Church the Indigenous Way

On Sunday we had the opportunity to attend an indigenous church here in Ecuador for the first time. The church was located in the small pueblo of Gualsaqui, up in the northern highlands.  The people there were very welcoming of us and a few of our fellow gringo students who had come along. Many of the 30 or so church members only spoke Quechua, some spoke Spanish, and some spoke both. The pastor was bilingual and shared his sermon in both Spanish and Quechua. The service began with warm greetings all around. This was followed by worship, accompanied by an electric guitar and a large traditional base drum (songs were in both languages). Then they asked if anyone would like to share a testimony, and I had the opportunity to share how the Lord called us to Ecuador and how He’s been blessing us. The sermon was next. Caleb did a good job of staying quiet with the aid of his drawing pad that Emma got for him for his birthday. After the sermon, everyone took communion that consisted of a kool-aid-like drink and Ritz crackers. Finally, there was a traditional worship dance that was performed by the kids that appeared to be about 8-13 years of age. Kristina and I have traveled quite a bit, but it is always refreshing to be reminded once again about just how big our God is. He is not confined to our preconceived ideas of what church and worship mean. And even though the indigenous folks are generally low on the social ladder here in Ecuador, every person is so valuable that Jesus was willing to die on the cross for him/her.

The front of the church in Gualsaqui

 A chevere (cool, neat, etc.) moth

Jael meeting an indigenous baby

The kids did a worship dance.