Centro Yuu

One of our primary goals in coming to Ecuador was to be able to get involved with the ministries of a local church. One often hears stories of missionaries who come into an area and, in trying to serve others, they promote dependence and helplessness. We’ve been really excited about the church that we attend here because the people there were already actively serving others and telling them about Jesus before we arrived. All we had to do was to join in with the fun.

Centro Yuu is a Shuar community here in Ecuador about 2 hours’ drive away from Shell. People there live in little shacks made with wooden planks thrown together and straw for a roof. They don’t have a clean water supply, and their electricity source is practically a little extension cord spliced into about 50 branches. About five years ago, a medical team first set foot in this community for an outreach. Since then, many people in the community have opened up their hearts to Jesus.  They are nearing a number large enough to plant a new church. Our little church in Shell has been working hard to partner with Cento Yuu during this process. Each weekend a couple from our church heads out to the Yuu to help in worship services for young and old.

A couple of weekends ago a group of us got together and brought Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child gift boxes to the kids in Centro Yuu. It was amazing! During the process, we presented the Gospel to the kids and explained to them that they were being given these gifts to remind them of the gift of Jesus that God has given all of us.  We're also planning a medical brigade to Centro Yuu within the next couple of months.  Join with us in praying that many people in this community will be thirsty to know more about Jesus' love.

 The road to the jungle is only for the strong of heart and for those with a good sense of humor.

The group from our church, including some visitors, was excited to serve.  Faces you may recognize include Steve, Lori, and Caleb Patee, Tim Roth, and Matt and Amy Kappen.  Pastor Angel is the gentleman in front.

Serving the Lord is a job for young or old, thin or with a bit of baby fat.

These kids aren't going to wait until next Christmas to open their gifts.