RCC Mission Trips
Panama Mission Trip - February 2020
Information and pictures to be posted soon!
Panama Mission Trip: Ladies Edition! July, 2019
DAY 1: We have arrived safe and sound in Panama. Everyone made it through customs, even Jim Denny. It was touch and go for a minute, but they finally let him go. We were met at the airport by Randy and Jonathan, loaded up the luggage and barreled our way through the Panamanian traffic. Well, at least our car did. Seemed as if Randy’s car lagged behind a bit. Could have been our driver, just saying. Of note, they made the 6’7” guy sit in the back of the Explorer after being scrunched in the window seat for 4.5 hours. Age before beauty with this group. I’m wondering why I didn’t pop a couple Dramamine after the ride from my view point. Tonight we enjoyed dinner and conversation and got to see Jesse and Jordan too. We will be up bright and early tomorrow morning. On the docket: fence building and gait fabrication, plumbing and trim work. I’ve already been referred to, again, as the pack mule. It’ll be an adventure with this group. Just a few minutes after meeting up at the airport this morning, I began to see the crazy side of these men. Quite hilarious to say the least. I’ve just been sitting back, listening, observing and smiling. What a blessing they are, each of them. Enjoy the pics from the air as we approached Panama City this afternoon. More to come. God is good all the time. We appreciate your support and prayers.
DAY 2: Day one is a wrap. We had an excellent day. Worked alongside a group from Wisconsin at the Living Water Retreat. It’s truly amazing to see how God has brought parts, pieces and people together from all over to put this camp together. There’s still a tremendous amount of work to be done. There are 12 more cabins, a counselors cabin, and a chapel yet to be built. A pond was being dug, today, along with the remaining post holes by hired help. You could tell everyone was working hard. At any given moment you could hear the buzz of a saw, the spark of a welder, the cutting of steel, pop of a nail gun, roar of an engine or the pitter patter of feet walking to and from the shed to get supplies. It’s hard to list the accomplishments from today, but here are a few: sheet rock in cabin one completely finished, trim pieces and walls painted, trim installed, kitchen plumbed, fence post footings welded, and skid loader fired up. There are some sore hands and feet after today’s work, but it pales in comparison to the pain and suffering His hands and feet took when nailed for you and I. Tonight, we will all rest easy and awake refreshed and ready to go, tomorrow. Thanks for the continued prayers. It’s a true blessing for each of us who are here.
DAY 3: Another adventurous day in the books. Day 3 was a busy one. More trim work, plumbing, prepping trim for paint, taping, painting, welding, cleaning in preparation for the medical clinic at the camp tomorrow (vaccinations and exams), unloading steel for the gates, last minute water line repair, and for (Jimmy, Jim D., Gordie and Al) fixing a flat tire for Donna, 10 minutes out from the hotel during their trip back tonight. Jim D. attracts snakes and again this year was very close to one (close enough to get a picture.) I also decided the operator of the nail gun has no mercy for the guy caulking the nail holes. Thus far, the trip has been rewarding for all. We are having a lot of fun, making memories, laughing (mostly me at these guys and their antics) and continued to be blessed. We’ve enjoyed getting to know the group from Wisconsin, who work hard, too. The ministry here is phenomenal and the work they are doing is tremendous. We are all looking forward to more work tomorrow. God bless.
DAY 4: We’ve completed day 4. It was active day at the camp today. We started the day blessed with little Micah (Jordan’s son) in our van. He’s a handsome boy and grabbed the attention of all 14 of us packed within. He’s happy all the time. The full Wisconsin team was onsite, along with our 6, a several extras. The Medical Clinic served 108 patients today. 4 doctors were present. Diagnoses varied. One gentleman was sent to the hospital with a blood sugar of 545. Another lady sent for additional testing to further diagnose a lung condition. Parasites are a major issue for the locals, so everyone who visited received medication. One gentleman had a surgical procedures onsite to remove a lipoma that was impeding neck motion. I spent the day sheet rocking 2 kitchenettes (my hands and knees are feeling it tonight,) Al and Tom began the fabrication of one of the 2 gates (which they hope to complete tomorrow after we flip the nearly 1000 lbs. of iron over,) Jim D. finished some plumbing (he has a few pipes to secure and has plans to install some various shutoff valves,) Jimmy and Gordie spent a large part of the day getting supplies (wood, tires, and various other items needed at the camp) with Randy (a feat in and of itself in this part of the world.)
Our bellies were blessed with some good BBQ. Jordan’s father-in-law, mother-in-law and nephew prepared a wonderful feast of pork loin, steak, sausage, iguana and smoked iguana eggs (the KC crew opted out of eating this protein,) rice, potato salad (made with beets,) potatoes, salad and bread. It was absolutely delicious. We were nourished beyond belief and ready to conquer the afternoon. Their first portion of the fence was erected. All in all, it was another fantastic day. This camp is truly the work of God. It’s been a blessing to us each day. His presence is there, for sure. Keep the prayers coming. They’re most appreciated. We will be working a half day tomorrow. I think we are all looking forward to an afternoon of rest and some time spent in Panama City, taking in some local cuisine and shops. The team from Wisconsin is headed home bright and early tomorrow. Please keep them in prayer, as well as the Weets, who will be up early to take them to the airport, then us to the camp. They’ll be tired, for sure. God bless. P.S., for you snake loving folk, I’ve included a picture, tonight.
DAY 5: Day 5 was a bit more quiet at the camp, less the team from Wisconsin. However, there was plenty of work being done. Today, unlike the past few, I noticed the smells of various flora. It was heavenly. The colors are beautiful. It’s amazing how time flies when you’re focused on the mission at hand. Before you know it, it’s lunchtime or time to pack up and go. Despite the muscle soreness, you just keep pushing through. As I was sheet rocking today, I kept finding myself saying Lord please let this be right, Lord, please let this piece fit, or Lord, please let there be just enough rock to finish this bathroom. I think my dad would be proud.
I was talking with Jordan this morning and he asked if I had a construction background. I said, “Nope, my forte is the human body, not this.” He asked how I learned. “Through observation and the guidance of my father.” It’s a testament of His and his unending patience, for sure. For those of you who might wonder, it costs $30k to build a cabin. We’ve seen first hand this week, where our contributions as a congregation go. It’s being used and spent wisely for the good of His people. There’s no waste. This ministry does it right. I’m so thankful for the diligence of the Weets family and pray they continue to garner more support for their mission. They do amazing work for the glory of God. Everyone has worked tirelessly this week. Our bodies are definitely ready to rest, tomorrow. We are looking forward to church, a little exploration, and church in the evening. Our souls need food, too. Even though we might not speak the language, our hearts will be touched, for sure. It’s truly been a blessing for me to have been given this opportunity. I know the guys will concur. We continue to be thankful for all the support and prayers. Thank you for allowing us to represent you and your belief in this mission, too. We pray you have a blessed Sunday. Stay warm. God bless.
DAY 6: We’ve had quite the day 6. This morning we were blessed with a great church service. Jimmy spoke on the subject of Angels. I sensed the message was well received by the congregation this morning. It was presented in English and translated to Spanish by Randy. The music was absolutely beautiful. Jesse played drums, Jordan played the trombone, Donna played piano, Jonathan ran the sound, Daniella played the cello (I think), Catherine’s dad played base guitar, and her mother played flute and sang. Some of the songs were recognizable, others were not. You could really feel the presence of the Lord in the room. I found myself tearing up a bit during praise and worship. Jimmy, Gordie and Jim have made quite the impact down here. As soon as they walked in the door, there were hugs, smiles and handshakes abound. It was nice meeting several members of the church. Afterwards we enjoyed a family lunch and more conversation. It’s been such a blessing getting to know the Weets on a more personal level.
We were then blessed with a day in Panama. Jesse was our guide. We visited the Panama Canal (Canal de Panama) and the Miraflores locks. These were the first locks built. There are now a total of 3 locks. To go through, the shipping company must pay 48 hours in advance and with cash. Today, a cargo ship went through the upper lock. Total cost was approximately $1 mil. dollars. Astounding. After our tour, we headed to the French Quarter and had the chance to walk around and see several old buildings, take in some culture and purchase a gift or two. Traffic was horrendous. It was amazing to see so many people out and about on a Sunday, but it is summer here, so everyone must have been enjoying the nice evening. Tomorrow we are back to work with some hard deadlines to meet. Our goal, to get the gates done, as much of the fence up as we can, and a few other jobs. It’ll be a busy day, but this crew is ready to go. We hope you all have a blessed week. Enjoy the photos from our day.
DAY 7: We had a great day. We got gate 1 flipped, Al got it welded while Tom and Jim cut the pieces for gate 2. Gate 2 is about 3/4 complete. Jimmy assisted as needed. Gordie finished trimming cabin 1. I completed the painting in cabin 1 and the sheet rock job in cabin 2. The 3 remaining men have plenty of work to do. The 3 of us heading home to colder temps are tired and sore. We’ve been tremendously blessed, though. As Jimmy prayed for us and the Weets after a wonderful meal of home cooked lasagna, bread, corn and salad, again we were all reminded about the number of lives this mission has brought to Christ and will continue to do so for generations to come.
Please continue to keep Randy-Donna Weets and family in prayer. There were a few tears today, I must say. Tears of joy. These kind of trips just bring out the emotion in you. It’s just amazing to see the hand of God at work through their efforts, those of their church family, our efforts and those who had come before us. There’s still a significant amount of work to be done. There’s still a significant amount of financial support needed. Prayerfully consider your support for their ministry. I’ll be back. I know the others will too, as long as they’re bodies are able and they’re willing. There’s something for everyone to do at the camp, both young and old. If not the camp, the school, etc. I’m looking forward to the day I can bring my family here to work. We are headed out early tomorrow morning. Please be in prayer for safe travels.
I’m looking forward to seeing my wife and kids. I’m so thankful my family was willing to let me leave for this awesome experience. I know holding down the fort was no small feat. I know Al and Tom are ready to see their wives and family, too. Please continue to keep Jimmy, Jim and Gordie in your prayers, too. They’ll continue to work hard, I’m sure of it. What an amazing adventure this has been. God bless you all.
DAY 8: 3 of us home safe and sound, with 2 flights arriving ahead of schedule and before the snow. The 3 Amigos (that’s what the Panamanians refer to Jim, Jimmy and Gordie as) had another full day at the camp. The 2 gates are now complete. Their presence at the entrance of the camp will be impactful. They’ll be absolutely beautiful when painted, hung and adorned with the Living Water logo. To be a black fly today, buzzing about as Jimmy and Jim welded would have been very interesting, I’m sure. I can only imagine what the day entailed for those 2. Gordie continued his trim work. He’s very skilled and precise at his craft. This evening, the men had the opportunity to enjoy a meal at the home of the parents of Katherine Natalia Figuera. Katherine is a tremendous young lady, full of life and faithful follower, attending Calvary Bible College here in Kansas City. We’ve had the pleasure of getting to know her the past couple of years. She’s raising funds for a mission trip to Italy this summer. Prayers for her as she continues to follow the path the Lord has chosen for her. The men enjoyed good food, fellowship and music. Today was her fathers birthday. He turned 55. Mr. Figuera, we hope your day has been blessed, just as you, your family and gift of music are to others. I’m sure the men are resting, preparing for another busy day, tomorrow. Please continue to keep them in prayer. God bless.
DAY 9: Day 9 at the camp was huge. Two, 30 ft. gates completed, hoisted, moved, set in place and opening with the pressure of two fingers. The two combined, weigh nearly a ton. Constructed of steel, cut and welded by the hands of 5 men. Hoisted and moved by a machine and guided in place with precision and skill. I’m awe struck. God is good all the time. These gates will make a tremendous statement as you round the corner to the right and approach the camp entrance at the Living Water Retreat. I cannot wait to see the addition of the art work being fabricated out of metal and painted by a member of the Wisconsin team. I know all who enter through those gates will be touched by the spirit of our Lord and Savior. It’s going to be grand. Well done good and faithful servants. Well done. Cabin 2 is now completely plumbed, thanks to the hands of Jim D. Gordie continues to work hard at trimming the cabins, too. It’s tedious work. The Living Water locomotive was also built. Hard work deserves fun, too. What a great day in Panama. Keep up the hard work. Enjoy the warmth while you can, as all of us back home enjoy the snow and cold temperatures. You all continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. God bless.
DAY 10: Day 10, was all about the windows, doors a trim. What a showcase by Gordie West. His work is precise. Materials were purchased this morning with work completed today. The men continued to work on the gate. From the pictures, it appears welds are being filed down in preparation for polish and paint. Their labor is out of love. This camp will truly be a blessing for the people of Panama. The possibilities are endless. Everyone continues to work hard and push through. Please continue to pray for strength and good health as they work tirelessly. May God continue to guide and protect them.
DAY 11: One of the keys to the success of a mission, is the ability to train and equip generations to come with the knowledge, desire and know how to continue the work, when those who established the legacy are gone. The one thing I appreciate about Randy-Donna Weets is the fact they have, for years, trained and equipped many to be His stewards, including their children. At the camp, today, it was apparent our men caught the attention of 2 younger generations. You’ll see a young boy, watching Gordie trim. Jimmy noted this little guy hung around for quite some time, very interested in what was going on. I can tell you, he saw those hands working for the glory of God. I’m sure he was impacted in a special way, today. You’ll also see Elias the keeper of the camp, working beside Jim D., learning the art of plumbing as shut off valves were being installed today, which will allow various aspects of the water supply to be shut off throughout the camp, should a line get broke. These two, learning each other’s language, working side by side, to accomplish a task. Today, 3 generations came together, in the name of His plan for the Living Water Retreat. Beautiful. The guys will be at it again tomorrow and will definitely be in need of rest on Sunday. We appreciate your prayers. God bless.
DAY 12: Day 12 won’t be forgotten. I do know, the guys had an eventful start to their day. When in route to the camp, there was a traffic check. The men were delayed for quite some time. It appeared there was something they didn’t like about Jesse’s passport. After several minutes, they were allowed to continue on. Often time, we take for granted our justice system. Typically you’re not pulled over, stopped, or detained unless you’ve done something wrong or suspicious. Jordan had noted, often, they (Panamanian Govt.) are just looking for easy money, so they just mess with people. I’m sure it was a tense and uncomfortable moment for all. The men did make it to the camp, had a good day, then were treated to a nice home cooked meal (tacos) at Randy-Donna Weets home this evening. They enjoyed the company of Jonathan and his family, along with Jordan and his family. Little Micah is so cute. He’s got the best little personality. I’m wondering if they had the passion fruit pie we missed out on last Mon. They’ll be ready to rest easy tonight, enjoy Church tomorrow in Arraijan, Panama, a great message, beautiful music and a restful Sunday. They’ll have another work day on Monday, then they’re all headed back to the states on Tues. Please continue to keep them in prayer as well as Jimmy, as he prepares to deliver his message and Randy as he prepares and finds words to translate the message. Every now and then there’s not a Spanish word for something spoken in English. It gives everyone something to chuckle about, though. Enjoy the pics. The jungle pics are initial photos before the acreage was cleaned up. Thank you all for your unending love and prayers. God bless you all.
DAY 13: Day 13 was filled with good company, fellowship and a tour of the Panama Christian Academy. Jimmy and Randy preached at the church in Arraijan. The message was well received and appreciated by all. The men rested and are ready for their final day of work. Please continue to be in prayer for the safe keeping and to muster the strength and determination to get through this final day of impact at the camp. We pray you all have a blessed week. God bless.
DAY 14: Day 14, the last day for the 3 men to be at the camp. The men are tired, wore out, sore and ready to make the journey back home. I’m sure their families are ready for them to be home, too. Jordan notes, “We had a real good final day. I am so grateful. They are some tired campers.” They’ve worked hard and in the first 2 months of the 2019 Panamanian summer, the 3 teams who have worked at the camp have accomplished a tremendous amount. Several projects completed in His name. All who enter through the gates of the Living Water Retreat will be richly blessed. As the men travel home today, please be in prayer for safe travels. Please continue to be in prayer for Randy-Donna Weets, Jordan, Jonathan and Jesse, their families and mission. Please consider supporting their efforts. God has grand plans for them and the people of Panama. In fact, God has grand plans for all of us. Lord, on the behalf of all who believe, I pray doors will open for others and opportunity will be given, so they may engage with this mission. Allow the Weets remain bold and through them, may the word of God continue to be shared and spread across the world. We desire for their ministry to be effective. May a hedge of protection keep them safe. Allow them to find the time to keep their souls refreshed. Lord, thank you for giving us, on your behalf, the opportunity to be impactful and difference makers. God bless you all.
DAY 2: Day one is a wrap. We had an excellent day. Worked alongside a group from Wisconsin at the Living Water Retreat. It’s truly amazing to see how God has brought parts, pieces and people together from all over to put this camp together. There’s still a tremendous amount of work to be done. There are 12 more cabins, a counselors cabin, and a chapel yet to be built. A pond was being dug, today, along with the remaining post holes by hired help. You could tell everyone was working hard. At any given moment you could hear the buzz of a saw, the spark of a welder, the cutting of steel, pop of a nail gun, roar of an engine or the pitter patter of feet walking to and from the shed to get supplies. It’s hard to list the accomplishments from today, but here are a few: sheet rock in cabin one completely finished, trim pieces and walls painted, trim installed, kitchen plumbed, fence post footings welded, and skid loader fired up. There are some sore hands and feet after today’s work, but it pales in comparison to the pain and suffering His hands and feet took when nailed for you and I. Tonight, we will all rest easy and awake refreshed and ready to go, tomorrow. Thanks for the continued prayers. It’s a true blessing for each of us who are here.
DAY 3: Another adventurous day in the books. Day 3 was a busy one. More trim work, plumbing, prepping trim for paint, taping, painting, welding, cleaning in preparation for the medical clinic at the camp tomorrow (vaccinations and exams), unloading steel for the gates, last minute water line repair, and for (Jimmy, Jim D., Gordie and Al) fixing a flat tire for Donna, 10 minutes out from the hotel during their trip back tonight. Jim D. attracts snakes and again this year was very close to one (close enough to get a picture.) I also decided the operator of the nail gun has no mercy for the guy caulking the nail holes. Thus far, the trip has been rewarding for all. We are having a lot of fun, making memories, laughing (mostly me at these guys and their antics) and continued to be blessed. We’ve enjoyed getting to know the group from Wisconsin, who work hard, too. The ministry here is phenomenal and the work they are doing is tremendous. We are all looking forward to more work tomorrow. God bless.
DAY 4: We’ve completed day 4. It was active day at the camp today. We started the day blessed with little Micah (Jordan’s son) in our van. He’s a handsome boy and grabbed the attention of all 14 of us packed within. He’s happy all the time. The full Wisconsin team was onsite, along with our 6, a several extras. The Medical Clinic served 108 patients today. 4 doctors were present. Diagnoses varied. One gentleman was sent to the hospital with a blood sugar of 545. Another lady sent for additional testing to further diagnose a lung condition. Parasites are a major issue for the locals, so everyone who visited received medication. One gentleman had a surgical procedures onsite to remove a lipoma that was impeding neck motion. I spent the day sheet rocking 2 kitchenettes (my hands and knees are feeling it tonight,) Al and Tom began the fabrication of one of the 2 gates (which they hope to complete tomorrow after we flip the nearly 1000 lbs. of iron over,) Jim D. finished some plumbing (he has a few pipes to secure and has plans to install some various shutoff valves,) Jimmy and Gordie spent a large part of the day getting supplies (wood, tires, and various other items needed at the camp) with Randy (a feat in and of itself in this part of the world.)
Our bellies were blessed with some good BBQ. Jordan’s father-in-law, mother-in-law and nephew prepared a wonderful feast of pork loin, steak, sausage, iguana and smoked iguana eggs (the KC crew opted out of eating this protein,) rice, potato salad (made with beets,) potatoes, salad and bread. It was absolutely delicious. We were nourished beyond belief and ready to conquer the afternoon. Their first portion of the fence was erected. All in all, it was another fantastic day. This camp is truly the work of God. It’s been a blessing to us each day. His presence is there, for sure. Keep the prayers coming. They’re most appreciated. We will be working a half day tomorrow. I think we are all looking forward to an afternoon of rest and some time spent in Panama City, taking in some local cuisine and shops. The team from Wisconsin is headed home bright and early tomorrow. Please keep them in prayer, as well as the Weets, who will be up early to take them to the airport, then us to the camp. They’ll be tired, for sure. God bless. P.S., for you snake loving folk, I’ve included a picture, tonight.
DAY 5: Day 5 was a bit more quiet at the camp, less the team from Wisconsin. However, there was plenty of work being done. Today, unlike the past few, I noticed the smells of various flora. It was heavenly. The colors are beautiful. It’s amazing how time flies when you’re focused on the mission at hand. Before you know it, it’s lunchtime or time to pack up and go. Despite the muscle soreness, you just keep pushing through. As I was sheet rocking today, I kept finding myself saying Lord please let this be right, Lord, please let this piece fit, or Lord, please let there be just enough rock to finish this bathroom. I think my dad would be proud.
I was talking with Jordan this morning and he asked if I had a construction background. I said, “Nope, my forte is the human body, not this.” He asked how I learned. “Through observation and the guidance of my father.” It’s a testament of His and his unending patience, for sure. For those of you who might wonder, it costs $30k to build a cabin. We’ve seen first hand this week, where our contributions as a congregation go. It’s being used and spent wisely for the good of His people. There’s no waste. This ministry does it right. I’m so thankful for the diligence of the Weets family and pray they continue to garner more support for their mission. They do amazing work for the glory of God. Everyone has worked tirelessly this week. Our bodies are definitely ready to rest, tomorrow. We are looking forward to church, a little exploration, and church in the evening. Our souls need food, too. Even though we might not speak the language, our hearts will be touched, for sure. It’s truly been a blessing for me to have been given this opportunity. I know the guys will concur. We continue to be thankful for all the support and prayers. Thank you for allowing us to represent you and your belief in this mission, too. We pray you have a blessed Sunday. Stay warm. God bless.
DAY 6: We’ve had quite the day 6. This morning we were blessed with a great church service. Jimmy spoke on the subject of Angels. I sensed the message was well received by the congregation this morning. It was presented in English and translated to Spanish by Randy. The music was absolutely beautiful. Jesse played drums, Jordan played the trombone, Donna played piano, Jonathan ran the sound, Daniella played the cello (I think), Catherine’s dad played base guitar, and her mother played flute and sang. Some of the songs were recognizable, others were not. You could really feel the presence of the Lord in the room. I found myself tearing up a bit during praise and worship. Jimmy, Gordie and Jim have made quite the impact down here. As soon as they walked in the door, there were hugs, smiles and handshakes abound. It was nice meeting several members of the church. Afterwards we enjoyed a family lunch and more conversation. It’s been such a blessing getting to know the Weets on a more personal level.
We were then blessed with a day in Panama. Jesse was our guide. We visited the Panama Canal (Canal de Panama) and the Miraflores locks. These were the first locks built. There are now a total of 3 locks. To go through, the shipping company must pay 48 hours in advance and with cash. Today, a cargo ship went through the upper lock. Total cost was approximately $1 mil. dollars. Astounding. After our tour, we headed to the French Quarter and had the chance to walk around and see several old buildings, take in some culture and purchase a gift or two. Traffic was horrendous. It was amazing to see so many people out and about on a Sunday, but it is summer here, so everyone must have been enjoying the nice evening. Tomorrow we are back to work with some hard deadlines to meet. Our goal, to get the gates done, as much of the fence up as we can, and a few other jobs. It’ll be a busy day, but this crew is ready to go. We hope you all have a blessed week. Enjoy the photos from our day.
DAY 7: We had a great day. We got gate 1 flipped, Al got it welded while Tom and Jim cut the pieces for gate 2. Gate 2 is about 3/4 complete. Jimmy assisted as needed. Gordie finished trimming cabin 1. I completed the painting in cabin 1 and the sheet rock job in cabin 2. The 3 remaining men have plenty of work to do. The 3 of us heading home to colder temps are tired and sore. We’ve been tremendously blessed, though. As Jimmy prayed for us and the Weets after a wonderful meal of home cooked lasagna, bread, corn and salad, again we were all reminded about the number of lives this mission has brought to Christ and will continue to do so for generations to come.
Please continue to keep Randy-Donna Weets and family in prayer. There were a few tears today, I must say. Tears of joy. These kind of trips just bring out the emotion in you. It’s just amazing to see the hand of God at work through their efforts, those of their church family, our efforts and those who had come before us. There’s still a significant amount of work to be done. There’s still a significant amount of financial support needed. Prayerfully consider your support for their ministry. I’ll be back. I know the others will too, as long as they’re bodies are able and they’re willing. There’s something for everyone to do at the camp, both young and old. If not the camp, the school, etc. I’m looking forward to the day I can bring my family here to work. We are headed out early tomorrow morning. Please be in prayer for safe travels.
I’m looking forward to seeing my wife and kids. I’m so thankful my family was willing to let me leave for this awesome experience. I know holding down the fort was no small feat. I know Al and Tom are ready to see their wives and family, too. Please continue to keep Jimmy, Jim and Gordie in your prayers, too. They’ll continue to work hard, I’m sure of it. What an amazing adventure this has been. God bless you all.
DAY 8: 3 of us home safe and sound, with 2 flights arriving ahead of schedule and before the snow. The 3 Amigos (that’s what the Panamanians refer to Jim, Jimmy and Gordie as) had another full day at the camp. The 2 gates are now complete. Their presence at the entrance of the camp will be impactful. They’ll be absolutely beautiful when painted, hung and adorned with the Living Water logo. To be a black fly today, buzzing about as Jimmy and Jim welded would have been very interesting, I’m sure. I can only imagine what the day entailed for those 2. Gordie continued his trim work. He’s very skilled and precise at his craft. This evening, the men had the opportunity to enjoy a meal at the home of the parents of Katherine Natalia Figuera. Katherine is a tremendous young lady, full of life and faithful follower, attending Calvary Bible College here in Kansas City. We’ve had the pleasure of getting to know her the past couple of years. She’s raising funds for a mission trip to Italy this summer. Prayers for her as she continues to follow the path the Lord has chosen for her. The men enjoyed good food, fellowship and music. Today was her fathers birthday. He turned 55. Mr. Figuera, we hope your day has been blessed, just as you, your family and gift of music are to others. I’m sure the men are resting, preparing for another busy day, tomorrow. Please continue to keep them in prayer. God bless.
DAY 9: Day 9 at the camp was huge. Two, 30 ft. gates completed, hoisted, moved, set in place and opening with the pressure of two fingers. The two combined, weigh nearly a ton. Constructed of steel, cut and welded by the hands of 5 men. Hoisted and moved by a machine and guided in place with precision and skill. I’m awe struck. God is good all the time. These gates will make a tremendous statement as you round the corner to the right and approach the camp entrance at the Living Water Retreat. I cannot wait to see the addition of the art work being fabricated out of metal and painted by a member of the Wisconsin team. I know all who enter through those gates will be touched by the spirit of our Lord and Savior. It’s going to be grand. Well done good and faithful servants. Well done. Cabin 2 is now completely plumbed, thanks to the hands of Jim D. Gordie continues to work hard at trimming the cabins, too. It’s tedious work. The Living Water locomotive was also built. Hard work deserves fun, too. What a great day in Panama. Keep up the hard work. Enjoy the warmth while you can, as all of us back home enjoy the snow and cold temperatures. You all continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. God bless.
DAY 10: Day 10, was all about the windows, doors a trim. What a showcase by Gordie West. His work is precise. Materials were purchased this morning with work completed today. The men continued to work on the gate. From the pictures, it appears welds are being filed down in preparation for polish and paint. Their labor is out of love. This camp will truly be a blessing for the people of Panama. The possibilities are endless. Everyone continues to work hard and push through. Please continue to pray for strength and good health as they work tirelessly. May God continue to guide and protect them.
DAY 11: One of the keys to the success of a mission, is the ability to train and equip generations to come with the knowledge, desire and know how to continue the work, when those who established the legacy are gone. The one thing I appreciate about Randy-Donna Weets is the fact they have, for years, trained and equipped many to be His stewards, including their children. At the camp, today, it was apparent our men caught the attention of 2 younger generations. You’ll see a young boy, watching Gordie trim. Jimmy noted this little guy hung around for quite some time, very interested in what was going on. I can tell you, he saw those hands working for the glory of God. I’m sure he was impacted in a special way, today. You’ll also see Elias the keeper of the camp, working beside Jim D., learning the art of plumbing as shut off valves were being installed today, which will allow various aspects of the water supply to be shut off throughout the camp, should a line get broke. These two, learning each other’s language, working side by side, to accomplish a task. Today, 3 generations came together, in the name of His plan for the Living Water Retreat. Beautiful. The guys will be at it again tomorrow and will definitely be in need of rest on Sunday. We appreciate your prayers. God bless.
DAY 12: Day 12 won’t be forgotten. I do know, the guys had an eventful start to their day. When in route to the camp, there was a traffic check. The men were delayed for quite some time. It appeared there was something they didn’t like about Jesse’s passport. After several minutes, they were allowed to continue on. Often time, we take for granted our justice system. Typically you’re not pulled over, stopped, or detained unless you’ve done something wrong or suspicious. Jordan had noted, often, they (Panamanian Govt.) are just looking for easy money, so they just mess with people. I’m sure it was a tense and uncomfortable moment for all. The men did make it to the camp, had a good day, then were treated to a nice home cooked meal (tacos) at Randy-Donna Weets home this evening. They enjoyed the company of Jonathan and his family, along with Jordan and his family. Little Micah is so cute. He’s got the best little personality. I’m wondering if they had the passion fruit pie we missed out on last Mon. They’ll be ready to rest easy tonight, enjoy Church tomorrow in Arraijan, Panama, a great message, beautiful music and a restful Sunday. They’ll have another work day on Monday, then they’re all headed back to the states on Tues. Please continue to keep them in prayer as well as Jimmy, as he prepares to deliver his message and Randy as he prepares and finds words to translate the message. Every now and then there’s not a Spanish word for something spoken in English. It gives everyone something to chuckle about, though. Enjoy the pics. The jungle pics are initial photos before the acreage was cleaned up. Thank you all for your unending love and prayers. God bless you all.
DAY 13: Day 13 was filled with good company, fellowship and a tour of the Panama Christian Academy. Jimmy and Randy preached at the church in Arraijan. The message was well received and appreciated by all. The men rested and are ready for their final day of work. Please continue to be in prayer for the safe keeping and to muster the strength and determination to get through this final day of impact at the camp. We pray you all have a blessed week. God bless.
DAY 14: Day 14, the last day for the 3 men to be at the camp. The men are tired, wore out, sore and ready to make the journey back home. I’m sure their families are ready for them to be home, too. Jordan notes, “We had a real good final day. I am so grateful. They are some tired campers.” They’ve worked hard and in the first 2 months of the 2019 Panamanian summer, the 3 teams who have worked at the camp have accomplished a tremendous amount. Several projects completed in His name. All who enter through the gates of the Living Water Retreat will be richly blessed. As the men travel home today, please be in prayer for safe travels. Please continue to be in prayer for Randy-Donna Weets, Jordan, Jonathan and Jesse, their families and mission. Please consider supporting their efforts. God has grand plans for them and the people of Panama. In fact, God has grand plans for all of us. Lord, on the behalf of all who believe, I pray doors will open for others and opportunity will be given, so they may engage with this mission. Allow the Weets remain bold and through them, may the word of God continue to be shared and spread across the world. We desire for their ministry to be effective. May a hedge of protection keep them safe. Allow them to find the time to keep their souls refreshed. Lord, thank you for giving us, on your behalf, the opportunity to be impactful and difference makers. God bless you all.
Panama Mission Trip - February, 2019
Panama Mission Trip - 2018 Highlight Video
Panama Mission Trip - 2017 Highlight Video