To start the day we were introduced to the community meeting various members of Rainbow Network and were greeted in a large open space (their community center) to listen and converse everyone. During this time we got to watch a cultural dance, listen to testimony of one of the community members, hear the elementary children sing, and talk with some of the scholarship students that are in technical school. I was able to ask them a question about what their favorite part of the program was and they answered with making ppts, graphic design, and pamphlets. After this initial greeting, we celebrated with the children hitting a piñata, having a dance competition, and playing musical chairs. This was followed by us being graciously allowed to learn more about the different programs. The leaders of the community openly shared with us their experiences and what their roles are in the community. We found out that the main areas of work: corn, rice, beans farming or mining. One unique piece of information that I learned was that on September 24th, they celebrate their national patron saint, Mercedes. Next, we were given the opportunity to visit and walk through four of the members homes. This is where we learned about the Madrono, their national tree and it only blooms in December, making a a beautiful white flower that has a beautiful smell. Another huge blessing that people of the community were so happy about was that they have running water in Las Mangas. One family shared with us how they cook outside. All of the homes have big, beautiful gardens with plants growing bananas, avocados, oranges, and passion fruit. I was very gracious of their willingness and kindness to let me join in learning about what makes their home special to them. To follow this, we saw the children playing soccer and they were very kind to allow me to play on one of the teams as goalie. This was a cool experience for me to be able to connect with the children. At the end of the day we were blessed to be able to attend mass with the surrounding community. It was a treasured moment for us all to share in the love, faith, and hope with our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.
Blessings,
Olivia Isaacks
Olivia Isaacks
