Lorena's Latest 2010

A lot has happened since I have updated my blog. The biggest news is David Meza and I were married on February 22, 2010 (in Ecuador). David and I have been such great friends, that I couldn't imagine my life without him. We are in the application process of a residency visa so David can come to the US and live with me. We are waiting for an appointment with the consulate in Guayaquil, Ecuador, and expect that he will be able to come here by September. Please pray with us during this time apart (Praise God for video conferencing!)

As you may remember, I came back to Michigan to help my mom with her healthcare. She had been diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease by three doctors. Her decline in health during my last visit (November, 2009) made me realize that something wasn't right and I felt God's leading to come home.

I took her to see a Chiropractor/Nutritionist and her health has improved significantly! He tested her and said that her body was not absorbing vitamins and minerals and put her on a diet that has helped her digestion. Also, the adjustments to her spine have helped her be able to walk better and more flexibility. Some deep tissue massages also helped loosen up those tight muscles and make her more flexible. There is still more to be healed, and we ask for your continued prayers and praises for what God has done and will continue to do in her life.

I returned to work at Ducker Worldwide, the company I worked at before leaving for Ecuador. I was so thankful that they welcomed me back with open arms and same benefits and pay! They are flexible with my hours so I can take mom to see the doctor or massage therapist.

David is working at Desempre! He has had a couple of jobs that did not work out, long hours and little pay or dishonesty in the work philosophy. Desempre is a company owned by three Christian brothers who have integrity and a desire to bless their employees and everyone they have an opportunity to serve. It is a blessing to us that he has a place to work and be encouraged until he can come to the US.

Thank you again for all your prayers and encouragement.

Blessings and joy,

Lorena Ferrari (de Meza)

Lorena's Latest July, 2009

Hi Everyone,
This is my last week and a half in Ecuador! I have been packing, giving, selling, and donating my things getting ready to head home to Michigan. The last few weeks I have also had goodbye visits with people I haven't seen in months or won't be able to see again before I leave.
Refugio update: We have raised approximately $325 monthly which is sufficient to hire one Ecuadorian full time with a little extra to help pay expenses that they may incur in adventure trips or training. The plan is to propose that David Meza be the person El Refugio hires and the Leadership Team of El Refugio will be making that decision within the next month when all members are present in Ecuador. Facilitator training is taking place this month with 8 new trainees!! Thank you to those who have agreed to continue or start supporting monthly and we ask that everyone continue to remember El Refugio in your prayers.
I cannot express enough gratitude for how much this experience has meant to me, being a part of the El Refugio ministry as well as learning and falling in love with the Ecuadorian people and the country that has so much to offer. It is because of your faithfulness and generosity that made this possible. May God bless you abundantly for your faithfulness and fill you to overflowing with His riches as He sees fit to not only meet your needs but exceed your expectations.
Some have asked about my financial support. International Teams policy for full time missionaries returning to the field is to continue with a salary for up to 3 months. I have asked for one month (the end of August) to have enough time to get settled in and find a place to work. If you need to make a decision to choose one to support the El Refugio Leadership Development or me, please choose the Leadership Development. Support can be sent to:
International Teams USA
411 West River Road
Elgin IL 60123
Please specify with a note that you would like to donate the support to “El Refugio Leadership Development” or “Lorena Ferrari”.
Prayer Requests:
• Transition home (Esther and Sarah are coming for my last week!)
• Facilitator training that they would catch the vision and passion for El Refugio
• For the Leadership Team of El Refugio and the process of a new Director
Much love and see you soon!
Lorena
Ephesians 1:3 “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.”
Ecclesiastes 2:26a “For God gives to a man that is good in His sight, wisdom, and knowledge, and joy”
Here are some photos that Kristyn Carter took while here visiting. We also had a great time visiting with the Woodside Youth especially when they came to El Refugio for a day!