Update 12/03/06 - Basurero

Dear Prayer Warriors,

In case you were wondering, "Basurero" is the Ecuadorian name and Spanish word for "dump", a place where our trash is deposited. (You can click on any photo to view an enlarged image.) This past Saturday, we were blessed with the opportunity to help serve the 2000 to 3000 people that attended this year's 10th annual Christmas party in the Zámbiza Dump. The party was sponsored by the Mission Organization called "Extreme Response". We were scheduled to hand out snacks and Christmas gifts, however we were asked to run one of 46 carnival game booths for the children (and adults). It was an awesome opportunity to help the children (and adults) fish for prizes. It did not take long to connect all 1440 little fish to the clothespin on the line of the wooden poles, as well as the pounds of candy. This activity reminded us of the verses found in Matthew and Mark, in which Jesus tells Peter and his brother Andrew: "Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." Teams and volunteers came from many countries throughout the world to help with this ministry. It was great to see so many volunteers for many mission organizations and churches, all working together. We were blessed to have Mike Dragon join our family and help in the dump. Mike is a missionary with OMS visiting from the states here on other business, but willingly offered to help.

It was wonderful to see the children's smiles, as well as their parents. For many of those that attended, this is the only Christmas that they will receive or celebrate this year. In addition to the 46 carnival games that were offered, there were evangelists on hand sharing the Good News and eternal Hope of Jesus Christ.

There were also evangelistic movies being showed, and a Spanish-speaking Santa that the children could sit on his lap and have their photos taken with their family. Kids also had the opportunity to make crafts and enjoy live entertainment. At the end of the game activities, each attendee received lunch, a gift of for the adults, and astaple food items children's gift bag.

This was the largest ministry event that we have ever participated in, and was well organized. We can't begin to tell you how thankful we are for your prayer and financial support. For without you, we could not be here. It is such a blessing to serve the people of Ecuador in the name of Jesus, and to know that you are all an instrumental part of everything we do. THANK YOU!

With Christmas season now upon us, we have received some requests for our "snail mail" address. Our address is:

OMS International

Doug & Cindy Tankersley

CCNU Casilla 17-11-4860

Quito, Ecuador S.A.

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Blessings to You!

Doug & Cindy

(You can click on any photo below to view an enlarged image.)