Building Relationships for Better Lives


Delegation Worships with Bishop Medardo Gomez

By Chris Madsen, St. Stephen's Lutheran Church, Santa Cruz, CA

When we visit El Salvador we build personal relationships, but we also continue to build a relationship with the Lutheran Church in El Salvador.   We are privileged to worship with the people of our sister communities in the open-air church building located in the community of Monseñor Romero.  We were very pleased to learn that there is now a regular pastoral presence. “Pastor Martin” comes weekly, usually on Thursdays, to hold a service. He is working with a pastoral team to do more outreach to the children and youth.   Coincidentally, this year during the annual craft project (a beaded cross or a beaded cross necklace) we included activities to make it a mini 'Vacation Bible School'.   Please see Donna Kemper's article about this.   We donated the CD of songs and the “boom box” we used to help with the music to the church.   Next year we hope to do more singing with the children!!

We were also privileged to attend Resurrection Lutheran Church in San Salvador on Sunday, where Bishop Medardo Gomez has an office.   We each received a wooden cross from one of the Sunday School children (along with some hesitant hugs), witnessed a baptism, and partook of Holy Communion.   After the service, we met with the Bishop.   I will only cover the 3 favors he asked of us:

  • Pray for us.
  • Continue to come and visit us. Come to church and “bring your Bishop”.

    Bishop Gomez is certain that during the war he was not killed because the government saw international support.  The Lutheran Church works with the poor and advocates for things to help the poor.   Visiting the country gives testimony of solidarity.
  • Send volunteers to work and serve in the communities.

The Sierra Pacific Synod is a Sister Synod of the Lutheran Church of El Salvador.   We were honored to be the representatives not only of our individual congregations, but also of the Synod, and we will be in communication with the Synod's Global Missions Advocacy Team.   As individuals, please continue to pray for our brothers and sisters in El Salvador, for Bishop Gomez, and for the work of the Lutheran Church in El Salvador.

Added by Kent September 4, 2007 (10:39PM)

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