continue construction on an addition to the cafeteria and door-to-door evangelism to help in a new church start. Pastor Johnson also taught pastors during the week.

Our mission trip to Colombia was one of the most life-changing experiences of my life. It was heartbreaking to see people living in homes with only dirt floors and tin roofs with holes so big they were stuffed with plastic bags to keep the rain out. It was heartwarming to see how they care for their children and how happy the children are, even in these circumstances. There was no fighting, no selfishness, just love. It was humbling to be treated so warmly and have children bring you gifts, when you knew that was all they had. It was joyous to see people so hungry and eager to listen and accept God’s love and forgiveness.

I have so many wonderful memories, but just to mention a few:

As I shared the gospel with one grandmother, she told me she knew Jesus as her Savior, but she wanted me to tell her young grandsons about Jesus. After telling the boys (about 9 and 10) about Jesus and asking if they would like to invite Jesus into their hearts, they both said yes, but one said, “Wait.” He disappeared to another room and came out in a few moments wearing a nice, clean shirt. “Now I ready to pray,” he said. I was so touched by his expression of reverence and sincerity.

When we learned that it was one little girl’s 12th birthday, we sang to her, gave her (all we had to give) a bag of craft shells and a used blouse. She told us it was the best birthday of her life.

One afternoon as we were doing door-to-door visits, we found five men working on an old car. My first reaction was to walk on by. (Why would five men stop their work and listen to this woman?) My interpreters encouraged me to stop. Surprisingly (not to God), they eagerly agreed to listen and—by the grace of God—every one of them prayed to accept Christ as their Savior. It was awesome!

When I was 19, I asked God to use me on the mission field. Well, I don’t know if it took Him 40 years to call me or if it took me 40 years to hear Him. I just know I am so grateful for this experience. I left a big part of my heart with our new Colombian friends and I pray God will let me return. I’m listening! Marge Forrest

The mission trip to Colombia we were privileged to go on was the most humbling and rewarding experience of my life. It was a total God thing. Our crew of construction volunteers were able, through God’s strength, to get the wall of a new kitchen addition to lintel height. The work was hot and tiresome, but the time there was the most peaceful time I can ever remember in my life. I am ready to go back ASAP to dry in the addition. The people there are some of the warmest, most appreciative people I have ever known. A part of me will always belong to Colombia.  Steve Forrest