“Greetings from Paraguay!
“Through the course of three years of Deputation and language school we were placed in situations where our traditions had to be flexible. We began to really see that no matter where we are, who we are with, or the amount of presents under the tree, the focus of Christmas never changed. So, while we may be running around in sandals and shorts, having plastered on sunscreen but still being sunburned, our hearts are filled with peace because the Prince of Peace has come.
“Family, fun, and lots of food are a Paraguayans tradition. However, it is not your normal Christmas ham that the people are going for. At 85° F and 72% humidity, it’s time for an asado (bbq) and some tereré (cold yerba maté). While hot chocolate and candy canes are hard to come by, not much is keeping us from making some traditional family treats and singing along to some Christmas carols. Things slow down here in Paraguay for the 24th and 25th of December, just enough to enjoy some time with those closest to you.
“We are thankful for all the people that God has placed in our lives both here in Paraguay and in the United States. It made celebrating this Christmas a little more special as we missed our loved ones in the United States and sat and enjoyed some time with those in Paraguay. It’s time to go clean up fallen mangos and prepare some lemonade! We can’t wait to see you in Paraguay!
“Jaha Paraguay Pe!”
The Loucks Family
Have you considered serving in foreign missions? The Louck family serves in Paraguay with Adelphos USA. For more information on Adelphos visit https://www.adelphos-usa.org/ or write to Adelphos USA, 1206 Coolidge Ave., Pekin IL United States 61554.
For more information on Faith’s growing engagement in world missions, contact missions department chair Brian Trainer at trainerb@faith.edu.
