APDO. Postal No. 13, C.P. 76270
Colon, Queretaro, Mexico
To dial phone direct from U.S. 011 52 429 20245
Direct FAX from U.S. 011 52 429 20046
Mexico: LADA (91-429) 20248
DEAR FRIENDS AND BENEFACTORS:
October/November 2002
JUST A RAMBLING THOUGHT:
We are supposedly great thinkers, or at least utilizing this God given faculty to try to determine what is the good, bad or indifferent. This information comes through TV, Internet newspapers, magazines and books. Searching for the truth can be rather frustrating. Our Mexican newspapers, TV, etc are filled with non-truths or half-truths, depending on the political party to whom they are affiliated with. Money is power that can slant the truth of almost anything one so desires.
War seems to be the daily head liner. Corruption plays a major role also. Fifty percent of the corruption, military, and police activities such as drugs and kid napping, could be eliminated immediately if they would remove the "escape-gate" of impunity. Anyone in a political party or connected to a political friend is automatically exonerated from any possibility of charge directed towards him/her.
Crime is a game here, unfortunately. Never do you hear of a lawsuit against factories, guilty of deathly and dangerous work conditions. Child abuse and the rape of girls/women is hardly considered a crime. A young girl or woman who does accuse a man of rape is so embarrassed that she just doesn't bother reporting the crime. Part of the investigation of a rape case must be "examined" by seven different "doctors". Robberies are something else. Many are committed by the police or if called to investigate, might rob what is left. We do have a department called "Human Rights", but _________ ?
Don't misunderstand me. The country of Mexico is beautiful and fascinating. The majority of the people are honest, joyful and religious. The children are beautiful, studious, but sad to say, the "Americanization" is a horrible influence and is destroying many of them.
Our children and elderly are a real blessing to share for in the caring, loving, educating and formation of them. I consider myself specifically blessed by being selected by the Lord to guide this mission.
But back to my original point of thought. It is so easy to understand why the most important questions are not being asked or discussed in the news media. No one wants their glossy-covered conscious disturbed. Why can't they ask questions such as "Where do we come from? What or who are we? Where are we going after death? The artists, philosophers, universities steer clear of this subject as much as possible. One of these days the "American Schism"- might arise but of the shadows: where they presently are and then perhaps we just might get back to the real truth, Jesus Himself. Then, and only then, will we really see the beauty of true values and living a dynamic faith.
We must also ask ourselves these vitally important questions. "Where do we come from? What or who are we? Where are we destined to go after death? Profound and fascinating questions and each one will live and die according to their answers. This is, a very good thought for reflection. Give it a try. It motivates me to go that extra mile!!
A MESSAGE FROM FATHER JOHN HENLEY:
A special greeting to all of my dear friends whom I remember with much love, affection and gratitude. I must admit that I do have my good days and my bad days. I would love to be restored to good health in order to serve my dear children and elderly here. I remain resigned to God's Holy Will. Love and prayers to all of you. Father John
VANESSA VAN HORN - VOLUNTEER FIRST CLASS:
She is a very beautiful, wonderful and totally dedicated person that God has sent to us for a few months. Working with the elementary children, she is a real mother, friend, nurse and wonderful educator. We wish to thank her parents for sharing her with us for these few months!!
CHRISTMAS TIME AGAIN:
If you have any ideas about how we can have our usual joyful and wonderful celebration this Christmas, please let me know. This year, things are now looking a little sad. One great idea that two parishes are doing is filling a Christmas tree with the pictures of our children. Then, the parishioners will be able to "adopt one" and send money here so that we can buy a complete Christmas outfit for each one selected. We will buy gifts such as shoes, pants, dresses, coats, etc. Buying these articles here in Mexico is much more convenient. Thank you for giving it a thought!
GROUP FROM SAN ANTONIO ARRIVES:
During this week of Nov. 3-9, Rick Jones, who was here a year ago with his wife and son Daniel, arrived with five gentlemen and four wonderful ladies. One of the ladies is a very enlightened medical doctor. The ladies are busy making sheets, towels and giving haircuts. The doctor has more than her hands full visiting all of the elderly. The men are repairing the rest rooms in the secondary school. They came to see results, and they sure are accomplishing their goals.
PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL:
Things are really coming together in both of our schools. It is amazing how a couple of "motivational" staff meetings can turn things around. I just started the meetings with our school's goal "Excellence Nothing Less!" I told the teachers, "I don't see it! Let's get our act together etc, etc." The Lord moved them! Praise Him!!
Love and prayer from all of us and many, many sincere thanks for your love and friendship. We love you dearly.