Mozoví

by Jean Pritchard Nava

Today was day three of VBS, with children from the school community and the small village of Mozovi.  The kids from a distance are transported with the school bus.  The driver is Elison, who has grown up in the church community and we have known from boyhood who is now interested in attending  seminary.  It is a joy to reconnect with our faith-filled friends here!

Padre Raúl, who is in charge of the school, greeted us at the airport Tuesday afternoon with Miquea Santivil from Dominican Development Group.  Padre Raúl has been with us each day, and has started off VBS each afternoon with music and turns the program over to the inspiring teachers from the school.

A team preps VBS crafts each day in the morning while other work is taking place.  We also have teams that have planned games for the children and our music team, which I am a part of and ended up with a microphone marching around the schoolyard singing Marcharemos with the teachers, children, and team members.  Ed and Jay were part of the "parade", strolling musicians playing the chords worked out in our first day music planning session with Peter.  Alabaré is a big favorite; other songs planned include Jesus Loves Me, Alelu, and I've got that joy in my heart (Spanish versions)

I love watching the children respond to the teachers and our team members.  Lessons are taught by the teachers from a bilingual curriculum, with crafts designed to reflect the story.  Today we made Joseph's coat and paper lanterns- lots of demonstrating, broken Spanish, and smiles!

The children name simple gifts when listing what they are greatful for:  food, family, a bed to sleep in, clothing to wear, and escuela Biblia (VBS).  I am greatful for the opportunity to be with a great Saint Peter's mission team serving here in the Dominican Republic!

Jean Pritchard Nava is a longtime member of Saint Peter’s with a heart for mission. A former member of the Vestry, Jean serves on the Mission Commission.