Amistad Internacional

Latest Update on our life & work in Mexico

2011-11-28T20:08:00.000-08:00

2011 has been a full year for our family on a number of fronts. We have primarily sensed a fullness of the Lord’s presence in our personal lives, marriage, family & ministry. And although we have many areas that need continual refining, this has been a season of delighting in God being at the center of everything and seeing the marvelous ways He works. The following are but a few of those examples:

Bakersfield:

You may remember that for the past two years I have helped to host a monthly Ensenada Leadership Breakfast that I initiated with a local pastor. This past October as we celebrated our 2nd Anniversary breakfast our keynote speaker was California Assemblywoman Shannon Groves from Bakersfield. We were also blessed to have the Mayor of Ensenada in attendance and Shannon was able to pray for him & his leadership. The Mayor commented on the fact that Ensenada is the fourth safest city in Mexico and that he believes it is because there is a great covering of the Lord as a result of the prayers of many.

In continuing the Bakersfield connection, almost eight years ago a dear personal friend of many years (Doug Carter of Bakersfield, Ca) started praying for a connection & relationship to grow between his church The Bridge Bible Church and the Body of Christ in Ensenada Mexico. As his church continued to grow in their involvement in Mexico, we continued praying together for a deepening relationship between Bakersfield & Ensenada.

I am overjoyed to report that this past Veteran’s weekend 11.11.11. The Bridge Bible Church from Bakersfield California sent nearly 800 people to serve 32 local pastors in 24 different communities of Ensenada in the largest single outreach we have ever coordinated! God is opening the floodgate! In the midst of adversity we are seeing The Church take action! JESUS is Alive!

A New Role & Responsibility:

After many years of hard work & sacrifice in Ensenada it has been wonderful to see all the fruit God is producing through His Body, as so many have come from afar and partnered with the ongoing work the local Church is laboring in. And while our personal commitment to this work in Ensenada remains, there has also been a growing sense that the time has come to expand our focus further out into Mexico.

Recently the YUGO Board of Directors met and decided to appoint me (Scott) as the YUGO Mexico Field Director, with the responsibility of serving all the YUGO Missionaries & Ministry Centers located in Mexico. As a result I have handed over the position of Director of YUGO’s Ensenada Outreach Center to Mardy Barnes & Rhonda Elgersma, who have worked with me at the EOC for the past five seasons.

Ana & I are excited for the new opportunities and challenges this new position will bring, as we recall our time as newlyweds in 2006 and our prayers for reaching out further into Mexico to love the forgotten.

YUGO currently has Outreach opportunities in Rosarito, Mexicali & Acuna in addition to Ensenada as well as a the Grace Children’s & Babies homes in Rosarito. Currently there are also Church Planting missionaries throughout Baja California and as far south as Oaxaca Mexico. I look forward to serving the entire YUGO Family and broadening our reach further south!

Ensenada, our Home Base:

As I will certainly be required to spend more time traveling, we are grateful for the opportunity to continue being based in Ensenada with the community of friends & family we dearly love. This will allow us more opportunities to continue seeing many of you who come annually to Ensenada as well:)

We ask for your continued prayers for our family, our financial support (as this new role doesn’t change the fact that we need to raise 100% of our living & personal ministry expenses) and our entire YUGO Ministry Family. We cherish you, your friendship & prayers as we depend on the Lord for everything in our lives. It is our great privilege to be serving as Christ’s Ambassadors to Mexico in partnership with you!

We love you & pray God’s Blessing over you, your family and community, Scott for Ana, Naomi (4) & Nicole (1)

Dedicating our girls & A Few recent photos by Marvin Garay

2011-07-13T22:11:00.000-07:00

Today we had a Dedication service for Naomi & Nicole attended by many friends & family. My brother-in-law Pup Nelson officiated the service. It was very special for me that Pup participated in the service, as he invited me to Mexico in the first place 10 summers ago. He baptized me & co-officiated our wedding, so it was very fitting to have him & my sister Anastasia here along with most of Ana's family.

We feel so blessed and privileged to be Naomi & Nicole's parents, and in a week like this one, when Pup's team has been building a home for a similar family with two young children though both have many physical needs, we are reminded of how fortunate we are to have two healthy girls.

There are so many unknown reasons why one family would have two healthy children and another family would have two precious children with multiple special needs.

Both of us families surely love our kids equally. And as we continue in our journey as parents I hope we will always remember to cherish each moment we have with our princesses.

I love you Naomi & Nicole. You are my treasure:)

Halfway through the year, continually amazed with Godʼs ways!

2011-05-31T14:33:00.000-07:00

We had an amazing spring and while there were slightly fewer teams than normal, the weeks

were exceptional with powerful results. God is able to do amazing things & transform so many

lives even when there are fewer workers in the ﬁeld.

As a family we have marveled & delighted in the gift of our daughter Nicole and how her

adding to our family has so thoroughly changed our family dynamics. In many ways we are

still ﬁnding our stride, yet its amazing how different our family is now. We canʼt imagine how it

was just six months ago. Sheʼs growing so fast and weʼre loving every moment with her.

In a similar way, God continues to grow & expand our EOC community. We have a new staff

family joining us June 2nd (the Alpertʼs) from Montgomery Alabama. Surely their talents & gifts

will add to the already diverse fabric of our multi cultural community. We are so excited to

welcome them on staff. Furthermore we are in the process of interviewing two additional

families from the US & Canada who are considering joining full-time. All three of these families

have young children, continuing to transform the demographics of the EOC Team.

As the team grows, as we see ministry fruit in abundance, we consider our next steps. What

do we need to do, that weʼre not already doing? Where can we go that weʼre not already

reaching? Who can we love that we donʼt already know? How can we grow deeper in Jesus

and with one another?

As we prepare to commence our 10th summer in Mexico we sense a deep peace coupled with

excited anticipation for what lay ahead.

We are so grateful for your prayers & participation in our lives & ministry. Together we form

One Body as the hands & feet of Jesus. We love you,

The Westerʼs

Nicole, Naomi, Ana & Scott

Greetings from the Wester's

2011-04-18T11:08:00.000-07:00

We consider ourselves truly blessed and privileged to be spending another Spring in Ensenada Mexico, collaborating with an incredible community of friends from the US, Canada & Mexico in the transformative work of going out and loving our neighbors.

We are reminded of the daily reality for many of our neighbors here in Mexico & around the world who have lost hope & faith and feel unloved. They are truly the forgotten of this world.

We hope & pray your Spring is fruitful as you enjoy being with loved ones this Easter. May we continue to spur one another on to give Jesus the life he paid for with his own.

The Wester's

Thank you to our good friend Danny Meza, who recently took these family photos. Pictured: Scott & Ana, Naomi (3 1/2 yr) & Nicole (4 mo)

Seeing the Big Picture

2011-02-24T23:51:00.000-08:00

A recent conversation revealed to me that as I have been sharing passionately about the direction the ministry is growing in and how the local Church is growing in its involvement, one could perceive that the future goal of the ministry is for less participation of teams from the US or Canada.

Is that our goal? Is that the big picture?

This past year I shared a number of times how we are witnessing God produce fruit through the faithful planting & watering of seeds in Ensenada, through the fifteen years YUGO’s Ensenada Outreach Center has existed.

I also elaborated on one of YUGO’s principle goals of equipping the local Church, and how we are seeing a momentum growing as the local Church becomes more engaged in the mission of the Great Commission in Ensenada.

As one member of many who have come together at EOC to form one body and become one community, I have delighted in seeing the percentage of this body reflect a larger local presence. And together we are pressing towards a level of local participation where it won’t be the exception to have a Mexican team participating in the Outreach Ministry.

As we get a glimpse of what may come, we also consider what that represents in the big picture or macro-view of what God is doing and producing here.

We are not hopeful for a day when there will be enough Mexicans participating that the teams from other countries will stop coming. We are hopeful that as people continue to come from all over the Americas (and the World) that this will become a sustainable ministry that isn’t dependent on any one country for its sustainability. Mexico has so much to offer this ministry, and so much to gain through the joy of participating. But the larger body of Christ IS made up of people of all races, genders, nationalities and denominations.

We don’t see that as more Mexican & Latin American teams participate that there won’t be the room for others, it’s just that the dependance on others will lessen. I was recently reminded of the transformation that takes place in the lives of those that come to serve. Its not an experience at the expense of the recipients, however, it is a reality that those coming to serve leave with a sense of equally benefiting. It is the beautiful reality of the transformation that takes place in all of us who come together to be with Jesus, as he builds his Church in Mexico.

There are many forms of poverty, blindness & captivity and Jesus came to set all of us free from these. How great that we can all come together equally in Him, to become his hands & feet in Mexico and around the world...so that He receives the Glory!

That’s our big picture vision going forward. Will you join with us?

Jan 2011 photos

2011-01-17T10:50:00.000-08:00

Here are a few recent photos of Nicole & Naomi too!

Happy New Year! Favorite photos from 2010

2010-12-31T21:40:00.000-08:00

Fall Update

2010-12-22T20:14:00.000-08:00

Friends,

This year I have glanced back over the past 8 years of my personal time serving in Mexico as well as the 15 years that the EOC has existed. I have marveled at the fruit we are witnessing (All to God's glory, since he's the one producing it) as well as the faithfulness of the countless laborers who have responded to the call. I recently did some research, and in the last twelve years over 25,000 people of all ages & nationalities, have come to Ensenada, to partner with Yugo Ministries. As a result countless lives have been transformed, ours included.

Ana, Naomi, Nicole & I are fruit of this ministry. As Ana & I met here in Ensenada through working together at the EOC. And as our family grows, so does our ministry community.

To God be the Glory as he continues to produce Fruit.

Nicole is a healthy growing baby girl. She feeds really well, sleeps well & yes poops well! She is another unique, wonderful creation of God, that we are so grateful to have the honor of loving & raising as our precious daughter.

Naomi IS really excited about “baby Nicole”, she loves to hold Nicole on her lap and kisses her hundreds of times a day. She has a high level of energy (not sure who she gets that from:) and loves going to school, being with extended family & dancing to anything musical.

Ana is recovering well from the birth of Nicole, and although she is still justifiably exhausted, she is radiant. In order to help ease Ana’s transition into being a mother to two daughters & wife to me (probably the more difficult of the two), Ana has asked a longtime friend, Mari, to help in the house (Monday-Friday 4 hours daily), which is a huge blessing for us all.

I am still learning to be a good husband & father. I have spent much of my life being very self centered, as a result I put work ahead of family, and still am challenged with that tendency in my personal life. Thank God for a wife & great friends to love me & spur me on to grow.

Please continue to pray for us, as our little world has been rocked by the arrival of our daughter Nicole, as well as for Naomi, who is learning a whole new meaning of the word “share”, as she shares her parents with Nicole.

Also please pray for our finances. Our support has been at 50% of our goal and with a new arrival our living expenses will increase. Many are surprised at the fact that we don't receive any salary from Yugo, and the fact that we pay rent to live at the EOC, and buy all our own food. This is a real challenge for me, especially because when I'm out visiting ministry partners, I want to talk about the ministry as a whole; not ourselves, our worth to the ministry & our personal needs.

We have been called to this position to help build up this ministry, but we need the help of others to keep doing the work. It's as simple as that.

The deeper we invest our lives in Mexico & the work of being Christ’s ambassador’s (2 Cor 5:20), we become more aware of the great need for Jesus’ love in our own lives & in the communities we are working in. Jesus is sufficient, however we are needed to take him & his love to the ends of the earth.

There is nowhere we’d rather be, than right here, working together with all of you, in the calling we have received.

May the Lord continue to pour out His grace upon your lives & families.

Scott (for Ana, Naomi & Nicole)

Remembering Jesus Antonio

2010-10-16T17:07:00.000-07:00

What is it like to be forgotten? Who are the forgotten?

This week I came to know another one of the forgotten children of Mexico. His name is Jesus Antonio. His mom Isabel is from Oaxaca, his dad Jorge is from Chiapas. He was born 2 & 1/2 months premature, although he was healthy and normal. His sisters love & adore him, and do to his premature birth his stature is small.

Almost three weeks ago he started to run a high fever. After a night of no sleep, and fever, his parents took Jesus to the General Hospital of Ensenada. This is the lone hospital available for the uninsured, its clean but under-equipped to handle the amount of people & types of ailments.

Jesus was prescribed a (Children’s Tylenol type) medicine, although he wasn’t really checked out, and immediately released.

After a couple of days Jesus started having difficulty breathing, (the fever had not subsided) and his parents took him to the hospital again. Released again.

Then he started experiencing convulsions, and his parents immediately rushed him back to the hospital. They administered a sedative, diagnosed him as suffering from pneumonia, and told his parents that he probably wouldn’t survive.

Two weeks passed, Jesus remained asleep (no drugs, just oxygen & IV), and his parents waited & hoped for a miracle.

Jorge came by the EOC after the first week, asking if we had any work (we have known him & his family for many years, and he often helps with our cement projects). We said no.

After the second week of waiting, he came by the EOC again, asking if we could loan him $6,000 pesos (the equivalent of 2 months work), because his son was in the hospital in grave condition.

Our Executive Leadership Team met that morning, and decided to visit him in the hospital & consider prayerfully giving the money (we don’t make loans, we give with no strings attached). Before Juan, Alex and I (Scott) left for the hospital, God had already provided the $ through the generosity of our staff.

As we arrived at the hospital, and greeted Jorge & Isabel, their exhaustion & desperation was clearly evident. They had been at the hospital for 15 days straight, with little rest or food. Their beloved son lay in the pediatric ward, with supervision, but no real testing or treatment. No studies had been performed. The money was needed for a brain scan, since he had essentially been comatose for two weeks.

As I entered the pediatric ward to see Jesus, I was taken back by his tiny stature (he was 7 & 1/2 months old but looked like three-four months). As I touched his little foot, he immediately responded to touch. I laid my hand on his chest and prayed, and imagined how I would feel if he were my own.

As we gave Jorge & Isabel the money, they rushed off to the clinic to pay for the brain scan.

Since we realized that they had essentially been camped out at the hospital for a couple of weeks with little to no resources, we gave them some extra $ and promised to bring breakfast the following day.

As I arrived the following morning with a hearty breakfast Ana had prepared, along with an offering from our staff, I could see hope in their eyes, as finally something was being done. The scan had taken place late the prior evening, and medicine was now being administered.

At four the next morning, Friday the 15th of October, 2010; Jesus Antonio Aguilar took his final breath.

As I drove a van full of relatives from the government funeral center to the municipal cemetery, I was shocked as the cemetery for the forgotten doubles as a trash dump. How heartbreaking it was for the family, realizing that this was to be the final resting place for the remains of their son. A burn pile sat 10 feet from the hole dug by shovel. Here Jorge, Isabel and family said their final goodbye’s. I stood next to Jesus’ sister Ruth (who we have watched grow up through EOC supported feeding programs) as the hole was being filled in. I thought how surreal this all must have been for her.

As we left, a simple dirt lump is the only sign of a burial site (aside from the flowers left behind). The family may bring a cross or other marker at a later point, although as I gazed around this cemetery, most sites are only recognizable by a small mound of dirt.

This is where the Forgotten end up.

While I know Jesus Antonio is in the presence of the Lord, I am seeking the Lord’s will in the midst of this loss. I do not believe that God makes bad things happen, however He has a hope & plan throughout all circumstances. So I’m asking of him, “what is your will Lord, through the life & death of Jesus Antonio?”

I have stated that the calling I have recognized in my life is to Love the Forgotten. Jesus Antonio represents the Forgotten. He was forgotten by society, he was forgotten by the health care system, his body is buried in a forgotten graveyard that many use as a trash dump.

I don’t want to Forget him. I want Jesus Antonio to be a reminder of the work that remains to be done. How many more Forgotten children, men & women are there in Ensenada, Mexico, Latin America & the World?

Let us not Forget! For if we don’t remember the Forgotten, when & how will they know the Love of Jesus? We haven’t been Forgotten, better still, we know that NO ONE has been Forgotten by our Lord Jesus.

Remember, we are His ambassadors, as though he were making his appeal through us. Let’s remember the Forgotten. Let’s remember the Jesus Antonio’s of this world. Let’s transform this world, as our lives are transformed.

We’ve got so much to do, let’s get to it!

Further Update on Jesus Antonio

2010-10-15T08:27:00.000-07:00

With a mournful heart this morning I report that Jesus Antonio passed away this morning at 4:00am pst. We take comfort in the knowledge that he isn't suffering anymore & he is with his Heavenly Father.

Our heart's break for Jorge & Isabel and their children. Although we take some comfort in knowing that they were able to do everything possible, and their faith & trust is in the Lord.

Thank you for your prayers & thoughts.

Jesus Antonio

2010-10-13T18:00:00.000-07:00

Many of you may remember Daisy & Ruth from the El Zorrillo feeding Program or VBS. Their dad is Jorge, who is a long time friend of Juan Martinez. I first met Jorge 7 or 8 years ago, as he has often helped Juan and the EOC with projects. He is skilled in brick laying & stucco work.

Without going into too much detail, I can say that we have been praying for this family for a few years. It has been tough, especially since Jorge's first wife (Daisy & Ruth's mom) left the family a few years ago.

Jorge has since remarried & little Jesus Antonio if the fruit of that marriage. Jesus was born 3 months premature, and now is 7+ months old.

A couple of weeks ago, Jesus started running a high fever, and was taken to the hospital, given some medicine and released. The next day, he was taken back to the general hospital, as his parents believed his condition was grave. (he started having trouble breathing & started convulsions) He was suffering from pneumonia, and was given a sedative in the hospital (I think to stop the convulsions).

His pneumonia is improving, however he has never awoken from the sedative (15 days). The doctor's have recommended a brain scan, however the general hospital isn't equipped with the technology.

We received word of this today, prayed as a staff, and through a couple friends of the EOC, God has provided the ($6,000 pesos) funds for the scanning equip to be brought in & performed.

I share this that you might be praying with us for Jesus Antonio & his entire family.

It still hits me so hard, when I see how so many suffer in ways that I never have because I have had access to a different level of health care. And as a father I can imagine how tough this is for Jorge.

Yes this is a great opportunity for us & them to depend in a deeper way on the Lord, and trust in His will. Also it's a way for people like me (and maybe you) to gain more perspective on how we can be used to carryout the work of bringing the Love of Jesus into this world.

I know Jorge knows Jesus as Lord, but I can also imagine that through these last two weeks, he may have had many tough moments of asking why or how?

I pray that tonight, through this small gift, they will be brought into a closer intimacy with the Lord, and we will too.

I'll keep you updated.

Blessings,

Scott

check out my facebook for a photo of Jorge in the hospital

What does Fruit look like?

2010-08-17T16:20:00.001-07:00

Friends & Partners,

As summer draw's to an end, I wanted to share a few thoughts regarding the work that Ana & I continue to be a part of in Ensenada. We know that many of you are praying for us on a weekly basis, helping to support us financially, and always being available to be our friends. We are so thankful for you. And we know that we could not be here, doing this work if it weren't for you.

Ana & baby (still no news on gender, but we do have names for both) are fine. She will celebrate her birthday this week and has about three months to go. It has been a challenge for her this summer, managing being mother to an incredibly energetic two & a half year old, being the wife of a man who she describes as "muy especial", being pregnant, and continuing to help visit most families receiving houses & helping in the camp kitchen most afternoons. She IS the greatest!

Naomi is almost three. Need I say more? She is full-speed ahead all day, everyday! Loves people, loves being the center of attention, and is preparing to have the shock of her young life, as she will soon have a little sister or brother. What an adventure that will be! We love that she is innocent & free, creative & adventurous; and our heart's melt every time she say's "I Love you Daddy/Mommy."

I (Scott) am loving being a husband, father & friend; but also really motivated to keep pressing ahead in Mexico. There is so much to be done. So many are hopeless & forgotten. There are so many fledgling congregations in the villages that need partners & to be equipped. Yet in the midst of this, there is so much hope & faith, found in a few.

We have been at this for eight years now. We're in it for the long haul. Will you continue to journey with us? Will you continue to equip us, SO THAT we can equip others?

Following are a few thoughts on the state of the work we are a part of in Mexico:

What does fruit look like?

I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. 1 Corinthians 3:6

So what does God’s fruit look like in Ensenada? What is the fruit of YUGO’s labor? The labor of thousands of people from many cities around the United States & Canada over the past fifteen years. What does the fruit of building 1,000+ homes for families look like? From partnering with local churches & working with local youth?

What are we hoping to see? What is the fruit of our labor?

Over the past eight years of my life in Mexico, I have seen fruit in a variety of forms. From visiting an American church, and hearing a parent say that their teenagers life has been transformed because of the week they spent in Mexico, to hearing a local Mexican pastor share how his congregation is being transformed through the partnership with YUGO & the example being demonstrated by those coming to serve.

I have watched the life our our night security guard transform, from when we first contracted her to work the night shift. At first it was just a job for her, and she did it well. And she would have a puzzled look on her face when told why teams were coming. [because God first loved us, and we ought to love one another] But then the opportunity arose (after a couple of years) for her family to receive a house. Their lives have never been the same! Now when I walk through the camp on a late night, I’ll usually catch her reading her bible. Her family are faithfully part of a local church.

God is manifesting His fruit in many ways. In many lives.

This week I have seen a new and wonderful fruit. A result of the many seeds planted throughout the years. And I firmly believe with all my heart that years from now we will look back on this week as a turning point of YUGO Ministries’ Ensenada Outreach Center.

This week a team of 34 youth have come, from five different churches, to build 2 Homes of Hope for two families. But what makes this week different is that all the youth are from local churches in Ensenada. Nearly half of the youth are from families who live in YUGO homes!

As well, the camp is being led by our Mexican National staff. Rhonda, Mardy & I have taken a behind the scenes role as our local staff have stepped up into the roles of facilitating the chapels, leading construction meetings, etc.

Tonight I sat in the back of the chapel service, with tears of joy, as the fullness of God’s love & transformation sunk in. And in the realization that they are the first such team, the first such fruit; the group erupted in an applause that lasted minutes.

What a joy it has been to witness staff we have loved & nurtured, grow into leaders. To hear them teach, share, encourage and lead. How humbling it has been to watch a group of young, talented, loved & capable group grow to believe that they can do anything God calls them to.

Years from now we will look back on this week, as a turning point in this ministry. All we have done is planted some seeds or done a bit of watering, as fellow workers in the field.

God & God alone has made the fruit grow. Its all His!

Thank you for being with us, we love you & pray with you each day for the people of Mexico.

Scott, for Ana & Naomi

Recent Photos of Naomi

2010-07-08T13:19:00.000-07:00

Summer is Flying by...

2010-07-08T12:51:00.000-07:00

Wow time flies soo fast.

Ana is nearing five months prego:) She is doing great. I'm so impressed that she is still up at 6am weekdays to excersise with Rhonda. (they also have a few other partners on their daily run at the beach, including Kimyco & Anahi) All is well with her pregnancy, although tired, back hurts & the usual pressures. She's starting to rethink her earlier statement about having a large family. At least through childbirth.

Naomi is such a little girl! First words usually out of her mouth each morning (right after Bazo Leche, which is: glass of milk) are Falda (for her red Tutu) Shoes (pink Crocs) & Purse (pink princess)! Don't forget the headband (purple). Mix the multi colored Dora shirts & red glasses. She's ready to hit the town, which is usually the EOC courtyard, for a morning fashion show to entertain the campers & staff friends Aaron & Caleb.

I (Scott) am thoroughly enjoying the summer season pace, which is all the more enjoyable to share with an amazing staff community.

Each of the past four summers have been shared with a diverse group of interns, all special and beloved. Though there is a wonderful shift happening this year especially. This year we have 11 interns (five from the US, one from Canada & five from Mexico) as well as a couple of new national staff, who are all under the age of 25. It is a wonderful balance, and they bring such an amazing amount of energy, promise & outlook to the ministry.

This year we have been hosting the weekly staff gathering in our house and if I step back for a moment, I am surprised at the journey that has led to this point. I remember a few years ago when I would prefer my "cave" time to being with people.

Needless to say, Ana, Naomi & I are enjoying the journey of learning how to love one another in the setting of the Ensenada Outreach Center. We hope this spills over into all areas of our lives, as we continue to discover how to love the world around us.

Enjoy your summer,

The Wester's

2010 Spring Update #2

2010-05-09T22:43:00.000-07:00

I just want to take a moment to share with you, how we are doing as a family in Mexico.

Ana’s pregnancy is progressing nicely. She is a little over 11 weeks (the computer say’s a due date around Thanksgiving), and she has been impacted mostly from the smell of certain things, like coffee (which is real hard for her to give up).

Naomi seems to really enjoy being a little girl. She has energy! She loves people, and really enjoys going to pre-school for a few hours each day. On Saturday’s she often comes down stairs with her Dora backpack on, ready for an adventure! She’s healthy & high spirited!

I continue to grow & learn, striving to live the talk. Focusing on Faith, Family, Friends/Fellowship, the Forgotten and a little Fitness/Fun. I continue to be loved by a growing community of friends who are real patient with me, as I learn to step out of my comfort zone & get into God’s zone. When I do this, He impact’s our family, our community & the world. The surrendering of my rights continues to be the daily choice I long to start each day with.

We are so grateful for all of God’s provisions in our lives. Mostly His love & grace.

May will be a busy month for us, as we will be on the road half the time (three separate trips) traveling to Northern California twice & Omaha Nebraska.

Please pray for Ana and our growing unborn child, as they continue to grow through this first trimester. Pray that I will step up a level in helping her (Ana) as she needs it. Pray that Naomi will come to know Jesus & his love through us. Pray that we will continue to be generous with the provisions God gives us.

We continue to thank God for you, our friends. Let us know how you are doing, and how we can pray for you.

We love you,

Scott (for Ana & Naomi)

2010 Spring Update

2010-03-23T13:51:00.000-07:00

Recently I have been looking at the fruit that has grown as a result of a few seeds planted in years past. Following are a few reflections:

The EOC (Ensenada Outreach Center) exists because one couple responded to a call. They planted a seed with the beginning of the EOC, more than a decade ago, and as a result, thousands of lives have been forever transformed.

Although Spring officially started only a few days ago, we are in the midst of our 5th week of Spring Teams, with another 3 to go (the next two weeks being the biggest). By the end of April we will have welcomed 500+ Team members, provided 27 families with a Home of Hope, partnered with numerous local communities & pastors, fed hundreds of hungry children & families, and represented (as Ambassadors) our Lord & Saviour Jesus the Christ before hundreds if not thousands of people.

Last week at the request of a local Vision Clinic, we hosted a small group of adults from two churches in the Mexican state of Sonora, who had traveled the 500+ miles to receive no-cost eye surgery. We were able to host a couple of low-income families who would not be able to cover the costs of hotel & food expenses for the week stay. This is the first of likely additional such groups traveling to Ensenada to receive free optical surgery (coming through Mexican churches). This contact with the local Vision Clinic is the result of a seed that Emily (Tracy) Castro planted 8+ years ago when while working as a YUGO Missionary in Ensenada, she volunteered a few hours per week (she is trained as a nurse). Through this initial contact, a relationship has grown and numerous children & adults have had their sight restored.

This is similar to the example of ONE boy, who was willing to share his five loaves of bread & two “small” fish, when a crowd of 5000+ people were hungry. We know that through this ONE boy’s offering, Jesus took the loaves & fish, gave thanks, and distributed to the people “as much as they wanted.” We know that all had plenty to eat.

All this is possible because a couple of people were WILLING to respond to a call many years ago.

Ana & I continue to be grateful for the seeds that others have been planted in our lives, and we commit ourselves to continuing to plant seeds in the lives of others.

May your Spring be filled with many opportunities to plant seeds in the lives of others, and may we continue to be willing as One Body, to work in the fields that God has called us to.

As always, we are most grateful for your love, friendship, prayers & support.

Scott (for Ana & Naomi) Wester

The Voyage continues - Starting Season # 4

2010-02-16T12:01:00.000-08:00

Last week marked the start of my Fourth Season as the Director of the EOC.

Looking back at the goals laid out in the fall of 2006, as we began a reshaping of the ministry, I have the sense that we are on a big ship (like the Titanic), and we have been turning on the wheel as fast as possible. And even though the rudder changes direction immediately, the ship is slow to respond.

Yet looking back, with perspective, the "ship" has responded & changed its course. I believe we have avoided some of the icebergs, and charted a new course.

The sea may still bring waves. We will still experience stormy weather. We may even get sea-sick. But I believe we have lessened the likelihood of sinking from hitting an iceberg.

I have often thought of our ministry & the roles we play through the illustration of a ship. I have spoke before about the assessment of what type of ship the ministry would represent, as well as our personal roles as members of the ship's crew.

I must admit that I have always had an affinity for the water. I have always dreamed of sailing around the world. I love adventure. I love movies that involve ships. (Master Commander, Pirate movies etc) So bear with me as I continue to illustrate our ministry through the image of being on a ship at sea.

I have been on this voyage (in Mexico) for 7 & 1/2 years, and starting the fourth season in my current role. Here are a few thoughts on our voyage as we head into the 2010 season:

The type of ship is far less important than the capability of her crew & the ship's capability.

In order to sail (leave port), we need to prepare & train, but also realize there is some inherent risk in setting out on the high seas. [sickness, mechanical failure, etc]

The ships crew has an awesome responsibility to its passengers & cargo, to navigate correctly (utilizing the proper charts) as well as operate efficiently as one team, in order to arrive at the destination.

We need to have permission to enter into a Port (village) and partner with local leaders.

The crew needs to prepare sufficient food (nourishment) for all the passengers & crew.

Its important to know the ships limitations so as to not run aground, capsize or sink.

We need to leave room onboard for rescuing people lost at sea.

Its important to prepare the ship's passengers to visit Ports (villages), so their impact is fruitful.

Of critical importance is knowing the way-point (the heading), or we will be lost at sea as well.

As we have set sail for another missional voyage in Mexico we are planning to accommodate more than 1,800 passengers and visit 24 ports of call. Hundreds of families & children will be visited & touched, both in the ports (villages) and on the ship.

Pray for us; for the ship's crew, for the passengers & for the people lost at sea who need rescuing. Also pray for the occasional stow-away that pops up.

2010 promises to provide a passenger list more diverse and multi-national than ever before. Similarly the crew varies in age, experience & nationality. But one thing remains thread throughout the people on the ship; a spirit of hope & love in Jesus and for one another.

Pray also for safe passage, as pirates do exist (seen & unseen), and for a strengthening of the hull (armor) of the ship & its crew.

Finally, please pray for me, that I will correctly discern the "Heading" and navigate the ship correctly. Additionally that I will properly equip the crew (EOC Staff), so we may serve all the passengers & their mission in a way that honors the purpose of the Voyage.

May all who come in contact with us this year know why we have come, who sent us, and why He cares for them!

Thanks for being able to see the message through the journey.

Heavy rain in Ensenada

2010-01-22T23:30:00.000-08:00

It is raining (heavily) for the fifth straight day in Ensenada. We normally receive just a few inches of rain a year. We don't have a rain gauge, but our patio fountain (which is 8-10 inches deep) was dry a week ago, but now overflowing.

As the ground has become more saturated, the rain takes a bigger toll.

Today I started the day with Abraham, Juan Martinez & Pastor Rigo Avina. We visited a few communities, while EOC staff prepared relief supplies.

By 3:30pm, we had two teams [Team 1- Abraham, Ricardo & Marvin; Team 2- Juan, Rhonda & Sandra] with myself & Alejandro providing logistic support, departing the EOC base with enough supplies for 100 families. (thanks to the prep help of Brenda, Karrie, Myrna and a handful of other local volunteers)

Once we wrapped up this evening, we had visited 70 families; delivering blankets, tarps & food.

We will continue tomorrow morning.

Check out our new Facebook group page for EOC (photos of the rain & relief effort)

One surprise I encountered today was this; I had thought that tarps & blankets would be the biggest need. Although it was food.

Most of the families in the villages we serve, work in the agriculture fields. With the heavy rains, there has not been any work this whole week.

They get paid daily (in cash), and most would not have any savings or emergency fund. So imagine a family that shops for food each day, with the daily earned income; going a week without earning any money. (while their roof is leaking, clothes & bedding is wet)

No access to hot water, heat, or a dryer to dry clothes. Empty fridge, empty cupboard & hungry bellies.

Wait.... what's that sound, I think someone is here? Its a visitor, bringing a gift of love, in a time of need.

Thank you to all our friends & supporters, you are our partners who equip us to do this work.

Tonight we were not only able to feed people physically, but we were also able to listen to them, pray with them, and cry with them.

God is Good!

more to come..

Annual Update

2009-12-26T23:00:00.000-08:00

Friends, our partners in life & ministry,

As you celebrate Christmas and the New Year, we wanted to take a moment to share our heartfelt thanks & appreciation for your friendship. Speaking for my wife Ana & daughter Naomi, I can assure you that we have never been more mindful of the power of a few friends coming together to form one body.

You are our friends, you are our body. Without you, your prayers, your friendship, your encouragement & your support; we could not be in Mexico serving as we are. You make this possible.

Without each of you as our friends, we would not really know what it is to be in the Kingdom of God, nor would we know the blessing that comes in giving our lives to others & sharing in the great community of the believers.

Through your friendship we are able to continue the work of loving the forgotten people of this world. A journey that for us can only continue as we are part of a team. Your team.

Let me confess that I often set out to do the work in front of me, a work that you are a part of, forgetting to fulfill my responsibility of keeping you up to date on the progress. In doing so I rob you of sharing in the knowledge of the blessing we are as a team. I ask your forgiveness in falling short in this area, and I thank you for your grace & love that you continue to bestow upon us with the favor of your friendship.

Now for an update on our ministry:

Ana has continued to grow deeper into the work with families. She has an amazing gift being able to really be with people, truly listening to their story, genuinely caring for them.

She is actively part of a three-person team that visits all families selected to receive a House of Hope (we will build 80+ in 2010), as well as visiting with families impacted through relief ministry.

Additionally Ana has continued to grow deeper in personal friendships with a few core women. For the past six months she has faithfully walked with (physically & spiritually) one of these friends every morning for an hour.

Naomi continues her great adventure of growing up in a diverse community of family & friends. She seems to enjoy becoming aquatinted with so many new people who come to visit her house (the EOC) each week. We are hopeful that she may be blessed with a little sister or brother in the year to come.

I continue to be most grateful for a few local friends in Ensenada, who are willing to walk with me as brothers in Christ. This in addition to the great staff we are a part of at the EOC, is one of the great rewards of serving where God has called us. Three friends in particular have offered to assist me with a covering of accountability & protection, as I continue to spend more time traveling. The idea, is that whenever I need to travel without the company of my wife, one of my friends will travel with me. We are so grateful for a few committed friends willing to make personal sacrifices in order to walk with us.

While we continue to branch out into new geographic areas of the Americas, we sense Ensenada continuing to be our hometown for the foreseeable future. Just four years ago Ana & I weren't sure where we were going to plant our roots. Even as we accepted the offer to serve in a leadership role at the EOC, we weren’t sure if it was for a season of time, or something longer. And while our heart’s continue to grow in the capacity to love a greater diversity of people around the world, we sink our roots deeper into our home base community of Ensenada. We believe God has a strategic plan in basing our ministry from here. This is where our treasured friendships have grown over the past few years, and we hope to continue to take our friends with us, as we branch out from Ensenada in the years to come.

In the coming year we will continue to partner with teams from the US, Canada & Mexico, as we step out of our comfort zones and into a world of opportunity to impact families, communities & nations with the person of Jesus.

I continue to serve as the director of YUGO’s Ensenada Outreach Center; developing the leadership team, communicating the message, casting the vision & setting the tone within the EOC.

Recently we have been hosting a monthly Leadership Breakfast which includes leaders from various areas of society. In January we have been asked to host the breakfast at Ensenada’s City Hall (so the Mayor & other elected officials may attend). The purpose of the breakfast is to bring local leaders together in the spirit of Jesus, to build friendships with Him & with one another.

A seed planted years ago is starting to sprout. With a few friends we have been talking & dreaming about coffee as a ministry in Mexico. This fall we rebranded our EOC Store to become the C3 Cafe. The vision is to Connect Communities through Coffee, hence C3. Early next year I will travel to Oaxaca with a few friends to explore a few of the coffee growing regions of southern Mexico. Our hope is to find an untouched community we can build a relationship with, purchase “green” coffee, locally roast the coffee, and retail the coffee; with all the proceeds being invested in outreach opportunity in the coffee growing community. Hopefully this will not only provide a new area of opportunity for our friends from the US & Canada, but also for our friends in Ensenada.

We are so grateful for you joining yourselves with us in prayer & partnership in this life journey of ours. Please know, even if we do not see one another regularly, you provide us with an immeasurable amount of encouragement & support, which helps us keep the faith & persevere through all seasons.

We remain, your thankful friends & partners in ministry, in Mexico.

With full & grateful hearts,

Ana, Naomi & Scott Wester

Leadership Breakfast - Update

2009-11-19T17:56:00.000-08:00

In October Abraham & I started hosting a monthly Leadership Breakfast (in part modeled from my experiences at the SouthEast White House in Washington DC, under the leadership of Scott Dimock & Sammie Morrison).

The vision is to bring together leaders (people of influence) from the different areas of society in Ensenada, together in friendship. As we do this, in the spirit of Jesus of Nazareth, we are able to grow in friendship with one another, learning about the needs of the community and of its leaders.

We are inviting business owners, health-care directors, government officials, educators, civil servants and even pastors. (including two dear friends, David Garcia & Danny Mesa)

After having hosted two breakfast's, we have been asked by the local government if we could host January's in the City Hall, so the Municipal President of Ensenada (similar to a Mayor) as well as other elected officials could attend!

This has certainly been one of the goals, but even sooner than I thought possible.

Once again, the result when we are willing to step out in faith!

Fire near Rancho Casitas!

2009-09-30T23:05:00.000-07:00

Wednesday I received an urgent phone call from Rick Carter with Hand's of Mercy (a similar organization working south of Ensenada) informing me of a large fire fire burning close to their property "Rancho Casitas". The families who live at the ranch are very dear friends of ours, so I assured Rick we would connect with them and help in anyway possible.

I called the McCoy's satelite phone, and was able to connect with Sue McCoy. She informed me that since they had all been focused on preparing for the fire, the three missionary families (McCoy's, Van Ness' & Johnson's) living on the ranch were out of some basic food supplies (milk, bread, meat, fruit etc). *the ranch is more than an hour drive south of Ensenada

I quickly packed an overnite pack, kissed Ana & Naomi, and headed off to Costco in a truck. EOC team member Brenda Barnes (a champion shopper) followed me there & helped load up the truck with 5 coolers of ice & enough food to feed an army.

As I made the trip to Rancho Casitas, I remembered the fire of October 2007, which also was in the vicinity of the ranch, but never threatened it. (see my picasa photo album)

As I arrived at the ranch, I noticed that a crew of firefighters were camped there, along with the Mexican Army! There was also a Helicopter from the Mexican Forestry department.

I quickly learned that the fire was within a mile of the Eastern portion of the ranch, but was threatening the entire southern portion of the ranch from east to West. (I later learned that the fire was estimated to have burned 65,000 acres) The McCoy's, Van Ness' & Johnson's were all so appreciative of the abundance of food, and thankful for the provision of a way to thank the team of nearly 80 people who were working to prevent the fire from threatening their homes.

As we watched the sunset, and felt a change in the barometric pressure, it was obvious that cool damp weather was moving in from the coast. And as the firefighters & soldiers returned to the camp well after dark, all were grateful to hear the news that the fire was contained and mostly out!

What a blessing it was to be with my friends and help them feed these brave heros!

As we woke this morning (Danny & Rick started breakfast for the crew at 5am), aside from the smell of smoke, and some smoldering, you couldn't see any real signs of a fire!

Although they are "out of the woods" we will help them this weekend by hosting a team that is scheduled to stay at Rancho Casitas. (the firefighters are still using the ranch as a base camp)

We don't see ourselves as us & them, we are all One Body.

Here are a few photos form yesterday at the ranch:

Looking Back - Looking Forward

2009-09-26T11:28:00.000-07:00

I always enjoy this time of year. A good time to reflect, both personally & professionally.

I’m one of those old sports guy’s, who always finished the season and analyzed the year’s performance & set goals for the following year.

I still do that, its in my nature.

First are my priorities; Faith, Family, Friends, the Forgotten & finally, Fun. Although if you were to look at an average week, you would probably see that I don’t usually hit the mark at living those out, in that order. But that is my life work!

Ana and I continue to grow & learn, in this amazing journey of marriage. With Naomi celebrating her 2nd birthday last week, we are hoping to try for #2 soon. (we were counseled by our doctor to wait a couple of years)

I’m still learning how to be a friend. Honestly, I spent so much of my life being interested in myself first, so to be interested in others, and learn to love others has not come naturally or easily. But, thanks to some incredibly gracious & patient people coming around me, there are some deep friendships forming. Its also fun reconnecting with some old friends & acquaintances, and eating some humble pie!

This year has certainly reshaped our perspective on life, and I look forward to sharing some thoughts on our plans for 2010. Personally & professionally.

Report:

Two weeks ago, Juan Martinez (fellow EOC staff) & I drove 10 hours south to Mulege, Baja Sur, to view first hand the aftermath of Hurricane Jimena, as well as meet with & encourage local leaders & pastors. The devastation was severe, although hardly reported since it is not a big tourist area like Cabo. As a result, a team of our EOC staff made the trip this past week to connect with, mobilize & coordinate a team of local volunteers in assisting the communities & families in the recovery effort. Juan & Rhonda were able to meet with the Presidente of the Mulege municiple area (the second largest in Mexico, after Ensenada), on Thursday, furthering our relationship building in that area. As they returned late last night, I learned that they we are the only group (at this time) sending people. They are receiving adequate donations from afar, but not people with helping hands & feet. We hope to return with other groups of volunteers from Mexico and possibly the US & Canada.

This past week, two great friends from Ensenada (Danny Mesa & David Garcia), accompanied me to the Bakersfield area for a core group meeting (our personal board), and to help me bring back a donated truck, trailer & large freezer for the EOC. We had a great time & were joined by Steven Wagner Davis, from Roseville.

Keep us in your thoughts & prayers, this coming month.

A Team visiting from Petaluma, California.

Ana continues cooking classes (Sat 8-1, for a year)

Scott finalizes EOC budget for fiscal 2010

Scott hosts a leadership breakfast in Ensenada

Scott visits Virginia Beach for a youth conference

We visit family & home church in Fresno, Ca

We spend a week with family in Palm Springs

Team EOC shapes 2010 planning

We consider how to assist Mulege, Baja Sur in long term hurricane recovery

It continues to be a privilege to serve & love so many. Thank you for your supporting friendships in our lives, which without we wouldn’t be in this position.

Let’s keep trusting in Him, together!

(photos of hurricane damage in Mulege)

Summer Wrap-up

2009-09-15T12:33:00.000-07:00

A memorable summer has come to a conclusion. As the 2009 Summer Season wrapped up at the EOC; Ana, Naomi & I were able to make a couple of quick but memorable trips to be with family in California.

My (Scott's) sister Anastasia's family [Pup (husband), Zach, Sam & Ruth] have camped at Pismo Beach, Ca. along with many other families from their church, NorthPark Community (Clovis, Ca) for a few day's each of the past 8 years. This is the first time we have been able join them (thanks to the awesome staff @ the EOC), along with my sister Victoria's family [Josh & daughter Ramsey], and my parent's [Don & Jo].

We all enjoyed sitting around the camp-fire, laughing and sharing stories, and visiting San Luis Obispo's famous Farmer's Market on Thursday eve (and Woodstock's Pizza!). This was actually the first time we were all together since our wedding in 2006.

A few week's later we joined my Dad for a memorable day at Laguna Seca Raceway, on the Monterey Peninsula, for the 2009 Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races. This was a very special weekend for all of us, since we grew up only a few miles from the race track. I actually spent many days at the track while growing up, since my Dad served as President of the track's President in my childhood (after his racing career).

One of my Dad's most significant (and final) race cars, was a 1966 Porsche Carerra 906 (65 were produced). He was the National Champion that year. In that car.

Many years later, Dann Boeschen of Napa, California purchased the car, and commissioned Rod Emory of Emory Motorsports to restore the car to its 1966 specifications. Dann races the car in numerous Historic events annually.

This year, as Porsche was being honored at Laguna Seca Raceway, during the Historic races, Dann invited my Dad to drive his former car for a few parade laps featuring many former porsche cars & notable drivers (a few celebrities as well - Jay Leno & Jerry Seinfeld).

Dann & his wife treated us like VIP's, and gave us the privilege (especially the grandchildren) of reliving for a day, the glory days of my Dad's racing career. I especially enjoyed watching Zach, Sam & Ruth watch their grandpa Wester sign autographs, pose for pictures and just be cool for a day.

note: Special thanks to Anna & Gary Courtright for their gracious hospitality, housing us during the weekend.

Photos of Pismo Beach family camping & Historic races:

Summer Update

2009-07-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

‘From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked’.

‘Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me’. Jesus of Nazareth

What a transformative year 2009 has been so far. As we started out, it appeared we would continue riding the wave of momentum & growth we had been experiencing for the past couple of years.

Yet as the state of our world changed, so would begin a re-shaping of ministry in Ensenada.

The first sign came as the global economy began to slow; not only did this have an affect on the teams coming to partner with us in Mexico, but it also was having an affect on the people & economy of Mexico.

Did you realize that on average, the 10 million immigrants in the United States send 10% of their salary to family in their home country. And this “remittance” makes up 50-80% of the income for the recipients. This amounted to $26 billion for 2007-2008.

How has the downturn in the US affected these families?

Then the reports of violence escalated in the media. No one will discount that there has been an increase of violence in Mexico over the past couple of years, which is fueled by the US appetite for illegal drugs. This demand for drugs in the US is the source of billions of dollars per year equipping the drug cartels. Additionally, 90% of weapons seized in Mexico have been traced to the US (gun sales are prohibited in Mexico).

How are we impacting the families of Mexico?

Then the Swine Flu! Crippling the local tourism industry in Baja California. All cruise ships were diverted (for a couple of months) from Ensenada to San Diego, which didn’t make much sense since there were a number of Swine Flu cases in San Diego but none in Ensenada!

What message are we sending to the families of Mexico?

The result of these events; 1,000 fewer people are coming to the EOC to minister to families in Enesenada. 37 families who were scheduled to receive a home in 2009 will not. Countless opportunities to demonstrate the love of Jesus to a hungry, helpless & hopeless world are missed.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest IF we do not give up!

You will be made rich in every way SO THAT you can be generous on every occasion

No one has ever seen God; BUT IF we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, AND for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else.

By now we are most of the way through our summer season. What an incredible season it has been. The fruit has been plentiful.

Those who have come have really known why. They have stepped out in faith, trusting God, and He has shown up! He has been seen in the communities of Ensenada.

Villages have witnessed the the love and person of Jesus as His body has come together to become his hand’s & feet.

The joy realized by those who have come has been profound. Transformative even.

But probably the most significant transformation we have witnessed this year is the growth & maturing of the local church in Mexico.

Pray with us for a continued softening of our heart’s & opening of our eye’s, as well as wisdom. We continue to seek first His Kingdom, and believe that as we are faithful, transformation will flourish in Mexico. We believe that along with the proclamation of Jesus’ gift of salvation, He brings compassion & justice.

But the race is not finished yet. Will you persevere with us? Will you consider offering part of yourself for this mission?

What are you willing to give for the sake of Jesus and His message, in Mexico?

2009-06-22T12:31:00.000-07:00

Ana, Naomi & I were fortunate enough to fly from San Diego to Chicago for a week long visit with our dear friend and former intern Janell. Along with enjoying the sites in Chicago (which Ana stated is now her favorite US city), we spent 26 hours in the car visiting relatives in Nebraska & South Dakota.

Enjoy a few photos from the trip. (This was our first flight as a family; great going, "vomit comet" returning:) Continued thanks to Rhonda for lending us her dvd player so Naomi could enjoy Dora the Explorer in flight!

Walking by faith

2009-05-26T18:37:00.000-07:00

I have to admit I have been feeling a bit down lately. I have previously expressed some of the difficulties we have been experiencing this year (in the ministry), and my tendency to carry this burden.

Additionally our personal support has been falling. [Mind you we have never been at a point where our core group has felt like we have had an adequate cushion] Back in April I stated to our core group that Ana, Naomi & I could get by on less; so starting this month we are receiving about 40% of what we have been regularly receiving to cover our living & travel expenses. Which should be just enough to cover our food & Naomi’s expenses. Our insurance is already paid (just last month we paid for the whole year up front in order to receive a discount) so we should be fine.

When I compare ourselves to many of the people we are here to help, I can’t help but feel overly blessed. We have a roof over our heads, we have access to clean water (hot water too) & food on the table.

Yet I still struggle with doubt and listening to my human nature. I still worry. And unfortunately it shows.

And although I still get side-tracked with having a pitty-party, God still is good. He still shows up, and still let’s me know he has called us to be with him here.

Case in point:

Yesterday was the monthly pastor’s prayer meeting here at EOC. This is a gathering that pastor Abraham started last year. Normally anywhere from 10 - 30 pastors will come. They pray with & for one another, for the city, national leaders etc.

I was home with Ana & Naomi around 6:30pm when Abraham knocked on the door, he said it was important that I go with him because the pastors wanted to pray for me (as the Director of EOC), the EOC staff & all YUGO teams that will come this year.

Not only were they wanting to pray for me, they were wanting to demonstrate their desire to take action as the body of Christ. They had taken an offering, and wanted to bless us, and plant a seed of partnership with us.

THIS WAS HUGE!

Abraham & I have been praying for this for two years. That the local church would grow from a position of receiving to a position of giving.

I was stunned at God’s timing and how he allowed this to unfold. How this happens while I am walking through a valley, doing a lousy job of trusting him. He is still with us, though!

This is what I read yesterday morning with our staff:

God sometimes allows you to get into a place of testing where your own welfare would be the appropriate thing to consider, if you were not living the life of faith. But if you are, you will joyfully waive your right and allow God to make your choice for you. (Oswald Chambers)

Oh, how I want to live a life of faith. Trusting in His ways. Willing to give up my rights.

Its so easy to say I trust in God when life is easy. But when it gets difficult, even dark; do I really trust him? Do I really live by faith?

Maybe this summer I will learn how to walk the talk.

Thanks to all of you who pray for us. We love you.

Scott

2009 Avia Wildflower Triathlon

2009-05-06T13:38:00.000-07:00

So, you may have heard me tell stories of my first (Spint distance, mountain bike) Triathlon, five years ago. Well last weekend Ana, Naomi & I drove north to Lake San Antonio (near Paso Robles, Ca) to camp in the rain (in leaky tents no less) so I could subject my less than conditioned body to another round of 1/4 mile swim, 10 mile (hilly) mountain bike, and 2 mile run (or walk in my case).

Enjoy the photo's of the weekend.

By the way, it's always great to return to an area where my family spent many of our summers growing up (we had a house at nearby Lake Nacimiento), I remember visiting the Bee Rock store for some Sasparilla after being on the lake.

This weekend inspired me to not wait another five years until the next Triathlon. Ana said, "imagine how well you could do if you actually trained for it!"

Naomi's morning exercise

2009-05-06T11:44:00.000-07:00

Spring Update

2009-04-24T14:55:00.000-07:00

Spring Highlights:

We traveled as a family to visit friends in Tehachapi, Bakersfield, Fresno & Mexicali. I (Scott) spoke at a Transformation Conference; visited churches in Fresno, Roseville & Memphis.

We (EOC staff) hosted 21 Teams from 5 Canadian provinces & 4 US states (495 people) and built 30 houses (thanks go to our special guest staff during the Easter weeks: Mitch Caton, Bruce Wessels, Josh Weibe, Darrel & Rhonda Hewko).

It has been a wonderful time of being with people of many nations who share a love for Jesus, their neighbor (who often is from a neighboring country), and being together in community.

This continues to be a year of focus: Why are we here? Who are we here for? What are we doing? We keep coming back to the principle of people not programs. We are here to Mobilize, Reach & Equip people. We minister to Children, Families, Pastors, Communities & Teams. We utilize various programs to be with one another, but we are here for people!

When it gets tough, when the road is long, we are able to persevere for the person. We are keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, trying to walk the message we speak. But I will tell you its not easy.

We have had two of our precious national staff leave over the past few months, due to the fact that they need a better source of income for their families. That's hard. Even though we are able to offer our national staff a decent wage (by Mexico standard), its not enough. Our national staff earn around $3.75 an hour. You might be shocked by that, but realize that 10,000,000 people in Mexico live on less that $2.00 a day & the national minimum wage is just $6.00 per DAY. Not per hour, PER DAY.

So you can imagine that while there is a slowdown in the US economy, and we may have to make difficult choices as American's & Canadian's, there are people being affected whose lives were in a fragile state before this crisis started. How many of us need to chose between which of our kids goes without eating today? With our cancellations due to the Economy & media hype about violence, we have 35 families in our program waiting to receive houses, but likely won't this year. Yes, countless more also need houses, but these are the families who were already selected, but as teams have cancelled, we have had to inform them that the situation has changed.

Imagine the position of the local pastor we are "Equipping". After he has selected a family to receive a house, and we have approved them and filmed the interview. Now we, along with the pastor have to return with the news of change.

Can you imagine this? This is where we are this year. Please keep us in your prayers.

I can tell you I need your prayers. I can say that it is not easy living by faith. Not knowing if people like you will continue to support us & our work. Its not easy to focus my attention on the people who need it most; my family, my staff & the forgotten people of Mexico, when I am not sure how we will have enough to keep going.

Please pray that we, that I keep my eyes fixed on Jesus.

May we fix our eyes on Jesus, the author & perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross. Consider him who endured such opposition, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12

Spring photos

2009-04-24T14:49:00.001-07:00

2009-03-23T16:33:00.000-07:00

This was my fourth year going to be with & assist a dear friend, who has been meeting with delegates from Latin America for a number of years (and recently the Middle East as well).
In many ways, the NPB is a difficult place for me to really get to know people, due to the size of the event, and the amount of people. [I believe around 4,000 attend the breakfast] But over the last few years a number of friendships have started through this time, and this year I came away with a real sense of having connected on a deeper level with a few of the people I have been getting to know over the years.

There are three areas (and friends in those areas) Ana & I have been praying for since 2006. Chiapas, Mexico (we visited on our Honeymoon), Colombia & Ecuador. We really believe God has a purpose in these friendships, and I ask you to join with us in praying for the State of Chiapas, Mexico (as you pray for Baja California as well), and the countries of Ecuador & Colombia.

The opportunity exists for visiting these places and the friends there, we just don't know when.
What continues to amaze me, is the realization that we are participants in a global work, that spans across all aspects of society, culture, marketplace & economic strata. All of us, who are in the fellowship of believers in Jesus, are connected in this work. Its easy for me to focus on the work I am doing, or what's right in front of me, but I am so thankful for the opportunity to have a glimpse of the diversity in how God is working around the world.

In my continued role as Director of YUGO’s Ensenada Outreach Center, I must confess that this year has gotten off to a difficult start. We have seen a number of teams cancel due to the economy or fear. My natural response to this was to stress about how this could impact the ministry. Sometimes its almost funny, how I quickly forget this is NOT my ministry! This, in turn, takes a toll on my precious wife & daughter. Please keep praying for us.

Another season has begun. I believe this will be a defining year. A moment we look back on and see a major shift in our lives. Yes, its a life long journey, but there are moments in our lives, when the walk becomes a little more difficult; where we receive clarity in understanding our purpose, and who we are called to be. I am so thankful we are not on this journey alone. Ana & I pray for you all, and we thank you for your prayers & support for the work we are involved in. We truly believe we are part of a whole body, connected in spirit & love with you in this global work that we are all a part of. "Forming One Body, Building One Community, Transforming the World"

Yours in Christ Jesus,

Ana, Scott & Naomi Wester

2009 National Prayer Breakfast

2009-02-11T13:31:00.000-08:00

I recently returned from Washington DC, having traveled there for the National Prayer Breakfast (NPB). This year there were delegates from 178 countries (there are presently 240 countries in the World, in case you were wondering), attending not only the annual breakfast, but also a number of events over a four day period.

This was my fourth year going to be with & assist a dear friend, who has been meeting with delegates from Latin America for a number of years (and recently the Middle East as well).

In many ways, the NPB is a difficult place for me to really get to know people, due to the size of the event, and the amount of people. [I believe around 4,000 attend the breakfast] But over the last few years a number of friendships have started through this time, and this year I came away with a real sense of having connected on a deeper level with a few of the people I have been getting to know over the years.

There are three areas (and friends in those areas) Ana & I have been praying for since 2006. Chiapas, Mexico (we visited on our Honeymoon), Colombia & Ecuador. We really believe God has a purpose in these friendships, and I ask you to join with us in praying for the State of Chiapas, Mexico (as you pray for Baja California as well), and the countries of Ecuador & Colombia.

The opportunity exists for visiting these places and the friends there, we just don't know when.

What continues to amaze me, is the realization that we are participants in a global work, that spans accross all aspects of society, culture, marketplace & economic strata. All of us, who are in the fellowship of believers in Jesu, are connected in this work. Its easy for me to focus on the work I am doing, or what's right in front of me, but I am so thankful for the opportunity to have a glimpse of the diversity in how God is working around the world.

We are so grateful for your prayers & support in this global work that we are all a part of. "Forming One Body, Building One Community"

She's a climber

2009-01-08T13:06:00.000-08:00

Fall Update

2008-11-06T12:30:00.000-08:00

What a challenge it is to operate within the structure of an “Organization” with the goal of being “Organic”. We truly want to be “Spirit led”, yet we also have the responsibility to Plan, Prepare & Provide for those who join us for a few days, or a week of their lives.

“And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit” Paul the Apostle

About a year ago, I started to ask the question, “What does a transformed Ensenada look like”? We could build a house for every family in Ensenada, but would that be a transformed city? Every child participating in a VBS could “make a descision” for Jesus, but would that be a transformed city?

I see cities being transformed as Jesus pours out Grace & Love. I see hurting people like the bleeding woman (whom Jesus calls daughter), like Zacchaeus (a friend of no one, but Jesus stays at his house), or the man born blind (having grown up believing his blindness was the consequence of his parent’s sin) being Loved, Healed & Transformed.

As I continue to study the life of Jesus. As I continue to surrender my life to Jesus. As I continue to be transformed into a new creation. I want to allow God’s will to be done on earth as it is in Heaven.

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” Jesus of Nazareth

I believe loving people is our first priority. Any program we offer is only a facilitator for opportunity to love people. When we are loving people, as Jesus loves, we are His ambassadors and His evangalists. “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love” Paul the Apostle

“Outreach” - 1) to reach beyond; exceed; 2) to reach out; 3) an act or instance of reaching out

“May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” Jesus’ prayer in the garden

This Thanksgiving the EOC staff and their families will come together and we will share in the ministry of loving a family & a community. We are all often working with teams, but rarely have we taken the opportunity to serve the community together. We will come together; a diverse and messy group of God’s children, but we will come together as one body. We will work together in community, as community. We will devote ourselves to Jesus’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. I believe we will be filled with awe, and we will witness many wonders and even a few miracles. I hope and pray that as we practice loving one another; the community we work in will be loved, and experience the love of Jesus Christ. I pray that the lives of the family we love will be transformed in Jesus. I pray that the community will experience transformation.

Isn’t this Outreach? Isn’t this Evangelism? Isn’t this Transformation?

Occasionally I am reminded of the fact that sometimes God has a different agenda than I have. Am I willing to be open to God’s methods of reaching his people?

What is important? The hand being raised or the heart being renewed?

I want to learn how we can become more flexible, allowing God to use us in any way He needs to, in order to fulfill His mission of Transforming lives, communities and nations; for His Glory.

I continue to assess, “why are we doing what we’re doing”? I continue to look at “how” we are participating in the “field”. Asking, “how can we be about personal encounters with the person of Jesus (something very organic), while operating within a dynamic, structured, missional ministry (organization)?”

This I know, it is all about relationships, unity in spirit, community & love.

I continue to serve at the pleasure of our Lord, Jesus.
Yours in Him,

Scott C Wester

Aug & Sep photos

2008-10-06T22:17:00.000-07:00

End of Summer Vacation

2008-09-11T11:28:00.000-07:00

Ana, Naomi & I are enjoying a few weeks of vacation. The first couple of weeks we have been home, with no one in the camp, it has been really restful. September is always such a beautiful month in Ensenada. Warm clear days, beautiful sunsets, cooling nights, and few tourists!!
Ana has been going to a "Curves" (Mexico) gym Monday - Friday for an hour. I have really enjoyed this time, each morning to be with Naomi. She is growing so fast.

This Friday (Sep 12th) we will embark on a seven day trip through California, visiting friends in Vista, Los Angeles, Salinas, Monterey, Carmel, Carmel Valley & Bakersfield.

This will be the first time that we will visit my hometown (Carmel Valley) as a family. Along the way we will be staying with (and re-connecting) with friends.

I will be sure and post some photos.

Fatherhood – Marriage – Life

2008-08-22T14:33:00.001-07:00

Talk about a change in Lifestyle. My, how fatherhood changes EVERYTHING! Driving style, sleep, spontaneous trips, afternoons at the local coffee shop, sleeping in, morning devotion, time, anything about me, understanding of Grace & Unconditional Love, Patience, Joy, Gentleness, gun ownership (well, we have a few years still); just a few of the aspects of our lives that have been impacted these past 10 months. And we Love it! We Love our daughter Naomi. We love her smiles, sounds, energy, watching her sleep face down in the corner of her crib with her butt straight up in the air. It’s all the thousands of little things that are truly, uniquely Naomi Wester.
My beautiful wife Ana. What can I say? She is everything I aspire to be. And she is so gracious and patient with me. I love to listen to her (baby monitor in my office) as she sings and loves on Naomi each and every day. She spoils me. Even brings meals to my desk when I forget to eat (yes it happens). She has been able to return to spending some time working with the kitchen crew (preparing 300+ meals per day) and developing a crew of four women caring for the camp facility. This has been possible since Ana’s niece, Anahi, has been able to spend a few nights a week with us.
We continue to work on putting our marriage first, which I fail to do many days. We are developing some good habits though; two hours together (1-3pm) everyday, Wednesday “Date Day” & mornings with Ozzie (Oswald Chambers).
Please continue to pray for us. We continue to realize, with ever-growing humility (we hope), that we are partners in a work that is very influential and life changing in the lives of literally hundreds of families and thousands of people. We seek to focus on our first ministry: To love one another, as He has loved us; then on our parenting, families & friends and our work.
We are so grateful for our families and Friends. And let me confess that I am not doing an adequate job of communicating with you, our friends. One on One conversation is easy for me. But carving out the time to write, is tough. But it is a habit I want to grow in. And quite frankly, in our life, I need to. Please forgive me, for neglecting this. For allowing the demands of the work to absorb and distract me.

Swimming with Naomi

2008-08-22T14:27:00.000-07:00

Checking in

2008-08-02T08:52:00.000-07:00

Three weeks to go and still going strong. It's hard to believe that 9 weeks ago we started our summer season. Time flies by.

Needless to say, this year has flown by. Is it ok to say I am still getting up to speed on parenthood? As you can see below, Naomi is growing fast, and moving around. As I write this update, she is crawling around my office floor (one of the few rooms we have access to with carpet), she loves to crawl over to this one box (filled with YUGO training manuals) and stand up and try to open the box. Sometimes she is successful, but she often is entertained for 15-20 minutes with this simple "toy".

We are in the midst of a record year for the EOC. This despite the fact that a few teams dropped off due to the economy & concerns over the US media's coverage of Tijuana's drug related violence. In the late spring I reviewed our budget and adjusted our spending, with the probable forecast of lower than expected revenue. I am pleased to say that our revenue is on track to beat our initial estimate.

Ana has returned to helping in the EOC kitchen. She is enjoying the time serving & being with friends. It also gives her a break from mommy duties. (thanks in big part to her neice, Anahi)

The interesting perspective on the numbers is; we are busier than ever, yet we really don't feel like we are tired. As a family we have been able to get away more often than last year, even in the midst of one of our busiest weeks. I think that is a testament to the incredible team of men & women who are partnering with us.

I apologize for the lack of updates over the past few months. This is a discipline I need to grow in. But for those of you who do continue to have an interest in following our journey, through this blog, Thank You.

She's crawling...& standing!

2008-07-09T16:13:00.000-07:00

Naomi bathing @ my sister Anastasia's house

2008-05-28T14:35:00.000-07:00

Celebrating 2 years of marriage!

2008-05-16T22:44:00.000-07:00

That’s right, Ana & I celebrated two years of marriage, May 6th, in new parent fashion (with Naomi in tow), in San Diego. After a leisurely stroll through “Little Italy” with a scrumptious dinner, we retired to our hotel room with a view of San Diego’s magnificent bay. Delighting in a tiramisu desert delivered to our room.

It was wonderful sitting on the balcony together, holding our daughter, watching the city; talking about where we are, how we’re doing, how we’re growing.

How life & perspective changes, in two short years!

more Spring photos

2008-03-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

Visiting Tory & Stacy (Scott's sisters)

2008-03-29T09:55:00.000-07:00

Spring Update # 1

2008-03-27T17:10:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, from your experiences, becoming new parents changes your life in dramatic ways. As we are now six months into this new chapter of our lives, Ana & I continue to be so thankful for our daughter Naomi. Watching her grow and learn new things daily is amazing.

Thank you, dear friends, for your continued prayers and support. I have not done an adequate job of communicating & keeping all of you up to date, through these past few months. Thank you for your patience & grace.

The first quarter of 2008 has been a real full one, for us. Here are a few of the highlights:

I had the privilege of once again, traveling to Washington DC, for the National Prayer Breakfast. This was the third year that I have had the privilege of helping to serve a dear friend who is working with leaders from Latin America. I always walk away inspired by the lives of men & women working for peace & justice, in the name & spirit of Jesus.
I was especially touched by the lives of two men. One a pastor from Colombia, and the other, a Palestinian-Arab-Christian peace activist from the Middle East. Both having lived incredibly difficult lives, yet their passion to love their enemies (as we are instructed to do, by Jesus of Nazareth), is awe-inspiring!

Ana, Naomi & I went on our first road trip as a family. This was also their first real trip into the US (we did make two day-trips to San Diego in Jan), as we visited Churches, Friends & Family in Nevada & California. Ana especially enjoyed the scenery in the Lake Tahoe area (lots of snow) and the Sierra Nevada Foothills. We loved being with my sisters & their families, the Peterson’s in Roseville (along with all our friends @ VSPC), my parents & a wonderful gathering of friends in Bakersfield, and finally with dear friends (the Snyder’s) in Laguna Niguel.
Naomi was a real trooper, as we drove 1,100 miles the first two days!

Upon our return to Ensenada, the spring season kicked into gear & continues until the 12th of April. [21 teams & 27 houses]

Grace be with you, Scott Wester

Stay tuned for part 2 (an update on our lives @ the EOC)

Spring Photos

2008-03-27T12:34:00.000-07:00

Ana & Naomi's first trip to the United States

2008-01-09T20:16:00.000-08:00

January 8th, 2008

Ana, Naomi, Janell Stevens, Kimyco Hudspeth & I crossed over the border for Ana & Naomi's first visit to the United States.

Janell had flown in from Nebraska a week earlier to visit, and Ana's VISA arrived in Ensenada Friday. So we were all able to make the trip up to the airport on Tuesday.

We had just enough time to hit a few spots (Starbucks, Target, San Diego's waterfront), but it was a fun first experience for Ana.

Thank you all for your prayers throughout Ana's Visa Process. Her current VISA is valid through 2017!

Ana's VISA

2007-12-11T17:19:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, December 10th, Ana was granted her US tourist VISA! Praise God!
We thank all who have kept her in their prayers.

We will receive her VISA within the next 30 days; and it is valid for ten years.
We are looking forward to visiting many of our family & friends this coming year.

ps. We have already received Naomi's US passport & "born abroad" birth certificate. Even though she was born in Mexico, she became a US & Mexican citizen the moment she was born.

Ministry Report

2007-11-02T18:32:00.000-07:00

How amazing it is to look back a year or two and see the road traveled, and God’s presence throughout the journey.

This past summer I was humbled to hear a number of friends comment on how our prayers of two & three years ago are being answered. Not prayers for things. Not prayers for us. But Prayers of seeing a transformation of a ministry for the Glory of God’s Kingdom!

Last fall, as Ana & I accepted the role of leading a team in Ensenada, we were certain that if we gave everything to Jesus, followed his teachings and were in relationship with him as the center of our lives & ministry; we could not fail!

I had a decision to make. To use an illustration: If we, as a ministry are a ship, which role on the ship would I fill? Would I be the Captain? As the Director, the natural thought is to drive, right? But for a few years I had been serving on the ship, alongside other crew and passengers; and I had determined that we needed a better ship. My job wasn’t to be the Captain; my job is to be the architect. To build a ship that will suit the voyages & missions it is sent on. To build a crew to properly operate the ship as well as provide hospitality to its passengers. And finally, to build a ship that is a credit to the flag it flies.

Our ship is a missional ship. Our crew is a missionary crew. Our passengers are mission teams as well as stranded castaways. Our flag is the Kingdom of God. And we are on a voyage of transformation!

I share this illustration to demonstrate how we are learning and growing in Jesus. See, I always wanted to be the Captain; the suit, the presence, the authority, the power, the recognition etc. For me, becoming the architect is not in my nature. Although it is something I am gifted to do. But my ego enjoys being the Captain. However I have realized that I don’t want to be the Captain of a sinking ship! And more importantly, I do not best serve the Kingdom as a captain! I can best serve by building a ship that not only floats, but also accomplishes the Kingdom’s mission!

We see fruit of this transformation, and we humbly ask you for your prayers as we embark on the voyage of Parenthood, as well as our continued work in Mexico; that we would grow in knowledge and be able to discern the best way, to build the ship!

Thank you for your friendship, love, prayers & support,

Ana, Scott & Naomi Wester

Nona's photos

2007-10-19T20:05:00.001-07:00

Naomi Ruth - New Photos

2007-10-11T11:57:00.001-07:00

The Wester Family Grows

2007-09-23T15:58:00.000-07:00

On Friday September 21st @ 4pm, in Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico; Naomi Ruth Wester was born!

Ana & I were advised that a Cesarean birth was necessary due to some tests performed Thursday. (Naomi's heart rate elevated) The Cesarean went well, Ana was really calm, and I was very thankful I was able to be with her and hold her hand throughout the surgery.

At 4pm Naomi took her first breath of air; an incredible feeling for us to hear her for the first time! She weighed 6 lbs. 9 oz. & 20.4 inches.

Today we brought Naomi home, and we are just getting settled in. Enjoy the photos below!

Thank you for all your prayers, wishes & gifts! We are so thankful for our friends & family.

Photos of Naomi

2007-09-23T14:38:00.001-07:00

Video from this summer @ the EOC

2007-08-21T19:22:00.001-07:00

In my role as Director of YUGO's Ensenada Outreach Center; I have the privilege of being a part of an incredible team of volunteer staff from the US & Canada, as well as a team of dedicated national staff from Mexico. Together we hosted forty teams (1,200 people) from 15 US states & Canada, over the course of twelve weeks. Enjoy this dedication day video from one of this summer's weeks; and for more videos, see the side bar!

Thoughts @ the Panteon [spanish for cemetary]

2007-08-21T18:59:00.000-07:00

Aug 16th Ana & I took her family to the gravesite of her sister Ruth. (she was born Aug 16th 1975)
Ruth died on July 25th 2004 of diabetes. (a leading cause of death in Mexico & other developing countries)

I will never forget the night that Ruth died. It was late and a few of us from the camp drove over to the hospital after I finished speaking. At first I was surprised at the size of the crowd that had gathered; secondly I was surprised at the mood! The only word I could think of was an intense peace!

Later that night relatives from out of town started arriving at the camp (YUGO EOC). It was after midnight as one carload of relatives pulled up. I led them to the room where the family were staying, quietly opened the door (not wanting to disturb the family) only to discover the family fervently praying & praising God!

I will always remember Ruth's funeral (the following day - my first in Mexico). I think it was similar to the wish my mom had for hers. A celebration of LIFE! I remember seeing Ana & her mom Carmen dancing in the front of the church, celebrating in the knowledge of Ruth being in the presence of Jesus.

Just as we wiped clean Ruth's gravestone, Jesus has done the same for us!

Update on Ana's Pregnancy

2007-08-10T09:24:00.000-07:00

Ana and an Ultrasound @ 32 weeks [can you see the head, chest & hand?]

Ana is just over seven months pregnant. She has still been helping in the kitchen at the outreach center daily (WOW what a trooper!)

We have been going to an obstetrician in a private hospital in Ensenada. At this time we are preparing to have the baby in Mexico, since Ana will not be eligible for a visa appointment until after the baby is born.

Please pray for all aspects of the birth, finances for the private hospital ($1,500 - $3,000 depending on natural birth or C-section), and favor at her next VISA appointment (Oct 22nd)

A tough day!

2007-06-21T15:17:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was one of the toughest days Ana & I have experienced as a married couple. It started out as an exciting day filled with optimism and dreams; but quickly turned into a frustrating & tearful experience.

Ana’s VISA application was denied.

We hadn’t anticipated this, we figured since I am an American, it would be simple for her to receive a travel VISA. We were wrong. I can’t remember having been so sad, in the past five years. We sat in the car and wept, and I started to get angry! Angry & disgusted in my country; that is considering giving 12 million people (who have broke the law & crossed illegally) who have no rights, VISA’s, yet I as an American cannot get a travel VISA for my wife! I was really bitter!

Then I arrived back at the Outreach Center (we are hosting four groups) and realized I needed to prepare to speak at our nightly chapel. I didn’t even feel like talking to anyone, let alone be spiritual!

I began to think about Jesus’ first disciples; and how they must have been shocked when Jesus was arrested. (even though Jesus told them it was coming) Peter certainly got angry (he even cut off a guard’s ear). They were not seeing the BIG picture, only their perspective.

Then I remembered the work God desires of me; “the work of God is this: to Believe in the one he has sent” Jesus’ words in John 6:29 I need to believe & trust!

In a moment I started to have a new perspective. Maybe there is a larger plan at work here in our lives! Yes, I need to trust.

This doesn’t take away the hurt, but it does bring peace, and hope.

And so we continue to believe, and trust.

MEMORIAL WEEKEND

2007-05-26T10:07:00.000-07:00

We have enjoyed a bit of down time, after the busy spring season; celebrating our one year anniversary & camping in San Felipe (with 13 fellow staff) take a look at the EOC blog (Ensenada Outreach Center) @ eocyugo.blogspot.com, and checkout photos of the trip

Ana's pregnancy is going well; she is expecting in early October!

Scott is enjoying a special weekend with his dad in Indianapolis, for the Indy 500! (pictures coming soon!)

We kick off our summer season June 3rd with 12 consecutive weeks (1,400+ people) as we host 40 teams of youth & adults, coming to Mexico to serve the local churches through a variety of wholeistic ministry, including 63 houses.

We would love to hear how you will be spending your summer. send us an email!

We continue to be so thankful for health, great friends & partners in Ensenada, and other parts of the world. Enjoy this Memorial weekend!

Thanks to our friends Andrew & Jessica Hughes, for recently redesigning our blog; and encouraging us to keep up with regular updates!

SPRING REPORT

2007-05-26T10:01:00.000-07:00

PURPOSE

As we reach the half-way point of 2007, we have an opportunity to see how we are realizing objectives we set at the beginning of the year. We focused on our purpose for ministry, development of staff leadership & team building, terminology & organizational structure, and ministry programs & systems.

After three months of preparation we entered into the busy spring season, which we have just completed (Feb 1 – Apr 30); with attendance of 1,400+ persons from 36 different groups, from the US & Canada. We introduced our new home program “HECHOS 2007” to the teams, ventured into new communities (Uruapan & Sauzal), hosted two retreats for local Mexican churches and continue to develop an ever widening community of relationships in Mexico.

COMMUNITY

Mardy & Brenda Barnes continue to grow quickly into valuable members of the EOC team. Mardy’s wisdom, skill, heart and mature spirit have allowed him to gain the respect and trust of the Outreach team (many of whom have been hurt through past leadership). He is a true example of walking the talk. He is a patient teacher, with attention to detail & quality. We are seeing real fruit in his work!

Brenda is a full of energy, passion, ideas, love, laughter and a heart for hospitality. She not only connects well with adults, but has become the “camp Mom” to our young staff and youth teams. She puts her touch on Women’s ministry, New Home Care Packages, staff lunches or any opportunity she gets to love people through hospitality. We are so blessed to have them!

Pastor Abraham Valdez has also become an incredibly valuable addition to the team. He is a crucial link between EOC and the local pastoral community. In addition he serves a pastoral role for our staff, leading many of our staff bible studies, and providing counsel through the continual reconciliation needed in a team of diverse individuals. His vision is being broadened through this process, and we continue to envision the building of more “canals” in this process of connecting teams & resources through YUGO to the Mexican Church.

HOSPITALITY

From a mission team perspective, we continue to raise the quality of their experience (a crucial foundation for continued growth). We are continuing to communicate more effectively with teams prior to their arrival (thanks to the great job AJ does) and this directly relates to their perceived quality of outreach. Additionally, with higher quality meals, addition of video highlights in team chapels, and an overall attention to detail, this is having an affect on our expenses, and I continue to be attentive to operating within our current budget & pricing; although we are currently over-budget in a few key areas for year to date. I do not take this lightly, and with continued assistance from Bob, I am working towards the balance of building growth momentum versus going broke!

We are assessing the reality of what it costs to provide ministry at this level at our current pricing; and will address this further in the next update at the conclusion of the summer season.

OUTREACH

What fruit we are seeing! At this writing we have 26 pastors participating in the Home Program.; which is really becoming a vehicle for evangelism & discipleship. Of the 34 families receiving houses via this new program, 22 were not believers, but HAVE accepted Christ as their Savior, and are now attending church! We set a goal of ¾ of the houses being used for evangelism, yet a number of the pastors are exclusively selecting non believing families. Even connecting some of these families with other churches located closer to the home. The level of unity we are starting to see among the pastors is incredibly encouraging.

From the church teams’ perspective, I continue to receive very positive feedback. Groups are thankful the families are being followed up with, after they receive Jesus (and their house). Some how the tone is much more purposeful when a pastor arrives at EOC Monday morning, to meet the team and take them out to a family that he has selected. This direct relationship with a local pastor is also giving a higher percentage of teams an opportunity to participate in a local church service (something which was often discouraged before). The result is more groups becoming interested in other aspects of outreach in addition to home building.

The team is coming together, we are focused on the goals and excited to enter into the upcoming summer season. Knowing that when a team is prepared for service, in heart & mind; and we strategically connect them in the community, God shows up and miracles take place!

Quarterly Report

2007-03-20T20:42:00.001-07:00

Friends,

I apologize that it has been more than a month since our last update. We have not only been deeply invested in our work in Ensenada, but we also found out that Ana is pregnant! She has had two ultra-sounds (everything looks fine) and we believe she is due the first or second week of October.

This news heightens our desire to acquire a VISA for Ana, giving us the option of delivery in the US. Please pray with us for the necessary support to provide Insurance!

I have decided to attach my First Quarter Report for EOC (Nov – Jan) to give you a glimpse of what we have been doing these past couple of months. We are so excited to see the early first fruits from these changes.

Thank you for being with us,

Ana & Scott Wester

FIRST QUARTER REPORT – 2007

EOC

Ensenada Outreach Center

PURPOSE – COMMUNITY – HOSPITALITY – OUTREACH

INTRODUCTION

As the first quarter of 2007 started we took a look at the past in order to grow and ready ourselves for the future. We focused on our purpose for ministry, development of staff leadership & team building, terminology & organizational structure, and ministry programs & systems. *see EOC organizational chart

BUILDING COMMUNITY

Our community starts with our staff. Twenty one persons at the time of this writing, made up of Mexican, American, Canadian & Indian nations. We are coming together as a staff daily to pray with and for one another. We are studying God’s word together at regularly scheduled staff meetings and studies, and practicing Jesus’ example of going out two by two.

This EOC community extends out into Ensenada, as well as stretching across borders to the north. We recognize that without our facilities, this ministry could still exist; yet without this community of relationships, this ministry would not exist.

PROVIDING HOSPITALITY

We are seeing ourselves less as a camp and more as an outreach center. Part of outreach is providing the hospitality to short-term mission teams, additionally we are opening up our door to provide and practice hospitality to our local Mexican community. We are hosting dinners, luncheons & breakfasts for pastors, churches, children & youth groups; as well as to the poor in need.

FACILITATING OUTREACH

Our core ministry continues to be the connecting together of short-term North American mission teams with the local Mexican church & their communities. We are committed to become less visible as a ministry to the local community. What I mean by this statement is; in the past all ministry programs were “ours”, conceived, planned, coordinated and facilitated by “Campo de Suenos”. If you were in need, in the local community, you would make the trip to the gates of Campo de Suenos to submit your plea for help. (Home, food, blankets, clothes etc) In our present course of building a community of connected relationships with the local churches, we are equipping them to be the “local” outreach centers. In turn, as people in need go directly to the local church, we are becoming less visible.

We currently are working with some 50+ area pastors/ churches, coordinating all facets of outreach ministry through them & their churches. Now when a YUGO team enters a village for ministry, we are there at the invitation of the local pastor; participating in his local outreach ministry.

BY THE NUMBERS

During the months of November & December we hosted twelve groups (600+ people), constructed one church building, coordinated seven VBS/ Evangelistic programs, two medical clinics, distributed over 2,500 Christmas gifts (Project Joy), helped our brothers at Grace Children’s Home, and built seven homes. Untold numbers of lives were impacted and transformed from a physical & more importantly, Kingdom perspective.

A MILESTONE EVENING

January, although a quiet month from the perspective of not having any groups, may have been the most significant of the three months of this first quarter. On the evening of January 4^th, we hosted an invitation only dinner, for ten select pastors and their wives. This evening officially commenced our new Homes for the Poor program, “HECHOS 2007”. What makes this year’s program different from years past is that these ten pastors (along with an additional ten pastors upcoming in February) will be the “frontline” connection for this program. They will select the families, provide volunteers for pouring the floor, introduce the building team to the family (first day of build) as well as be present for the home dedication by the building team (final day of build). This along with a commitment to continue in the all-important follow-up ministry (after the short-term team has returned home). Each participating pastor will receive four homes for the year 2007. This act of “giving away” of our ministry is crucial to fulfilling YUGO’s 2^nd Goal [teaching Mexicans to win others to Christ & make disciples of them]. We continue to provide coordination, logistics and oversight to this area of the ministry, yet in the eyes of the local community, we (EOC) are becoming less visible as the place to go for help/ handouts. The local church is being equipped to minister to the spiritual needs as they also care for the physical needs of their community.

ON THE HORIZON

As we prepare to host our first spring teams of 2007, we continue to pray for the development of our leadership team and fortify strongholds. Some weaknesses remain; the EOC properties are in the names of multiple landowners (not affiliated with YUGO MX), local staff is in a “grey” area of employment and numerous EOC vehicles have outdated registrations. These are unacceptable liabilities, and are on the top of my priority list.

In the upcoming quarter we are expecting 1,200+ guests, constructing 33 homes, coordinating 10 community projects, numerous VBS/ Evangelistic outreaches and hosting a Mexican women’s weekend retreat. We pray that whatever we do, whether in word or deed, we do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving all thanks to God the Father through him.

Scott C Wseter

Director

Ensenada Outreach Center

Visit to Rosario

2006-12-20T18:58:00.000-08:00

Today, Ana & I drove four hours south (from Ensenada), to the town of Rosario. A community of approx 5,000 people (mostly fishing and a bit of farming) and three churches (totaling approx 250 people).
We went to meet with one of the churches, that has a vision to grow. They have raising their own funds over the past two years to replace their aging (and crumbling) church building. This past summer, they raized the old building and spent one month preparing the foundation & floor for the new building ($3,000) that is 42' x 68'.
It is great to see a small church in a poor area of Mexico, trusting in God, giving of their own, in order to realize a vision.
We talked about having vision and training up leaders, while reaching out to the community.

It is our hope to continue connecting people & resources to areas further south in Mexico. Please pray with us as we are open to partnering with this church seeing this vision become a reality.

November 2006 Mexico

2006-11-23T12:43:00.000-08:00

Wow! What a ride!
Have you ever been on a ride when you think you are getting to the end, or a smooth & slow part, and then you round the corner and YYYYAAAAHHHHHOOOOOOO!!!! Another set of turns, dips and loops. Sometimes we love these rides, sometimes we don’t.

First, an update on past events. My mother-in-law Carmen has recovered from her eye surgeries & diabetic complications. She does not have anymore pain in her eye or head (this had been occurring for years); although she has not regained her sight (she did experience a brief period after her surgery with vision). It is a real blessing to not be experiencing the pain, and she did not lose her eye! She looks better than I have seen her in a year!

As you know, I have been sharing with you (these past few months) our journey of how we are following Jesus in our daily lives, in Mexico. I have shared some general thoughts of how we want to be “Loving the Forgotten” through building relationships, in Mexico as well as with our friends in the US & Canada.

We have a natural base of relationships in Ensenada (from my 4 ½ yrs & Ana’s life) and growing friendships in more remote parts of Mexico as well. The continuing question has been; how to connect all this together, the relationships & the projects, the recourses and the needs. We have been following in faith, trusting that God has a plan in our lives.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matt 6:33

October 8th, as I was returning to Ensenada from ascending Half Dome (in Yosemite) I received the news that my friends Greg & Teri Littlefield had decided to make a lateral move within YUGO Ministries. (The Littlefield’s had assumed the Directorship of YUGO’s Ensenada Outreach Center – Campo de Suenos, in the spring of 2006) Almost immediately I believed that I was going to be offered the position of Director for this ministry. As we prayed I asked the question: how does this relate to the direction we have been going? Is this a change of direction? Or is this an opportunity to enable us to continue in the same direction, with more momentum?

We believe it is the latter, and with a humble heart, I stepped into the role of Director of YUGO’s Ensenada Outreach Center (EOC), Campo de Suenos.

In many ways this is like a homecoming for Ana & me, although we did not anticipate this. We met here, we have grown here, and so many of our friendships started here. We are excited to allow God to lead this ministry of His, continuing to love the forgotten, as we work with friends on both sides of the border.

Thank you for your continued prayers and friendship,

Ana & Scott Wester

August 2006 Mexico

2006-11-23T12:36:00.000-08:00

This summer has been a time of preparation for us. We have been praying for direction with regard to logistics. Clearly we desire to love the forgotten in communities of Mexico.

I can clearly remember the day, early in 2004, I was returning to Ensenada from a visit to California. It was raining heavily, windy and cold. I was looking forward to my living accommodations at Campo de Suenos. Where I could build a fire and enjoy the rain. In almost the same moment, I thought about the many families who had received homes over the previous years, and how they too would be dry & warm. But I could not escape thinking of the many families who did not have an adequate house. Who were often living in a home made from old, often torn plastic tarps & pallets, with a dirt floor, that often turns to mud.

What about these families in crisis? How can we help?

August 30th, 2006, we arrived at Clinica 8, the largest of five hospitals in Ensenada serving those with Seguro Social (equivalent to Medicare or Gov Health Care), with an emergency. My mother in law’s blood sugar had skyrocketed to 800. We spent the next three days & nights, literally camped out at the hospital. We were very fortunate to have our Volkswagen Vanagon (sleeping), since most are left to sleep on the floor of the waiting room. There are bathrooms, but you have to walk to a nearby market for food and drink. The second night, we watched with broken hearts, as a wife and entire family, grieved when given the news that the husband had died. Over the next few hours more family and friends joined them; all the while they were in the waiting room and area immediately outside.

I found myself again thinking of ways we can reach out to families in crisis. How can we love them?

September 2nd, 2006, I read in the local paper, Hurricane John hit Los Cabos (southern most tip of Baja). Over then next four days I continued reading of the devastation as this moderate level 2 Hurricane affected towns along the east coast of Baja (Loretto, Mulege and Santa Rosalia) displacing scores of families living in the shanty towns, surrounding these popular tourist destinations. As I read on the 6th, there were a couple of military helicopters dropping supplies in these areas (without electricity & water). Three had died in Mulege. I wanted to drive the 16 or so hours south and help.

In the States, we have our share of disasters. Although one difference, is the abundance of organizations and agencies helping. Mexico, as well, has its share of major disasters, and when it’s big, there are Domestic & International groups here to help.

But what about the smaller crisis? When it’s a few, as opposed to a few thousand? Who is available to help?

WE ARE!

Going back to the rainy day in 2004, I called two friends and talked with them about the idea of stockpiling items essential to families in crisis. (tarps, blankets, water, food, medicine) And assembling a team, (on both sides of the border) willing to respond to such crisis.

Many of the areas we visited this year, and hope to visit again soon, have recently been in crisis. Chihuahua (flooding from heavy rains), Oaxaca (political turmoil and four months of protests), Chiapas (still rebuilding from Hurricane damage in Tapachula), and the above mentioned areas of Southern Baja.

And what about our local communities when the winter cold and rains come? There are multiple communities surrounding Ensenada, with in-adequate housing. Many of whom are adversely affected when the weather is harsh.

We are ready to go!

Additionally, we are continuing to look deeper into the current Health Care state, and opportunities to help. One thing is evident; the doctors and nurses are dedicated, caring and doing the best they can, in the current system. But that doesn’t make it any easier when you are in a crisis, and it’s your family. How can we go to the hospitals and love those in need?

We need your help!

Our biggest need is for the materials themselves. Items to distribute. We are stepping out in faith, and we know God will provide the ways and means. We have put together a Hit List, of items needed. As well, we continue to build a Crisis Response Team (CRT) here in Mexico, and in the US. (we will be sending out a list “by region” soon, with details on how you can help)

There are many ways to love and serve, in the Kingdom. Our passion is to love those who have been forgotten, or passed by.

What an opportunity, to love in a time of need, and be ambassadors of the Kingdom. While building “International Friendships” (Amistad Internacional)

This is the next step, in the journey. Thanks for following with us!

Ana & Scott

Ps. We returned to Clinica 8 this past Friday night (with 5 local youth) after preparing 70 homemade burritos. From 8-11:30pm we visited with waiting families, sharing food and the love of Jesus. We will return this Friday & Saturday, and hope to continue to expand to additional days, as more offer to go with us.

July 2006 Mexico

2006-11-23T12:35:00.000-08:00

Un-expected House guests!

Ana & I had hoped to visit the Tarahumara people in Chihuahua, Mexico, the last week of July and first week of August, but God had a different plan for us during these two weeks.

When we realized we were going to be in Ensenada during this time period, we wondered what God had in store for us. He had a special visit planned, one that we could not have planned for.

Within a two day period, the population in our house grew from, four to seventeen! We currently live in a house that is just over 500 square feet, with my in-law’s. So when my sister-in law arrived for a month long visit with her daughter, we were excited. When the same day, a family of 6 arrived for an extended visit, I was feeling a bit stretched. So when an additional family of 5 arrived the following day, I was feeling overwhelmed. To add to these numbers, my other brother-in law lives two houses away, and his in-law’s arrived as well for an extended visit!

Why this mass of people? The birthplace of my wife is Guadalupe Victoria, just south of Mexicali, Mexico, is also the hometown of all the arriving guests. During the past few weeks, the temperature there has been consistently over 110- 120. (As well the US has also experienced high temperatures during this same period)

These families live in un-insulated homes without air-conditioning, below sea level, in an area with few trees for shade. So this was the perfect time for a visit to the city of Ensenada, with the refreshing ocean breeze.

I was feeling overwhelmed, and a little stressed, but for my wife and her family, this was normal experience. When you don’t have a phone, how can you call ahead? In this culture, friends and family know that they are always welcome, and no invitation is needed.

This is all very new for me. I come from a culture where it is normal to know in advance when guests are coming, and prepare to comfortably accommodate for all expected. And in my culture, if the house is full, we would schedule an alternate week for additional guests, or call the hotel. Yet here, all are welcomed in, fed and given a place to sleep (even if its just a space on the floor).

Imagine, when Jesus walked with his disciples from town to town, staying in houses of friend’s relatives, or with new acquaintances. Did His host’s know they were coming? Did His disciples send an email or fax, warning of their arrival?

As I continue to follow Jesus, I want to be thinking in terms of His life and times. As He was speaking these words, who was He talking to? How do His word’s apply to me, today?

When I read the word’s of Jesus, in Matthew 25:35, “I was hungry and you gave Me food, I was thirsty and you gave Me drink, I was a stranger and you invited Me in”; I realize that I am a planner. I love to provide hospitality, and serve people, yet I “enjoy” this most when I am “ready” or in control. Unfortunately, when I am ready, I have the ability to love people with my patience and love (which is finite & in short supply); yet when I have no control, am not ready, and permit Jesus to love people with His love and patience, (which is infinite and instantly recognizable as not being mine), His word’s come to life, and people are loved by Him.

For me this is key, for I want to be an ambassador of Jesus and His Kingdom, in the world. Yet the world I live in is all about comfort. But for Him to be revealed in a living way, I need to become accustomed with the uncomfortable.

What is uncomfortable for you?

Thank you for your friendship with us,

Scott & Ana Wester

June 2006 Mexico

2006-11-23T12:24:00.000-08:00

Ana & Scott Wester – working with friends in Latin America
Loving the Forgotten, in communities around the World

Thanks to everyone who visited Ensenada for our wedding, and those who responded with congratulatory emails. Our hearts are overflowing with appreciation for your friendship and love.

May 2006

We had no idea what God had in store for us, as we set off in our 1986 Volkswagen Vanagon with a map & an eventual destination of Chiapas (the southern most state in Mexico), other than that, we had no plans for our honeymoon.

We encountered a number of surprises along the way as we passed through 19 states of Mexico (there are 31); from breaking down on the second day (in Sonora, 100+ degrees), to a run in with an angry funeral procession in Mitla, (drunk men were literally beating on our van and attempting to open Ana’s door), to witnessing an incredible thunder/ lightning storm at 3am in Zihuatanejo, and later waking up to three inches of standing water in the hotel room.

Yet nothing prepared us for what we experienced in San Martin Perez, a small village perched on the top of a beautiful mountain range, six-hours northeast from the city of Oaxaca. A village mostly devoid of men and women (most have crossed the border to work in the US, and only return once or twice a year).

We had travelled there to visit our friends Emily & Raul, and some of the neighboring villages of indigenous people, that make up much of the state, of Oaxaca.

Raul & Emily invited us to have dinner with them in the home of Juan & Mari, an elderly couple, caring for four of their 30 grandchildren. They live in a traditional, rural Mexican house: Adobe walls (bricks made from the local earth, on-site), dirt floor, scrap roof (old plastic & other materials), no water, little electricity (one light bulb), and a fire on the floor (for heat & cooking).

The first thing we noticed as we were greeted was the broad smile and sparkling eyes of Mari, a stark contrast to the dimly lit house. Her smile was child-like, especially for a woman in her late seventies. Juan spoke for both of them, since Mari only speaks Mixteco (their indigenous language). Juan shared with us an account of his last “border crossing” (a trip requiring a three-day walk through the desert of Arizona), which he said was probably his last, since he is now in his eighties and his knees aren’t that young anymore. While we visited, Mari prepared eggs, beans & hand-made tortillas over the fire, and I couldn’t help but stare as she would move around scalding pots & the burning timbers with her bare hands.

They were giving us the best of everything they had, and eating the scraps. Every time one of Mari’s tortillas was burned or not perfect, she would give it to Juan or one of the grandkids. But, with every near-perfect tortilla, she would present to us, with a smile & eyes speaking a powerful message, her most precious offering.

As we visited with Juan and Mari over the next three days, eating until our bellies ached and sipping many cups of instant coffee mixed with brown water, we spent hours talking about family, culture, our mutual love for Jesus, and our bond as citizens of one nation (a Kingdom nation).

As we said our good-bye, Mari put something in Ana’s hand. As Ana realized it was money and looked up in bewilderment, Juan said, “it’s an offering, for gas or whatever you need on your trip, and greet our brothers & sisters in Baja.”

As we stepped out of their house, we hugged each other and wept. I recognized a whispering in my heart;
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength. The second is equally important: Love your neighbor as yourself”. Mark 12: 30 & 31
“For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home…. I assure you, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!” Matthew 25:35 & 40
Mari loved us with the knowledge, that as she loved us, she also loved Jesus, her Lord.

We were being loved without regard for self, in order to love the Jesus in us. They were giving of all of their precious treasure, in order to love us & Him.

June 2006

A week later, as we visited the community of Chamula, outside of San Cristobal, in the higher elevation of Chiapas; we were looking into the faces of many children and adults, who desperately need this love of Jesus.

The indigenous of Chiapas are forgotten. Chiapas is one of the richest states in Mexico, with regard to its resources (oil & biodiversity), yet its indigenous people are among the poorest in Mexico. The city of San Cristobal de las Casas, is where the Zapatista revolution was focused (a takeover by the Mayan Indians, in 1994), and Chamula is the ceremonial center for the indigenous people (more than 40,000 in the surrounding area).

Our mission as we go two by two, is to Love the Forgotten, in communities around the World. As we left Chiapas, we knew we had just been introduced to a community of forgotten people, we can love, in the way Juan & Mari loved us.

Please pray with us, as we continue to build relationships & connect people in Mexico and around the world, in the spirit of, Jesus of Nazareth.

Upcoming Trips:
July [Chihuahua] (about 300 mi. south of Texas) to be with friends & love the Tarahumara indigenous people, as we help “behind the scenes”, organize a three-day festival.

September – November [Chiapas], Ana & I hope to visit more communities surrounding San Cristobal and Chamula, as well as communities further south rebuilding from hurricane damage.

Pray for our friendships in Mexico:
David & Karen Garcia / Brian & Sue McCoy / Jonathan & Maggie Salgado / Grez & Teri Littlefield / Raul & Emily Castro / Danny & Joy VanNess / Juan & Karrie Ambrosio / Adan & Blanca Lopez / Enrique & Irma Pena / Oswaldo & Gloria Chacon / Daniel & Angela Camacho

And the many families & children we know in the villages of:
(Ensenada) Mandadero, Las Flores, El Zorrillo, Lomas Bonitas
(Chihuahua) Napuchis, Samachique, Corariachi
(Oaxaca) San Martin Perez, Juxtlahuaca, San Juan, San Martin de las Flores

Thank you for being our friends, we love you,

Ana & Scott Wester

Spring 2006 Mexico

2006-11-23T12:21:00.000-08:00

Friends,

I am in the final days of preparing for marriage to Ana Reynoso. The process of an American marrying a Mexican, in Mexico, is no small feat! But after two months of paperwork and $1,000 of fees and applications, we will be married on May 6th in Ensenada.

We will be travelling south to Chihuahua, Oaxaca & Chiapas; Mexico, for our honeymoon. Chihuahua is the area where Ana lived and worked with the Napuchi Indians until this past December.
Oaxaca & Chiapas, are two of the Southern states of Mexico (Chiapas touches the Guatemala border), and these are two areas we have been praying for (esp. Chiapas). Ana & I both sense God preparing and leading us to be building relationships in forgotten communities; with forgotten children, widows & families; who lack opportunity, and rights; through loving the person – in the way only Jesus can.

We continue to have many wonderful relationships growing in all parts of the world; most of which have been started or connected here in Ensenada. We continue to love the people of El Zorrillo, Las Flores, Lomas Bonitas & Maneadero; as we spend time being with families in these communities. We continue to be supplied by the Lord, through all of you, with the provisions of food, clothing & various gifts needed by so many.

While we don’t know exactly where we will be living in the coming year, we know that these precious friendships exist in our lives for a purpose; and we ask for your prayers as we continue to learn how to grow in friendships spanning cultures, languages & time-zones.

I continue to think of myself less as a missionary, and more as a student of Jesus; who is learning to be a teacher of Jesus. (As Jesus has told us to “teach” everything He has taught us) I am practicing this teaching, simply by loving, as I am being the student as well.

My life continues to be filled with a measure of Grace & Mercy that I am humbled in. I am surprised at the friendship that is given by so many, who clearly have seen that I am not very gifted at loving others; since I practiced for so many years at loving myself.

I am most grateful to my Ana, for her love. It is in her love, and relationship, that I am able to “put a face” on Jesus; and I am growing closer to my Lord, learning how to love Him with all my heart, soul, mind & strength.

Thank you for your friendship & love,

Scott

Fall 2005 Mexico

2006-11-23T12:18:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

I am now living with Pedro & Carmen Reynoso. (Recipients of the first YUGO house, 9 yr ago) In a colonia close to the center of Ensenada. This is an incredible experience on many levels. I am only speaking Spanish in the home (great practice); and they are a wonderful example to me of living a life, practicing the principles of Jesus. You may ask what that is? To me it is simply living a life of growing closer to him; growing more like him, and following the example he gave in how he lived his life.

I see this life in Pedro & Carmen, in the way they love others. In the way they, literally, give up their bed to others. The way they feed visitors, as if their pantry was overflowing, even though there may not be food for tomorrow. They do this, without worry, because they know that their “pantry” is overflowing! Everything in their lives, they see is from the Lord. They give Him thanks & praise, in even the smallest things. And this life example is giving me great perspective, in my own life. It is also encouraging me to desire to draw closer, in my personal relationship with Jesus; because I see the joy & completeness in living a life totally surrendered to Him!

And to think, they are having this impact on my life, solely by living this out with me. This also is a great encourager to me. I have been thinking about this a lot lately. Looking at the life of Jesus, and thinking about the way he lived with the disciples. Thinking about all they learned from him in the daily living. It was much more than just his teachings.

I ask you to be praying for me, in this time in Mexico, that the life I am living will be an example to the people of Mexico, of a life with Jesus.

I am continuing to spend more time developing relationships with families, in the villages of Las Flores, Lomas Bonitas & El Zorrillo. I have also been connecting with a number of men (some of whom are Pastors), for regular times of prayer & fellowship (and of course coffee). I am also connecting people & recourses in the States, directly with families & churches in Mexico.

I continue to be encouraged with the realization that “with God, everything is possible”, and my job is to trust in Him, grow closer to Him, and continue to love others. (If only these three things were easy!)

As you enjoy this holiday season, and as you think about the story of Jesus, being born in a manger. Remember that there are many families, all over the world, living in a manger, because there is no room at the Inn. I pray that we will be available to love them, as Jesus loves them.

I love you all,
Scott Wester