Life in Ecuador

2011-12-19T03:26:00.000-03:00

THANK YOU!

What a tremendous blessing it is to share in God's mission with some of you through your financial and prayer partnership. I hope that I never cease to be grateful at how the Body of Christ works together even at such great distances!

"Joy to the World , the Lord is come!"

Have we announced this good news recently?

If we haven´t, let´s lay our hearts bare before Him and surrender whatever it is that is prohibiting this wonderful and true declaration from flowing from our lips.
This season is a reminder to believers, that we are all called to announce this good news; "Joy to the World , the Lord is come!"

Remember that this declaration is NOT seasonal though!

Below you can find the topics promised to come from my last update.

Cotopaxi Training Center

We are closing in on the finish line!

Click here to see video of the training center!

Studies and Discipleship

I´ve had the joy of doing several studies with a variety of people.

In May I began my first inductive bible study in spanish with my old neighbor. We meet every two weeks and are moving through the rich book of Romans. She is a newer believer and it is so refreshing to glean from scripture together.

The ladies in leadership at La Fuente church plant meet every week and we´ve studied a variety of topics in the last year. Most recently, we´ve all taken turns searching scripture regarding issues that women in our church are facing. It has taken us on a deep and challenging journey.

I´ve also been reading through Christian Doctrine by Wayne Grudem with a woman in our church. Fortunately I read through it in English first earlier this year.

There are plans to begin a reading/discussion group with some mothers. We will start with "Shepherding a Child´s Heart" by Ted Tripp.

At the beginning of this new year I will begin a study program that our church is initiating for leadership called BILD

I am praying about taking an intensive spanish class at a university here. I still have need of improving my language skills. The cost is $300. The time commitment would be 3 hours a day, 5 days a week, for 2 months. It´s a large commitment, so I am praying and evaluating how and if that could fit into my already packed schedule.

Missions 101 Boot Camp & Short Term Teams

We had a great M101 Boot Camp this last summer. If you haven´t already done so, see some video footage:

Day One

Day Two

We also had the joy of two teams who came to serve from an Acts29 Church in St. Louis. Matthias Lot Church is sending a team down twice a year to partner with CC church planting efforts.

Mercy Ministries

Margarita, a woman confined to a wheelchair, has become dear to many people in our church plant. God soveriegnly brought her to our community through Juan Manuel, who is one of the pastors of La Fuente. Juan Manuel is also serving full time with Compassion Connection and is spearheading all CC Mercy Ministry efforts.

More about Margarita and Juan Manuel

We pray that Margarita is the beginning of many more redemptive and merciful stories! One morning a week I get the joy of being with Margarita to assist with daily living. Her life is a living testimony of God´s mercy and grace and she is quick to announce the good news "Joy to the World , the Lord is come!" to anyone in her path.

Help Meet A Need

Become a monthly financial supporter!
I am a volunteer here and have need of more people to join the support team!
Online: CC STAFF DONATIONS

or write and mail checks to:

"Mission Dispatch"

1911 76th Ave W. Suite 211

Edmonds, WA 98206

Note on side "Amie Youngren"

Support the Bible Institute!
Donate small used or new electronics that will be raffled off to raise funds for operational costs and scholarships.
Perhaps you or someone you know is replacing an old electronic item for Christmas.
Contact me for more information.
amie.youngren@gmail.com

Pray Diligently For:
Physical and spiritual protection for the CC team
Wisdom and direction for the leadership of the Bible Institute
Wisdom and direction for the leadership of La Fuente Church
An affordable and strategic location for La Fuente church to gather on Sundays
Christ centered lives for all involved with CC Ministries
Financial provision for all staff and projects

2011-09-23T22:41:00.000-03:00

DEAR LOVED ONES,

I had the joy of visiting with many of you in person in at the beginning of this year. With October on the horizon it's only fair that I bring you up to date on essential Compassion Connection and personal news. You each are a vital part of what God is doing here, whether it is through your financial support, prayer, or words of encouragement. I am deeply grateful and look forward to celebrating God's work with you in person, as God wills.

BIBLE INSTITUTE (IBCI):
Three Saturdays a month we hold live classes in three locations; Tena, Southeast Quito, and North Quito. Two of the sites are functioning under national administration. We are considering combining the Quito area sites that are about two hours distance from one another. This could allow us to open a third location in the coastal region. If that occurs, IBCI will be available in three of the four regions of Ecuador! This past Saturday we had a graduation ceremony in Tena. It was encouraging to hear students share how they've grown in their understanding of the gospel.

"LA FUENTE" (ACTS 29 QUITO CHURCH PLANT):
Last fall a small group started gathering together to celebrate life together in Christ and plant an Acts 29 Church . The church plant ended up landing right in the city of Quito and so did our whole CC team. This body of believers is now flourishing and growing into a diverse group. The official "launch" date as a church is set for October 30th. We are praying and looking for a new meeting place because we are quickly outgrowing the house setting. The pastoral team is currently made up of four committed and godly men that share leadership and share from the scripture at our weekly celebrations. We have two “Community Groups” and each one has an outreach focus in the city. This is vital as the mission statement is: Community, Mission, Truth. I am enjoying involvement developing the children's program for La Fuente.

ADOPTION PROCESS
Many of you have inquired where I am at in the adoption process. I finished the required pre-adoption class. I am actually the one guilty of the current hold up because I need to turn in several documents. I aim to have these all handed in by Oct. 15th. It's just been a matter of making the time to collect it all up. Once it's all handed in homestudies will begin. As you may imagine I am filled with a variety of emotions with the possiblity of becoming a mother. I have a deep rooted peace that our Soveriegn God will deem the right timing and provisions. I feel no sense of rush, yet I long for the day.

THE HEART EXCHANGE
Feeling inadequate may not be comfortable, however it is a great position to be in! Here I find myself. I strive to be responsible and reputed as such. However the more I draw into Christ, the more I realize the extent of my inadequacies. The gospel is something I've heard nearly my whole life, but the wonderous process of coming into a fuller understanding continues. How easily deceived my heart is and how inadequate it is. Yet God desires my heart! Mind blowing! There are a host of scriptures about the heart in the bible. Here are a few clips of scriptures that address the heart that have impacted me.

(Jeremiah 17 ESV) The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? “I the LORD search the heart and test the mind."
(Ezekiel 36:26 ESV) And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.
(Deuteronomy 30:6 ESV) And the Lord your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your offspring, so that you will love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live.
(Deuteronomy 10:12 ESV)“And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul,

Despite our brokeness and inadequacies, God gives us new hearts. These new hearts of flesh learn to daily embrace our inadequacies in order to rely on and love the person and work of Christ. We can not conjure up new hearts. It is a free gift that comes from faith in Christ. I am awed and humbled by the work that God does in transforming our sick hearts!

APPEAL FOR PRAYER
Please consider the following items in prayer.

Wisdom and direction for the leadership and student body of the Bible Institute
An affordable and strategic location for La Fuente to gather on Sundays
Gospel centered lives for all involved with CC ministries
Physical and spiritual protection for all involved in CC ministries
Financial provision for all CC ministries and staff
Provision for monthly financial supporters to join my team

UPCOMING UPDATES TO INCLUDE:

Cotopaxi training Center
Studies and discipleship
Missions 101: Boot Camp and Short term teams
Mercy Ministries

Thanks for joining me on this journey!
Love to you all!
Amie

TO DONATE:
Online: CC STAFF DONATIONS
or write and mail checks to:
"Mission Dispatch"
1911 76th Ave W. Suite 211
Edmonds, WA 98026
Note on side "Amie Youngren"

2010-07-04T21:20:00.000-03:00

Dear friends and family,

I want to give a huge thanks to those that are faithfully making it possible for me to continue serving here in Ecuador through your financially giving and prayer. Your prayers for me during and after my recent surgery, I feel were heard. My recovery has been smooth and quick. Thanks for all the sweet emails and encouragement. I pray for each of you as God brings you to my mind and I thank Him for you.

Allow me to give you a glimpse south of the equator, into ministry and my life here.

For reasons according to God's sovereign hand, half of CC's North American staff has moved out of the country within the past 10 months for various circumstances. My parents, the Brennan family, and myself remain. We are comforted to know that God has a plan, better than we can imagine, to meet the needs of the growing ministries here.

The Bible Institute has seen an increase in national volunteers in both locations, making it possible for us to seek opening a new location. We are in the preliminary stages before launching a third location of the Bible Institute. We'll keep you posted with the details; such as where and when. Just last week Tena completed the year cycle with 22 graduates. We had a memorable candlelit ceremony. The new cycle in Tena launches on July 31st. There is a need for continued training for both the existing and upcoming national teachers. An Ecuadorian Bible Institute graduate and professional has joined our team as "Assistant Director" to do teacher training and more. We are always open to like-minded, Spanish speaking, North American Bible teachers joining the team too. Contact steve@compassionconnection.net if you or someone you know is interested.

October of last year we launched training for Church Planters in collaboration with the Acts 29 Network. This is moving forward with much labor on the part of my Dad and several national planters. Nearly every planter and area involved has faced some sort of trials or setbacks. It's certain that the enemy does not want to see healthy indigenous church plants here in Ecuador. Based on biblical evidence, we expect God to complete His work through trials, labor and suffering. Please pray for all involved to trust in HIM and turn to Him in the trials. In relation to church planting, the whisper in my heart lately has been from Psalms 3:8, Jonah 2:9 and Revelation 7:10. "Salvation belongs to the Lord". How wonderful that salvation is His and we are simply instruments of his hands.

Potter's Wheel, our six month discipleship and training program, is not running this year. It was decided that a minimum of 6 students was necessary in order to run PW. It was God who foresaw that national ministries need our attention this year, especially in relation to our limited number of staff. God has provided a couple of short term interns this year though.

Missions 101: Boot Camp, our two-week program that gives an introduction to foreign missions, is only days away! Twenty North Americans and handful of Ecuadorians will join us for this adventure. We have one group coming July 11th-21st and a second group August 1st-11th. During each of these groups they serve a local church planter and the area they are working in. Pray for the impact to be mutual and eternal for all involved. I'm the cook this year and pretty positive humble pie might be on the menu again!

My downtime the last couple of months has been anything but dull. I've moved, (from the big base house where rent was increased and the dweller population decreased). Set up a new home, (an apartment next door to the old house). I traveled a bit with my sister and husband who were visiting. I had surgery (a tumor was found in my abdomen). I recovered from surgery, with the help of my dear parents and friends. Nope, not a dull moment these last few months.

Once again, the length of my update ceases to please me and probably you too! I'll call it quits here. I love you all. Send me a line about your life and what God is doing in and around you.

Love,
Amie

Apologies for no pictures with this update. My camera is M.I.A.

Adventures

2009-11-22T01:02:00.000-03:00

I must prelude this update with the fact that I am typing with only the five fingers on my left hand. This will likely determine the length of my ramble here....possibly to your benefit.

The Injury Story
At the end of last month I momentarily forgot my age and attempted to do a "Tarzan-stunt" at the river in the jungle. We were enjoying a fun day with all of the Tena IBCI volunteers. As I swung out above the river, much to my dismay, I realized that "I have the upper body strength of a kitten." (These words are admittedly borrowed from Sam Harrison.) My middle right finger snagged on the line on my way down, resulting in a hairline fracture. About a week later I tripped going up some stairs and caused a full fracture. The results; 1) a half casted hand that makes feel like kin to Captain Hook, 2) a lesson in humility.

Refreshment & Retreat
As I write, we are in the middle of our annual staff retreat weekend in a cute town called Baños. It's been an encouraging time thus far. We've been challenged in word, spent time understanding the individuals that make up our team, and laughed a lot together. Last weekend we had the honor of having Herb Nuefeld teach Potter's Wheel students and CC staff on the Sovereignty of God. It too was refreshing words for our team.

Personal Reflection
Humble pie seems to be my favorite kind of pie these days. Or rather, it is the slice of pie that God keeps serving me. I feel very inadequate in a couple new aspects of life/ministry. I have a healthy portion of struggling-to-survive-pride. I like to think that I can do the things given me well. God is so faithful though to serve us each exactly what we need. Ninety-nine percent of the time, it seems to me that what we need is to die so that He might live. I don't mean physically dying either. I am speaking of the dying that creates the attitude that we see of Christ in Philippians 2. I've been telling others the last several years that, "God is and will use whatever means necessary to win our hearts completely unto Himself". Not only do I get to eat humble pie, but I get to eat my own words and His sweet mercy and grace. He is winning my heart, my wicked and selfish heart that too often seeks my own glory above His. Isaiah 40 is an excellent meditation on the glory of man in comparison to God's Glory. I'm a person who tends to focus more on products than processes. Attaining humility can't be my goal. The goal has not much to do with me at all! The goal is to acknowledge or behold the Glory of our God. This goal is not a product but rather an action process which acknowledges His Awesome Glory! Rom 11:36 says, "For of Him, and through Him, and unto Him, are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen." Read before this verse too. It's awesome!

Final Noticias
If you would like to receive Compassion Connection ministry updates please subscribe yourself at the bottom of our website: www.compassionconnection.net

If you want to get involved;
*Consider financially supporting a Compassion Connection volunteer or ministry project!
*Come down and volunteer through our 6-month Potter's Wheel program or 2-week Missions 101: Boot Camp.

*I am aiming to travel to Seattle, Chicago, St. Louis, Arizona and Southern California from mid-Dec to mid-Jan. I would love to see you all in this short amount of time! Consider hosting an event at your home or church for me to give a live-report on what God is doing in Ecuador. Email me if you’re interested in hosting something like this and we can talk details.

Con Mucho Cariño en Cristo,
Amie

Rambling about my weekend

2009-09-27T22:08:00.003-03:00

Friday after Potter's Wheel classes and lunch we headed to Tena for the weekend. IBCI classes were taking place this Saturday morning. The road from Quito to Tena is so much shorter now due to road improvements. We got there in about 3 1/2 hours by car. The current president, who is steering the country towards socialism, has done a lot to improve transit in Ecuador. We even have a new bus terminal in Quito that I believe is more beautiful than some US airports. I will never use it though because it is much farther than the old one from our base. Now I catch the bus to Tena off of one of the main roads and hope there are seats available.

Anyhow, we traveled to Tena quite quickly by car this weekend. We arrived and the Potter's Wheel students went to their respective home stay families and I went to Graciela's place. Graciela is the local IBCI Administrator in Tena. I always stay with her now whenever I am out there. I wish you could all meet her. She is full of Jesus for sure. Well, when I got to Graciela's place, which is also the IBCI office, there were about five people in the office busy preparing for IBCI classes the next day. My heart was filled with joy at this sight. I joined in and we finally wrapped things up at about 10:30 pm.

The next morning at breakfast, Graciela's sister, Francesca, informed me that Ecuador was preparing for a national protest that would result in closing all the major roads that night. I've seen this a couple of times now in my five years here. The people are pretty good at coordinating the closure of roads and essentially shutting the country down in order to get what they want. This weekend the people are protesting President Correa's moves towards socialism. More specifically protesting wage changes for educators. Francesca is an educator but is facing a huge pay cut. Ecuador is in a volatile state right now, though in some ways it has been in this state for years now.

So after breakfast we headed to Tena’s adult education center where we hold the IBCI classes. It's always a joy to see all the students and hear how their month went and what they are learning through their studies. It's a huge joy to stand back and let the Nationals run the logistics now, which frees me up to visit with people.

The PW students, my Dad and Noah were all there too for classes. We decided our original plan to leave on Monday was to be altered in order to avoid being trapped in Tena for an unknown amount of time. So we left later that afternoon and now I am back in Quito. My trip back to Quito had bit of pleasure and pain. I was sad to leave Tena so quickly. I experienced some major nausea on the trip but we did get to see this awesome snow capped mountain coming up out of the jungle. It is called "Antisana". It was the fourth time I've seen it in my whole time here in Ecuador. The scene is nothing but spectacular evidence of our great God.

Well that's it for my rambling for now. More to come. I am making an effort to write a lil' more frequently on my blog.

Hi Friends!

2009-09-01T11:52:00.008-03:00

I am full of fresh excitement for our National Bible School in more ways than one. This excitement is a result of the synergy created from national leadership and the new interim Quito Office Administrator that God has appointed to serve here. (* read below)

One reason for my excitement is that I am going to be a student in IBCI, beginning Oct 3rd. You all know that I've been waiting on God with my desire for further formal biblical study for quite some time. I got the green light to enroll in IBCI this fall as a student. It will be very challenging not only to be back in the discipline of daily study, but to be immersed into biblical study in Spanish! I anticipate my studies will take two hours daily because it takes the national students one hour daily. I am excited for what God has for me as a student but also for the IBCI program as a whole.

Another cause for excitement is, that with local administrative roles filled, I have been freed to move into a role as 'administrator of administrators'. This has allowed me to spend more time on creating a culturally relevant structure that we can duplicate easily for the entire IBCI program with intent to open new locations in Ecuador.

Fourth reason for my excitement is that our existing IBCI team is mostly nationalized (five of the team are exceptions). There are currently about 22 IBCI volunteers total between Tena and Quito.

This summer I was reassured of the desperate need for Biblical and Leadership training here in Ecuador. We've have definitely observed this lack here, but we also heard from other missions organizations, (namely MAF and HCJB), that they've observed the same lack.

SUPPORT NEEDS:
My monthly support base has diminished recently. My current expenses require about $1,200 per month. (FYI: My current support all comes in the form of individual donations)

I am asking each of you to spread the news about the opportunity to participate in foreign missions through one of the following:

1) One time financial donations for myself as I serve abroad.

2) A monthly financial commitment (even $20 a month is a tremendous help!)
Donations can be made two ways:
Online:
Visit http://www.compassionconnectionintl.org/
Click on 'Donations' scroll to 'staff donations'
Click on 'donate' next to my picture
Enter amount and log into pay pal

Mail and Write Checks to:
'Mission Dispatch'
21911 76th Ave W. Suite 211
Edmonds, WA 98026
Note apart from the check "Amie Youngren"

3) Host a support raising event (garage sale, bake sale, etc).

4) Host a gathering at your home or church, between mid-Dec to mid-Jan, at which I could attend, God willing, and share about Ecuador.

If funding permits, my tentative itinerary during mid-Dec to mid-Jan may be:
Chicago → St. Louis (Urbana Missions Conference) → Seattle → Arizona → California

If God lays it on your heart to participate in any of the above ways, please communicate and let me know.

I want to express a huge thank you to those that are already participating financially in my work here!

*Tiffany Butler is filling the interim Quito IBCI administrative role until we find a national to take this position. To hear from Tiffany, visit: http://voicesofecuador.blogspot.com/

Celebrating 5 years in Ecuador!

2009-08-15T14:06:00.012-03:00

HIS GRACE IS ABUNDANT

I would like to characterize the last couple months with God's abundant grace. He continually sustains our national, international, short-term and long-term workers here in the middle of very busy times. God provides extra energy and strength when we run out of our own. It's a joy to recognize our dependence on the Creator. It's my prayer that God's name be glorified in our general lack and weakness.

FAMILY NEWS

You may have already heard that my mom's father is in the hospital and was on life support. My parents flew out last Tuesday because the family was all called home in anticipation that Grandpa would likely not make it. Miraculously he has made a dramatic turn around. It's been an emotional roller coaster especially for my Mom and her family. We definately all feel the outpouring of God's grace as he keeps answering our prayers for my grandfather.

My little sister, Charin, is in the middle of an intensive program at a French Pastry School in Chicago. I just want to brag about her a bit. She is enduring a vigourous daily schedule and creating the most amazing pieces of edible art.

My baby brother, Nick turned 30 last month. Unbelievable! Nick lives and works in Renton, Wa. He is a literature fanatic and appropriately works at a book store.

My older brother Eric and his wife, Cheri, are getting baptized this month at their home church "Damascus Road" in Marysville, Wa. I wish I could be there!

My younger brother Aaron and his wife, Kayla, are full swing with their Church Plant in Chicago. http://thelinechicago.wordpress.com/

My three nieces are all growing up too fast. Haley is going to be 13 years old next month! Maddy and Alaska are starting school this fall!

My birth Dad, Bob, is on the verge of a career change as he lost his job. Pray for provision for him.

My Grandma Kohler had eye surgery in one eye last month and now has better vision in that eye than ever! She'll have a second surgery on her eye this fall. She also has, what I believe to be, her 6th great grandchild on the way!

MISSIONS 101: BOOT CAMP

It was a joy to have our short-term summer teams here. With two teams we served in Chichico Rumi, a Quichua community, where two of the Tena IBCI students are church planting. Chichico Rumi is blessed to have a believer as the Patriarch of the family. Alonso seeks to share the redeemed version of the Quichua culture with tourists who pass through. They opened a museum displaying the Quichua culture about two years ago. During both of our Missions 101 Boot Camps I enjoyed cooking for the team during our off-base times in rustic conditions; no running water, monkeys stealing food, children in and out and dirt floors. I felt weak and tired moments, yet that was dim in comparison to the excitement and strength that I know God provided. You can go see and read more at the following link. http://www.compassionconnectionintl.org/archives/category/m101

THE COMPASSION CONNECTION TEAM
Our international long-term missionary staff has grown in the past months and consequently ministry is growing. We are now 10 international missionaries! I have handed off one of my primary roles here as the IBCI Quito Administrator and now I am working in a brand-new role as an 'administrator of administrators' for IBCI. We currently have two local administrators: Graciela (Tena) and Tiffany (Interim Quito, until we fill this position with a National). Please pray for grace and wisdom, as I now have time to direct and create a prototype for future IBCI locations in Ecuador. I walk with the knowledge that this ministry is beyond me and my skills. As we create a standard "Manual de Operaciones" it is my prayer that God be the heart and brain behind this operation. Recently, I felt encouraged to continue pressing onward with the National Bible School. We met others working in Ecuador who again confirmed the general lack of Bible, leadership and discipleship training in Ecuador. I am excited too that our ministry is now partnering with the Acts 29 Network to strengthen the training of national leadership and church planters.

PRAYER NEEDS
My Grandfather, Albert Pioli, who is in the hospital
Penny Bryson, a friend of mine in Wa. who is suffering much physical pain
The PW students that are currently on their homestays
Unity among local Churches and believers here in Ecuador
Integrity among the National Church Planters and IBCI students
CC'a new staff members as they adjust to culture and language
My financial support

IF YOU ARE NOT INVOLVED WITH FORIEGN MISSIONS YET, PLEASE CONSIDER SUPPORTING A FORIEGN MISSIONARY

My personal support level has dropped off, so pray and consider making a one-time donation or monthly commitment to help me continue serving here. In my five years serving here many individuals have sacrificially given generously. For this I am so very grateful. It's a humbling process to be part of the global of Christ in this way.

All donations are tax-deductable.
If you send your support via check, please write and mail checks to:
Mission Dispatch
21911 76th Ave W. Suite 211
Edmonds, WA 98026
Note apart from the check "Amie Youngren"

If you would like to send your support online, you may visit
www.supportccinecuador.net
click on "support staff" and "Amie Youngren"

KID FRIENDS
We have two adorable kids here within our CC staff families. They can't replace my adorable nieces and nephews, but it sure makes it slightly less painful to be so far away from them. Micheala is going to be two and I love hanging out with her. Yesterday, I enjoyed playing with her while her parents were on an anniversary date. Phineas will be eight months soon and is one of the most laid back babies I've ever met. He was made to be an MK (Missionary Kid). His smile will instantly melt anyone's heart. His parents recently arrived here from New York to serve long term. They are both educators and we are thrilled to see where God ends up plugging them in here with ministry.

Santiago

2009-06-30T09:02:00.005-03:00

Does anyone want to guess what book of the Bible "Santiago" is in English? Read on and take your best guess. Don't do what I know we are often guilty of doing; skip the scripture because you've read it before multiple times.
Read it anew and enjoy the richness!

(ESV)
"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind......

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him."

If you guessed this is from the book of James, you are correct!

This is one of many scriptures we looked into with our M101: Boot Campers. http://www.missions101bootcamp.blogspot.com/

There is much I want to say about this passage and how it hits my heart, but first I'd rather allow it to speak for itself by observing what it says.

*Count all trials joy because of what we know it will produce; steadfastness.

*Let steadfastness have it's full effect; lacking in nothing.

*If we lack wisdom, ask God for it, with faith, and without doubting.

*If we doubt we are compared to a wave that is driven by the wind.

*Blessed is he who remains steadfast.

*The steadfast man will recieve the crown of life which God promised those who love Him.

The words above from the book of Santiago make my heart sing of the glorious Father whom I love. He allows trials for my own good, in order to produce a steadfastness that lacks in nothing. He gives wisdom when I ask in faith. When I trust Him, I am not tossed about by the wind but I am blessed with life.

My prayer is that He would do the same for you as you look intently at His word and allow it to penetrate.

Please continue in prayer for me during this time. Not necessarily that trials would cease, but that I would stay steadfast in Him.
Here's a few FYI's to help in prayer:
Potter's Wheel began this week.
Weary bodies and sickness have been an issue.
The IBCI Quito year is wrapping up.
I begin teaching Inductive Bible Study this week.
We travel to Tena this Friday.

Thank you dear friends for your prayers and support! More to come soon.

In Him,
Amie

"Communication Hiccups" and "Confidence in Confusion"

2009-05-25T19:26:00.007-03:00

Communication Hiccups
Yep, if you have not yet noticed, I have had the communication hiccups. Otherwise known as ‘inconsistent communication’. Communication with my friends, family and supporters has suffered lately and I want to remedy this. Admittedly, the idea of writing something both interesting and informative enough on a regular basis often prevents me from writing at all. So the content, of my blog updates are going to change and increase in frequency. In the past, I have done a "ministry report" of sorts on my blog. Ministry reports will now be available at http://www.compassionconnection.blogspot.com/ The CC blog updates are written by various CC staffers. Now my blog should read more like a journal of my personal ponderings, studies, experiences or thoughts. So, below is my first journal type of an entry.

Confidence in Confusion
I feel confident of one thing. I am supposed to study scripture and theology intensely. I heard this pretty loud and clear. Two summers ago someone asked me the question "what is one thing you know that you are supposed to do, but haven't done yet?" Immediately "further education" came to mind. I have desired this since I took the school of biblical studies and left India in 2000. In fact, THE main reason for leaving India was to further my education in order to better prepare myself to serve abroad as a missionary. Little did I know what an exciting southward journey He would take me on! I started in San Diego and ended up here in Ecuador. I can see His sovereign hand in it all.

Most of you know that I applied to Moody Bible Institute in Chicago for this fall and now I am on a waiting list. I recently learned there is a high possibility for me to be accepted by MBI this fall. However, I do not feel peace about leaving Ecuador for at least another 12 months. Is it my flesh, or is it He that is prompting my uneasiness or lack of peace about leaving? Honestly, I do not know yet. However, other education options have been falling into my mind and consequently my lap. The following has been pressing on my mind. It could be incredibly beneficial to acquire Bible/Theology education in Spanish. My Spanish teacher says I could definitely do it, (but maybe she just wants to keep my business. LOL) I am currently working and plan to continue working into the future in an Administrative role with IBCI. The ideas keep coming to my mind that I could take the IBCI courses and then supplement with Center for World Missions classes or investigate Semisud (a local seminary/bible school that I was given brochures for and is located only about 20 min from our current CC base here). I prefer the idea of being in a classroom setting. However, recently God has convicted me that I use that preference as an excuse not to discipline myself to make time to study scripture and theology.

I feel God is giving me options here. I used to believe that if I chose something poorly or incorrectly, God would make that the end of me or something. Now I believe His sovereign hand will help me chose according to His plan. The problem is I have a gazillion wants/desires stirring within me. In the end though, none of these wants matter one iota above my want to do as He desires for me. He has been pretty right on so far with choosing where I should be and what I should be doing. I just need to hear from Him clearly.

So, with all this rolling around in my noggin, I need some serious prayer and quiet with Him. We have Missions 101 Boot Camps and PW starting this month. The summer busy-ness begins. I solicit your prayer, counsel, criticism or encouragement.

I love hearing from you, my friends, family and supporters. Thank you for taking time to read and I hope you will share a line with me about what God is doing in and around you. Thank you for your support!

Love,
Amie
Enjoy pictures from the last months!

April

2009-04-22T15:38:00.011-03:00

IBCI UPDATE

The transfer of IBCI administration over to national hands in Tena has been a beautiful process that has deepened friendships, unity and witness. What an amazing testament to the truth of the gospel when brothers work together in unity. This is especially true among people of different cultures, churches and backgrounds.

Psa 133:1
"Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!"
The Tena area has a history of broken churches, fallen pastors, and severe divisions. It is a joy to see God is using IBCI as a means to draw believers together in unity, and consequently bear witness to His name.

The Tena administrative teams represent eight local churches. Please consider praying for these team members by name, that they would represent Christ and walk in unity as they work together.

Local Office Administrator: Graciela

Material Production Team: Luis, Giovanny, Margoth, Victoria, Bella, Rodrigo, Jorge

Data and Registration Team: Petrona, Erika, Maura

Grading and Teaching Team: Marcos, Eva, Laura, Angel, Maura, Luis, Dario

We are all very excited for Tena's IBCI opening day this Saturday, May 2nd.

WAITING HAS A PURPOSE

The waiting continues but God is using it to win more of my trust. I've been waiting to hear if I'd been accepted to Moody Bible Institute in Chicago for the fall of 2009. I desire to major in International Ministries and Bible. In January I was placed in a deferred decision group. The answer came last week that I will continue waiting. I am now on a waiting list and could get a call anytime between June and August, if a space were to open up. I've had mixed emotions all along about leaving Ecuador because ministry is at such an exciting point and my friendships are deepening here. Though difficult to think of leaving, God has graced me with a peace about what ever answer may come. My struggle is in the "not knowing part" and that seems to be exactly where He wants to keep me for awhile longer! His ways are not my ways, but oh how wonderful His ways are!

MY TEAM

The CC staff is in a place of growth. We are adding two new couples and one single this year.
Tiffany came in March for training and is coming permanently in June after she graduates from Bible College. She has a heart to begin work among oral cultures here and will take over IBCI administration if God opens the door for me to study.

Anthony and Caylin, God willing will arrive on May 5th. Anthony is a PW graduate and Caylin will be attending PW this year. They plan to serve with CC staff long-term. We are excited to have them on our team. We are especially excited to have Anthony's technical abilities. Pray for their visas to come through.

Noah and Cate are bringing a team from NY this summer for our Mission 101: Boot Camp and then will be returning in the fall as CC staff. We are excited to have them on out team too, as they are both educators. They are bringing along their new little son, Phineas too!

Justin, April and their daughter Micheala are about to complete their first year here with CC staff. They've been a huge blessing to IBCI and our local neighbors. They are very relational and evangelistic.

My parents, the founders & directors of CC, have a large work load right now with multiple ministries under their leadership, preparation for fund-raising and building a base, and preparing and training incoming staff. Pray for wisdom, grace and health as they lead.

THANK YOU!
Many of you have been faithful financial supporters of my work here and I know that for many this is sacrificial and not out of abundance. Thank you for playing such a role in the global body of believers. Our IBCI students thank you too!

Many of you have been faithful prayer supporters. I am convinced that this has produced God's grace and protection many times and in many situations. "Thank you" seems quite trite. I also know that we're just the pottery, so let's praise Potter.

Love,
Amie
Enjoy some pictures from the last couple of months!

2009-02-28T12:05:00.003-02:00

IBCI TENA GRADUATION
Last Sunday was a special graduation because it represented our first group of students completing our three year Bible School, (a.k.a. Instituto Biblico por Capacitacion Internacional). Please take a minute to "meet" the eleven third-year IBCI graduates here in the slide show.

These students have heard Christ's commission and moved out into many different areas of ministry. Most of them have also been in training to be a part of IBCI's future as teachers or logistics volunteers.

Twelve more students completed their first and second year of studies in IBCI.

The days leading up to the graduation event were full of all the logistical stuff that I so enjoy. Sunday morning we,(my Dad, Justin, Juan Carlos, and I), headed to Tena with the car loaded up with materials for graduation and for the IBCI Tena office.

The IBCI students did all the food and venue preparations, (apart from the 150 cookies that April, our neighbor Patty, and I made in Quito). It was a beautiful and emotional event. The primary message that was given named the observable qualities within the third year students, and encouraged them all to move beyond a mentality of "ministry maintenance" toward the vision and passion that Christ gives us.

Enjoy glimpses of the graduation ceremony in the slideshow below.

Praise and Prayer Requests
As of last week, CC has purchased property! Thanks to all of you who had a part in this phase during the last couple of years. Now it's time for phase two, fund-raising for construction. Please pray for the leadership in this endeavor to be ever so dependent on HIM.

My mom, who is a vital part of CC, is having surgery this Wednesday in Seattle at Virginia Mason. In short, the purpose is to make a cut in a tiny spasmatic muscle close to her pancreas. This will be the second surgery to eradicate the same problem. This surgery has risks, but is her only option at this point. Please pray for the surgeon's hands and all that is involved here. Also pray for her and us, that we would TRUST in God who holds all things in His hands.

This month, Tiffany will be here for more training to take my place if/when I go to Moody Bible Institute. The weekend of the 28th we plan to do a children's outreach in a remote community. Pray for His will, guidance and protection with this endeavor. Tiffany will return to Seattle for her graduation from Bible School and then begin her long-term service here in June.

Pray for John and Angie Prince in Renton, Wa. They are stateside CC staff and John is an elder at Harambee Church. They are praying for a house in which they could open their home to students from the afterschool program. They also need more volunteers to help with this fast growing ministry to highschool students. The majority are a considered "at-risk" kids.

Pray for my friend Inez, who I have mentioned before. She has been in the hospital for the last four nights in Tena with high-blood pressure and an infection. Pray that the causes would be found and properly addressed. Personally, I am not confident in the governement Tena hospital. I've encouraged her to go to a Mission hospital that is 2 & 1/2 hours away, but I believe fear of the unknown stops her.

Pray for me as I spend the majority of the next two weeks in Tena. My primary purpose is to be available for the Tena Office volunteers as they prepare for the new IBCI year.

Pray for patience, peace and contentment to continue as I wait for my application decision from Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. The decision was deferred until April 1st. Hopefully, I will be letting you all know the verdict in my next update.

PERSONAL NOTES AND THOUGHTS
These last months I have been encouraged in my relationship with Christ via various things; an online bible study, our daily CC teaching/prayer times, and fellowship with believers and unbelievers. I wish to share a bit of this with you. I'll attempt to make it concise.

I am doing an online bible study called "The Lord's Table". It has been created by a ministry called Setting the Captives Free. (www.settingcaptivesfree.com) It was brought to my attention by my brother's mother-in-law while I was in Seattle. It intrigued me, so I signed up, and amazingly enough, she was assigned to me as my mentor. In short, the daily scripture studies challenge people to put food in it's proper place, not as an idol. It is a scripture-based, God-glorifying program and each study has been renewing and challenging to me. I am on day 27 of the study and I am experiencing victory and freedom from food idolotry. No, I am not starving myself! I am learning to do what scripture says... "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." 1Co 10:31

Daily our CC team gathers for teaching and prayer. My Dad has been sharing the theological foundations of what motivates us as a ministry. Here are the topics we've walked through recently; The Glory of God is Central, The God Who Speaks, The God Who Dwells with His People, The God of All Nations, The God of the Oppressed. I wish I could expound on them all but I am afraid it wouldn't be concise. An over-arching statement I will make based on these teachings is; God is the one doing the work in the hearts of believers and unbelievers. We are simply His tools, that He loves.

Two mornings a week I've enjoyed walks with an neighbor who hasn't come to faith in Christ yet, but she is searching. I have just felt a special sense of God's spirit during our conversations and trust that He is doing a work in her heart and life. I've also been pleased to have more time these last months to fellowship and work with the IBCI logistics team in Tena. My heart has been renewed by times of laughter and sharing together with my fellow-laborers in Christ.

Enjoy your last slideshow within this update. It's just random stuff from the month of February. I am getting better at taking pictures, finally!

Thank you so much for your communication, love, support and prayers!
In Him,
Amie

Transition from 2008 to 2009

2009-01-28T02:20:00.015-02:00

Washington Pictures

It was a joy to see and visit with many of you in December. I had an unforgetable time with my family. Especially with my nieces and nephews. I have three nieces and two nephews now! Two from Eric and Cheri, and three from Aaron and Kayla.
I was also able to stop in Chicago on my way to Seattle, in order to tour Moody Bible Institute, at which I have applied for fall 2009.

I've been back in Ecuador now for a few weeks now with good intentions to get this written sooner. Needless to say, I have a bit to share with those of you who are interested.

The day after I returned, my friend Inez and her two children arrived from Misahualli to stay with me. Inez needed some medical attention in Quito. Quito is huge compared to Misahualli, which is a little pueblo in the jungle. It was fun to show them places in their own capital city of Quito. We took pictures, (some at the Presidential Palace, which I accidently erased). Escalators in the mall were quite exciting to the kids. Between many different medical appointments, we squeezed in city tours and CC office hours. Inez was able to help and laugh with me as I struggled to replace the toner in our copy machine for the first time. (that's a whole differnt story for another time). The initial plan was for their visit to be a few days, but due to follow-up appointments, it turned into a full week, for which I was grateful for the company in the end.

Quito Pictures

Yesterday I returned from five days in the jungle. I left four days after Inez did. I stayed at Inez's home in Misahualli. I traveled to Tena everyday, (a 30 min bus ride), and returned in the evenings to visit with Inez, her family and the community. In Tena, I visited various IBCI students and met with Graciela, who is the IBCI Office Adminstrator. Our Tena IBCI graduation is scheduled for Sunday February 22nd. Graciela, along with twelve other third level students will be graduating. Three second-year students will graduate and about fourteen first-year students. All of these students are serving in church planting efforts, various ministries and/or as the local IBCI team. It is a pretty exciting time in Tena as we are launching our first local IBCI office.

While in Misahualli I enjoyed conversation with old and new friends. We have two IBCI students that live in the area. Megaly is an 18 year old who is about to complete her second year in IBCI. Dario is a third year IBCI student who is teaching both adults and children basic Christian truths to a group of believers in Misahualli. The believers in Misahualli have had a lot of "church drama" in the last several years. Both Dario and Megaly are Quichua speakers with a true heart for God and others. Please pray for them as they live out the gospel in this dark area and continue their studies in IBCI. Please pray too that Inez will enroll in IBCI this year. She is seriously considering it. Give thanks that she has a strong friendship now with a local believer who recenly moved into the area. Inez is attending a small church made up of primarily Quichua peoples.
Note: You will notice in the pictures here a gingerbread man. He traveled to Ecuador with me from Mukilteo, Wa. to visit. He will eventually return to share his adventures in my cousin Noah's classroom.

Misahualli Pictures

Just for fun, TAKE A QUIZ that communicates what 2008 held and what 2009 may hold for both Compassion Connection and myself. See how you rate on the Quiz (Answers below)
# correct:
16-20 Avid CC reader............................11-15 Occasional CC reader
6-10 Skim CC reader.............................1-5 May not know what “CC” stands for

1. How long has CC been operating in Ecuador?
2. What are my roles in CC Ecuador?
3. What does IBCI stand for?
4. Who operates IBCI?
5. How many IBCI locations are operating in Ecuador?
6. How many students are in IBCI Ecuador?
7. How many CC staff are currently serving in Ecuador?
8. How many CC staff are currently serving in the USA?
9. How many student interns came to Ecuador in 2008?
10. How many staff are on their way to Ecuador in 2009?
11. What does PW stand for?
12. How many 2008 PW students did we have in Ecuador?
13. Has CC acquired property in Ecuador?
14. What does MBI stand for?
15. What does my tenative 2009 timeline look like?
16. What will my future with CC be?
17. What is "The Line Chicago"?
18. What is the relationship between 2009 and India for me?
19. What do I collect?
20. Can you visit Ecuador?

Quiz Answers
1. Nearly five years
2. CC/IBCI Office Administrator, Missions 101: Boot Camp Communications, PW Community Living/Teacher/Mentor
3. Instituto Bíblico por Capacitación Internacional
4. Intially CC staff models & teaches, then we hand operations to National Leadership
5. Two; One in Quito area (Conocoto) and one in the Jungle (Tena)
6. Seventy-six Students
7. Five; Steve & Sandi Youngren, Justin & April Spoonamore & myself (Olsons returned to USA)
8. Two: John and Angie Prince in Renton, Washington.
9. Four; Kate McGill, Rachel Reynolds, Tiffany Butler, Aaron Baltazar
10. Five; Tiffany Butler (June), Anthony & Cailyn Lagoon (April), Noah & Cate Brennan (Fall)
11. Potter’s Wheel- a six-month missions and discipleship program
12. Four; Mikail Berg, Michelle Brown, Jake Busby, Morgan McCoy
13. The CC board was here in Nov and we’re close to making an intial offer on land
14. Moody Bible Institute. If I am accepted I will be going for a B.A. in International Ministries (http://www.moody.edu/)
15. Jan-June; train others, Jun-Aug; move & work in Chicago, Sept; begin studies @ MBI
16. During MBI studies- stateside resource projects, After MBI return to Ecuador
17. A movement of missionaries in Chicago, led by my brother Aaron (thelinechicago.com)
18. Represents ten years since my outreach team was in NE India
19. Insects, Textiles, Elephants, & Giraffes
20. YES! Be a short term participant this summer (http://missions101bootcamp.blogspot.com/2009/01/welcome.html) or you come anytime as a visitor

To read more visit: www.compassionconnection.net

Historia- Numero Uno

2008-10-15T16:30:00.010-03:00

What to say?

I hate it when you think of what would have been best to say after the opportunity has taken flight. That is where I have to just trust God’s sovereign hand over my lame mouth.

I’ll tattle on my lame mouth for your entertainment.

Morgan and I were in North Quito, literally in the ghetto, visiting with Auria and Margarita, who are both second year students. Margarita was sharing her struggles and was stating how she often thinks that she has no part in the body of Christ. She was dangerously comparing herself to Auria who is extremely evangelistic and outgoing. However Margarita is a quiet, behind the scenes, servant-hearted part of the body. I was so eager to speak encouragement to her because during discipleship class that very week we’d been looking at what the scripture says about the body of Christ. My lame mouth syndrome is compounded when Spanish is a factor. What I meant to say and what I did say were two completely different things. She stared at me blankly and confused and continued speaking with no response to my eager ¨words of encouragement¨. Among the many things I said, what I meant to say was that those thoughts she was entertaining were lies. What I actually said was that she was a liar! The worst part is I did not realize exactly what I’d said until I replayed the conversation the next day! I won’t see Margarita until next month now, but I am sure eager to tell her what I wanted to say!

It's raining, it's pouring, and people are snoring!

2008-07-15T22:41:00.019-03:00

Hi friends and family!
You know how when it rains it pours? Well, it's been pouring a variety of things in my life recently; people,(some snoring people), projects, minor injuries, more lessons in dependency, and a deep peace that is rooted in Christ.

PEOPLE have been streaming in and out to serve with Compassion Connection the last couple of months.

Rachel Reynolds came to serve with us for a six week internship and became a fast friend and vital team player. She served in a number of ways and left an impact on our whole team and beyond.

Justin and April Spoonamore arrived with their infant, Micheala. They are here in Ecuador with hearts to serve long-term with CC. They were previously missionaries in Oaxaca, Mexico. God quickly provided them a home, right next door to us! Please pray for them as they settle into the culture, language, and ministry roles.

Tiffany Butler arrived to Ecuador via bus from Brazil. She is completing a six month internship with Compassion Connection for her Missions studies. She has been a tremendous benefit to the ministry here. She is more than half way through her stay and it seems God may be pulling her toward long term ministry with CC in Ecuador.

Hannah O'Rear was here for the summer to serve as summer staff. She is an amazingly mature young woman from Washington state. It was a pleasure to share conversation and time with her. Her life really ministered to me. She painted me this awesome picture too!

The Potter's Wheel students arrived in this order; Jake Busby, Michelle Brown, Morgan McCoy, and Mikail Berg. You can get to know them and see what they´ve been up to at: www.ecuadorpw.blogspot.com

Aaron Baltazar is a former Potter's Wheel student who was here for a few weeks to serve as summer help. He was a tremendous help in the kitchen with his servant's heart that truly reflects Christ.

Ali Hebert came for three short weeks to help with our visiting summer group. She was a summer group particpant last summer and was an awesome addition to our staff team this year. She brought us a lot of laughter and joy.

The Summer Group came from Washington, California and Kentucky this year. You can read all about our time with them by visiting: www.ecuadorpw.blogspot.com

Kate McGill has been my ministry partner for the last six months. It was very hard to say goodbye to her recently. Pray for her transition period into college life.

PROJECTS-Painting, digging, sanding desks, children´s programs, cooking are some of the things we did with our short term summer team. We were able to serve two different church plants and a public school located in a community where church planting is in the beginning stages. One unforgetable moments for me was making a pot of rice for 200 people.

MINOR INJURIES
13 stitches in 3 fingers: I fell up some stairs with a glass in my hand.
My friend Inez, from Misahualli, (the jungle), spent a few days with me here in Quito for medical attention. God answered all of our prayers.
Fainting was the the thing to do with a couple of people here. Thankfully the only injury that came with fainting was a cut nose.

LESSONS IN DEPENDENCY
This seems to be a continuing lesson in my life...dependency. I was challenged by having an incapacitated hand during the visiting summer group. I battle a tendency to find my identity in "doing" for Him rather than "being" in Him. I have my feet in a variety of shoes at the moment too;CC Office Adminstrator, IBCI logistics manager/trainer, PW Community Living Coordinator, PW Mentor, PW Bible Teacher, language learner. It's become evident that God has put me in these shoes in order to learn a new level of dependecy on Him. Through this process, the process or learning dependency, I am finding a deep peace abiding in Him in the middle of the busy-ness.

Thank You
I want to thank all those that regularly support me through prayer and finances. Your faithful support allows me to continue in what I know God has called me to.

Write me a line when you get a chance. I love hearing what is new in your lives and what God is teaching you.
In Him,
Amie

Want stories?

2008-05-14T00:01:00.023-03:00

I like to tell real life stories. It seems that some of you like to read them. So I've written a few stories from my last couple of months. Enjoy!

SHERLOCK HOLMES
You might know that one of my roles with Compassion Connection is visiting and encouraging our Ecuadorian Bible students. We are about six months into our "school year" in Tena. We now have three class levels operating there. I have visited and built relationship with our second and third level students in this region. I often feel like Sherlock Holmes trying to find the first level students in their homes or work places. Addresses and phone numbers are something that not everyone has. There were many successes the last couple of months connecting with many of these dear students. Please hold them in your prayers. Some are new believers who have enrolled in order to gain a foundation in the scripture.

MARRIED OR SINGLE?
The past several weeks I have been traveling quite a bit between Quito and Tena. I travel via buses, car taxis and truck taxis. Ecuadorian transportation is primarily operated by the male populace. The male population here has a tendency to be forward and flirtatious with all women, but especially with foreign women. I often find myself guarding myself from their advances, which usually begin with a barrage of questions resembling the following:
Where are you from?
Are you single or married?
Do you want to marry an Ecuadorian man?
Do you have/want children?
Do you like Ecuador?
Do you like to dance?
Where do you live?
If I answer "single" to the second question than the entire list of questions are sure to follow. I learned quickly to answer "married" in order to terminate their interrogative advances. It's a lie, I know, but it is also a safeguard that I justify. Well, this last month my lie begot more lies. I answered "married" to a taxi driver and then I was asked if I had or wanted children. I answered that "we" were thinking of adopting. I then got an earful of why it would be a bad idea to adopt before having my own children. I also was questioned about my ability to bear children. I walked away from the taxi feeling quite insulted and climbed on to the bus. After I took my seat, I looked down at my empire-wasted shirt in order to avoid creepy stares. My shirt style prompted me to thwart any more male advances by feigning pregnancy. It worked! I played the part of a pregnant woman on my five-hour bus ride. I rubbed my stomach, took naps and I even ate something I would normally not eat… a beef shish kabob (FYI: I’ve been vegetarian for all of my adult life, but Ecuador is changing this). When I met up with Kate later that evening I recounted my travel day to her. She asked if I even waddled when I walked, but I guess that I forgot to add that part into my pregnant act! Kate and I laughed ourselves to sleep with my silly defense mechanisms. Though my methods might be humorous, please pray for wisdom and integrity for me (and all the single missionary women). I desire to honor and trust God in all that I say and do.

MOTHER'S DAY, BEES AND COW FEET SOUP
On Mother's Day Kate and I headed out to a tiny church plant that is forty-five minutes from our house in Quito. Four of our IBCI students live and work in this area, which is called “Yurac”. As soon as we arrived to the tiny home that would later be packed to the gills for the special Mother's Day service, Kate was dragged off by the kids to go see the "bosque". (The “bosque” turned out to be the forest, which she later learned). Carmen, who is one of our IBCI students, and I followed half the distance and listened to their voices from across the ravine. On the way back up the hill one of the boys was attacked by bees. His shrieking voice was unforgettable. Fortunately he recovered quickly. As soon as we arrived back to the house it filled up with people and the Andean worship music began booming off the walls. (see video below) It was a blast. The worship gave turn to a sermon and then the sermon gave way to a stream of poems, songs and dances for the mothers. It was beautiful. Kate and I were called up to dance with them, but I had a hard time imitating what looks like very simple foot moves. I am sure that we caused a few good laughs. The event ended with cow foot soup. (My vegetarian tendency caused this to be a challenge). We were then shown the parcel of land that this community of believers owns and hopes to build a church on. It’s my prayer that the process of constructing a building would coincide with God doing a deep foundational work in the heart of the believers and their community.

A SPECIAL VISITOR
My biological father, Bob, and I reconnected about ten years ago. He came all the way from Arizona to Ecuador for a visit this last month. We had a wonderful week together and I gave him a whirlwind tour of Ecuador. It is always fun and refreshing to see Ecuador again through a visitor’s eye.

Bob holding a snake

A BUMP ON THE HEAD
I’ve had a gift certificate to a local spa in my office drawer for nearly six months. I recently realized that it had expired. This week I decided to try and redeem it. I arrived ready to plead my case, (I've been traveling between Tena and Quito frequently in the last months), but the owner did not blink an eye at the expiration date. So I enjoyed a wonderful morning at the spa. Nothing spectacular happened at the spa except that I left feeling incredibly relaxed and blessed. I headed from the spa to feed the cat for our friends that are out of town. As I was unlocking their metal gate a gigantic leggy mosquito decided to plunge for my head. With my incredibly cat like reflexes I jerked my head out of its path and plummeted it right into the metal gate. The center of my forehead swelled up immediately. I prayed as I drove home that I would not pass out. God answered my prayer. But when I returned home, I was informed that I looked like a character from Star Trek. I added to the humor of my situation by rigging a way to ice my head in a manner that allowed me to work in the office and not have to lie down. I guess I picked the perfect day to go to the spa but I wish I could have reordered the sequence of that day….first bump my head and then go to the spa. It’s somewhat of an anticlimactic story, I know.

FULL HOUSE
Our house is slowly filling up with people again. It has been Kate and I the last several months.
CC Staff:
• My parents, (the CC founders) have returned after a stay in the USA.
• Justin and April Spoonamore arrive this week with the intention of becoming long term CC staff members.
CC Interns:
• Rachel Reynolds arrived last week from Colorado. She is here to serve as a short term intern for six weeks.
• Tiffany Butler, from Seattle, is also coming to finish her internship that began in Brazil.
Potter's Wheel Potter's Wheel Ecuador commences in June. The following students will receive hands on training by becoming part of the CC team for the next six months:
• Morgan McCoy from California
• Mikail Berg from Washington
• Michelle Brown from Washington
• Jake Busby from Texas

Summer Program
June 28th-July 10th we have a team of 17 people coming for missions training and a service project. We also have three former students coming as short term staff for the summer.

JOIN THE STORY
In light of all of the above, I ask that if you are a prayer partner, please pray for unity and effectiveness in ministry for the following people:
• IBCI students, both in Tena and Quito
• CC Staff
• CC Interns
• Potter's Wheel Students
• Summer Group participants
• Short term summer Staff

Thanks for reading! Miss you all and I love to hear your comments.
In Him,
Amie

Retreat in Cuenca?

2008-04-10T12:42:00.004-03:00

Our retreat to Cuenca was less than a retreat, but I guess that God did not have a literal ´retreat´ in mind for us. Our first night was spent in Riobamba. (As I begin this narrative we are back in Riobamba.) I love to hear Grace, who is two years old, say ´Riobamba´. I also like to sing about doing the somba in Riobamaba. Riobamaba sits in the Andes mountains, as does Cuenca. The scenery and culture of both are unforgetable.

On our first evening in Cuenca we were met with the realities that come with any big city. Our car was broken into while we were at dinner. Pretty much all of the Olson´s and Kate´s luggage was stolen. Nothing of mine was gone though. Only God knows why. The Olson family lost much...a pack-n-play, stroller, lots of clothing, and more. Thankfully, nobody lost important documents or wallets. We managed by sharing all things in common the next few days in Cuenca. It kind of felt like the N.T. christians in Acts. It was sort of an adventure seeing the Olson´s take on the challenge of living with only what was on their backs with two small children. They did great! They washed clothes out and we used my blow dryer to dry them sometimes. I think that the biggest challenge for them was keeping clothes clean with a two year old and infant. There were several moments which could have ended in tears, but usually ended up in laughter... Icecream spills, Grace not making it to the bathroom in time, a fizzy coke exploding, baby spit up, diapers, etc.
Our trip is not over yet, but I hope that we hit the climax last night... Our car overheated and went capoot only ten minutes outside of Riobamba. We were granted the adventure of riding in our car, on the back of a ¨wincha¨(tow-truck), into Riobamba. The car was then left at a mechanic shop and we all headed to our hotel pretty exhausted. Some nerves were rubbed pretty raw. We are relatively refreshed this morning and ready to return home this afternoon. The car problem ended up being a water pump and it will be ready at noon (supposedly)...we´ll see.

All and all, it is rich and rewarding to see how God uses circumstances to purge our individual hearts and the heart of our little community. I am learning more and more how to love others as He loved us. One of the many discussions after the theft recognized that our feelings of being violated is only a fraction of what God feels when we sin against Him, yet he still forgives and loves us.

Well, I am going to sign out for now. We have a IBCI session on Saturday in Quito. On April 26th, the 1st and 2nd level students will graduate and move to the next level. Pray that God would enable each one to finish well and follow the call towards God´s mission here in Ecuador.

Return from the Jungle

2008-04-01T13:12:00.007-03:00

We're back in Quito. Our trip to the jungle was full of adventures and memorable times with some of our Bible Institute students.

Allow me to give you a story line description...

Prologue
Kate and I arrived in Tena not knowing exactly what day we would depart for the Riveras, (approx. six hours farther into the jungle). News arrived that we would be leaving at 4:00 am the following morning. Eight of us squished into Marcos and Eva's little double cab pick up truck early in the morning. (Marcos and Eva are third year IBCI students.) Our purpose was to visit and encourage two IBCI students who live out in this region. Marcos and Eva's family stayed two days with his father before having to return to Tena. Kate and I stayed six days with Laura, Marcos' sister, who is an IBCI student. We spent two full afternoons with William, the other IBCI student, and his family.

Setting:
Province of Orellana.
Beautiful, lush jungle.
Rivers, streams and marsh land.
Plantains, pineapples, papayas, oranges, yucca, limes, rice, bananas, cacao and more, growing in all directions.
Homes built on stilts, (Swiss family Robinson style).
Government constructed out-houses.
No electricity.
Small and large insects.
Exotic birds, flowers and wild life.

Characters:
La Familia Buenano;
Senora Laura Montesdeoca, 38 year old, IBCI student, wife, mother of six, grandmother of two, dedicated Christ follower, mature in faith, missionary, full of joy and spirit. She spends her days cleaning, cooking, hand washing clothes, studying scripture and visiting neighbors.

Senor Hernan Buenano, 45 year old, husband of Laura, father, grandfather, reserved and mischievous demeanor, and faithful Christ follower. He spends his days working the land in whatever way possible to provide for his family.

Patty, 24 year old daughter of Hernan and Laura, mother of two, wife, farmer, Christ follower, full of life and energy. (She frequently came around with her two small boys and husband).

Joel, 17 year old, son of Hernan and Laura, reserved, observant, hard working, and unsure of where to put his faith.

Gabriella, 14 year old, daughter of Hernan and Laura, beautiful, smiley, mysterious, and follows her parent's instruction and faith.

La Familia Verdezota;
Senor William Verdezota, 33 year old, IBCI student, husband, father of two, reserved, inventive, and has six year old relationship with Christ. He spends his days working the land and raising cattle.

Senora Estella, 28 year old, wife of William, mother, timid, kind, hesitant, hospitable and not yet a Christ-follower.

Kate, soon-to-be-19-year-old intern/student from Wisconsin, all American, brown-eyed, blond haired, soft spoken, kind, Christ follower and missionary.

Myself, I'll go without description.

Other notable characters;
Numerous children, adorable, barefoot, playful and unsupervised.

Lenny, community leader of sorts, Christian, skeptical towards Americans (with reason), talkative, bold and inquisitive.

A woman, wears a satin, bright purple, eighties-style-prom-dress with a bright red sash, bright red lip stick, puffy ponytail, and heels to complete the ensemble.

Plot:
Day One-
A very long day, due to our 4:00 a.m. start. We spent the day conversing with Laura and family. Heavy rains fell for the majority of the day, so we stayed in the Swiss Family Robinson style house.

Day Two-
Awoke with the sun. This was a Saturday, the most exciting day of the week for the locals. Trucks of goods travel in and set up booths to sell their goods, which consist of items like batteries, soap, ice-cream and rice. The remainder of the day was spent at William's home. We arrived there via foot and canoe through marshland. On the way back, I amused everyone by falling off of the canoe into the murky water. The only thing running through my mind was 'anaconda and leeches'. I made it out creature-free and was instructed to scrub my whole body immediately. That evening we headed to the local church that consists of about four or five families. I was hoping for candlelight due my physical appearance but the generator was used. We gave a greeting to the believers and were persuaded to sing a special song.

Day Three-
Easter morning! We went to a simple church service in the morning. Then we spent the afternoon picking and sucking on oranges and took a swim and a bath in the river. I don't think Kate had ever shared a bar of soap with 10 people before.

Day Four-
Relaxed day. Kate picked oranges. I learned how to dig up yucca. We both learned how to peel, cook and eat it. We studied our respective missions’ books and worked on memorizing the Romans road scriptures in Spanish. We also had meaningful and humbling conversation with Laura. I was challenged by her wisdom and perseverance in her faith. That evening, we were pleasantly surprised to find ourselves in the middle of a home bible study. Lenny, the aforementioned character, and his wife came by. We shared conversation that was somewhat flavored with skepticism and hostility from Lenny before Laura led us into a time of study and prayer.

Day Five-
We spent the majority of the day at William's home. William demonstrated for us his inventive form of listening to the audio portion for the Bible Institute. (Remember there is no electricity.) In order to maximize his battery use, he had his Discman connected to a cassette player that uses larger batteries. He expressed frustration with CD use, because it's impossible to resume listening right were he left off. Consequently battery life is wasted while searching for his previous location. IBCI currently has six MP3 players and as of last Sunday, one of them is being used by William to eliminate this problem. It is a goal to have MP3 players for every IBCI student to use. This will eliminate ongoing cassette and CD expenses and damage. The other noteworthy part of day five was that I killed a chicken with a dull kitchen knife. (I was hoping for a machete). God enabled me to eat it, despite my loss of appetite after the gruesome murder. Lenny showed up that day, by God's hand, I believe. We heard more of his story and I then understood his skepticism and hostility displayed toward us the previous night. Earlier in his life he had been bribed by Americans to give his life to Jesus and in return they would take him to the USA to be a pastor. I felt prompted to apologize on behalf of my countrymen who had attempted to "sell" what is free.

Conclusion:
Day Six-
We woke early and said our goodbyes in order to catch the 7:00 bus to Tena. Laura sent us home with a box of yucca and plantains. I don't know who was more encouraged by our stay, Kate and I, or the friends that we had visited. I think that it may have been mutual. It was a tearful goodbye even though we knew that we would see each other in just a few days at IBCI classes in Tena. Our time in Riveras was a sweet time of communion with God, another part of the global body of Christ, and His beautiful creation.

After we arrived in Tena, the next few days were spent studying and visiting IBCI students in Tena. We had some struggles connecting with some of our first year students but once we did, new friendships were started by visiting these precious believers in their homes. Sunday we held IBCI classes and everything went well. Kate has grown tremendously in her Spanish and is a great help with the registration/materials table.

On Friday we, (the Olson family, Kate and I), will travel for a "retreat" in Cuenca. Cuenca is a historical southern city in Ecuador that I have yet to see. I am pretty excited about this.

Well, I am going to bring this quite long narrative to a close, but before I do, I must share, for my supporter’s sake, some excellent news. For the first time in my history as a missionary, the financial support goal was reached last month, and it was even $5 over the goal. Praise Him. Thank you so much for your support.

I love hearing from each of you and what God is doing in and through you as a missionary. Thanks for writing me notes of encouragement too. For those that don’t know yet, words are my love language, so it means a lot to me to hear from you.

In Him,
Amie

Time, Trials, Thoughts and Thanks

2008-03-01T17:21:00.012-02:00

What was a sunny day, just turned gray as I write. It's rainy season and I am grateful for an afternoon of stillness. I am wishing for firewood, but that may not become a wish that is granted for awhile because our road is nearly unaccessible by vehichle for the next five months. (This could actually mean ten months in Latin America.) I soaked up the sun this morning and now the rain is soaking the earth again. I am relishing the time to sit and write. Time seems to both lose and gain value simultanously. It loses value because I am less ruled by it. It gains value because I treasure the moments that time affords me. These updates prove beneficial for myself. Possibly more so than it does for you, the reader.

So on to the update:

1) Ecuador still exsists in spite of recent floods and volcanoe eruptions.

2) Ecuador is still in South America.

3) Correa is still the President of Ecuador.

4) On my bus rides to and from the jungle I dream about a time when humans can be instantly transporter-beamed anywhere.

5) I think my Spanish is improving because I explained the 'missing assigment reports' to our IBCI students and they did not have any questions.

6) God has decided to continue working on, in and through me within the geographic borders of Ecuador.

7) You, dear reader, are reading this on a computer, otherwise you are one of the two people I know who have yet to own one.

8) These last months Compassion Connection staff and Board members have had various trials...yet we count it all joy.

Some people may ask the valid question why, when reading my last statement. This is my confident reply:
Romans 5:2-11 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (3) More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, (4) and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, (5) and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. (6) For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. (7) For one will scarcely die for a righteous person--though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die-- (8) but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (9) Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. (10) For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. (11) More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

My heart is full of thanks that during this time God has provided me a ministry partner. Kate is 18 and doing an internship with CC for the next 5 months. She has already become a vital part here in the last 6 weeks. It's silly that we are surprised when we realize that God has all things figured out! My parents are on a leave right now for a number of reasons, thus I would have been living alone had God had not predetermined Kate to be here. She and I have already experienced strange food, hysterical laughter, sickness, frustration, and joy together.

I would like to express my thanks to those involved with financially supporting me here in Ecuador. My monthly support level is slowly rising to the $1,200 amount that was determined almost 4 years ago when I left for Ecuador. Ultimately it is God who determines all though and desires our trust. It's counter cultural for me, as an American, to be dependent on God and people financially. Please pray for my submission and humility in this area.

Last summer someone asked me the question, 'what is one thing you haven't done that you know you are supposed to?' After a moment of thought, 'lose weight' popped into mind. After a few more moments of thought, 'acquire a formal education' was screaming in my head. After years of serving cross culturally, I have discovered my passion is for teaching, discipleship and administration. I have begun the application process for Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. If God determines this for me, I will be at Moody in the fall of 2009. In conclusion, I am taking action steps to both lose wieght and acquire a formal education.

Well, if you've made it this far in my ramblings, you are a dear friend.
Love to all I love...you know who you are!

October 2007

2007-09-28T20:23:00.000-03:00

A POINT OF PRAYER

Rosa and her husband are third year students in CC’s International Bible Cassette Institute. Her husband has mysteriously disappeared for the second time. He’s been gone for two months at this point. He has made no contact with family or friends. He was a well respected pastor in the town of Tena and has left a group of believers without a pastor. A pastor from two hours away is commuting to take care of the local church. Unfortunately, this region has a long history of fallen church leaders and bad testimonies. Pray that what the enemy wishes to devastate Rosa, her children, the believers, and the community serves to strengthen the gospel witness in this area. I am reminded of Peter’s words to the dispersed believers, “In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith--more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire--may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1Pe 1:6-7 ESV) Please pray that this trial will result in the glory and honor of Jesus Christ.
I recently spent a day with Rosa at the family business and in her home. We chatted about faith, suffering and the Lord’s sovereignty as we busied ourselves in the juice shop. I believe we were mutually encouraged in the Lord. Please continue to pray for Rosa, her three children, her missing husband and the community of believers. It is our desire to train, equip and disciple church planters, leaders and laymen to be effective and long-term ministers of the gospel.

THOUGHTS ABOUT THE HOLY SPIRIT

The Holy Spirit has been an integral part of my life. In my youth I loved to "feel" His presence. As I developed a relationship to Christ that was not based only on feelings but also on intellect, I began to shy away from Holy Spirit talk. I recently encountered a believer who referred to the Holy Spirit more than I was comfortable with. I began asking myself why I was uncomfortable. I do believe that the Holy Spirit is part of the Godhead. I believe that the Holy Spirit is active in my life, in every believer’s life, and is even at work in unbeliever’s lives.
With the help of the Holy Spirit, I discovered two parts of why I was uncomfortable. First, the emotions that come along with the Holy Spirit guiding us can often become our focus, leaving God in the periphery. Faith is experiential, but experience is not what deserves our worship. God does. We are guilty of seeking experiences rather than allowing the Holy Spirit to simply guide us to the joy of worshipping God. Second, as I dialogued with this friend, I discovered that I was uncomfortable because it’s been easy for me to keep the Holy Spirit in a tidy box rather than discuss the dynamic relationship with him that involves emotions, feeling, reactions, responses, etc. In conclusion, despite the dangers involved with my first reason for feeling uncomfortable, it is appropriate for us to celebrate our dynamic relationship with the Holy Spirit as believers.

RECENT HISTORY
--Three visiting summer teams were an effective encouragement to the IBCI students and the CC staff
--I received earrings from a Quichua boy while at a school that we painted with a summer team (see pic)
--I traveled to Wa, Ca. and Az. and enjoyed time with family, friends, and supporters
--My sister, Charin, married David Kent ( I did not embarrass her with my wedding toast)
--IBCI graduated a first and second year class in the jungle

Excerpt from “How People Change” by Timothy Lane and Paul David Tripp

“God calls you to be dissatisfied. You should be discontent, restless and hungry! The Christian life is a state of thankful discontent or joyful dissatisfaction. That is, I live every day thankful for the grace that has changed my life, but I am not satisfied. Why not? Because when I look at myself honestly I have to admit that I am not all I can be in Christ. I am thankful for the many things in my life that would not be there without his grace, but I will not settle for a partial inheritance!

In this sense, it is right for me to discontent. It is right for me to want nothing less than all that is mine in Christ. He does not want us to enjoy only a small portion of the riches he has given us. He calls us to wrestle, meditate, watch, examine, fight, run, persevere, confess, resist, submit, follow and pray until we have been transformed into his likeness.”

Make an online donation:www.supportccinecuador.net
Go to “Support our Staff”

June 2007

2007-05-29T12:30:00.000-03:00

THOUGHTS FROM LIFE AND THE SCRIPTURE
All ¨to do's¨ have the ability to dominate life, but I've been reminded again that all that we do flows out of being. The most important thing to be, is to be abiding in Christ. How many of you can relate with the tendency to abide more in the works of our hands rather than the vine?

In John 15 Christ said; ¨Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.¨

What does Christ say about anyone who does not abide in Him? (If you skipped reading the scripture above, read it now). Pretty serious, huh? Thrown out into the fire and burned. If you read on above, we see that His purpose for asking us to abide in His love is three-fold, 1)for the glory of the Father 2)to produce fruit 3)that his joy may be in us.

Abiding in Him is not a struggle conceptually but it is in practice. When we wake up, are we abiding in Him, by talking to, listening to and hanging out with him? Or are we consumed with the ¨to do's¨ for the day? If we choose not to practice abiding in Him, we will embark on the pursuit of personal glory (rather than the Father's), produce bad fruit (rather than good fruit), and live in misery (rather than in His joy).

Let us prod one another along to joy and good works. It is my prayer that each of us, as Christ's disciples, would abide in Him, give glory to the Father, produce His fruit, and let His joy be among us.

WHAT'S NEW WITH COMPASSION CONNECTION

These last months have been very full here in Ecuador. I am confident that He will produce fruit as we continue abiding in and serving Him.

Within CC I have been busy with:
Preliminary communication with the visiting Summer Groups
Material production for IBCI (we have over 70 students in Quito)
Data & Grade entry for IBCI
Creating a comprehensive operation manual for IBCI
Logistical prepartations for our summer visitors
Teaching at Global Kid's (a bilingual school in Quito)

The following Churches and individuals will be joining Compassion Connection this summer to serve the local leaders and church plants:
The Harvest Youth (Tx)
Lake City Church Youth (Wi)
Mountain Ridge Community Church (Wa)
Center Pointe Community Church (NY)
Grace and Jill Shober (PA)
Brooke Shibata and Aaron Beltazar (Ca)
Kate McGill (Wi)
Eric Riddle and Michelle Brown(Wa)

At the end of May CC Ecuador sent John and Angie Prince and their two girls to Renton, Wa to pioneer Potter's Wheel USA. The first PW USA will open in February 2008!

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO BE INVOLVED

Please pray for:
Compassion Connection staff in Ecuador and USA
Ecuadorian IBCI students & church planters
Compassion Connection Summer teams

Tell your friends about Compassion Connection

Financially support CC ministies or a CC staff member online
www.supportccinecuador.net

PERSONAL NEWS:

My sister, Charin, is engaged and getting married in August.
I will be in Seattle area July 17- Aug 28
I will be in Ca & Az. Aug 28-Sept 13
I look forward to visiting with many of you!

April 2007

2007-03-26T17:04:00.000-03:00

Hello dear friends!
Enjoy reading my attempt to give a “brief” update of my life in Ecuador.

International Bible Cassette Institute
You may remember that the last several months I have purposed to visit all of the IBCI students in the jungle region in their homes. The level of relationships has deepened as we have shared more time together. In March some students from the jungle made the journey to Quito to participate in the Quito IBCI graduation. These dear friends serenaded us at home following the graduation ceremony. We shared a sweet time of laughter, singing, dancing and drinking hot cocoa together late into the evening.

(Eva and I laughing & singing)

Medical Outreach
In the jungle IBCI hosted a US medical team in five of the communities that the locals are targeting for church planting. This medical clinic opened many doors for the gospel. I had the pleasure of translating for a dental team. I shined a flashlight into many mouths, comforted scared children and watched dozens of teeth be extracted.

(working at the medical outreach)

Prayer Need
Seven children in one of the jungle communities lost their mother in February. The oldest is twelve years old and the youngest is a one year old. These children are basically left to themselves as the father goes out drinking. Neighbors in this very poor community are helping as they can with their food needs. The children go to school and daycare during the day but are left on their own for the rest of the day. My heart is very heavy for these children. Please pray with us for these children.

(IBCI Students from the Jungle)

Family
My sister, Charin, was able to spend six weeks with us. She jumped right in and helped us with several CC projects. She enjoyed her stay with the exception of the insects. She did not like to come into my room unless my insect collection was placed out of sight. By the end of her visit she was able to tolerate what I consider little wonders of God’s creation.

(Me, my Dad and my sister)

Potter’s Wheel
Spread the news that PW will have two locations as of 2008!
Upcoming Terms: Renton, Wa: Jan 3- July 15, 2008 Ecuador: June 1 – Nov 21, 2008
Training for Foreign Missions (Ecuador): We offer a rigorous introduction to other cultures by immediate orientation and a home stay with an Ecuadorian family. As training progresses, so do the opportunities for relationship building, ministry helps and joining our team in working alongside national pastors who are taking the gospel to unreached peoples in the Napo jungle region.
Training for Missional Living (U.S.A.): We offer a rigorous introduction to the needs of our home culture by immediate involvement in ministering helps to the poor, an after school program, and involvement with Harambee church as they build relationships, taking the gospel to the streets of the community. This term ends with a trip to our base in Ecuador (included in tuition) for exposure to foreign missions and an opportunity to strengthen leadership skills by participating as Summer Staff for Compassion Connection.

Global Kids
“Global Kid’s” is a private bilingual (Spanish/English) school located near our base in Quito that one of our IBCI students teaches at. Since December I have given a few hours to the school weekly by teaching the “values class” in English. Teaching third, fifth and sixth grade in what is their second language has had its challenges! My biggest challenge was trying to explain the English phrase “get your kicks”.

(Me being silly at the market)

February Newsletter

2007-01-23T17:21:00.000-03:00

A highlight from January was sharing a week deep in the jungle with two of our IBCI students. These two students travel six hours monthly to attend the IBCI classes. They were the last two of our 2nd year students that I had committed to visit in their homes.

The following will give you an idea of the area: Up until a few months ago one could only get in and out of the area by canoe. There is no electricity. The local water source is from rivers and streams. Bamboo ladders are often the entrance into the wood homes that sit on stilts. Women spend the days cooking, washing clothes, tending the animals, and caring for children. Men attempt to tame the jungle with machetes, planting, harvesting, and cutting lumber to sell. The most exciting weekly event is the market day, which consists of about 10 stalls filled with anything from batteries to beef. Market day is the time to catch up with neighbors, play sports, and make your purchases.

My purpose was to build relationships with our two IBCI students who live in this community. I learned many things, one of which was how to make cocoa powder right from the bean. My primary occupation during the day was catching insects and helping the women with daily tasks. In the evenings we walked by lamp light to visit neighbors who had shown interest in the gospel. I was encouraged to hear the respectful, open and humble dialogue between the believers and the unbelievers. For example one young unbeliever asked a believer, “How do you know that Christianity is the “one-true” religion?” The reply only contained scripture allowing the Word to speak for itself. How powerful the Word of God is and how often we forget this and try to “illuminate” scripture with our own words. The young man with the question listened attentively to the scripture that was read and pondered it. Join me in prayer that the Holy Spirit will illuminate the Word that is being spoken to the people in this community through this very small group of disciples.

WHAT’S NEW WITH COMPASSION CONNECTION?

 We have begun promotions to establish a permanent base here in Ecuador. It is with much prayer and trust in God that we proceed. I hope that you each received the promotional packet and took time to look through it. Please pray about how you can help with this endeavor.

 Potter’s Wheel Feb-Aug session has been cancelled. This is allowing us time to encourage and strengthen the national leadership and ministries. During this time some of our team will travel to promote our ministry need for permanence in Ecuador.

 There is vision and action toward 7 new church plants in the jungle region. This vision was birthed and is being put into action by the national leadership enrolled in the International Bible Cassette Institute (IBCI).

URBANA CONVENTION!
A highlight from December was the Missions convention in St. Louis, Dec 26-31. 25,000 college students and missionaries were in attendance. One thing that impacted me was the message that a Pastor from Kenya shared regarding the global church.

You can listen too.
http://www.urbana.org/u2006.webcast.cfm
Click “Dec 28th evening”
Click “The Global Church” Oscar Muriu”

www.compassionconnection.net
www.supportccinecuador.net

November Newsletter

2006-11-16T10:41:00.000-03:00

Dear Friends,

The last couple of months the Compassion Connection staff have had quality and quantity time to develop and strengthen all of our ministries.

Here are some vignettes from my life since the last update:

I only had to ask two people on the road in order to find Juanita’s home. I picked up a rock, as is the custom, to knock it against her blue metal gate. She appeared from within her darling little garden and greeted me with a hug and a Latin kiss on the cheek. She led me down a path to her kitchen, which looks like something from a story book - with dirt floors, old mismatched furniture, and various scriptures on the wall. Juanita is a mother of five who attends our local church. Her husband is only in the home about once every two months. This is a typical scenario for many women here. We enjoyed fellowship, fresh fish, rice, prayer and scripture together. We both felt challenged and encouraged by one another to press on toward the goal. (Philippians 3)

Click, click, whir, whir are the sounds that I repeatedly hear on the days that I reproduce cassettes for the Bible Cassette Institute. We produce nearly 5,000 cassettes a year. The Bible Cassette Institute is meeting a great need by equipping nationals to teach, plant churches and disciple. As I listen to the click, click, whir, whir I pray for these nationals who are spreading the gospel where it has not yet been heard. Please join me in prayer for these faithful brothers and sisters who are carrying out Christ’s commission in what is their Jerusalem. (Acts 1:8)

This month I am visiting students’ homes from the Bible Cassette Institute in order to develop relationships and be an encouragement. Consequently, I get to develop my Spanish language skills as well. I am very excited about beginning a quarterly newsletter to circulate among the IBCI students. This will be a means for students to hear from one another and be encouraged to endure. (2 Timothy 2)

God has provided the way for me to attend the “Urbana” missions conference in St. Louis, Missouri from Dec 26-Jan 2. Approximately 25,000 people attend from around the world. I am very excited about this opportunity to network with other missionaries. God has provided free accommodations in St. Louis too. My dear childhood friend, Julianne just moved to St. Louis with her new husband. Unfortunately she’ll be in Seattle while I am in town.

Thank you for your love, encouragement and support!
Until next time,
Amie

August Newsletter

2006-09-07T16:45:00.000-03:00

MY PUNCTURED PRIDE

Pastor Wilson approached me as soon our group of 20 people arrived at his house to work. We were there to pour cement, move rocks, and move dirt. He informed me that the kitchen was ready for me to cook in and that the ladies wanted to watch and learn how we Americans cook.
I was prepared to cook, but I was not prepared to be teaching women who spend 90% of their day in the kitchen how to cook like I do. We had requested that we prepare the meal, in order to protect the weak American stomachs of the short-term visitors that were with us. I was definitely intimidated, but embraced my pride and proceeded.
First we went to the market to purchase produce and chicken. We would be feeding 50-60 people. When we returned to Rosa's kitchen, I realized I was going to have to cook the biggest pot of rice I've ever made in my whole life. I knew my attempt would fail but my pride stopped me from admitting it. So I proceeded as if I knew exactly what I was doing. The result... one very large burnt pot of rice. I felt like crawling in the pot, since it was big enough for me to fit in.
I had reinforced the idea that they already have of Americans... American's can't cook. Fortunately, the women were eager to jump in and correct my mistake. I learned that day how to recover burnt rice and lay down my pride.
If you’re dying to know how to repair burnt rice, write me and I'll tell you the secret. It really works! If you’re dying to know how to lie down some pride, just spend one day with Christ. Our pride has no chance of survival as long as we are living in submission to Him.

THANK YOU HARAMBEE CHURCH FOR HELPING ME FLY TO SEATTLE TO SUPPORT RAISE AND VISIT!
I’ve had opportunity to share and promote Compassion Connection during my stay. Please pray that God will raise up more financial supporters so that Compassion Connection can effectively share the gospel in Ecuador.

QUITO QUIZ: see answers below
1. Quito is the capital of what country?
2. How long have I been living in Quito?
3. Quito has been home to how many presidents in the last 10 years?
4. How many Compassion Connection staff members live in Quito?
5. What mountain range does Quito sit in?
6. What currency is used here?

NEWSY-BITS

The Potter’s Wheel program:
We realize the great need today for mentoring and practical discipleship. This generation seems to be especially hungry for a solid faith in Christ and foundational knowledge of God’s word. There is a cry for reality, strength of character, a deeper understanding of our personal mission, and a desire to truly “walk the talk” of Christianity. Please inform those you think may be interested in attending PW that the upcoming dates are February 6, 2007 – August 11, 2007.

My new roles within Compassion Connection:
I am currently the office administrator and will take the role of Community Living Coordinator during the Potter’s Wheel year. In my new role I will teach and coordinate the day to day logistics of living in a foreign country. I am also committed to building relationship with all of the Bible Cassette Institute students. This means visiting and encouraging believers in their homes, many of which are in remote places.

Compassion Connection is moving toward developing a permanent base in Ecuador.
We are currently renting 3 houses from which our ministries operate. We’ve begun the search for permanent property east of Quito. This means promoting, fund raising, and leg work. Please pray for the CC staff, our Ecuadorian friends and the CC board as we move forward together.

International Bible Cassette Institute:
This Bible training program for nationals is in great demand. We are running classes in Quito and the jungle region. Please pray for long-term workers to join and catch the vision for this ministry. There is potential to make this program available to many more people but we lack the administrative resources.

Potter’s Wheel Reunion:
We had our first ever Potter’s Wheel reunion in Seattle this year. About 20 people gathered together for a weekend to reminisce, laugh, and discuss missional issues.

_____________________________________________________________________________________
Alert to financial supporters:
Please write and mail all checks to “Compassion Connection”
Please indicate “Amie Youngren” apart from the check
47-555 Manteca Ct.
Indio, Ca. 92201
_____________________________________________________________________________________
QUITO QUIZ ANSWERS:
1. ECUADOR
2. TWO-YEARS
3. NINE
4. SEVEN+THREE SMALL CHILDREN
5. THE ANDES
6. THE US $

June Notes

2006-06-12T18:21:00.000-03:00

We have a group of 12 youth here in Quito from Wisconsin. They will be going to the jungle later in the week. I´ve stolen a few minutes in town before I head out to the jungle tommorrow. I am excited to go ahead of the team to the jungle. I will be visiting two families who are active students in the IBCI program. I will also be setting up our kitchen before the group shows up on Friday.
Our first couple days of the summer program have been intense. It´s a jolt to go from being 10 people in one house to 20+ people. We desire the groups to experience life on the foriegn field. I will give you an example of how we do this. The morning after their late night arrival, we set up the house like the Ecuadorian Visa office and had the students ¨register¨. All of our PW students have been through the grueling and sometimes non-sensical process of aquiring a visa and registering within the country... so they acted like the visa office employees. They spoke Spanish the whole time and sat at several different desks and locations and re-enacted the reality of the visa process. It provides frustration and confusion for the person walking through the process. It was a two-hour ordeal and not even everyone finished the ¨process¨. Afterward there was a group discussion. The principle lesson learned is ¨die to yourself¨. Phil, who is the summer program director, called it ¨getting over yourself day¨.
I´ve grown accustomed to some of the frustrations of living in a foriegn country, but these summer programs always challenge me with my weaknesses. I don´t always deal well with change and often my way of ¨coping¨ leads me to sin (aka ¨control issues¨). Thankfully I am in community where we tell one another when our ¨old man¨ is showing. I guess I am still learning to ¨get over myself¨ and die so that I might live to Christ. I am not dead yet. Didn´t Paul say something about dying daily?

June Newsletter

2006-06-01T17:34:00.000-03:00

Dear friends,

At last my newsletter is in your hands. It’s long overdue! As you can see from my CC ministry update below, I’ve been traveling recently. This time of year the “normal” schedule changes form somewhat, because of the Out of Country trip, PW practical’s, Summer groups, and the annual staff planning week.

I’ve had opportunity recently to meet new people and connect in a different ways. I realize that my singleness is beneficial when it comes to connecting with new people. For example, this week, I met someone and ended up being interviewed by an American anthropologist who is doing research on developmental aid in Ecuador and its relationship to religion. The interview renewed my passion for the gospel. The gospel is able to bring transformation on so many levels. I also met an Ecuadorian newscaster and we discussed Christ and salvation.

Please pray for God’s guidance and strength as I carry out what He’s given me here. This can be a hectic time of year. It can be easy for me to get more caught up in "getting things done" than glorifying God by getting things done.

I thank God for each one of you who are faithful partners in sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.

In Him,
Amie Youngren

NEED AWARENESS:

This Aug-Sept I need to raise support.
I have been surviving on 50% of what I need.
Monthly Support Goal: $1,097
Monthly Support Average: $550
Support-raising requires travel, and travel requires funds.
Please pray about HOW YOU can help with this need.
Donate air mileage?
Make a one-time donation?
Share my need with other believers and your church?
I would love to come and share in your church or small group.
To Make a donation:
Write and send checks to:
"Compassion Connection"
47-555 Manteca Ct.
Indio, Ca. 92201
Please indicate "Amie Youngren" on the envelope, not on the check
or make a donation online at: supportccinecuador.net

COMPASSION CONNECTION MINISTRIES UPDATE

POTTER’S WHEEL
We traveled in the Midwest and performed a one-act presentation that challenged people toward living missional lives and also promoted the Potter’s Wheel Program

I led the PW students to Oaxaca, Mexico and we worked alongside of Global Frontiers, a group that is reaching unreached indigenous peoples

This last block of the PW year contains a lot of hands on leadership training. PW students become our leadership team for our short-term Summer Program.

I’ve been preparing for the PW student jungle practicals, (a.k.a. home stays), by visiting various families. I will stay in a home for one week during the PW student’s two-week practical.

PW Graduation is August 5th

A reunion for all PW alumni is being held in Seattle on Aug 11th-13th

INTERNATIONAL BIBLE CASSETTE INSTITUTE

1st year students in the jungle region are completed and preparing for begin the 2nd year.

SUMMER PROGRAMS

Lake City Church youth group from Madison, Wi. will be here June 10-20

Living Word Church from Broadhead, Wi. will be here July 18-27

LOCAL MINISTRIES

Weekly we feed the poor in a government hospital. Pray that this will be an avenue for the local church to share Christ with the community.

Many of the children that attend kid’s club have adult roles in their homes and kid’s club is their one chance a week to be a child. Pray for these as children as club is currently on a break.

Community relationships- pray that the relationships that have been built this year would bear fruit.

We’re currently looking to help with an exsisting ministry to a women’s prison in Quito.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

1. We are considering posting newsletters only to those who would prefer to receive snail mail. Our purpose is to cut expenses.
Please send me your preference by sending in the response card or email me at amie@compassionconnection.net.
You may also view my latest newsletter at http://amiebeth76.blogspot.com/

2. I now have a puppy named “Ella” and Ecuadorian’s think it is funny that I named her “she”, but they don’t know that I was thinking Ella Fitzgerald when I named her.