In Argentina, we had the opportunity to minister in two different places: Mendoza and Buenos Aires. We split into two groups, giving us the opportunity to experience two very different places and more opportunities to be used as vessels for the Lord.
Firstly, Buenos Aires:
We met Pastor Juan and Lily, stayed at their church, and served them wherever we could. During our time there, we did some physical work around the church. The ladies painted a memorial, while the men built a wall. It was a privilege to serve in practical ways and contribute to the church.
The ladies also had the chance to go on house visits in teams of three. When they returned, they were deeply touched by what they had experienced. Both teams had to stand firm in what they believed and hold onto the truth. They were able to speak life and encouragement into the homes they visited. It was a difficult experience for them, as they were emotionally and spiritually tired, but it was also a powerful opportunity to minister to people in need.
As a team, we also became very close with the church’s worship leaders, Jonathan and Belem. They are a married couple who faithfully serve the church. They quickly became like friends and family to us. We were able to minister to them, and they ministered to us in return. They had a significant impact on our team, and we learned a lot from them.
Belem struggled with gluten intolerance, so we prayed for her, and she was healed! Later that same evening, we worshipped together, and it was such a blessed and powerful time in God’s presence. Belem also served as our translator, as she speaks very good English. During our time in Buenos Aires, we visited various churches. These visits gave us opportunities to meet more of God’s people. One of the things that stood out to the Buenos Aires team was the unity between the churches. They stand together, serve together, and support one another. It showed us how important unity among believers is, even when we come from different churches or backgrounds. Ultimately, we all serve the same God.
There was also an unexpected highlight during our time in Buenos Aires. We saw that there was a Springbok game there. Unfortunately, the tickets were sold out. However, thanks to Jana, who had a connection, we were incredibly blessed to receive 10 tickets from the Springboks and were able to watch the game live! We are incredibly thankful for the opportunity and for the generosity that made it possible.
Eventually, our time in Buenos Aires came to a bittersweet end. We had to say goodbye to the people who had become like family to us. It was difficult to leave our new friends and family behind, but we will always remember them and be thankful to God for bringing our paths together. Buenos Aires gave us more than just ministry opportunities. It gave us friendships, lessons, testimonies, and memories that we will carry with us for a long time.
Now onto Mendoza:
After a long day of travelling, we arrived at the YWAM base in Mendoza, where we were greeted with hugs and a warm meal. The following day, we were given a cultural presentation of Argentina. Throughout our time in Mendoza, the team had many opportunities to connect with one another. New friendships were formed with the locals at the base, and we had the privilege of working side by side with Jed, as well as having deep conversations with Ruth and Carlos. The time we spent together turned strangers into family.
Carli: “Ruth’s quiet spirit was hungry for friendship and connection, but words did not flow easy from her lips if it wasn’t for translation. We started spending time with her as we wanted to contribute to a connection. Very quickly questions like, “What’s your name?” or “how old are you?” turned into deeper questions. In the end, she shared with us that she could see how God used her talent in languages for the glorifying of His name and how, with her ability to speak, she could build solid friendships with us. God used our stories and abilities to touch Ruthie’s heart and made her to open up and grow. From having her own space and company, to sharing that with others, it made her able to fellowship with God and His people.”
Our practical ministry involved different projects around the base. Half of the team helped organise and sort out a storage area, while the other half worked on clearing the fields of thorns and weeds. Later in the week, we also helped sand and varnish a cabin.
In the evenings, we went on house visits, which made a deep impact on everyone on the team. We gave out three audio Bibles—two during house visits and another while serving at the soup kitchen. On Wednesday evenings, we helped prepare vegetables for the soup kitchen. The soup was then distributed to people in the community. While one team helped serve the food, another team spent the time in intercession, praying for the people and the community.
Mendoza will always hold a special place in each of our hearts. From the beautiful city and breathtaking mountains to the warm and welcoming people, our time there was filled with meaningful connections, challenging moments, and memories that we will carry with us long after leaving.
Reunited as One:
The team reunited and had some much-needed team-time before continuing our journey. Two days later, we moved on and travelled to Purmamarca, a small town in Jujuy. Purmamarca is situated in a beautiful valley surrounded by the famous Seven Colours Mountains. Being there gave us the opportunity to step back into our team roles and spend some meaningful “family time” together.
Then, on the 18th of July, Jana announced a Luke 10 challenge. We were divided into smaller groups and sent out into the valley to different towns (as Jesus did with his disciples in the Bible). There, we saw God move in incredible ways. He provided for us so faithfully, and we were left in awe of how He guided and provided for every group. Hearing how each person experienced the Luke 10 was incredibly refreshing and encouraging.
From Argentina we expected to go to Chile, but we soon found out that the border was closed. Now, although this is sad to hear, we as a team are very exited to see what God has in store for us next!