May 2021: Meeting Immediate Needs in Ecuador

Editor’s Note: Each month, we mail an article with our contribution statements to the previous month’s donors. Click here to download a PDF version. We began SIFAT Doctor in your House/The Golden Bread in response to needs in the communities in which we serve in Ecuador because of the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. To see all of our previous updates about these programs, click here.

Written by Marie Lanier, Promotions and Marketing Coordinator

When we first heard of COVID-19, we optimistically believed that our international mission teams would be postponed for a few months, and we would reorganize before too long to serve alongside our SIFAT graduates. As we realized the severity of this novel virus and its ability to spread, we were forced to make difficult decisions to protect our team members, staff, translators and the communities in which we serve. Here in the United States now, our daily lives are being minimally impacted by the virus. We may be required to wear a mask or need to self quarantine after a known exposure. Great strides have been made in treatment, and free vaccines are available for those who choose to have them. No, the pandemic is not over for us, but we have many resources available.
But this is not the case for our friends in Ecuador. On April 23, a new month-long order went into effect that includes a weekend curfew from 8 p.m. on Friday night until 5 a.m. Monday morning, as well as a nightly curfew during the week for the same times. Driving between provinces is restricted, working from home is encouraged and excessive fines continue to be imposed for those not wearing masks in public, attending large gatherings and breaking curfew.

The Golden Bread provides food for families who do not have enough to eat.

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Worship on the Water 2021

We’re back! Worship on the Water at Lake Wedowee this summer …

After having to cancel WOW last year, we are so excited to be looking forward to seeing you in a few short weeks. It actually feels like summer now that we’re looking forward to WOW. Please help us spread the word that we will kick off the summer on May 30 – Memorial Day Weekend – at 9 a.m. under the pines at Lakeside Marina. Come by boat, come by car, come as you are!

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