Welcome Anna Elena Strong Gonzalez

In December we had a mission team in the San Jose area. Since many of us had been there before, we came prepared for a baby shower. I've never seen Charlie so nervous as the day of our shower. I think it was about that time, he realized "I'm going to be a Dad!" Angela seemed to take it in stride and was much less rattled. Our team had a great time planning and attending the shower.

Weighing in at a little less than 6 pounds on March 24, 2009, little Anna rests easy with her new parents. Coming along a bit early brought a little concern to the new parents but as Dad says, she's gaining weight and can already hold up her head. He's convinced she's the prettiest baby of all he sees and is destined for great things. What a gift she is to Charlie and Angela and what a gift of love she will always be given. Give her a hug from all of us.

Meet Charlie ...

A mission trip to Costa Rica wouldn't be the same without Charlie Strong. Charlie and I met on the internet in 2005 when I was looking for a safe international destination for a "family" mission trip during Spring Break in 2006. After taking a team of 12 down to check out the possibilities, we've returned with 7 teams to this part of the world.

So... what makes us go back? The main reason is Charlie. He just takes such good care of us while we are guests in Costa Rica. Another reason is Charlie has surrounded himself with the best people who make our experience absolutely one that will long be remembered. I return to see my Costa Rican family which includes Charlie, Angela, and lots of Luis's, Wilbur, William and more.

Charlie came to Costa Rica after having served as a Wesley Foundation pastor in Texas. (Wesley Foundation is a campus ministry program located on the campus of a university.) He hosts many mission teams from universities as well as youth teams and adult teams from around the country. His love for the people, especially the children, of Costa Rica is evident through the projects that are being completed through Strong Missions.

Charlie is married to Angela and they have just become the proud parents of Anna Elena. Anna arrived a bit early but in Charlie's words is the most beautiful baby ever, besides she is the best little girl ...never cries and of course she loves her daddy. Charlie is promising new photos soon.
He called today and he's very pleased to hear that we have a team preparing to lend a hand. We aren't sure where we will be working but he has a parsonage in the process for Guadalupe Methodist Church, construction of additonal feeding space for the feeding program at Los Guido Methodist Church, and completion of a chicken barn at the orphanage. As the time gets closer, we'll have a better idea about where we'll serve in August.

Even if you aren't entertaining thoughts of joining the Costa Rica mission trip, your prayers for our mission are needed and appreciated. Good night...

Costa Rica - July 31-August 9, 2009

With a current passport in hand, you too can join a group of young people and adults traveling to Costa Rica this summer. Planning a day with the children of los Guido will be one of our tasks. VBS activities for the young children ... especially craft activites are always fun for all.



Here are a few specifics for the upcoming trip:

• Give your prayerful consideration to joining a team from Valpo Methodists to serve the children and families in Costa Rica. (Be prepared to also be served.)
• Let us know that you are interested and want lots more information.
• Airline reservations are critical. 16 spaces have been reserved and more can be obtained if the interest is there. (At least 14 places have already been spoken for but more can be added.)
• The cost of the trip is $1,350 which covers airfare, ground transportation in Costa Rica, accident insurance, lodging, and park entrance on our free time excursion.
• The youth team will be staying at a Methodist Church (dormitory style) in Guadalupe (located just outside San Jose, Costa Rica).
• Our work is yet to be defined but the team will spend one day at los Guido Methodist Church and have an opportunity to engage in conversation with the youth from that church as well as work help serve the meals to the children in the barrio.
• We will go to a National Park and experience native wildlife and beaches of Costa Rica. Be sure to pack your swim suit.

Do you have to speak Spanish? No, but it is a great place to practice what you already know. The children know some English and love to help us with our Spanish. The important part is making the effort to exchange ideas in Spanish and lots of hand motions.