John benner: hey everyone, we made it to Juarez! The folks at Emmanuel Ministries are wonderful. Lots of smiles and joining in an impromptu soccer game in our first hour here. Kendra made friends with a little one who wanted to sit on her knee and watch a jump-roping game. This afternoon we had a cookout for everyone – hot dogs, chips, fruit juice, and Popsicles for 140! Hope you’re enjoying the pictures. God is doing wonderful things here. I’m honored to be a part of it.

Sarah Robertson: I don’t even know where to begin with the experience I just had! Gale W., Tyler H., Jason, Paul and I had the “interesting” opportunity of putting the youngest boys to bed tonight. I was excited, because I honestly thought I’d just be reading a story and saying good night. Wow, I was way off!! We walked into the room, and Monica, the dorm mom, was already busy getting the boys ready for showers. She looked at us and without hesitation said, “Get all the boys undressed and throw them in the shower.” Ok, what?! Where’s the soap? How do you say shampoo in Spanish? Why is there a boy standing on top of a toilet? Sweaty socks, underwear, shirts and pants were EVERYWHERE, along with popsicle and pee spills. (Yes, one of the boys somehow peed on the floor.) At this point, we were beginning to understand why they start putting the boys to bed at 6:30!

All laughs and disgusting sights aside, the experience really taught me a lot. First of all, I don’t think I ever want to have a son. (Just kidding.) But really, I don’t think I truly understood the life of an orphan at Emmanuel until tonight. Usually it’s all fun and games and laughing, but I saw a different side tonight. I saw boys shivering after a shower because they had to wait for an already used towel, boys crying because they couldn’t find their pajamas, and some who just looked like they needed a great big hug. After spending over an hour getting them all ready for bed, Monica said a prayer which they all repeated. They prayed for the orphanage, the city, and the people who are hurting in the area. They also thanked God for bringing us, their new friends, to share God’s love. The prayer brought me to tears because it just seemed so sincere.

As we left the dorm, Gale and I discussed how sad it is that they’re just put to bed, no hugs, no kisses, no getting tucked in by Mommy or Daddy. We wanted to go back and give them each individual attention! Please pray that God meets their needs in every and any way possible. Please pray for the dorm moms (Monica works 7am-10:15pm every single day) to have the strength and patience to keep up with the kids. I’ll never forget this night!