La Isla de Encanta~ The Island of Enchantment

Hola from Puerto Rico!!

Today was quite the adventure. We began the morning with a very American breakfast: french toast. We attended John's church, the Iglesia Biblica de Gracia for Sunday morning service. We joined their congregation in worship; although we did not know the language we enjoyed the beauty of worshiping with our brothers and sisters en la Isla de Encanta (the Island of Enchantment). We heard John speak today about his story: how God has been faithful to him and brought him and his family from the United States to Puerto Rico.

After church we came back to camp briefly to change into our swimsuits and get ready to conquer the cliffs we had talked about back home. We arrived in the rainforest and began a steep and treacherous climb down to the waterfall. After climbing over rocks and tree roots we reached the anticpated destination: the cliffs. These two cliffs measured 22 feet and 30 feet. Everyone in our group jumped off of at least one of these cliffs during our visit. Some of us are a little less fearless than others. It took me an hour and twenty minutes to jump off of the 30 footer. I had the entire Puerto Rico team encouraging me as well as a majority of the natives... I can now say I have a Puerto Rican cheerleading squad. There are many pictures and sermonettes to follow. Also, one would think the scariest part of jumping off of a cliff is the distance between you and the water. Taking the first step off is necessary and scary: you are painfully aware of all of the ways your jump could go wrong, and how you could possibly miss the chance to try again if you fail the first time. Michael is now well aware of how NOT to land...

After conquering the cliffs, rocks, and water we began a trek through the rainforest. We ended at one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. Picture rainforest green: trees, bamboo; imagine the fresh scent of the air; listen to the sounds of the tree frogs and the gentle flow of the river on the rocks. Now picture the water rushing forward, moving faster and clearer. We ended at another waterfall; more picturesque than a National Geographic magazine. Some of us jumped into the water and climbed near and behind the rushing water of the fall and jumped in: what an experience!!!! I wish we could explain how beautiful this rainforest was!

After hiking back through the rocks, trees, bamboo, and brush we made our way back up the steep hill to the cars. We changed, got dry, and headed to dinner where we ordered family style: a Puerto Rican mix of octopus, seafood, chicken, beef, and a few other native foods. We talked about the victories we had this day, as well as the work we have ahead of us.

We came back to camp and had the privilege of meeting three of the other teams who arrived today: Alabama, Texas, and Mississippi. We are eagerly looking forward to serving God, this camp, the people, and the other teams who are here. Thank you for supporting our team. It is a blessing, joy, and privilege to be here!

This island is truly a place of enchantment: I am continually falling in love with these people and with this land. Never have I seen so much beauty, joy, and peace in one place.

In ALL Things, Blessed Be the Name of the LORD.
~Heather Pillette