Another Trip Into The Jungle!

Last weekend, Chris happily accepted an invitation to spend 2 days and 1 night in a Shuar community. Trips like these are invaluable as we work to learn about each tribal group's distinct cultural norms and gather data about the felt needs of each group. This information is vital as we serve and support the leadership within each group. 

We were told the trip could take up to 7 hours on very bumpy jungle roads but Chris put his Colorado 4-Wheeling skills to work and made the trip in about 5 hours. Needless to say he was very proud of himself! 

The low-land tribal people appear to have many of the same needs and struggles. They are navigating joining the modern world while maintaining their distinct cultural identity. The tribal elders have shared their great concern that the youth don't connect to their culture and practices.  It will be a cultural loss if the desire for the modern world stamps out their traditions. The loss of tradition directly gives way to a loss of identity. Navigating life with a lack of identity leaves this next generation at risk. We see the opportunity to share about their identity in Christ while encouraging a connection to the culture from which they came. 

Even the local stopped to enjoy this rare sighting of a tapir!

Learning and sharing around a simple meal of
yucca and chicken neck soup. Yum!