The kids of Santa Victoria were very excited to watch and be a part of the program that was put on for them by members of our group. “Breaking Chains” is the name of a team of young people that are from a local church in Iquitos. Full of boundless energy and enthusiasm they danced, acted out short plays and conducted interactive activities with the children. Even though it was so hot and humid you wanted to crawl into a freezer to cool off, that never seemed to phase these young people.

They were amazing to watch as they poured out their heart and soul, giving it their all despite the extreme conditions. They got the place rockin’, singing and jumping around. And you should have seen the smiles and heard the angelic voices of the kids that watched and participated for a few hours with Breaking Chains. It does a heart good to watch the message of Jesus being spread out to the world. Indescribable really. It reminds me of one candle being lit and then that candle being used to light others along the way. There is a song I remember from my youth (yeah that was years and years and years ago!). It goes something like this.

It only takes a spark to get a fire going,
And soon all those around can warm up in its glowing;
That’s how it is with God’s Love,
Once you’ve experienced it,
Your spread the love to everyone
You want to pass it on.

And to be a part of all of this, well, that makes me so very proud and humble all at the same time. After the program was completed and ALL the children fed lunch, we walked through the jungle to the house/hut of Pastora Consuela and her husband Teo. There we were treated to a fantastic lunch prepared by some of the villagers.

Steph and Teo

Once lunch was devoured, we headed back to the boat for our return trip to Iquitos. Many of the villagers were at the embankment to wave goodbye. A sad feeling began to envelop me as I boarded the boat not knowing when, if ever, I would have the opportunity to visit these new friends again. And as we motored away I choked back the sadness and tears.

One Village Down, Two to Go…  Up next – Sintico and Santa Fe.

In His Grip,

Stephanie