July 2009
Dear Family & Friends,
It hardly seems possible that we are already six-months into 2009! The first half of the year has been full of life in community and ministry here in Buenos Aires. I recently enjoyed sharing my life here with my mom and sister who came for a visit in May! They were here for some of the final warm days of fall before the chill of winter settled in. It was fun to show them around and play tourist in Buenos Aires. In June I celebrated one of those big milestone birthdays with a weekend away in a city on the beach (Mar del Plata) and then a surprise party with special Argentine friends. I am blessed and grateful for the love and care of family and friends in Buenos Aires and across the miles.
I often get the natural question, “What do your days look like in Buenos Aires?” I begin by responding that no day is alike here. My week primarily includes Spanish tutoring/studying, afternoons with the children and youth at the train station, as well as continuing to develop and implement a spiritual formation process for our Buenos Aires community. Recently, I also started volunteering with our church’s children’s ministry. I assist with the Sunday school program and help with special events, like a recent sleepover “Pajama Party.” I really value the partnership our WMF community has with our church in the neighborhood and look forward to how God will continue to shape ministry together.
One of the highlights of our ministry among the youth is our twice a month gatherings, called “Encuentros.” On Tuesday nights and Wednesdays we spend time with a core group of 8-10 youth and children at our church. Our time includes cooking and sharing meals, playing games or ping pong, a Bible reflection and discussion, movies, and various other activities. This is a valuable and meaningful opportunity to spend extended time with our friends outside the distractions of the train station. Recently, we had to cancel our time due to some renovations at the church. It was clear just how much they look forward to Encuentros in their disappointment that we had to cancel.
Please pray that Encuentros would be a safe place where God can draw us and our friends closer to one another and Him. Pray that the youth would know and experience God’s love and care for them through these times together. Pray for vision and imagination as we dream about what these times could be for our friends the remainder of this year.
With love & gratitude,
David Bayne
P.S. We are looking for a donation or good deal on a used Playstation 2 to utilize at Encuentros with the youth. If you happen to know of one, please let me know.