2015 St. Ignatius Mission Trip Promo from 4PM Media on Vimeo.

Go Slowly!

When you imagine the jungle, I bet you imagine this.

Yep! You guessed correctly! Welcome to our home!

One of my favorite things to do is to work with different families in their fields (fincas): swinging machetes and drinking chicha! It truly has allowed our relationship with the people to deepen. They are extremely grateful and often surprised when we ask if we can help them work.

The other day, we went to San Pedro to work on the chapel. However, when we arrived we found that there was no one there to work. So, instead of turning around and going home, we seized the opportunity and went to Pedro's finca where he was working. Pedro is the catequista for San Pedro. His son Walter guided us there. We walked for about 25 minutes in thick jungle, through swamp and creeks, climbing over and under fallen trees, all the while machete in hand. Finally, we arrived. Pedro greeted us with a slightly confused look: 'Why are you guys here?' 'Well, since we are not working on the chapel, we wanted to help you in your finca,' we responded. He got a kick out of that. His laugh is so contagious. Joy is contagious! So, he showed us quickly what to do: cut down almost all the grown up jungle, except what he was farming. Within this thick grownup jungle are the sproutlings of cafe, cocoa, and guayusa trees. These we could not cut. We were all thinking the same thing: 'How do we tell these plants apart?' I had no idea how to differentiate them. But, Pedro gave some helpful advice... 'Go slowly.' Uhmmmm... yeah!

Before beginning, I tried to study some of those I knew: shape of the leaves, texture of the stalk and trunk, and how they felt. Then, I began to swing the machete. It was painstakingly slow. I just wanted to plow through it, hacking away at everything I saw. Just take it out, and ask questions later. But, I went slow, really trying to be careful. Of course, there were the obvious plants I could cut, but then there were the ones that looked identical to the ones we wanted to keep. Then, there were the unwanted ones that grew among the good ones, wrapping around them and choking them.

There is so much to take away from my experience with working in the field, cleaning out the jungle. We cleaned because the plants that they desire to bear fruit will not grow well or at all if they have to compete for space and nutrients. So, we cut down the unwanted plants, the weeds. There were a lot more weeds.

In my life, I still have a lot that I need to rid myself of. And sometimes it seems there is more bad than good. Yet, despite having so many sins and temptations in our lives, we can be cleaned. It will take time, and dedication and perseverance. Do not fear! First, we must recognize our sins, those weeds, those things we need to cut out of our lives. We might ask: 'How do they influence us? Do they bear bad fruits? What is our attitude? Is it God's will?'

Of course, there are those obvious weeds and thorns that keep us from living holy lives. We see them clearly for what they are and quickly cut them out. But, often, there are many things that we do and have in our daily life that may appear to be good for us, but in actuality are not, because they do not bring us closer to God. They may be similar in appearance to the good things the Lord desires in us and for us and those we want, but really are not the will of God, and so are only distractions and harmful. It could be devastating if we continue to grow and nourish that which is not from Him, and at harvest time the fruit we bear is terribly bitter or even poisonous. Do not despair! It takes commitment, practicing everyday as you ask the Holy Spirit to come and help you to recognize your sins and those areas you can improve on. And don't forget to permit Him to show you the blessings of your day. This will help to remind you that the Son did not come to condemn you, but came that you might be saved through Him. (See Jn. 3:17)

Also, no matter how hard I tried to only cut out the weeds, occasionally some plant we wanted got hacked. It is the same with the sin in our life. Even after ridding ourselves of our sin and repenting, sometimes good will go along with it. 'If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off.' And essentially this is the consequence of sin. This is its desire. We know. We believe that our God is Mercy and Justice. There will be justice to all of the incredibly terrible things done in this world, and we better believe that we shall receive justice for every bad action, thought and word we have given. Let's offer ourselves as living sacrifices. Beg God to be merciful to us and all people, to teach us how to see the virtues within us that need to grow, that are from Him and direct us to Him; and to recognize the sins, temptations, and near occasions to sin so as to cut them out. May we not fear of cutting off some of that good. "Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit." (Jn. 15:2) For, if it gets us closer to our Heavenly Father, then nothing else could be better for us.

Now, it is your turn. Are you tired of being comfortable, always talking so as to maintain peace, but never getting out there and making mistakes? Pope Francis says: 'I prefer a thousand times over a Church of accidents than a sick Church.' If you are not making mistakes, if you are not pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone in to areas where you have never been, areas where you have no idea what you are doing for the Gospel, then how can you permit the Lord to really work in you and through you? How can you say you trust in the Holy Spirit? "So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me." (2 Cor. 12:9) Permit the Lord to be strong in you! Don't be a bystander or ,worse, hide in your house staying cozy, playing it safe, and never facing head-on your destiny. For you were made for Greatness! Christian recognize your dignity! Dust into light, uncleanness into purity, sinfulness into holiness, creature into Creator, man into God!

'I have never known a hungry missionary.'

"Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves." - Philippians 2:3

This continues to be the greatest blessing I receive from the people here in Ahuano and Ecuador, that so many of them regard me and my fellow missionaries as more important than themselves. Families who do not have much, will give to us in abundance, the first portion and often more than anyone else. My friend Klever, from Quito, seeks first the Kingdom of God, longing to be a missionary and preach the Gospel, before he worries about himself. Last year, I recall, when I first came to Quito to begin language school, I met Klever. He gave up his whole day off from work to help me find a place to live for the month. And just two weeks ago, Klever came to Ahuano to spend a week of his vacation evangelizing the people of the jungle and helping us with work projects. He has a heart for souls!

Every week we go to Chonta Punta to visit with families and put on a prayer service in the evening. We always stay with the catechist, Mr. Kloffit, and his family. They welcome us with open arms, and they always provide food for us, mounds of food. As Mr. Frank Summers says to people who worry about not getting enough food in missions: 'I have never known a hungry missionary.' That is the truth! As you see often in the Old Testament, hospitality and generosity, and giving of what you have to others who need it more, is what God is asking of us. Like Abraham who welcomed strangers into his home to rest and to eat. (Gen. 18:1-10) Jesus says: 'For he that will save his life, shall lose it: and he that shall lose his life for my sake, shall find it.'

GLORY STORY! I have another glory story I would like to share. Yesterday, while I was in Quito, I was able to visit with Rebecca. She is doing so well; Her light shines so bright. She doesn't care about the things of the world. Often she doesn't have enough money to pay rent, or to eat lunch, but as she tells me over and over: 'No importa!' These things do not matter to her. Her trust is in the Lord, whose love is better than life. Every time I see her, I realize there is so much I am holding on to, those things that I still need to give over to him. Yesterday, after we prayed together, she pulled me aside to tell me: 'Ryan, I have forgiven an enemy of mine!' I was so ecstatic, overwhelmed with joy. 'Praise God!!' What a huge grace! She told me she called this person, talked to them for a bit, and forgave them. Now they are friends! She said all that weight has been lifted off her shoulders. She was dancing with joy. Now, Rebecca has become a shining witness, a true disciple of Christ, bringing the message of the freedom she received from Christ to others. And it is already working on the hearts of her co-workers.

We are hearing testimonies upon testimonies. More and more, the people are sharing with us and others what God has worked in their lives. 'Modern man listens more willingly to witnesses than to teachers, and if he does listen to teachers, it is because they are witnesses.' (Evangelization of the Modern World - Pope Paul VI)

The people of Community San Pedro removing rocks from the river for the new chapel

The missionary men of Ahuano working on the chapel in San Pedro

We bring the message of the Gospel, so that others may be healed and freed from the lies of the world. The devil tells you lies 'to make you feel it is impossible that Jesus really loves you.' (Bl. Mother Teresa of Calcutta) We bring the message of our own freedom in Christ, free to live not for ourselves, but for Him. For the 'freedom' of the world is to live as I desire, as I want, to please myself, self-gratifying. This is not freedom at all, but our own self-destruction and certain death forever. There can be no fruits by this way of life. Bearing fruit propagates life, as the Lord says: 'Amen, amen, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat, but if it dies, it produces much fruit.' (Jn. 12:24) And this fruit comes from a 'dying' to ourselves, sacrificing our lives for another, a letting go of preserving ourselves in this life. Jesus promises: 'Whoever hates his life in this world will preserve it for eternal life.' (Jn. 12:25) I have so much to be thankful for: my salvation, all of you my benefactors and prayer warriors, the lessons our Father is teaching me, His desire for me, and the strength He gives me to persevere each day... and so much more!

PRAYER REQUEST! Please pray for this family. Angel, the foreman of the chapel project, informed us last night, that his little 5 month old girl, Marcia, is in the hospital. She began having seizures this past Saturday. Padre Walter did an emergency baptism on Sunday. The doctors don't know what is happening and they fear she may die. Please pray for her miraculous healing, and for Angel and his wife to put their trust in the Lord, and to know His peace.

Me with Marcia (Mom), Angel (Dad) and wawa Mishel

Matt with Mishel

FUELING the MISSIONARY IMPULSE! In just a couple of months Family Missions Company is hosting a Mission Conference in Lafayette, LA. Last year was a huge success, and this year is looking to be equally blessed. Please pray about going to this conference to be more about Pope Francis' impetus for missions in the Church, how FMC is responding and our part!

Click here to watch the video.      Fueling the Missionary Impulse

I love each of you. Your peace is in Christ!

Proclaim Christ!

The Church is ALIVE!! Our Lord is ALIVE!!! With tremendous zeal, let's respond to The Great Commission from our Lord Jesus Christ. Our Church is alive because we 'go and make disciples of all nations'. We do this with joy, inculturating and incarnating into the very lives of the poor, in those whom we serve. Please check out this video!



Consider attending this exciting event. Certainly, you will be animated and ready, unable to contain yourself, and unable to keep from speaking the incredible joy from the Lord that wells up from within you! May your joy be complete!

What is it you seek?

"Yet the world and its enticements are passing away. But whoever does the will of God remains forever." 1 John 2:17

For as long as the world has been around, even it, is passing away. How incredible is the love of our God and Creator that all we have to do, is His will, and we shall remain forever. Is it so difficult to do His will? 

As I read the book, Abandonment to Divine Providence, I am beginning to understand more the simplicity of doing His Holy will. He has a plan for us in each moment wherever we are in our state of life, from the most difficult to the most joyful to the most mundane. It is in every moment, most especially in the countless monotonous moments, where we must persevere in seeking to do His Holy will. And 'if we do our part, God will do the rest.' 

What is it we seek? Holiness! For us to become holy, to find this treasure, we don't have to go far. We just have to accept in each moment His will and renounce our own, all for His glory! This should be easy if we say we believe that God is our Father. Because, then we trust that He will take care of us as a good father would. Now, if in each moment you are doing the will of God with a grateful heart, even if you are sweeping the floor or waiting in a very long line, then holiness is yours. 'What God arranges for us to experience at each moment is the best and holiest thing that could happen to us.'

This last part I absolutely love. I have been trying more and more to enter into each moment imagining it is the holiest moment of my life. This has brought me so much joy in many occasions, especially when I was struggling to maintain focus or enduring some difficulty. Notice from 1 John 2:17, that the world, or any pleasures, will not remain. These things only want to distract you by attempting to make you comfortable. Just reading Acts of the Apostles, and any of the New Testament letters will quickly convince you that the early Apostles and Christians did not seek comfort, but sought to do the will of God. This often led them to suffering. How else shall we be purified by our God who is a consuming fire, if not through suffering? By accepting all that happens to us, trusting in His Holy design and permitting Him to use us as He wills all for His glory, we shall remain forever.

May you be blessed by this song from Matt Maher which the group of missionaries from St. Ignatius in Mobile introduced to me:

Matt Maher - Lord, I Need You

Nuestra Señora de Buen Suceso

Let me tell you about how God gave a special gift to His faithful missionaries...

From the beginning of the Stephen F. Austin mission trip, many of the people from SFA were asking us if we were going to Nuestra Señora de Buen Suceso. We, the FMC missionaries, had never heard of this. Our Lady of Good Success is a Marian apparition deemed 'worthy of belief'. Throughout the trip, some of them would talk about it. Yet, we had no plans of going there, because, once again, we had never heard of it. When the last day of the trip came we were in Quito for our pilgrimage to visit some of the sites special to Quito. I received a phone call from a former FMC missionary, Francisco, who lives in Quito. He told me he was coming into Quito with a group of missionaries from Stuebenville Univiversity who were in Ecuador for a medical mission. He wanted to meet up. Rachel and I met with him and talked for a bit, briefly sharing the Lord's work in our missions. It then occurred to me to ask him: 'Do you know where Nuestra Señora de Buen Suceso is?' He said: 'Yes. And actually our group is going there at 3pm today, if your group of missionaries want to come?'

YES!! Rachel and I were in shock, jumping for joy, so excited for the gift the Holy Spirit was granting His faithful missionaries. We didn’t tell the SFA group where we were going, we wanted to be a surprise. At 3pm, we arrived at the church, La Inmaculada Concepción. It is not just a church, it is a convent for the Conceptionists sisters. It was then that I realized what an incredible miracle this gift was from the Holy Spirit. The chances of us getting to go was next to nothing. The Conceptionists are a cloistered order. The nuns do not leave and outsiders are not permitted to see the nuns, and access to the convent is only granted to the public 3 times per year. Jesus was giving a special treat! When we entered, Mother Superior was waiting for us. She led us through the convent ringing a bell. This was to alert the other nuns to hide themselves because outsiders were approaching. The sanctity of that place was tangible, the rich silence permeating. We learned that in 1610, our blessed Mother appeared to Madre Mariana Francisca de Jesus Torres and asked her to make a statue of her with the child Jesus. The statue is now located in a beautiful chapel which we saw. As we entered the chapel, the silence was transformed in a crescendo of delicate prayers. The hidden nuns were singing, praising the Lord!

Then, we were led into a small room where we could see the body of Madre Mariana Francisca de Jesus Torres. She died in 1635, and her body is incorruptible! Our Lord permits this as a reminder of our hope in eternal life, sometimes preserving the ones who persevered in faith here on earth. In total, there are nine incorruptible sisters. What an incredible gift... I have never experienced such a holy place!

I felt that our Blessed Mother was with us, guiding us and providing us with affirmations for a job well-done preaching the Gospel in the jungles of Ecuador. All of the missionaries were transformed by that holy place. Please keep them, the sisters, in your prayers, as they are continuously attacked by the government who wants to take their convent away from them. But, as our Blessed Mother said in her prophecies, that shall never come to pass. Such is the power of God that ‘the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against’ (Mt. 16:18) the Church.

Altar in the chapel of the convent

The statue that Madre Mariana was instructed to have made by our Blessed Mother

A painting of the apparition of Mary to Madre Mariana

Imagine some nuns in their habits slam dunking

Praying over a little with cancer

'Speak a lot with God and little with creatures and you will have a lot of peace.'

Confessional booths

The courtyard of the convent

Padre Lucas Maria... My short encounter with him has me convinced that his love for Jesus is so intimate

A plaque indicating the place where the president Gabriel Moreno was martyred by masons. This was prophesied by our Blessed Mother.

For an interesting read on the history of Mary's appearance to Madre Mariana Francisca de Jesus Torres and the fulfillment of certain prophecies see the website: http://www.olrl.org/prophecy/goodsuccess.shtml

So That In All Things God May Be Glorified Through Jesus Christ

One week ago, our two teams in Ecuador hosted a mission trip for a group of college students from SFA University in Texas. These 15 students chose to preach the Gospel, to pray with God's little ones, and to help the poor of Ecuador instead of going on a 'normal' college spring break. I was so impressed with this group's preparation for the Lord's mission in Ecuador. They prepared with holy hours, sacrifices, novenas, speaking at churches to raise money and awareness and giving testimonies about how Jesus has worked in their life. When they arrived in Ecuador they were ready to 'go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature' (Mk. 16:15).

Their missionary hearts beamed forth, as they immediately began to love the people of Misahualli, Ecuador. They entered into the culture and life of the people here, eating and drinking what was offered to them (See Lk. 10:1-12). Of course, that often includes the things that are unas pocas extrañas, such as chicha. They truly enjoyed it! Praise Jesus! The Lord called each one by name, having for them a personal mission, to freely give from themselves what they have freely received (See Mt. 10:8). He called them to hike great distances through mud and swamp, becoming filthy from head to toe, falling too many times to count, and rising up again to persevere so that His scripture would be fulfilled: 'How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the good news (Rom: 10:15)!' They gave glory to God serving the people with an intense love manifested, for example, when they gave their own food to the children of a village. Everything they did, whether preaching the gospel in word or deed, they did without complaining (See 1 Pet. 4:7-11). Their 'YES!' to serve Jesus here in Ecuador resounded in my heart, sending pulses of courage and the light of the Spirit to strengthen my entire being.

Thank you, all of you, who came on mission to Ecuador for saying YES!

Going to our first communities... the HIKE!

If there are a shortage of cute Kichwa children in Misahualli,
it is because the missionaries couldn't resist taking them home with them.

Nick giving his testimony in a community.

Candice 'Graciela' giving the Jesus talk to the people in Misahualli.

There is a never a dull moment with Rachel. So much Joy!

How blessed are we to help build a place of worship for the people!

Some Kichwa kids with the missionaries!

Please see my next post Nuestra Señora de Buen Suceso about a special blessing, a miracle from the Lord, given as a gift to us during this mission trip.

A Paradise of Blessings

Since the beginning of the Lord’s mission here in Ecuador 2014 we have been moving, sometimes sprinting, to do all that the Lord is asking of us. There are and have been tremendous blessings, often blessings in disguise. For, ‘the fear of God is a paradise of blessings; its canopy, all that is glorious (Sir. 40:27)’. This particular passage came to me when we were praying at the waterfalls during our desert day. I looked around and realized that we are truly in a paradise, and we had found, or had been led to, this incredible hidden treasure. The wealth of God’s love and His mercy overflows and never ceases. Furthermore, it seems that if we desire to encounter something great, something that truly endures, real beauty, we must work hard and persevere through every trial, weakness and struggle that we surely will face as we make that journey. For instance, it was not easy task to get to the waterfall. We tracked through mud, uphill, sometimes slipping and falling. There were times when our hands were pierced as we caught ourselves on a tree with spines. How similar is the spiritual life!

Certainly, I have come to discover that in mission life those trials, weaknesses and struggles do not lack. Everything, whether hidden or in the open, good or bad, is under God’s canopy. Many little treasures await us, and many difficulties. Are we going to accept all that comes to us? Including those moments of great silence from Him, and when we ‘feel’ nothing… are we going to accept those too? They will make us holy. They are preparing us, sanctifying us. By accepting ALL from Him, we fear the Lord, trusting in His goodness and His Fatherly love. Everything is glorious with God, He who made all things. If we rightly acclaim that this paradise is glorious, then we rightly give credit to Him who is Glory!

This is real life. And it is incredible! Don’t let the world lie to you. You are not in chains; you are not incarcerated. You are free in Him! He who is life, the eternal fountain, provides water that will never cease to flow and if we come to drink we shall never thirst again. Yes… everything is a blessing, a gift from our Almighty Father. From shoving our way onto an overcrowded bus to the 8-year old kid selling candy and cigarettes in a dangerous city at night. This is real life. From the 10-year old girl telling me she is afraid of her father to the homeless lady and her daughter praising and thanking the Lord and kissing our hands because we prayed with her and gave her food. This is certainly real life. From the half-crazed man spitting obscenities at us to the powerful testimony of a father and husband who worked to change his life and leave alcohol behind. And how can I forget about the man with the knife. These may not all seem like blessings at first, but don’t forget about our true destination as Christians. It is our destination which we long for, towards which our eyes should be fixed, which transforms even the most tragic of evils into blessings. Praise God, He is so powerful! Through these difficulties (blessings) we must travel, for we are pilgrims. We have always been pilgrims since the beginning, traveling and wandering, knowing that this is not our permanent resting place. We should never permit this world to be permanent in our hearts. For, our true resting place is in His Sacred Heart. For it was His heart that was pierced, not ours, nor the world’s. The veil was ripped, the heart was torn, permitting us access to the One True and Living God, the fountain of eternal life. And we enter through Jesus Christ.

Sirach 40:27,  Hebrews 4:1,  John 4:14,  James 1:2-3

Salvador and the Kingdom of God

Through Salvador, I encountered the Kingdom of God.

Today, being our ‘free day’, I went to Tena, the closest big city, to get some personal things done. I had breakfast at this café to get some food that reminds me of home.

While I was there, I began reading this book about Matthew’s gospel. It is in Spanish, which, praise God, I am understanding better. Immediately, the book began speaking about why Jesus came to us. “To fulfill all righteousness” (Mt.3:15), which in this context in Matthew means: doing the will of God, submitting to the plan of God for the salvation of all. We are considered just and practice ourselves this righteousness when we allow and participate with God to realize His plan in us.

“Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.” (Mt.5:6)

After finishing my breakfast, I saw an older man I know from Ahuano walking by the restaurant. He is 75 years old and his name is Salvador… awesome name! I had to go talk with him. After some time talking outside, I asked him if he had eaten breakfast. He said: “No.” I invited him to eat a late breakfast, and I would pay. He accepted. We talked for another hour.

Salvador does not have a lot of money. Usually, he has none at all. His grand-daughter Josselyn, who is about 9 years old, lives with him. Both her parents died a few years ago. They receive no help from Salvador’s other children. They typically have no food in the house. With his age, and bad legs, he cannot work for money. He cannot work in the field to farm the products they need to eat. I asked: “What do you do for food?” He said: “When there is food, we eat. When there is none, we don’t. If there is no food, we drink a cup of chicha, and that is enough.”

I was so surprised with his lack of worry about not having food. Not once did he complain. Not once did he curse or murmur against God. Every Sunday, I see him at mass with his grand-daughter. He is faithful to our Lord, and is devoted to our Blessed Mother. When you talk with him, you encounter peace because he is joyful and content.

I must admit I have never experienced this kind of poverty. I have never been in this type of situation where I must depend totally on God to provide for me the ‘daily bread’. Unfortunately, I often find myself thinking about food. For instance, I will be talking to someone and my attention will stray from them and to the food I plan to have for dinner. Why is it that when we have things, we just want more of them? We are seeking to fill a hole, in a vain attempt to satisfy ourselves, and all the while, the hole is getting bigger. Why do I worry about not having the things which I already have? Do we realize that we can become enslaved by the things which we own? St. Teresa of Avila said in The Way of Perfection: “It is when I possess least that I have the fewest worries and the Lord knows… I am more afflicted when there is excess of anything than when there is lack of it… I have noticed that He provides for us immediately.”

Often, we seek what the world offers to alleviate merely the symptoms of our disease. This is our disease: a desire for the things that we do not want and that do not provide. Jesus offers more than just alleviating the symptoms. He cures the disease: destroying its very source. He gives us the way to be cured:

“…seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides.” (Mt. 6:33)

For me, I have so much more to learn. I am seeking the wisdom of God, the righteousness of God. I desire to be filled only by Him, not by the world. God blessed me with this encounter with Salvador, to understand His love for us, that it goes deeper than a mere morsel of food can satisfy. And all things of this world give only an instant of satisfaction before we are back yearning for more. Everything God has blessed us with here on earth are signs pointing to the One who truly and completely satisfies.

So, if we are hungry, or thirsty, or in need of clothing, first seek His kingdom and His righteousness, and ‘these things will be given you’ and you ‘will be satisfied’. Therefore, why worry. If we truly believe he is our Father, and seek first His kingdom and His will, He will give us the greatest gift of all: everlasting life and eternal satisfaction. Salvador is cured! Despite his infirmities and age, and the lack of food, and the lack of support from his family, he is healed. And the things that have been given to him, are not an abundance of food and riches. But, what he has received is exactly what he needs, for He is already living in the Kingdom of God.

 

 

Restless for Missions

“I will follow you wherever you go.” (Lk. 9:57)

Ask yourself this question: Would I follow Jesus wherever he goes? Can you give up the luxuries of a comfortable life, set aside your ambitions and follow Jesus? If you are a Christian, the answer should always be “Yes!”

About six months before joining FMC, I started getting this anxious feeling. I felt as though my heart was desiring this massive change in my life. It took me some time to understand why, but one day while I was reading scripture and upon seeing how the disciples of Jesus put their lives in danger for the spread of the Gospel, I couldn’t seem to match the Christianity I was living with theirs. I then realized that as long as I was living a comfortable life, shying away from any kind of adversity in proclaiming the Gospel, and ‘playing it safe’, then I was not following Christ! My faith had never been tested. I must find out where Jesus is going, and follow Him.

So, I ask you: “Where does Jesus go today?”

Jesus goes wherever you go.

This is His challenge to us. He needs each one of us to ‘go and proclaim the kingdom of God’. He has ‘nowhere to rest his head’, maybe, because He is constantly at work in us proclaiming the Gospel message of salvation. This, of course, is His desire. As long as we are proclaiming, He is proclaiming.

We must be stirred up, shaken, and uncomfortable for the Gospel. For many, this will require you to go to a foreign land to proclaim His name, offer His healing, and to make known to others, who have never heard His name, salvation. “The number of those who do not know Christ and do not belong to the Church are constantly on the increase… When we consider this immense portion of humanity which is loved by the Father and for whom he sent his Son, the urgency of the Church’s mission is obvious.” (Mission of the Redeemer)

The task is urgent; the message salvific. Stir up your heart, and truly ask yourself: “Am I going where Jesus needs me to go?” Then, go out to the harvest and get to work. Really, if you are a Christian, it is not a choice. Missions is the life of the Church. If you are a believer in Christ, a member of His Body, the Church, then missions is essential to your own life. Consider that you, yourself, might be called to foreign missions. It is truly the best life, because it is who you were made to be. So, be stirred up, restless, until each heart rests in His.

"Mi casa es pequeña."

"Mi casa es pequeña."

I woke up this morning to these words in my head:   "Mi casa es pequeña." Last night, Jefferson, one of our youth, uttered these words to Matt and I as we were leaving his house. Matt and I went to visit his family before Mass. His parents and some relatives were there. Immediately, when I entered, the father grabbed the nearest bench for me to sit on. And, as I was sitting down, the chicha was being placed in my hand. The people here know what it means to serve, giving what they have, as little as it may be. I recall the scripture from Genesis 18:1-8. Abraham rushed to meet three strangers and then he invited them to rest, wash their feet and eat. He happily called himself their servant. At first he didn't even realize that he was serving the Lord and His angels. Even in Hebrews 13:2, it is written: "Do not neglect hospitality, for through it some have unknowingly entertained angels." How beautiful are these words!



Matt, Jefferson and I

Now, I am not saying that Matt and I are angels - though our moms might say so :)- nor are we the Lord, but the fact is, we are called to serve not be served. And we truly serve our Lord Jesus when we serve one another. Yet, He must serve us first. Where does Jesus serve us first and continue to serve us? In Mt. 20:28, Jesus connects serving to the giving of His life as a ransom. He serves us first in the sacrifice of His life on the cross. And it is in the Holy Mass where He continues to serve us, giving us His Body and Blood in the Eucharist, so that we may go forth bringing Jesus, who we have received, to others.

In the Spanish Mass of the Catholic Church right before we accept the Eucharist we say: "Señor, no soy digno de que entres en mi casa, pero una palabra tuya bastará para sanarme." In English: "Lord, I am not worthy that you enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed." After saying these beautiful words, which are taken from Mt. 8:8, we humbly approach our Lord and faithfully receive His Body and Blood in the Holy Eucharist, His sacrifice made present to us today. For, it is Jesus who brings healing: from our sins, from our struggles, from those who hurt us. And though our 'casa' is small, our bodies like grains of sand compared to God, and not all-together tidy, He desires to enter.

From left to right: Jefferson, Padre José, Cristian, and Nicolas

Then, we can better serve others because we have allowed Jesus to first serve us. We serve by going forth to provide for those who are hungry, for those who are thirsty, rest for the stranger... (Mt. 25:35). It is true... Jefferson's 'casa' is small. Six people sleep in a room smaller than most living rooms in the States. But, what I entered into was not a small 'casa' at all. What I experienced was a family of faith, already living in the Kingdom, the largest 'casa' of all.

Faces of Ahuano

Matt and I had a really great week. As we approach Padre's final day here in Ahuano, we are definitely spending more time with him, helping him as he prepares to leave. It has been a joyful week, full of many Baptisms (~30), a marriage, a celebration of the La Virgen del Huayco, and tons of masses. We visited with several different families, bringing the Word of God into people's homes.

 

I wanted to include in my blog update some of the many people we have come to know.

 

 



Sisa and I goofing around.



Belén and I... ¡Qué linda!

 Padre José celebrating a marriage. May God bless them abundantly.

 

At a mass celebrating La Virgen del Hauyco. Here is a statue of Mary with the child Jesús.

 

Celebrating the Feast of the Virgen of Huayco in the community Colonia Bolívar. Before mass, Matt and I lead the rosary and gave a reflection on La Virgen del Huayco. Such a beautiful night!

 

From left to right: Marci's mom, myself, Tammy, Matt, Helen, María Cristina

 

 

Some of our youth guys: Cristian, Nicolas, and Jefferson 

 



I can't believe that Matt and I have been here almost 8 months. It is moving so quick. This week we receive one of the new priests to Ahuano. We are so excited for this new opportunity to share the Gospel with another of our brothers in Christ and are hopeful for the blessings that will come from the hands of this servant of God. Pray for us, that the hearts of the people and ours will be open for the reception of the new priest. Pray that his own heart will allow Christ's love to penetrate. Peace and blessings to each of you.

Give them heaven!

Misionero Ryan

 

The Most Terrible Poverty

Matt and I have had a busy week, meeting with different people and families. I feel that the time we have spent with people has been so valuable.

Last Tuesday, Matt and I went to Coca, a much larger city, with Padre. At one point we came upon an older homeless woman and her daughter. She was begging for money from another woman. The woman completely ignored her, not saying a word. Not even an, “I am sorry. I cannot help you right now.” Nothing. Matt and I watched as the homeless woman completely humbled herself before another human being. And she was treated as if she did not exist. What if when you die and are reaching out to the Lord to have mercy on you (that you might be worthy to enter into His everlasting glory) that He completely ignores you? “He who shuts his ear to the cry of the poor will himself also call and not be heard.” (Prov. 21:13) In the words of Blessed Mother Teresa: "Loneliness and the feeling of being unwanted is the most terrible poverty."

Lord, have mercy! Matt and I talked with the woman, Maria Joselyn and her daughter, Jasmin, for a few minutes. She is homeless, but is able to stay with her daughter in a homeless shelter at night. Her husband is blind, unable to work and lives in another part of Ecuador. She wanders the streets daily just trying to get the food and money her and her daughter need for the day. We prayed with them, and were able to give her some money. We gifted Jasmin a rosary. They were so grateful. The light of Christ shown through her eyes, and she had such a warm radiance about her. Truly the kingdom is for those such as these. We are so blessed to live in His kingdom! Praise you Jesus Christ!

With Maria Joselyn and Jasmin in Coca, Ecuador.

 

Another story is about Maria Cristina… She is a twelve year old girl who has been through so much. She is unable to speak and hear, possibly born this way. She had a terrible accident when she was an infant and was badly burned. Also, a few years ago, she was run over by taxi in Quito and she had to go through some major surgeries to repair the damages. She goes to school, but unfortunately there is not a lot of help for her because the teachers are not equipped to teach her. Despite all of these sufferings, she is one of the most joyful people I know. She always brings with her a smile. Matt and I communicate through gestures and just, plain laughter. There is also something much deeper going in her heart.

She came over the other day with her mom, Gladys. Gladys came over to ask for help. She had cancer removed from her throat a couple of years ago, and now she has to go to Quito once a month for medical treatment, for the next 5 years. It cost her about $300 per month. Their family definitely cannot afford this. Matt and I were able to assist her with some of the money we had, and offered her prayers of protection and healing. Matt and I cooked lunch for them, Gladys, Maria and her sister, Tamara. What I noticed while we were cooking in the kitchen, was that, Maria, in the adjacent room, was sweeping and decorating it. I walked in and saw that she had carefully draped one of the small tables with a linen. She placed at the center of that table a statue of our Blessed Mother. In front of Mary, she placed a crucifix. It was so perfect. I realized that her understanding and wisdom in the spiritual life is so profound. I felt so humbled walking into the small holy sanctuary she had created for our Lord and His Mother. My thoughts turn to the reading from Luke 10:38-42. As we were there, serving and concerning ourselves with the material needs of the family, she was at the feet of Jesus, choosing Him over all things and adorning the room, the best way she could, as a gift to her King.

Also, Sunday was Helen’s birthday, Marcia’s daughter. She turned 9 years old. We visited them last night for a couple hours after getting back from the communities. Unfortunately, there aren’t a lot of choices in Ahuano for cakes or other sweets, so we brought Salticas crackers, there are like Ritz crackers: so delicious! She immediately started sharing them with all of her sisters. We sang Feliz Cumpleaños to her. We played a bunch of games with the kids. It was a blast. We ended our time with them in prayer together, with the entire family and the children.

Marci's girls From the left: Naomi (baby), Evelyn, Helen (back middle), Belen (front middle), and Sisa. 

 

Can’t wait to tell you about this upcoming week. Peace of Christ be with each of you!

Give them Heaven!

Ryan

Faith and Perseverance

To all the Lord's hard-core prayer warriors and dedicated benefactors for the mission in Ecuador! May the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ abound in you through the power of the Holy Spirit.

 

I apologize for not getting this update out sooner. We have been incredibly busy over the past few weeks. I hope to do my best to fill you in on all of the works God has been doing here in Ecuador.

 

June 29th marked the 5th year of Padre Jose becoming a priest. We had a huge celebration after mass on Sunday, June 30th. There were over 100 people that came. We began by having an indoor soccer match between the missionaries and the young kids. It was hardly a fair fight. It was 3 missionaries versus 16 kids, ages 8-12. I wish I could say, 'We let them win'. It was a lot of fun. There was a ton of food. Everyone that came was able to eat. The Lord blessed all of us.

 

The next day, Luis, our mission leader, went back to the U.S. He is originally from Venezuela, and he has been living in the U.S. for over 7 years. He feels called to get his citizenship. This requires him to be in the states for 6 months. So, through much discernment, he headed back to the states to begin the process of becoming a U.S. citizen. Unfortunately, this takes him away from the mission here in Ecuador. Please pray for Luis, that this process is smooth and the possibility that he will return to Ecuador before the end of the year.

The past two weeks since July 3rd, Matt and I have been really busy with the short-term mission group that came from Florida. This particular group was from one parish in Florida. They were high school students, college-aged students, and several adults and parents. It was a dynamic group, with so much heart and desire. I will never forget them.

 

We spent most of the mission in Misahualli and the surrounding communities. Typically, we would split up into two or three groups and each group would go to a different community. One particular community, Sardines, was my favorite. I led this group at this community. As we were driving there, I was praying asking the Lord to show us what we were going to do. Sometimes, we are not sure what we are going to do until we get there and introduce ourselves, and get a glimpse of what is possible. As we arrived to Sardines in the vehicle, 20-30 kids came running full-sprint at us. Thank you Lord Jesus! We are going to work with the children. We took the kids into one of the classrooms and began offering praises to God and singing songs. We spoke about Jesus and his love for them. The group of missionaries truly gave their entire self to the children. We took the kids out and played some games. I remember at one point, Dave, one of the dads, had three kids hanging off of him like a jungle gym. It was hilarious. While we were with the kids, the adults of the community were in a meeting for the community. They finished up 45 minutes before we had to leave. Again, the Lord blessed us with having all of the adults of the community in one place. We went in to the room where they were gathered and two of the missionaries gave testimonies of God's wonderful works in their lives. We talked about perseverance in the struggles of every day life. Especially for the people, they work hard in the fields each day, and it can be dangerous. The indigenous people, many of them, respond to the struggles of life by drinking too much. It affects them and their family. We talked about this and relying on Jesus, and persevering with Him to the end. Thank you to Julie, who came on this trip, for her incredible witness and amazing Spanish skills. Her light shines so bright for all to see.

 

One day we were able to visit a nursing home. This turned out to be one of the best experiences I've ever had. We spent several hours just being with them. We didn't always have to say anything; just our presence, our smiles, our desire to love on them was enough. One of the ladies never receives visits from her children. So, she cries constantly, all day, and all night. How tragic is it that we can become so busy with our lives, that we forget the very person that sacrificed so much of their own life for us. I suppose it is the same with the Lord. The cares and things of the world, can provide for us this false sense of security and happiness, that we so easily forget of our God, who is truly the one who nourishes us and keeps us alive. Do not worry about such things! 'Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides.' (Mt. 6:33)

 

Thank you to Billy, and all of the others, who truly showed me what it means to give all that you are. Not just a little of our heart, are we called to give, but all of our heart, 100 percent! God bless you guys!

 

Two days last week the mission group came to Ahuano, our home in Ecuador. We spent much of the time cleaning and working on the mission house for future mission groups to stay in Ahuano. We were able to visit Marci's family, along with the two other families that live in the same plot of land. We played with the kids for a bit, and then gathered everyone, children, parents, and missionaries, about 30 people. Two of the missionaries gave awesome testimonies. We talked about faith, to believe without seeing, and what that meant in the physical world in which we live. Then Marci stood up and spoke about her own struggles. I was so proud of her. Despite the struggles she has with her husband, a lack of food and a clean living situation for her daughters, she perseveres in faith, trusting in the Lord to provide. In her poverty she is able to give so much more than I have ever given out of the abundance I have. How hard it is to give from the great wealth that so many of us have: so paradoxical is this constant message of the Lord. Yet, who would believe that the King of the Universe, our God, the one through whom we were made, would humble himself to become man and allow those whom He blew the breath of life into, to persecute Him, to torture Him and to kill Him on a cross, so that He could take up His life again, and so that 'we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is' (1 Jn. 3:2).

 

Again, thank you for all of your prayers and your constant witness to the incredible works of the Father. The Body of Christ is always growing. Do not be discouraged by the numerous people that do not know the Lord. Allow this to increase the fire you have to spread the Gospel message: it is URGENT! The Holy Spirit is the principal agent in missions. Put your trust in Him and you will not fail!

 

Give them Heaven!

Ryan Lawless

The True Man

‘Man is truly himself when his body and soul are intimately united.’ Deus Caritas Est – Pope Benedict IV

Often times, it is confusing for us men to understand what our true calling is in this life. Are we called to marriage, priesthood, single life? Are we called to go to a university or continue working after high school? The world lies to us men. It preys on men’s bodily weaknesses. It tells us that to be successful and a good provider for the family we must have a good job making lots of money. We need to have a big house, living every day in excess. Fathers are allowed to work long hours and remain hidden in the background. It also says it is okay for men to indulge in the exploitation of women for ‘there is nothing wrong with just looking.’ This nonsense is in our face, everywhere you look. Unfortunately, the thinking of the world has seeped into the minds of the men we serve in missions.

My name is Ryan Lawless. I am a full-time lay Catholic missionary serving in a small town, Ahuano, in Ecuador. I live in a community with two other single men. We pray every day together. We are blessed to grow spiritually and fraternally. We take care of one another: praying over the other when they are sick, working together on projects and in preaching, and having a good time just being guys. We are men missionaries living the Gospel and spreading the Gospel to a people in a foreign land.

I never thought I could be called to this life. Before I heard the call to missions, I remember reading scripture and thinking, ‘My life is way too comfortable. Am I living Jesus’ words?’ At that time, I was working, making good money, taking my vacations, and able to utilize the convenience of the American culture as I pleased. Then, I said to myself, ‘How can I know what kind of man I am if my faith has never been truly tested?’ I was tired of living a complacent, lukewarm life. Is this what I was made for?

People need strong men leaders willing to fight against the injustices against the poor and to encourage every man to live the life they were made to live. In Ahuano, we see the negative influences from the lies of the world. The families have many problems. Many of the fathers drink too much. Often it is quite blatant, as we see men passed out in the streets. Sometimes, they get so drunk they go home and abuse their wife and children. They are not praying in their homes. The youth men lack motivation to work harder than they have to. Spiritual formation among Catholic men is severely lacking in these areas. Who do they need, but the True Man! Who is going to lead them to Christ, the True Man, but us men, missionaries for Christ!

You are called to be that leader, especially in leading others to know the Lord. Before I joined FMC, I would shy away from those opportunities to be a leader. I did not want the responsibility. Now, since being in Ecuador, I put my trust in the Holy Spirit. I lead prayer groups and home visits. Now, I will just begin to speak, trusting the Holy Spirit will provide the words the people need to hear.

The men of this world need men missionaries to reveal to them the love of Christ. Sometimes that means showing your confidence in Jesus and your love for them by encouraging admonishment of their sins. It is not always easy. The men need to see that they can live a different life as a man, a stronger man, who puts all of his fears, anxieties and struggles in the hands of the True Man. They need to know that this is not a weakness. Truly when your body and soul more intimately unite with the one who created you, then you become the man you were created to be. I invite you... become the man you were made to be!

Eager for Him and Him Alone

I have been in Quito, the capitol of Ecuador, for almost one month. My time in Quito has been an adventure, to say the least. I came here to obtain a more formal training in Spanish. I have been taking language classes for about 4 weeks. During this time, I also have been trying to be a missionary to the people in this city who yearn for God to ‘wipe away every tear from their eyes’ (Rev 21:4).

I remember the first day of classes, Monday, April 22^nd. God gifted me with an incredible faith-filled teacher, Isabel. We were able to talk about our Lord. She is a catequist for children at her church. She stays very busy helping out in different ways. We have been able to pray together before and after the lessons. She has an incredible heart and cares deeply for each of her students.

This same day, there was another student in this school whose last day was my first day. She is a Christian missionary from England. She was leaving the next day to go to her mission post near the coast of Ecuador. I told her that in Family Missions Company, before someone leaves for their mission, we pray over them, laying our hands upon them, like the apostles did in Acts (See Acts 13:3). It was awesome to be able to join with her in prayer through our same Lord Jesus Christ. We all have a mission to preach His Gospel until the end of the world.

Later this same day, I met a young man who was lying on the street, his name is Gustavo. He is only 15 years old. He was filthy. I offered him some food and water and talked to him about the love of God. He looked confused as to why I was talking to him. I believe while he is just lying there on the street most people just walk past him. Even if it was just for a few minutes, I hope that he came to know that our Lord cares deeply for him. Please pray for him and so many others like him.

As I continued walking, I decided that I could just walk back to where I was staying. I am living in the south of Quito with a congregation of priests called Los Josefinos. From my school to their house, it is about a thirty minute bus ride. I had plenty of time to walk and make it before dark. At one point, I was walking and two men approached me from behind. One man stepped in front of me, reached in his jacket, turned towards me and pulled out a large butcher knife. The other man quickly stripped my bag and jacket off my back. They turned and took off running with my belongings.

“A thief comes only to steal and slaughter and destroy; I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly.” (Jn. 10:10)

Do you realize that we have been bought at a price? My life does not belong to me. God can easily take my life away if He deems it is time. The murder of a Son was the price that was paid. The destruction of His body was the destruction of sin and death. No one wants to be in suffering and pain, or in mourning. And Jesus came to make all things new (See Rev. 21). Every person is in search of happiness, comfort and peace. Even thieves are in search of these things. However, where shall you look: amongst the things of this world? These things will continue to bring sadness and disappointment, for they will never satisfy. Everything of this world has an end; everything runs dry. There is only One who can give life forever and give it in abundance. Jesus is the eternal wellspring that gives life. Follow Him and you shall never thirst again.

 “And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather, be afraid of the one who can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna.’ (Mt. 10:28)

After this incident I have been giving thanks to God more intensely for my life. I have been praying for these men. I truly believe that God will transform the hearts of these men. However, after this I was trying not to fear these people or this city. At first, I was doing well. I was motivated not to allow this incident to frighten me. Mt. 10:28 tells us that we should only fear God, because He has the power to destroy our body AND soul. As I look around at the city and its people, I see a people living in fear. Now, I was experiencing fear in this city. I was constantly on-guard. I would guard my pocket; I would guard my bag; I would guard my back. On the bus, the other day, a person bumped against me from behind and I jumped, thinking they were attempting to rob me. Lord, I don’t want to live in fear. Save me!

For a few days, I was struggling to be open with people: on the bus or on the street. How can I minister to others if I am afraid of them? Jesus tells us that we cannot hide our talents. We cannot hide our light under the bushel basket. Our heavenly Father has created us for a purpose. All of us, as members of the Body of Christ, have a specific role in helping others to come to know His Son, Jesus, and that His Kingdom is being established here, right now. The Lord says do not be afraid of those in the world. He means right now: Do not be afraid! Slowly, I came out of hiding. I know that through the fervent prayers of my family, friends and benefactors, and the valiant prayers of St. Michael and the Holy Family, I have come out of the pit of this fear. I must tell you, despite the oppression of this city: the barred windows, the broken glass cemented into the tops of walls, the hard expressionless faces that many people display because of their fear, I have never met so many selfless and faith-filled people, as I have met here in Quito.

One man, named Klever, gave up his entire day to help me find a place to live. He has a generous heart and a great desire to understand the incredible depths of God. He doesn’t give himself a little, but like our Lord who manifested bread and fish in abundance, he gives himself in abundance.

At this point, I must mention the Josefinos. I have been staying with a group of priests at Iglesia La Magdalena. They are of the congregation Los Josefinos. There are 4 priests who live here. Padre Hector is the head of these men. Since the first day I met him he has treated me like a son. He drove me to the U.S. Embassy the day after my passport was stolen. He invited me to his hometown so I could meet his family. He has provided for me shelter, food and a place to rest in their home. I am deeply indebted to him, Padre Edwin, Padre Gustavo, and dear Padre Pedrito. Also, a young man named Cesar lives here. He has an intense desire to be a priest and to serve others. He is only 16 years old. His devotion to Jesus through our Holy Mother is intense. He awakes every morning at 3am to give praise to our Lord through the rosary. He is constantly witnessing to the love of Jesus by offering to help wherever he can. His devotion inspires me to be more attentive to the voice of our Lord.

Last Sunday, I was walking back to the church when a lady named Loran Volanci, who was sitting on the side of the road selling food, called out to me. She begged for me to pray for her to God. She begged that I would pray to God that He would protect her and heal her from her infirmities. WOW! What faith! I recall all the men and women that reached out to Jesus that they might be held. What faith! I have never seen such faith. With her right then and there, I placed my hands on her and I prayed over her that the Lord would heal her. I understood in that moment how much the Father truly loves us. This is the kind of faith we each should have. Her witness of faith augmented my own faith. Thank you Jesus!

I have been able to see one woman, Rebecca, 2-3 times per week. She has been struggling with walking the straight path with God. She has been partying too much, and being with friends who do not encourage her to grow closer to God. The first day I met her we were talking about God. I thought she had everything together. Before I left, I asked her if I could pray for her. She said, “Of course.” I said, “I don’t mean pray for you later, but right now.” Surprised, she said, “Of course!” I asked her for what she needed me to pray. Immediately, she started crying. She has been crying every night, every day, begging God for help to make her path straight. She has been so depressed. She hasn’t been going to church. She told me that she has been so confused in her faith. She wanted God to send her someone to pray with her and to help her. God answered her prayers. Now, she awakes in the morning at 5am and prays, giving thanks to God. She is so joyful and so thankful for the love of God. She doesn’t desire to go out partying. She only desires to pray and be close to Him. I gave her a bible, as well. She was ecstatic! Now, her faith is contagious. Her belief in the power of prayer is tangible. I walk away from praying with her truly feeling bold in our Lord, courageous in His love, with an increased faith in the very real presence of our God. He is alive! His kingdom is here! I have encountered Christ.

Amongst all the trials and suffering, and fear of this world, there is so much good. There is so much to love and to be thankful for. Even a taste of the everlasting joy of the Kingdom can be appreciated right now if we have the eyes to see and the ears to hear. Yet, the goodness of the Kingdom is only manifested here by our cooperation with Him to help make it known. God works through us to reveal Himself to others. How will people obtain faith to see and hear the Kingdom, if no one is showing them God’s love and no one is speaking to them God’s Word. It is our obligation, like Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:16, to preach the Gospel. At any moment God could call you back to give an account to Him of the work He has given you to do. So I ask you: are you ready? How many talents have you gained? How much fruit is on your branch? Are you slumbering in the night while the oil for your lamp has run dry? Are you ready for when the theif comes in the night? For, ”Christ, offered once to take away the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to take away sin but to bring salvation to those who eagerly await him.” (Heb. 9:27-28)

Let us awake! Let us be eager for Him and Him alone! Let us look forward to the day when the veil will be removed from our eyes and we may truly see our Lord Jesus Christ forever face to face!