Carnaval 2012

 Carnaval is a big celebration in Bolivia.  Many groups began practicing their dances way back in December right after the Day of the Dead.  On the main day of the carnaval, over 50,000 dancers participated in the parade.  At the end of the parade route, all the participants kneeled down and worshiped and prayed to the large image of the Virgin.

Carnaval participants worship the Virgin

Saved - by grace

This past week, by the Lord's grace, the congregation here was blessed with another infant baptism.  Another soul was added to the community of believers.  Through the blessed water of baptism, the water connected with the Word, faith was given to this baby.  The promise is that the Holy Spirit has entered into his heart to give him forgiveness, faith and eternal life.

What blessings God promises to us in His Word.  In His grace and mercy, God has given us His Word, faithful pastors who teach us that Word and Christian family and friends that encourage and counsel us according to that Word.










But what happens when hearts rebel against what God says in His Word?  What is the result when we disobey God's commands?  "Can the pot say to the potter, 'He knows nothing'?" (Is. 29:16) 

"When I called, no one answered, when I spoke no one listened.  They did evil in my sight and chose what displeases me." (Is. 66:4)

"When I called, they did not listen, so when they called, I would not listen, says the Lord Almighty." (Zach. 7:13)

Pray with us that by God's grace, hearts that are rebelling against God's clear Word would repent, receive the refreshing waters of forgiveness and would rest in the peace the Holy Spirit brings.

It's Raining!!??

December, January and February are the rainy months here in La Paz.  We have rain almost daily and lots of cloud cover.  This past week we had a heavy hailstorm.  The hail accumulated on the window sills.  In some parts of the city the hail fell so forcefully that it damaged the roofs of some homes.

During these months we carry our umbrellas since it may be sunny when you leave the house but the clouds come up over the mountains quite rapidly and it may be raining when you least expect it.







February is also carnaval time here.  Some carnaval activities have already started but the main events occur the week of Ash Wednesday. 



One of the carnaval traditions here is to throw water balloons at other people.  Some people will drop them out of windows or off of balconies.  So water may be falling on your head - but not necessarily from clouds!!