It’s been a long time coming, but the time is finally here!
In Joshua 1:5, the Lord says to Joshua, “Just as I was with Moses, I will be with you.“ As many of you know Celeste’s parents prayed over the Aguas Sagradas property over 20 years ago - an entire generation ago. And just like the Lord was with them, He is with us as we step into the land God promised, preserved and prepared. The task feels overwhelming. Fortunately, as God encouraged Joshua, he encourages us. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
This is a promise we cling to as we officially transition from our jobs, our offices, and pack up our home. We are making final preparations for our permanent move to Chiapas this month, right after Easter. But we hold to the promise that God is with us, and we were not called to walk this journey alone. Thank you, to the many of you who have joined us in prayer, with your financial support, and with frequent words of encouragement.
It has been quite a journey.
Through it all, we have learned that:
Our God is faithful;
You, our friends and precious supporters are our gift and our encouragement;
To trust God daily, and truly, moment by moment.
Our first little Casita is nearly finished and ready for us to occupy. For anyone who has remodeled or built a home you know the many travails and challenges it goes through. For those reasons, last year we decided to build our first small Casita to “test“ the building process, and costs, etc. in Mexico. This proved to be a very wise decision.
We have had many setbacks and learned that we have to be on site and present to carefully oversee and direct the construction. We also discovered many other costs which are typical to us (including the entire kitchen, among other things) are not routinely included in Mexico. Thank you for those who stepped up and responded to that need a few months ago and provided the funds for the kitchen cabinets.
As we make our final preparations to move in, we are asking once again for your help. The question that many are wondering is; "When can the girls move on to the property?" For various reasons after that first "test case," we and our our board decided to hire a new architect and builder. He comes highly recommended and has already provided some very creative and innovative design ideas for the girls' first Casita.
But, the cost of this level of design and oversight, and in addition to the skyrocketing cost of materials over this past 18 months, ($6 gas anyone?) the costs for Casita #2 have increased substantially. Casita #2 is now projected to cost $90,000 to $100,000 over our prior estimates. Ouch!!
We were already gifted our original estimated amount to build Casita #2. So our board voted to approve those funds to move ahead with Phase 1 of the construction. As you can see from the pictures, this past week that work had begun and we are faithfully believing God will provide the rest that is needed to complete Phases 2 and 3. We will need $100,000 by the end of this year to complete this build. Once again, we know that God has this.
Yes, we need to raise $100,000, and we also need to increase our monthly donor support. This serves two vital purposes. It covers the cost of construction for Casita #2 and raises the budget needed to prepare for the first eight girls to move into their new home at Aguas Sagradas/Reina's Hope.
We know so many of you already give and for that we are very grateful. BUT, we have room for more, and the needs continue to grow.
This is what we are asking.
PRAY. Most importantly, please pray for us, everyday!
PROMOTE. Second, we are looking to connect with individuals, church leaders, mission boards, other business leaders. Help us connect with anyone that God brings to mind who might identify with this mission and consider financially supporting it.
PARTICIPATE. Third, we are looking for a fundraising director, prayer coordinator, and trip coordinator to assist us. We cannot do it all alone! If you are interested or know of someone who might be interested please contact us.
PROJECTS. Fourth, we will be needing teams to come down this year to help with construction and other projects. If you are interested, email us or sign-up on our website.
SUPPORT. (Couldn't come up with another "P" word.) Finally, If you are not already, please consider becoming a monthly supporter.
We are moving ahead and moving onto the property this month. If you have been waiting for this milestone to join with us and become part of our support team - NOW IS THE TIME!
Thank you all for standing with us, praying over us, giving to this mission, and being willing to come down and participate on any level!