Hacienda Of Hope

A great week of hard work, fun and learning about a third world political system was experienced by students and administrative staff from Madison Academy, Huntsville, AL. The group of 15 arrived on March 18 and stayed through the 24th. Besides some hard work on a pathway project to our new Prayer Dome, a unique experience was gained about how the common people of Ecuador express their political views. During this week there were many road blocks set up around the area of Cayambe to express protest about the North American Free Trade Agreement talks. The roads were blocked with burning tires and tree trunks making it impossible to travel to Otavalo to enjoy the weavers market. However, many sites in and around Quito were enjoyed before their departure back to the States. The best way for a group of high school students to understand the culture of a third world country is through a first hand visit with us. This was the second annual Spring Break visit from M.A. students. Their willingness to come here to work instead of going with their friends somewhere to play shows the sacrificial nature of these fine young men and women! They are understanding the teachings of our Savior about the cost of being a disciple; i.e. Luke 14:25 ff.