Filed under: Life in Bolivia, News of Bolivia, Tom, holidays | Tags: Bolivia, Christmas, legalism, Christianity Today, articles
Our little country has hit the big time, at least in terms of the anti-Christmas stance of their “Evangelical” Christians. Christianity Today had the following article today about how Bolivian Christians have pretty much rejected Christmas. This is funny to us, since, at our school, we light the Advent candles, teach Christmas carols and have a huge Christmas program for the parents, and (as Anne has so astutely pointed out) not one parent has complained! Anyway, here’s the article’s link; totally worth reading: “Always Summer, Never Christmas”.
When Christians don’t set aside a holy day for Christ’s birth, [South American Bishop, Frank] Lyons says, “I think the whole doctrine of the Incarnation is lost. We may refer to it every now and then, but the whole historical aspect of the faith that brings it into the present falls by the wayside.” - from the article
Filed under: Family, Friends, General, Highlands School, News of Bolivia, Prayers | Tags: Bolivia, pray, prayer
Hey all! Today, I wrote a little prayer-guide you can use as you pray for us, for Highlands and for the general situation in Bolivia.
Let us pray…
- For the Church in Bolivia, for her purity, for unity, for her mission in Bolivia, and for all the people of God in this land.
- For those in Bolivia who do not yet believe, and for those who have lost their faith, that they may receive – even in the midst of the current situation in Bolivia – the Light of the Gospel.
- For the peace of Bolivia, for an end to racism and hate.
- For those in leadership in Bolivia, that they would be freed from anger and fanaticism, and instead promote the dignity and freedom of every person.
- For those who live and work in this community, and call La Paz their home.
- For those who are poor, persecuted, sick and all who suffer; for all who are in danger in this tense time.
- For our enemies, and those who wish us harm, and for all we have injured or offended.For the forgiveness of our sins, and for the grace of the Holy Spirit to amend our lives.
- For those who have commended themselves to our prayers, our friends, families back home, and our neighbors here in La Paz.
- Rejoicing in the fellowship of all the saints, we commend ourselves, one another and all our life to Christ our God. Amen.
Thanks for prayin’!
(Inspired by Form V, Prayers of the People, from the Book of Common Prayer)Filed under: News of Bolivia, Outside La Paz, Tom | Tags: ambassador, Bolivia, NPR, United States, USA, Venezuela
Here’s a brief but informative story that helps to clear up (as much as possible!) the situation:
Filed under: Anne, Highlands School, News of Bolivia, Tom | Tags: Bolivia, Highlands School
Our school done got tattled on.
Today is Bolivia’s version of Labor Day. We planned to have our third Team Day - a big, fun day of four teams made up of kids from Grades 1-12 working together; today was to be our Academic Team Day (spelling bees, scavenger hunts, giant crosswords and the like; not your typical school day). We picked today because, with most parents off work, they could come and participate. Sounds great, aye? (more…)
(In my head, that’s supposed to rhyme!) Ah, yes! The uncertainties of life in La Paz. We’re in the middle of prayer at church and we hear folks praying for the supposed “paro” (strike) that is supposed to - might - may - could - happen tomorrow, Tuesday or Wednesday. These strikes can be anything from a stoppage of public transportation to a full closure of all stores, cafes, schools etc.
And here it is, the end of Easter break! (more…)
Hi. A quick prayer request:
Every Wednesday, we were told today, church leaders from around La Paz meet to discuss issues and (I hope) pray together and fellowship. This Wednesday - we were told by Pablo and Kristi, husband and wife who run the brand new, small English fellowship that meets in the Anglican church in the heart of the city - that there will be a bit of an edge to the weekly meeting. Apparently, what is at stake is church unity in the city (they say there is very little of that to start with).
The Body of Christ, already divided here in La Paz, could become more so after this meeting; or healing could begin. We don’t know all the details, but we want to ask you to join with us in lifting up God’s church in La Paz; His wisdom and love for the church are enough to bring that healing and unity.
Oh, and while you are praying, you could pray Jesus’ own prayer in John 17:20-23.
I read that FIFA is banning soccer matches above 2500 meters. This precludes our future home country from winning on their home turf. Thoughts from those who know more than I?
I read that FIFA is banning soccer matches above 2500 meters. This precludes our future home country from winning on their home turf. Thoughts from those who know more than I?
I read that FIFA is banning soccer matches above 2500 meters. This precludes our future home country from winning on their home turf. Thoughts from those who know more than I?
