Costa Rica Friday - Day 5
Today was the dedication of the houses we built. It was a very emotional and moving experience, and tears were flowing as the families expressed their gratitude in having their dreams fulfilled. The strength of their faith in God brought them to this day. One of the mothers, Jorlenis, shared her joy and gratitude with such passionate conviction that she and husband will be able to raise their family in a new, dry and secure home. She invoked God's blessings on our Lombard team and we definitely felt filled with God's graciousness.
We explained how generous people back home donated money for the materials and paid labor for their houses. We presented the families with sealed envelopes containing the list of the donors and asked the families to pray for the donors and to ask God to bless them for their part in building the houses.
After the dedication we went to Lagarta Lodge up in the hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean. There we had drinks while watching the sun set. It was a beautiful sight and the clear skies produced a gorgeous sunset.
After Lagarta Lodge we went to a restaurant in Nosara, where Maximo had reserved the entire upstairs for us. There were almost 30 of us - our team of 16 plus many local persons who helped build the houses. We enjoyed a delicious dinner, and said our goodbyes to our Costa Rican friends.
Tomorrow we leave our hotel in Nosara and head inland for our R&R.
Our experience this week was everything we could have wished for. We completed building 2 houses, we developed warm relationships with many people who live here, we built a strong loving community within our own group, we enjoyed learning about Costa Rican culture (and food), and we have wonderful memories we will cherish forever. We give thanks to God for all these blessings.
Written by Christine Tani
The group after the dedication.
Submitted by Doris Carter
