Rivera Mission Honduras

2011-10-20T23:17:00.000-07:00

This big fellow dropped in for a visit, he was a little grumpy because he was "molting" changing skin.

2011-10-20T23:08:00.000-07:00

Mrs Rivera and I teach the Bible course this year and it has proven to be quite FUN, as we are studied in it. God help us to remain true.

2011-10-20T23:04:00.000-07:00

We choose to keep active in our outreach, we use the church for multipurpose. Teachers and young men practice the art of "Defense". We do have fun.

2011-10-20T22:59:00.000-07:00

We have pancakes and do a study every Saturday morning. We prefer good biblical references as we seek out a direction for the church.

2011-10-20T22:53:00.000-07:00

This time a tree fell on the church Calvary Pena Blanca, it will continue to get worse please pray for the Lord's hand to help in repairs.

2011-09-22T05:11:00.000-07:00

300 plus students will study English with the help of the Audio Bible a great help this season as we faced the wrath of hurricane Irene and frequent black outs of power, also,(below) Pastor Chris off loads medicine and helps do translations. Almost 500 people were treated by "Heart for Honduras" remote mission and I was blessed to help.
"Time out" with our loved great grand daughter, tell me?, who is soothing who? (USA)
Pastor Chris takes missions home to ABQ, as he teaches from Hebrews, at Calvary East.

Our grand daughter wanted to be baptized this summer 2011, so we did.
Summer events of 2011, more to come, we keep the Lord with us in all we do......pastor chris

2011-09-15T10:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends and Family,

Much has happened since our last post, today is Sept 14 2011. As soon as Maria's administrative duties ended at Lake Yojoa Bilingual School, June 28 2011, we were off as fast as we could, to visit home.
Seeing our great grandchildren was one of many exciting reasons to visit Albuquerque. We spoke and taught at our home Calvary Church.
Another item on our "to do list" was follow through with a request of our grandchild, Alexandra, she wanted to be baptized by "Tata" and we
were more than happy to make it happen, in a little swimming pool in the backyard of her house with parents and family witnessing (my heart is always moved to see our young ones "grow"). Making new friends in
the Lord and touching bases with old friends in the Lord is a very crucial part of the Mission Work. One of our first encounters was with the ever present Local News Weather Caster, Steve Stucker, he is
genuine and we enjoyed the fellowship of he and his wife. The next move was to visit Hosanna Ministries, Faith Comes by Hearing- as we
continue our outreach of teaching ENGLISH in Honduras by means of Audio English-Spanish, Proclaimer Units provided by Hosanna. We will
reach more than 300 students from 3yrs to 12th grade, for 36 weeks of Teaching Bible with the direct aid of the Proclaimer, which are donated to the school. (see photos) This summer 2011, seemed to be one of the hotter seasons ever in the Southwestern USA and mid-northern Honduras. My leaving for Central America from the home I grew up in in
ABQ was harder this time as I leave my aging parents behind unable to say when if ever I will see them again. The relation between my father and myself over the past 10 years has grown very close. What a great
father the Lord has given me and it has taken Dad and myself this long to find this out. Our younger years were more "turbulent". Dad now serves mom (she-stricken with Alzheimer's) day and night, minute by minute. Their marriage of 62 years is a testimony to my hearts
yearning for their peace. This has been one of the more heart-testing seasons that I have ever been through. Coming back home to Honduras, we come to find one of our students family has had their lives taken in a senseless act of violence(more likely due to job promotion), that
all to often proliferates the fabric of this society today. Maria and I have made our mission to teach the basics of Jesus and pray that the
Spirit of the most High God, linger in the hearts of our students of this country, to grow in a true Christian manner. I want to take the time now to thank you the reader of this news letter for your prayers
and support. The bilingual school and the church, Calvary Pena Blanca, have both been in a new season of growth, with prayer, sweat, tears and joy. I was thinking the other day as I was asking the Lord for a
"mile marker", I would like to know how far we have come and how much further we have to go? Most of my heart's questions are answered in
His time. I also find that in the mission field I do not have to wait to long for an answer. Our volunteer church mission staff has increased by a family of four from the US and what a blessing Gordon and Lisa have been. It is always a trial to come to a new country and learn "new" things and find out all the things that you do not "know".
Our food ministry is at a good start and seems to be doing well. This afternoon we will be doing a "Soup and Prayer" midweek service. Sunday
Service continues to maintain as we will conclude in 1 Peter 5. Pray for this Pastor (Chris) and I will pray for you. If you wish to help support please click our Pay Pal badge or write and let me know how you are, perhaps you would like to come visit, reasonable prices and lodging
fees can be delivered. In His Service, Pastor Chris Rivera, Calvary Pena Blanca,
Honduras.

A Great Sunday May 2011

2011-06-03T18:11:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day for a walk at the upper lake above Lake Yojoa, we had a great time!I was so glad on this particular Sunday, why?, because in attendance was a Muslim and a Hindu, and I got to tell them about God's grace and the finished work of Jesus Christ and how HE changed me. Study was James 4

2011-05-22T18:55:00.000-07:00

First of all we prayed as we prepared for baptisms, in the background food was being cooked.Our first member gets dunked in the name of the Lord
Edwin our watch guard or "Watchie" made the seen in the name of our Lord.

Oskar's son was part of the celebration, we get to see them grow and go
Other family members were included in our day at the rio, Calvary Pena Blanca, Pastor Chris

2011-05-22T18:37:00.000-07:00

This is our second baptism for Calvary Pena Blanca, the day was hot the rio was cool, our hearts were glad.Emely rededicated her relation
These children humble and simple were newly baptized, today as well
Sunday school teacher watching over a little one
10 were baptized, the ladies sit and reflect upon the day as food was served

2011-04-24T21:25:00.000-07:00

People make a difference :

2011-04-24T20:57:00.000-07:00

Continued random photos of our Sunday Service, final instructions on hitting the pinata by Oskar.A friendly hug from one of our little friends from the girls home.
Little helpers checking the hanging of our pinata, what a fun day today was.
A pot luck lunch brought alot of different and new foods to our local members and visitors.
Jose has been hanging around alot, we are glad to have him in the church.

2011-04-24T20:34:00.000-07:00

Baby is the newest member of Allison's Girls Home, as we hear it the baby's mama had a brush with the law and now lives with the girls, Maria and I were so blessed to feed that little baby,(she is a little cutie).Calvary Pena Blanca Easter Sunday was great, had good attendance a pot-luck and pinata followed.
Allison and the Eternal Home Project graced us with there smiles, each and everyone.
Regular little members helping, before church starts, they love there Sunday School teachers Mr and Mrs Crespin.
Maria and all, checks the alter, dusts the chairs,sweeps, and greets visitors.

Once again we post our hearts from Honduras.

2011-03-29T17:21:00.000-07:00

This is our 2nd pot luck lunch at Calvary Pena Blanca. We roasted meat on a grill of glowing coals with lots of side dishes, Honduran and North American. Can't wait for the next BBQ!Hope to have a full running cafe by this fall of 2011 pray for that please!

Here is yet another way to roast corn tortillas, thank you Maria!

Oskar does well when he roasts beef in his secret sauce....sure was tasty.

Ruby is now standing on two legs. A band of angles made sure of that. It will be some time before she learns how to own her new leg, but now she gets along as well as most with her new prosthetic leg. Praise the Lord He is good! There is nothing better than seeing our faith put into action.

2011-01-10T20:44:00.000-08:00

I would like to present my friend Christofer Rose (in overalls) and co-laborer. Together they are forming a guitar making shop. The guitars are made by hand, using the fine wood that is available locally.
We are now accepting applications, if you wish to sign up. We consider groups of 4 or 5 friends, relatives, or just plain club or church members. Seriously, come to El Eden, Honduras and in 4 days we will show you how to craft your own stringed instrument (from the selections shown above). Kits will be precut and ready (to craft). Christofer Rose and Co-worker will be your guides, and you will be able to take your beautifully handcrafted guitar home.
El Eden is just over 1 hour from San Pero Sula, Honduras. Rooms and meals can be included in this same package, and you do have choices. This will be a unique experience .
Call Chris Rivera at 011 504 9908 7249 or Email at cmrivera0072@gmail.com for more info.

2010 December Honduras

2010-12-28T16:36:00.000-08:00

Honduras Newsletter Update
December 2010
Chris and Maria Rivera

This past Sunday must have been one of the most eventful, fruitful, and uplifting Sundays that we have experienced this year. With most of the staff on vacation to the US and the weather threatening the attendance, I as pastor felt that we were on board a small sinking vessel. It was on my mind to lock the church up and go back home. We then heard a car and it was Emely and son Angel David with a pinata and cake for church body. We decided that the church office was the best place to meet and pray, keeping us out of the draft and cold moisture. Feeling a little deflated we expressed to one another our sense of loss due to the lack of attendance that morning. During prayer time we thanked the Lord for all He has done and will do and asked Him to bless us and all the people who would eventually fill the empty chairs in our church and for blessings upon the next generation of youth, the ones that will take our place in the church.
Emely and my wife Maria, always with presence of mind, prepared cookies, cake, and a pinata, hopeful and faithful that some children might at least make a show. It was a windy, cold and wet mist that was on the attack this very morning, hastening us on. It was just about this time (10:30) that my cell phone began to vibrate (on silent), and on the other end was the voice of Oskar saying “Pastor we are on the way, we are a little late, but we will be there”. Then out of the palm leaves and forest mist I observed that Mrs Vasquez, baby in arms and most of her children in tow, were pacing their way up the main road to the church. They are a humble and simple people all seemingly born with gentle smiles. Oskar drives up with his mother, sister and children. Next thing I know I am up behind the pulpit opening with prayer and focusing our study for the service on Luke 2, the story of Christmas with Oskar translating beside me. No sooner had we begun when Henry from Salt and Light Ministry drives up with his little brother, Daniel, his father and his guitar. I finish the teaching and Henry begins playing Praise Songs, everything fell into place, not the way I nor Maria thought it would but just how God wanted it to be for this Sunday, December 26. We shared communion and afterward I encouraged members to stand and tell what they were thankful for and a few of the stronger members had words a plenty. I noticed Pastor Martin in the back row, (humble builder and founder of several churches throughout Honduras). Martin is Henry's father and I asked him to share a word from the Bible with us which he did, also from the book of Luke. We concluded with an invitation to those who have not ask Jesus into their lives as we have done. Four young ladies came forward and received Jesus Christ. What a wonderful ending to the start of a bland day. As we concluded we placed the pinata in the back of the church to be sheltered from the cold. Tradition has it here that the smallest child has first go at the pinata. In a matter of dashing moments candy was strewn about the floor, and adults were momentarily turned into children.
Isaiah 55:6-11 says: Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, and he will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. “For My thoughts, are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, and do not return there, but water the earth, and make it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.”
God is always faithful. He loves us all so much we can't even fathom it. Nothing we could have done nor have planned would have been as precious as this Sunday. Seeing empty chairs filled, but most important, witnessing the miracle of lost, empty souls being filled with eternal life and hope. The Lord's hand was gracious to us this Christmas in Pena Blanca, Honduras. Thank you all for your support and most of all for your prayers. We pray for God's continued grace, joy and peace upon all of you in this New Year. What an awesome God we serve! We love you - Feliz Ano Nuevo!

2010-10-30T23:42:00.000-07:00

These are the proud chefs of the first Calvary Pena Blanca BBQThis is one little hungry member,as he demonstrates in Marias arms

Other hungry members waiting for the grub

Here we are fanning the flames so we can cook and eat

I think we all had fun, we must do this again soon...

2010-10-30T23:33:00.000-07:00

Little extra income

2010-10-22T21:13:00.000-07:00

From the trees to the bucket and then we truck it to the market...

We have been harvesting and taking to market Navel Oranges from our random trees, the economy has not been robust here in Honduras, and we are feeling it here in our mission status. We do what we can to make ends meet as we and co-laborers know the Father see's our needs and deeds............Pastor Chris, Calvary Pena Blanca

Can boxing count as "outreach"?

2010-09-27T20:32:00.000-07:00

Roberto Santa Maria Medina, a good friend and brother, spars with me, it was great!

We both hit each other pretty good, and at the same time, spun our head gear around...time out.

Back at it, I hope to attract young men in the area to participate in a mentoring club, and keep em out of trouble.....gotta get in better shape.

Oil painting and needle point wont keep guys like this around, boxing has a certain attraction.

THE END...........................chris

Graduation Bilingual School, Honduras

2010-09-27T20:04:00.000-07:00

Back home Maria coddles a new member of our family.....

Mrs. Maria Rivera hands out diplomas to all 40 plus of her Prepatory students.

They came with smiles and joy, their parents overjoyed and tearful as this is a huge "step"...

signing the certificates was a last minute chore, as the children move on.

Update Rivera Mission, August 2010

2010-08-26T20:26:00.000-07:00

It is already the end of August and it seems like this summer has blown by like the wind! It's been raining nearly every day in the late afternoon or evenings. It is really beautiful out here. he School, LYBS, is getting ready to begin on September 1st and the Lord has been faithful to bring us great teachers but we still need one more for the pre-school. So, if you are feeling a tug in your heart for Honduras, email us. Maria is not teaching this year but will be overseeing the preschool section and she has over 60 little ones from ages 3 to 5. The church doors are open, 10 AM every Sunday and Pastor Chris says this past Sunday was one of the best so far. The praise music was very sweet and Paul's writings in 1st Timothy were exciting and thought provoking. This summer we made friends with short term missionaries who came and experienced Calvary Chapel Pena Blanca Honduras for the first time and other returning missionaries. We grow one by one and our church membership is increasing little by little but our faith deepens seeing the faithful members that come. Maria and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary on the 25th of August. We are just amazed at all God has done in us, through us and inspite of us! He is truly an Amazing God! We want to thank all of you who continue to support us financially and prayerfully. We are truly grateful and pray for God's peace upon you and yours. Bendiciones!

2010-08-08T18:24:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends, this summer of 2010 was one of the best that I will remember!
1. Allison and ministry of Eternal Family Project (a girls home) are praying about moving from Porte Cortes and joining us here in Pena Blanca! It will be like family moving out here to join us!
2. Adam Cowan and team from Calvary East Albuquerque, NM was here and what a wonderful reunion we had! His team brought with them genuine helping hands that did things like fine tuning our plumbing problems in the bathrooms to mixing cement and security, the ladies ministered to precious people of the area, also helped decorate for the grand opening of Calvary Pena Blanca.
3. We had the opening service of our church here in Pena Blanca, good friends donated finger foods and drinks, we figured can't wait til the last door is hung or the final coat of paint is on. There will always be work to do, so we now call ourselves a church building.
4. Pastor Tim and helper Kyle Branum set up an incredible work team from Tenn., Grace Calvary, we know them as a connection from the Eternal Family Project. They set up our church driveway and trimmed the church with side walks, very helpful during the rain season. The water force is something to rekon with.
5. Not long ago we met this missionary fellow that wishes to remain unknown, he too proved to be a blessing to our church as he deals with church boards and elders that approve "helps ministry" to mission groups such as ours, to make a long story short we do not have to play church we can be church!
6.I also want to shout a big thank you to the folks that live in the great southern Bible Belt Region, that seem so akin to the building and fellowship of missions south of the border (US).
7. Last but not least a big hug to the local people here in Honduras that sence our needs and respond, we love you all much........Chris, Maria and the Staff. AGAPE

2010-07-22T12:56:00.000-07:00

We sure had fun with old friends and new, look at all that talent up there grown by the Lord.

Pastor Chris and wife Maria, cut the cake, Calvary Pena Blanca.

Final blessings final prayer....................we are a church building.

THE END

2010-07-22T12:41:00.000-07:00

Lots of people came to the grand opening of Calvary Pena Blanca, from right Brother Doug, Pastor Gary, Don Gaspar, and wonderful Mrs. Maria Rivera

Pastor Randy,Brother Jesse, Kat and Adam soon to be wed, thats why he is smiling.

Adam teaches the word...kinda looks like a bible character, like a voice in the wilderness.

2010-07-22T12:23:00.000-07:00

We were so blessed this summer, by friends and family, it made the year, so worth it, thank God

2010-06-13T21:54:00.000-07:00

The ABQ Team made here with no hitches. Big smiles on... they cut decorations for the Opening Day...don't have Walmart nearby.

Finally got the 25 K transformer up and set, in just a little while we will have electricity all of our own.

The ABQ Team took time out to spread some cheer at the Girls Home, it was super hot, but we were thankful for shade, the sand roasted our toes like peanuts.

We say goodby to the old, and hello to the new... missionaries

A time for praise, worship, and devotions as led by Adam.

2010-06-07T20:49:00.000-07:00

Many things have been happening since last we wrote, we got a deep septic hole dug and capped, fianlly got to the level that we need, which allows quick drainage. We got most of the electric work done still need details done in the Sunday School. Some times things seem a little overwhelming and that is how it is. Now we are in the midst of trying to get the pvc under sink and toilet to match. We hire the talent that is availible and then we run the ball, sometimes we make a touch down other times we fumble and all the eyes and comments are on the quarterback, and thats good because my Father is all about gettin back up and do it again. He is a good coach. One of the final items is to get the transformer up and wired. Keep the words "completed project" in prayer for us here.

2010-06-07T20:15:00.000-07:00

Finally got the car stickers, we think they look pretty good, saw similar types in C.C. Nicaragua

Water flooded the floor, problems with the water hookups,will need to be redone, till then no bathrooms yet.

Members chating before the service, can't believe how far along things have come. Thank you Lord

We are looking at a more complete church

2010-06-01T23:36:00.000-07:00

The photo below will be our cafe-kitchen ministry we hope to raise support here as well! We now have electricity, can't wait for the completion of Calvary Pena Blanca.

At long last and much requested, the bathrooms are being completed...

Below is the septic tank took a real long time, but to quote a brother..."lets do this right"

And here is a look at the sunday school building, will add more on little by little.

Well, it is all comming together, with God's speed all I have to do is hang on tight and be brave.

2010-05-27T18:45:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, life doesnt get any better, wallamelon and delicious chicken, shared w/ friends

Family Day/ Dia de Familia

2010-05-26T06:39:00.000-07:00

The end of the year is close upon us and we are ready to turn the page, we will say good-by soon

Mrs Maria, leads all of prepatory thru their studied song and sign show, parents, as usual, very proud of their little ones

Fun time after baptisims...

2010-05-12T21:00:00.000-07:00

I don't know what I would do if I could not laugh with and at members of the family, I thank the Lord for the Fun Times!!!

I think he caught a rare fungus....Richard will be fine....could have been worse...could have been a rash!

This poor fellow has califlower ear....needs about 7 corrective surgeries...will do well with a light cheese sauce.

2010-05-10T09:44:00.000-07:00

Church body got together to sing happy birthday to Maria it was good, because I forgot her birthday completely Chris

2010-05-04T17:55:00.001-07:00

Once again the Science Fair 2010 was upon us, many exhibits were done, and were very interesting as well, the teachers are to be commended for their tireless work this year. All the participents are wearing red t-shirts.The judges were local and from the US, they worked hard to give their best!

Perpatory and Kinder grades participated too, here we have a dry fruit exhibit with varied results in food preservation. Parents joined in as Mrs. Rivera led the way.

Mrs Rivera doing some final touches at the Science Fair (Prepatory).

2010-05-04T09:21:00.000-07:00

This is what a modern day missionary looks like, meet Doug Hindman, a great brother to have! Meet Allison Alexander she is the Mommi of over a dozen young ladies, they learn to be proficiently bi-lingual at the girls home in Porte Cortes, Honduras.

The girls showed us around and had fun doing so.

Peter Hogencamp has a vision to build homes (Dome Homes) for orphans, please pray

Things are happening at Calvary Pena Blanca, the church has support and it looks like we may have a NEAR complete church by summers end...there will still be things to do...like landscape.

2010-04-08T20:59:00.000-07:00

I don't know who had more fun Eulogio or Gabby being carried from wheelchair to waterslide

I had fun helping Rufinia to the top of the slide and then sliding her crutch down to her when it was all clear

It was a wonderfully hot (Easter) day great time for water fun

Gabby was looking forward to getting into the pool as we had just walked from the restraunt

Maria and I take it one day at a time, we continue to pray for a new home for Allison and her little angels "Eternal Home Project", and we are praying that they will be near us, some new possibilities have come up, pray Pastor Chris

Great things happened this month...just read on..

2010-03-23T07:56:00.000-07:00

A team from the US came and put a roof on our Kid's Church, it was an awesome time to experience. I get so emotional and smeepy sometimes, it is embarassing, never used to,...Chris

The whole team came to Calvary Pena Blanca, the chairs were filled.

This is a Saturday Drama/Mime workshop we are preparing for a huge outreach that is up and comming more on that later.

Next Sunday Kid's Church should have a roof !!!

2010-03-15T17:28:00.000-07:00

Notice how Mrs. Leah recruited a little helper, who is now hitching a "piggy back" ride. Who is helping who is my question? Edgar the young man, speaks excellent English, it is great to have him around.

Rubenia (with crutch) from the girls home, "Eternal Family Project" came back for another visit to Calvary Pena Blanca Kid's Church. Rubenia's English has really improved, she has a way to go yet, but she is much better off then before. (see older posts). Leah Crespin has been faithful to minister to all the children that come to Kid's Church.

Points of interest within walking distance...

2010-03-09T17:01:00.000-08:00

Brahma Drama

2010-03-09T08:26:00.000-08:00

Wouldn't you know it? It just had to happen, a frisky little Brahma calf fell into our septic trench. The little fellow wasn't hurt- they are as nimble as goats, but he could not get out on his own. The two cattlemen pulled him out bottom first as mama looks on. It was a good end to a misty and rainy morning.

2010-03-02T18:44:00.000-08:00

This is one of the families that we visit when we can. We try to help them meet basic needs, the baby needed milk so it was provided in powder form. Beans and rice are often requested as well. We try to make a difference one relation at a time. This is a hole that we are digging in order to build a septic tank for bathroom waste, little by little

Septic hole as you view from the top, 20 feet deep is the norm.

On this very Sunday, some friends bought us some more chairs and that same day all the chairs were used and filled with more church visitors !

Finally this is the church with doors on.

Calvary Chapel Pena Blanca, announces that at some date between June 8th and the 18th 2010, we will conduct a grand opening of sorts or a ribbon cutting AND an invitation of key people that helped make this all possible, you are invited as well, I WILL KEEP YOU POSTED.

Our services are at 10 am, bilingual

2010-02-21T19:59:00.000-08:00

I love the Spanish language, I have learned alot. However I can really speak my heart thru the Word in my mother tongue, English. I do understand how important it is to communicate well. I know there will be a time real soon that I will speak my heart properly(in Spanish) so until that time. Our Sunday services will always be bi-lingual, we start at 10 AM. Feel free to join us, at Calvary Pena Blanca, just outside of Pena Blanca heading west, take a left at the sign: "Friends of Barnabus Clinic". We are to the right just at the gates of the clinic. We do have Kids Church right next to the Adult Church, children can be left there in the capeable hands of the ministry workers. Blessings to you Pastor Chris Rivera

Local Churches together for Youth Rally

2010-01-10T13:11:00.000-08:00

Fran got the kids together, saved and unsaved, they all had fun, food, and prayer!

Marvin, a young man I knew when he was smaller, also joined the fun the kids really enjoyed having him around.

The adults planned and cooked the retreat activities. A youth mission team came in from the states.

A time for prayer was first and formost, five or six churches were represented here.

2010-01-03T16:14:00.000-08:00

Our numbers at the Church "Calvary Pena Blanca" look small but prayers and God are huge! This week we will be putting in one of our bathrooms and discussing plans on getting a roof over the Kidz Church. I am excited!

2010-01-03T16:02:00.000-08:00

With another Christmas Pageant under the belt at LYBS, we will manage better and better with each new year.

2010-01-03T15:59:00.000-08:00

2009-11-05T19:14:00.000-08:00

AS A MATTER OF FACT WE HAVE, Mission, opportunities for YOU if you feel called to the Field of Mission. First of all we came to Honduras to respond to a need of building a Christian Bilingual School (LakeYojoa Bilingual School), and we did from the ground floor up. We find that three years later here we are adding another grade on every year we are up to grade five presently and we need to fill those teaching positions every year plus one. Sometimes we are lucky and a Mission Teacher stays on another year, which the STUDENTS love. I AM WRITING NOW TO ASK YOU TO PRAY ABOUT FILLING IN ONE OF THESE TEACHING POSITIONS, WE ASK FOR A RESUME,AND THAT YOU TEACH IN ENGLISH. SEND ANY AND ALL QUESTIONS TO cmrivera0072@gmail.com

We will start from that point, please include a photo, blessings.

Chris, Maria, Bertha, and Roberto

THANK YOU SO MUCH, CHRIS RIVERA

2009-11-05T18:16:00.000-08:00

Pastor Chris(left) and Assisting Pastor Eulogio(right), take part in what God has in plan with Calvary Pena Blanca, Honduras
Sure hands hold the security bars in place as members of the community build as well

The front of the church, is looking better every time

Seems like it took a long time to get to this point, but here we are

We are faithful to pray for completion of the Children's Church next door, we need roof, bathrooms, floor, and moreover electricity put in, we covet your prayers and help as well

Honduras Mission Sept/Oct 2009

2009-10-15T06:52:00.000-07:00

Somtimes I ask myself,"What did I just do, how did I get here and why?" Then ofcourse I see my co-laborers in the field and it brings me back...

As we turn another page...

2009-08-15T09:11:00.000-07:00

Jose and friend came forward to recieve the Lord this day, now their feet are on solid ground in more ways than one! Thank you Lord!

Teaching 2 Cor2 CCPB

We had quite a group this Sunday with Mission Team and new teachers of LYBS.

Can't help but notice that nice new floor!

New Teachers arrived today, please pray as their task is large but in Christ it can be a piece of cake.

Pour the cement floor.

2009-08-12T17:37:00.000-07:00

By the time I post this the whole floor of the church will be done! Thank you CC Greer!

2009-06-29T12:16:00.000-07:00

Faithful Sunday School Teacher Leah Scott, working with the local children, she goes back to the US next week. Thank you.

Bilingual church service Calvary Pena Blanca. One should always check their coffee cup, before one pours or drinks, teacher's helper Amanda Rose.

Amanda Rose- teacher's aid- She is not much for frogs!

Mission visit from U.S. to Pena Blanca

2009-05-29T17:37:00.000-07:00

The black eye is a result of neglect.

Our mission team nurses find a new friend to help.

This little girl has extreme burns on left side of body, her foot is gone.

Things should be better now, but i notice it was hard for her to smile, she was burned at the age of three, due to a fire caused by a candle.

Our little friend has blonde hair, (strong European influence) but she is 100% Honduran.
from left to right: Rosie, Carolyn, Diana bottom: Ruth, and our new little friend.
Photo by chris rivera

Earthquake Honduras

2009-05-29T17:26:00.000-07:00

2009-05-29T17:05:00.000-07:00

Loque is overseeing the building of the Kid'z Church Visitor does our Sunday Worship.
Proposed Cafe site to do community outreach.
Church benches of block and "canaletta"

It's been a while, but there is news !

2009-05-29T16:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends...

2009-05-04T06:50:00.000-07:00

We are trying to get a new camera as our old one finally broke, we do alot of blog updates with pics and comments. ALL IS WELL, we anticipate new neat things in ministry; work crews to help finish the church, medical teams, administrating at the bilingual school, and last but not least working with Potter's Field Ministry in our attempts of working with Central America and her "needy children". Please pray that needs are met, and please offer prayer in thanks giving for the things that have already been done and promised!

2009-04-19T17:50:00.000-07:00

We did get the extra land parcel which will help greatly in parking and the placing of our septic system, thank you Don Gaspar, But more over thank you, LORD!

CHURCH CONSTRUCTION PRAYER LIST 2009

2009-03-24T10:24:00.000-07:00

PRAYER LIST FOR THE SUMMER OF 2009

There have been requests by visitors, asking me to POST a list of projects that need to be completed in regards to the new church building, well here they are :

1) We need the top part of the pitched roof capped on the church. We will need a high powered metal screw driver (4" screws self tapping) for tin roof. Power will be pulled from nearby power line.

2) We need to do serious completion of the Kidz Church, we need to complete all the cinder block walls interior and exterior. Cement mixed by hand, with fine sand and carried to block handlers by wheelbarrow. We can enlist the help of local men.

3) We need to put a roof on the Kidz Church the tin is already purchased (need buy the screws and metal support beams).

4) We will then need to white plaster all the interior walls (paint is just as expensive).

5) We need electric wiring and light fixture set up. Wires are put in pre-set tubing in the walls.

6) We will need a septic trench dug and pvc set for toilets and sinks.(bathrooms and Cafe)

7) A final project will include the pouring of cement for the floor of both Church and Kidz Church. We plan to use a decorative concrete floor stain and cut scores into the slab resembling tile work.

8) We will need interior furniture, pews, pulpit, and desks.

9) Then we can focus on the Cafe which we will use as a ministry outreach and incoming team fellowship.

10) A final landscape finish will be applied with proper water runoff and design. Local flowers, shrubs, coffee plants, banana trees and the like to be planted.

On special note, a good friend and watchdog:

2009-03-17T20:55:00.000-07:00

Muneca died today, she was left to us by Carlos our watch man, she filled his position ever faithful. We knew things were ok when she was on watch, she filled in some gaps when we were homesick and missing our country and family. She never asked for much. She was 100% Catracha. I will miss her, good old bacon ears.

They came to check things out.

2009-03-17T20:26:00.000-07:00

These men represent five solid ministries and we were blessed to have them all come and visit, we are weighing the possibilities of a day care and not to distant future orphanage. The results were: "They did see alot of need, in the people, land, and community.

Potter's Field

Michael and Golden

Shepperd's Staff

plus, three Calvary

Chapels.

Legend has it that these plants were found at the foot of the cross.

2009-03-13T17:30:00.000-07:00

...satisfied customer, menu,and concert! (free daycare)

2009-03-13T14:02:00.000-07:00

Yet another bunch of little mouths to feed.

2009-03-13T13:52:00.000-07:00

This takes place at Sister Maria's Day care.

Church service at the new church.

2009-03-13T13:47:00.000-07:00

...are you feeling weighed down and burdened ?...

2009-03-13T13:33:00.000-07:00

...is there nothing more that you feel you can do ?....GOOD, THEN YOU CAN'T MESS IT UP ANY MORE...You can now leave it all at the foot of the cross

This large tree fell behind our house, click on photo

2009-03-03T09:33:00.000-08:00

2009-03-03T09:30:00.000-08:00

2009-03-03T09:26:00.000-08:00

...a very lound crashing noise...

2009-03-03T08:41:00.000-08:00

It was the start of a quiet morning, a light breeze was picking up momentum, a drizzle like misty rain was falling and without notice we heard a crashing boom. Some tremendous force splintered the air with a very loud sound behind our house. As we looked out to see what had happened we discovered that this very large tree had fallen (2.5 to 3 feet in girth and perhaps 3 or 4 stories high) down, with bigger heavier branches broken and sunken deeply into the soil. It was a site to behold, more so if you are from the southwestern part of the states.

TEACHERS on call....

2009-02-27T22:56:00.000-08:00

WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW TEACHERS AT LAKE YOJOA BILINGUAL SCHOOL,
10 month commitment, teaching in English grades K thru 5th, here in Pena Blanca, Honduras. for further info write me at cmrivera007@msn.com ALSO :

Want to try somthing "way" different?

2009-02-27T22:39:00.000-08:00

I was wanting to take some time to tell "YOU" that might be reading, of a JOB POSITION THAT IS OPEN HERE IN PENA BLANCA, HONDURAS, A FRIEND OF MINE (HOTEL & RESTURANT OWNER) IS LOOKING FOR SOME ONE TO MANAGE AND ORGANIZE SMALL CRAFT SAIL BOATS AT HIS DOCK, ON THE BEAUTIFUL LAKE YOJOA, IF YOU HAVE NO MAJOR ATTACHMENTS, AND ARE THE TYPE TO "JUST DO IT", THEN THIS COULD JUST BE THE JOB FOR YOU ! IF YOU ARE SERIOUS CONTACT ME AND WE WILL TAKE IT FROM THERE, NO EXPERIENCE NESSCESARY,work w/young folks.

cmrivera007@msn.com

We also prayed for the US.

2009-02-24T17:44:00.000-08:00

This type of Honduran cake is called "Tres Leches" man, it was sure delicious!

..this is the birthday girl "Kati', Henry and Hemi's mother.

2009-02-24T17:37:00.000-08:00

We gathered at our house and the fun began; cake, coffee, soda, and lots of sharing stories.

Henry is well know by many mission teams....

2009-02-24T17:27:00.000-08:00

Henry has become a very dear friend of our family he has been a close friend and helped us as we were new to a very different land and culture. Henry also has one of the richest singing voices that I have heard we would love to see him sing more.

Standing watch over a faithful friend

2009-02-22T13:52:00.000-08:00

2009-02-22T13:48:00.000-08:00

2009-02-22T13:42:00.000-08:00

The Lord has neat little ways to cause us to stop and reflect, our dog had her pups under the rainforest canopy, at the roots of this huge tree which the Toucans are quite fond of.

2009-02-08T17:41:00.000-08:00

2009-02-08T17:37:00.000-08:00

2009-02-08T17:31:00.000-08:00

2009-02-08T17:10:00.000-08:00

...YET an other medical clinic that turned orphanage, some abandoned, others left for long periods of time, some of these children are hungry for a hug or to be picked up and held, YET other children are frightened and scared of visitors because they have been "hurt". Our team had this little cluster of children laughing and playing in no time, tonight they eat mashed beans,scrambled eggs, and corn tortillas as they always do...Pastor Chris

2009-02-06T10:21:00.000-08:00

2009-02-06T10:16:00.000-08:00

2009-02-06T10:11:00.000-08:00

...blessings to our blog followers...

2009-02-02T08:03:00.000-08:00

...WE KNOW THAT YOU HAVE BEEN PRAYING FOR OUR EFFORTS HERE, AND WE WANT OT THANK YOU PERSONALLY, HUGS AND KISSES TO YOU FROM MARIA AND MYSELF!....

2009-02-02T07:50:00.000-08:00

...after all is said and done, and in talking and praying with trusted friends and mentor, a decision has been made to make the basic arrangements and just move into the church and have daytime services and conduct services, we have dirt floor, no window, no electricity, no bathrooms, no tables, no pulpit, we will act on a bring your own chair type of service, but "asi es la vida" so lets do it i get more and more excited about it the more i think about it! Y'all pray for us as we venture forth in His name.......blessings Chris

2009-01-24T17:37:00.000-08:00

2009-01-22T20:54:00.000-08:00

Calvary Chapel Pena Blanca, Honduras is at a stand still, we lack the monies to continue at this point. I spent a couple of hours with the builder, Don Lecho, a local guy that has had much time and experience in building. I can not say enough good things about him and the many times he has reminded "me" the pastor of this church,"...not to worry, God will provide." Well this morning he greeted me with his ever present smile, which did not fade as I told him to halt all work and labor, for now, because there was no more money to pay the workers, some from Pena Blanca and surrounding area. I am glad to say the roof is on, we need to put the cap on the roof, fill the foundation with dirt and pour the cement floor, I would like to get the bars in the windows and wire the church for lights not to mention the need to put in toilets and septic tanks, and when we are done with that we sure would love to have the kids church finished,we need to build the walls and get the roof on that, soon as possible. "Barnabas Clinic" requests and asks our help, with children, healing from operations done at the very nearby clinic, we can provide space in the children's wing for "Art Therapy" which occupies child and parent during the most crucial time of "healing" from the Clinics Surgery. We could take this mission on more quickly if we had a roof on the children's part of the church, IF YOU WANT MORE INFO ON THE FRIENDS OF BARNABAS FOUNDATION SEE (FOBF.ORG), please be in prayer about the completion of our Calvary Chapel in Pena Blanca, I must pay last weeks wages as well as this weeks and I am not quite sure where that money is coming from yet,($800.00 US) and my personal account is just about tapped out, I will lean on Don Lecho's words of "God will provide", I thank you for taking the time to read this blog and thank you for your prayers, blessings to you, while in HIS service, Pastor C.Rivera

2009-01-22T20:06:00.000-08:00

2009-01-22T20:01:00.000-08:00

2009-01-15T07:42:00.000-08:00

2009-01-15T07:34:00.000-08:00

2009-01-15T07:23:00.000-08:00

2009-01-15T07:07:00.000-08:00

2009-01-15T06:59:00.000-08:00

2009-01-15T06:53:00.000-08:00

2009-01-15T06:47:00.000-08:00

Sis Maria meets the need (light blue shirt)

2008-12-15T23:58:00.000-08:00