In July of 2008, I packed a suitcase full of bug spray and work clothes and traveled with my twin brother and fourteen adults from my Nazarene church to Iquitos, Peru. Our mission was simple- help to rebuild two churches and spread the Gospel to the people we met along the way. Little did I know that the trip would turn out to be the most memorable and changing experience of my life.
When we arrived, we dropped our luggage at the hotel and went straight to work. We rode motor taxis to the worksite, which was deep within a small village along the Amazon River. The houses we passed were no more than shacks. None of them had floors, and many of them had no windows or doors. People stared at us openly and curiously. We arrived at the first worksite and quickly became close to the locals, even though there was a significant language barrier. The kids swarmed around us, and we gave them suckers and stuffed animals we had brought from the States. We worked hard together with the locals, and within just a few days that church was finished. It was then time to move on to the next project.
At the next site, we learned we would be building a church from scratch. Nothing but boards were waiting for us. It took us almost a week, but we completed the project. It was at times almost unbearably hot when working, with the temperatures reaching over 100 degrees most days. However, the locals in Peru helped tremendously. I have never seen people work harder than those men and women did. They were incredibly excited about finally having their own church in their little neighborhood. Their help and support affected me deeply. The night after we finished, the people had their first service in which we were the guests of honor. They showed their gratitude in everything that they did for us.
In between the working, we did some sightseeing. I experienced many unusual things, including swimming in the Amazon River, playing with monkeys, and eating a grub worm. We visited one of the numerous outdoor marketplaces, which I have never seen anything like. It was extremely crowded and smelled of the fish, pigs, grubs, and other delicacies that merchants were attempting to sell. It took almost an hour to walk the length of the market. On our last day a guide took us by canoe about three hours down the Amazon to a small indian village rarely seen by those outside the tribe. Although cautious and harsh at first, the natives eventually accepted us and even let us watch their tribal ceremony and dances. It was quite the honor to see.
The things I learned from the Peruvian people and their culture are things I will never forget. They truly know how to be happy in all circumstances. They know what it’s like to have absolutely nothing and still have joy. It had been our goal to bring the Gospel and encourage them, but in the end it was those hardworking and joyous people that encouraged and strengthened us in both our faith and in our every day lives.
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.
0 Replies to “Mission Trip to Iquitos, Peru”
Comment on this article
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
I like the helpful info you provide in your articles.
I will bookmark your weblog aand check again here frequently.
I’m quite certain I’ll learn plenty of new stuff right here!
Good luck for the next!
Hi there! Would you mind if I share your blog with my facebook group?
There’s a lot of people that I think would really enjoy your content.
Please let me know. Many thanks
We absolutely love your blog and find most of your post’s to be just what I’m looking for.
Do you offer guest writers to write content
for yourself? I wouldn’t mind writing a post or elaborating on many of the subjects you write concerning
here. Again, awesome site!
Essential bags: Remember to bring commonly used medicines, prescription medicines, motion sickness medicine, cold medicine, wound closures, etc.
Thanks for sharing
Very nice article. I certainly love this site.
Contine the good work!
Wow, Fran Falkin’s pet travel tips are a lifesaver! ? Planning our pet-friendly vacation has been a breeze thanks to these insightful tips. We followed tip #2, and now our fur baby practically loves their carrier, making our journey stress-free. Plus, we found a cozy hotel that welcomes our pet, so they’re enjoying the adventure just as much as we are. Thanks, Fran, for turning our pet travel worries into tail-wagging excitement!
Hey There. I found your weblog using msn. That
is a really smartly written article. I’ll make sure to bookmark it and return to learn more of
your useful info. Thank you for the post. I will certainly
comeback.
i wish i was chinese
I am genuinely pleased to read this weblog posts which includes plenty
of helpful information, thanks for providing
these kinds of statistics.
Greetings! Very helpful advice in this particular
article! It’s the little changes that will make the biggest changes.
Thanks for sharing!
Explore the beauty of Sri Lanka with our family tours. Discover unforgettable experiences for all with Family Tours Sri Lanka. Book your adventure today with Sri Lanka Family Tours.
Great post.
Yes, recent trends suggest that Americans are regaining confidence in vacations and travel. As travel restrictions ease and vaccination rates increase, many Americans are showing a greater willingness to travel and explore destinations again. However, it’s important to stay updated on travel advisories and safety measures to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Reading Fran Falkin’s insights took me back to my first trip with Whiskers, my feline companion. The chaos of ensuring he was comfortable amidst the hustle of the airport was a lesson in patience. Had I come across these invaluable tips earlier, our journey would’ve been as smooth as a calm sea.
Thank you! I value it!
Great information. Cheers.
Very good write-up. I certainly appreciate this website.
Continue the good work!
I read your article on the Sheep of Sun Valley and I found it very fascinating and enjoyable. You have given a detailed and colorful account of your experience at the Trailing of the Sheep Festival, which celebrates the history and culture of sheepherding in Idaho. I think your article is a great way to introduce this unique and fun event to other travelers and families who are looking for a different and memorable adventure.
This is something new I saw on the internet today I want to thank you for writing such a great and helpful blog. I really appreciate your efforts.