At our training in March, we were told about the three different Presbyteries in Colombia and we were given a description of the conditions at each. We were told that Uraba was a bit more rustic, a bit more rural than the other two and if we were going to serve as accompaniers there, we should expect camping-like conditions. I figured I could handle that, after living in Mississippi without running water in my trailer for almost a year. Just how rustic could it be?
While we camping folk like to romanticize the idea of "roughing it," I've discovered there's nothing romantic about it here in Uraba. It's simply their way of life. We are staying with the pastor and his family in the manse which is connected to the sanctuary. They have been blessed with a beautiful home, one that is much nicer than most in this area and they are certainly grateful for it. There is no running water in the region and while there is well water, they make use of their rain-water cisterns more. They have a crafty device that catches the water from the roof (similar to gutters) and dumps it in the cistern in the backyard. There aren't any sinks indoors, but there is a big sink in the backyard where all of the dishes and laundry are done. There are two outhouses there as well, which double as showers. For the first two days here, Kelsey and I were a bit confused as to how we shower, but it turns out there is a drain in the floor of each stall and the bucket of water is the source of water for bathing. I'm still not sure I'm doing it correctly, but I guess I feel clean when all is said and done. Privacy is rare in this household, since the doors are just curtains. After this experience, I promise to never make fun of anyone who uses a curtain for a door. Turns out they work quite well!
Our first day here has been very laid back. Literally. There is a lot of time spent in hammocks. The pastor seems to want us to rest from our journey before showing us the ropes of his ministry, which we are looking forward to!
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