This past weekend I was given what turned out to be the incredible opportunity of attending the AlgoNuevo-YoungLife Director's retreat in Lima. I wasn't sure what to expect or what, exactly, my role was in participating in this "out of my league" event. I'm a simple volunteer, a committee member, but nothing more. To be invited to participate in the inner workings of Staff was something of a surprise to me. The results of the weekend turned out to be equally surprising.

I met some wonderful people over the weekend, people who are truly dedicated to the vision and mission of YL. I also learned that the many directors, leaders, and committee members in Lima face the same challenges as we in Arequipa do, and therefore, we are not alone.

In addition to realizing we, in Arequipa, are part of a bigger team, I also realized that my leader, Jorge, may have the biggest and best vision of all. YoungLife has been in Lima for close to 40 years. YoungLife has been in Arequipa for just one year. We currently have two clubs in Arequipa and our membership/contacts easily number twice that of any club/area in Lima.

After reviewing the current and projected numbers of the various Lima clubs (4-5) it was clear that, thanks to Jorge's hard work and dedication, our clubs have seen more success in one year than any club in Lima has in many years. Not to discredit Lima, as they have been through their share of trial and turmoil in the past several years, I did feel proud to be part of such a successful ministry.

(Photo: Left to right- Edson Gomez; Chiki)

An additional and equally important blessing came in my meeting some very special people. Edson Gomez, leader of Capernaum Peru, is nothing less than an amazing person. Afflicted with Polio himself, he bravely, and quite successfully, leads Capernaum ministries in two different schools in Lima. Edson, so far as I can tell, is the epitome of Capernaum and YoungLife. Physically handicapped, he has not just adjusted and overcome, but has conquered his ailment by means of both mental and physical attitude. Oh, what a joy it was to meet, get to know, and spend time with Edson. By his side, and a Capernaum

leader himself, is Carlos- who just happens to be the brother of Jorge- a wonderful young man whose humility I believe is unrivaled.

When I began my work with AlgoNuevo-YoungLife Peru I was uncertain as to the manner of operations in comparison to those in the states. After a year of volunteering with them I couldn't be happier with our success, and after the Director's Retreat last weekend I can see clearly the importance of our mission. Jorge continues charge the field with full force. He has started two clubs in one year (both held on the same day, no less!!) and he continues to look for new opportunities and new clubs.

On a personal note- Sandra gave birth to their first child- a son- this past Saturday by way of C-section. Only 7 1/2 months of full term, their baby is home and healthy after only a short time in the incubator. Congratulations to Jorge & Sandra. Please continue to pray for them as they will now need even more support- financial, physical, emotional, and spiritual.

As one final blessing I was able to spend a couple of hours with Christian, a young man and former YL volunteer from Lima, who came to Arequipa for a few months this past summer to help out with our club. Living in a foreign country it's always a great feeling to know I have friends in other cities, people who are interested in keeping up with me.

YoungLife AQP