Agua Prieta Mexico Mission Trip
KNOXVILLE’S GOOD SHEPHERD TRAVELS TO MEXICO 2022
A crew of seven good shepherds left Knoxville on October 8th on a mission journey to the Mexican town of Agua Prieta. Traveling from Iowa were Rod Braun, Verlin Goodyk, Rita Schacherer, Jan & Ruth Haugen, and Pat & Krisi Kranz. Rod Braun of Pella organized the trip at both ends. We met the foreman and other friends in Douglas, AZ. The crew landed Sunday afternoon at our boarding site (Ranch Feliz, La Hacienda), a beautiful, gated resort. The trees and plants in the courtyard were surrounded on four sides by private rooms, group living quarters, a museum, dining area and laundry room…everything needed for comfort.
A crew of seven good shepherds left Knoxville on October 8th on a mission journey to the Mexican town of Agua Prieta. Traveling from Iowa were Rod Braun, Verlin Goodyk, Rita Schacherer, Jan & Ruth Haugen, and Pat & Krisi Kranz. Rod Braun of Pella organized the trip at both ends. We met the foreman and other friends in Douglas, AZ. The crew landed Sunday afternoon at our boarding site (Ranch Feliz, La Hacienda), a beautiful, gated resort. The trees and plants in the courtyard were surrounded on four sides by private rooms, group living quarters, a museum, dining area and laundry room…everything needed for comfort.
The task for the week was to build a 16’ x 38’ shelter out of adobe brick, for a wonderful family of nine (seven children & two adults). Day one saw nine and a half hours of brick laying that resulted in 80% of the walls going up. Tuesday was installation of two windows and a door, while completing all remaining brick walls. Day three was a short one. Retiring at two p.m. the crew finished the third window, the second door, and all sill and rafter work. Thursday was spent installing insulation and tin roof in three house and the project was completed!
Saying good bye was very special as the shelter was dedicated by the family and all workers, as we laid our hands on the building while a prayer of blessing was given. We thanked God for this family, the shelter, and for all involved in building it. God truly blessed us.
Quilts made by our Good Shepherd ladies, were given to all of the family members with many smiles and thank yous. Leaving the family that day, was both touching and tearful as God touched our hearts with this meaningful trip. Friday and Saturday saw the van heading back home. If you have ever considered a mission trip, I would highly recommend this adventure. It was totally safe, with no experience necessary for anyone, man or woman.
