next Discipleship Training Schools: July 23rd- December 10 2010 and January 14- June 3rd 2011

próximas Escuelas de Discipulado y Entrenamiento Misionero: julio 23 - deciembre 10 2010 y enero 14 - junio 3 2011

School Of Missions Ethno-Arts Focus

Roberto stood behind the stage

the hot Panama morning causing his black face paint to run. He and a small group of Ngobe and Buglere, dressed in their traditional garb, were up next. For the first time since coming to Christ, Roberto would again lead an ethnic dance, like the dances he used to perform at cultural festivals. But this time it was different. This time they were dancing for God.

Still, doubts lingered in Roberto's head. Is this really okay? Can our cultural dances really be used for God? His questions echoed Tulio's words, earlier that week: "I love to dress in our traditional loinclothes, to use the body paint, to sing our song and perform our dances. But sometimes I am afraid. Sometimes I wonder if I will hurt God's heart." Their doubts are understandable. Since Christopher Columbus first came to their lands, the indigenous have been told by outsiders that everything in their culture is evil. Missionaries have often promoted that belief, encouraging converts to adopt a western lifestyle, culture, and language.

However, the last four weeks, our small group of 14 students, indigenous, north american, and european, have been challenged to think differently, to seek God, and to seek the best way to not only communicate the gospel to a certain people group, but also for that group to communicate their heart to God. Roberto grasped the maracas in his hands, and lead his small group of dancers out. As they stepped in unison, and the women swished their skirts, mimiking a butterfly, Roberto experienced worshipping God as he never had before.

Doulos Christian Academy.

Urgent: English speaking teachers, monitors and teacher's assistants needed for our ministry Doulos Christian Academy. If you are interested, please contact Debbie Tracy at debtracypty@gmail.com

Urgente: Se necesitan maestros, monitores y asistentes de maestros que hablan inglés para nuestro ministerio Academia Cristiana Doulos. Si estás interesado, por favor contacta a Debora Tracy: debtracypty@gmail.com