Amigos de Jesús Blog

Harvard / Agros Trek to Amigos

2012-01-31T14:16:00.000-05:00

For the second year in a row, a group of Harvard MBA students from The Harvard Graduate School Christian Fellowship (HGSCF) made the journey to Honduras to study the unique economic development model of Agros International. Part of their trip involves a visit to Amigos de Jesus. Fr. Den hosted the group and shared with them our beautiful home. The group laughed, played and prayed with our children and were able to experience the hope for the future generation in Honduras. Thank you to everyone that participated and supported this trip and to Agros for the good work they are doing in Honduras.

Amigos First Solar Energy Project

2012-01-31T14:01:00.001-05:00

Amigos de Jesus has been blessed by the opportunity to incorporate solar energy at the hogar. In January, a team of local men traveled to Honduras to install the solar panels and set up the system. Dave and Steve Santoleri, board members and owners of TerraSol Energies (http://www.terrasolenergies.com/), worked with us to design and implement a system that would be most efficient for our needs. This first project with generate enough power to run our well. Frequent power outages result in a lack of water as the on-site well is run by electric pump. This is the only source of clean water for the home. This solar project will save energy costs and ensure that the children and staff have consistent access to clean water supplies. Thank you to Dave, Steve, Tony, Matt, Jeff, and Danny for your time, expertise and love for the children of Amigos de Jesus!

Amigos de Jesus School Graduation

2011-12-22T15:01:00.000-05:00

Amigos de Jesus recently celebrated school graduation. Our on-site primary school works with our children in all academics, life skills, vocational training, tutoring, English, computer skills and more. Congratulations to all the graduates. Keep up the good work!

Juan, Olvin and Chilo receive their First Communion

2011-12-22T14:35:00.000-05:00

After much preparation, on Monday, December 19th Juan, Olvin and Chilo were baptized and had their first communions at the local parish. Below are pictures of the event.

Congratulations Juan, Olvin and Chilo!

A Happy Holiday for 10 New Children

2011-11-23T11:27:00.000-05:00

Late this past Saturday night a tragic fire struck the Nueva Esperanza home for children located in San Pedro Sula (http://laprensa.hn/Secciones-Principales/Sucesos/Cierran-hogar-Nueva-Esperanza-por-incendio). The home for 155 children, infants to age 12, has been temporarily closed and housing is needed for all of the displaced children. Amigos de Jesus was contacted and asked to take ten (10) of these boys. The boys were welcomed into our family yesterday, filled with hope and smiles. The transition will most likely result in permanent placement for them and Amigos de Jesus staff is working to make them feel safe, secure and help them adjust to their new surroundings. Below is a picture of Wilson Escoto holding an introductory question/answer session with the children to explain to them where they were going and what to expect. The ten boys seem to be doing well and arrived just in time for our school graduation celebration that will be held this Friday. One of the boys told Wilson on the car ride to Amigos, "We are gonna have a great Christmas!" Please keep these boys and the others who are still awaiting placement with safe homes in your prayers.

Donation Collection Success!

2011-10-25T16:34:00.000-04:00

Thank you to everyone who donated in-kind goods for our donation collection! We successfully packed and sent to Honduras a 40 foot container full of donations for the children. Among these donations were over 50 bicycles, 15 scooters, 100 bags of clothing, 25 bags of shoes, school & art supplies, backpacks, sports equipment and so much more! Thank you specifically to Carr & Duff for allowing us the facility to store all of the donations, to Bob Kurtz for endless waves of donations, to Jim Henry, Anthony Granese, Matt Santoleri, Rob Santoleri, Jeffrey Santoleri, Tony Taglione, Aaron & Tim Zupko for tirelessly packing all 40 feet of the container. The children say "Muchas Gracias"!

Construction Campaign

2011-10-11T13:58:00.000-04:00

In December of 2010 Amigos de Jesus began a Construction Campaign that will triple the size of the orphanage and allow our facility to house up to 180 children, boys and girls. The first facilities, including 4 new dormitories, will open during the first few months of 2012 and the new children will be welcomed into our family. It has long been a dream of our organization to complete the physical construction of the facilities and extend our reach and potential in Honduras. It is entirely by the grace and generosity of our benefactors and friends that this Construction Campaign was made possible. If you would like to contribute directly to the construction of the new buildings, please contact our office at 610-644-8237 or amigos@amigosdejesus.org. See below current pictures of the construction process and check back often to see our progress.

UNION players meet children from Amigos de Jesus

2011-09-27T16:01:00.000-04:00

Josue (11), Jonatan (14), Jonny (11) and Nahun (18) were chosen to visit the United States along with Amigos' Directors of Operations, Amy & Wilson Escoto, from September 14th to the 21st. During their stay we visited many of our friends and benefactors but we also got a chance to have a little fun. Knowing how much the boys love soccer, I reached out to Rob Smith, VP of Soccer Development & Relations for the UNION. He graciously offered to host the boys at the stadium in Chester, PA and give them a private tour of the facilities. The boys had a wonderful time and even got to meet some of the players. Rob and the team were gracious and kind in sharing an afternoon with our children and giving them a once in a lifetime opportunity to see a professional stadium and team first hand. Our many thanks to Rob and the UNION!

Community Dollars Fundraiser

2011-09-01T15:14:00.001-04:00

Amigos de Jesus is participating again this year in a great fundraiser that requires nothing more than for you to shop! The Whiteland Towne Center, in Exton, PA, is hosting an event to raise money for local charities. Every time you shop at one of the participating stores, you are eligible to receive $1 in community dollar vouchers for each $1 you spend. For example, if you spend $35 at Dress Barn and ask for the “community dollars”, you will receive a $35 Community Dollar voucher. You must request your community dollars at the point of sale and turn them into Amigos de Jesus by November 6, 2011. The charity that collects the most vouchers wins the top prize of $1,000.00. Please see the list of participating stores below and contact Emily Ford at 610-644-8237 or emily@amigosdejesus.org for more information. Thank you!

Help Us Raise Money For Amigos de Jesus!

You don’t need to sell anything or “solicit donations” – just shop!

What: Community Dollars Program – a chance to earn $1,000, $500, or $250 for Amigos, PLUS a bonus up to $250!

When: Sept. 1-Nov. 6, 2011

Where: Whiteland Towne Center

Routes 30 and 100, Exton, PA

Participating Stores:

Acme –Note: take receipts to Customer Service center to get receipts stamped; receipts can be turned in at the awards dinner with Community Dollar Vouchers

Big Lots

Black’s Bag & Baggage

Catherine’s

Country Bagel Bakery

Definitely Dance

Devi Indian Restaurant

Dress Barn

Famous Footwear

The Framer’s Market Gallery

Jack’s Camera

Jack’s Pizza

Kreative Nails and Spa

The Hair Cuttery

Hollywood Tans

Learning Express

Music & Arts Center

Party City

Payless Shoesource

Petco

Pizza Hut Express

Plato’s Closet

Riverstone Café

Sally Beauty Supply

Singer Specs

Snip Its

Subway

Warwick Jewelers

Whitford Flowers

The Winner’s Circle

Towne Center Cleaners

Zwei Asian Cuisine and Sushi Bar

1800Mattress

The following stores are not participating in the Community Dollars program by handing out vouchers. You can bring receipts from purchases from the stores below, and we will credit you for the Community Dollar Vouchers:

Gamestop

Kohl’s

TJ Maxx

Ulta

Sergio's Sustainable Agrictultural Program

2011-07-28T14:32:00.000-04:00

Sergio Tulio Pineda Gomez has been part of our family since he was a young boy - one of the first children to call Amigos de Jesus home. Now, as a young adult, he has taken an interest in and subsequently become responsible for our agricultural program. Throughout 2011 he has been receiving training at La Semilla del Progeso, a center affiliated with an organization called EPIC. Sergio is learning best practices for farming in the rural region where we are located, focusing on sustainable agriculture and organic farming techniques . Sergio has been implementing what he is learning at the orphanage, experimenting with new techniques and innovative crops. We are committed to producing healthy crops for our children's consumption and are excited to support Sergio in his development of a robust agricultural program at Amigos.

Amigos Launches It's First Solar Project!

2011-07-28T13:39:00.000-04:00

The cost of energy is increasing all over the world and demand is constantly rising whether you are in Malvern, PA or 2,000 miles away in Macuelizo, Honduras. Amigos de Jesus has begun development of its first solar project, partnering with TerraSol Energies, a renewable and sustainable energy contractor. TerraSol Energies will assist amigos with the development of a solar energy plan. The project design and installation of solar panels will not only reduce cost and promote self-sustainability at our facility, but will also alleviate the natural struggles that we, not unlike most people in rural Central America, deal with on a daily basis. Constant power outages due to high demand, poor infrastructure and an unsophisticated grid system are not just an inconvenience. Without reliable electricity the children do not have access to basic necessities - like clean water. Our electric wells that provide clean, filtered water; our refrigeration system that maintains perishable food; lights for our school; administrative capabilities - All these things and more cannot function during the outages which can last for minutes, hours or even days. The first phase of the solar plan is scheduled to begin in fall of 2011 and will include the installation of panels that will produce enough energy to run our wells, thereby securing the availability of clean water for our children and staff. If you would more information on the solar project or how you can help - please contact our office at 610-644-8237 or amigos@amigosdejesus.org.

Recent news regarding clean energy in Central America:

http://www.voanews.com/policy/editorials/Supporting-Clean-Energy-In-Latin-America-126033819.html

http://www.ipsnews.net/news.asp?idnews=55316

http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/site/entry/renewable_energy_central_america

Chicken Coop

2011-06-27T14:47:00.000-04:00

This month Amigos de Jesus built a chicken coop at the orphanage to promote self-sustainability. The children were excited to welcome lots of hens into our family and are learning responsibility through care for the animals.

The boys all pitched in by walking to a nearby farm to bring the chickens home in their arms so as to ensure their safe arrival to Amigos.

We are now producing enough eggs for the orphanage and there is even a surplus. Extra eggs are sold to staff and local community members at a discounted price.

Fall Family Picnic

2011-06-27T14:38:00.000-04:00

This year Amigos de Jesus will host a Family Picnic for our benefactors and friends. Bring your family to meet our family. Boys from Honduras will be in attendance as well as our new Directors.

When: Sunday, September 18, 2011

Mass at 12:30

Picnic & Family Games 1:30-5:00

Where: Sister of the Holy Redeemer

Immaculate Conception Province

Provincialate

521 Moredon Road

Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006

Testimonial - Michael Pascarella, Jr.

2011-06-20T14:09:00.000-04:00

Susan and I have had a total of four foster children from Amigos over the last 11 years. One of them was Cristian Armando . Cristian was/is a wonderful boy with a big, bright smile that reaches from ear to ear.

In September of 2006, you held a benefit dinner at the Bellevue Hyatt in Philadelphia. As you often did, you were able to bring a few children up from Honduras to spend a few days in the United States, and to meet their Padrinos at this dinner. Cristian was one of those children that year. After walking through the crowded room for several minutes, Susan and I found Cristian. We were all so happy to finally meet, but there was a problem...Cristian did not speak English, and I spoke very little Spanish. We tried to communicate for several minutes without success, and both of us became frustrated. Then I had an idea. I bent down so that I was eye-level with Cristian. I patted my chest and said, "Cristian, sono padrino." (I am your godfather). Then I opened my arms. Cristian smiled bright as the sun and literally jumped into my arms. I gave him a big hug, and then somehow (mainly through hand signals) we promised that we would pray to God for each other every day. In that way, we would always be connected.

That was the only time I saw Cristian, and it will probably be the only time that I will ever see him, as he has since returned to his family. But in order for Cristian and I to remain connected on a horizontal plain across the miles, we had to connect ourselves to God in prayer. When I tell this story live, I form a triangle with hand motions. My point being that for Cristian and I to remain connected, we must allow ourselves to be drawn up into the action of the Trinity.

Peace,

Mike

Testimonial - Sandy Ciccaglione

2011-06-20T14:04:00.000-04:00

I was very lucky and blessed one day at my church. We had a guest speaker...Father Dennis who after about 5 minutes had me in tears by telling us about the former struggles of the children who came to the Amigos de Jesus Orphanage. I have sponsored Yadira since she was 8, I think... and she is now 13. I have had the greatest opportunity to see her grow up into a lovely young lady. I believe God put me in that church at that time for me to be a sponsor. My hope is someday we will meet. The cost is so small... but so great....we waste more money buying coffee or lunch with nothing to show for it. I have pictures and art work hanging in my office of Yadira and I think of her every day. I'm humbled and I feel privileged to be part of an organization that gives hope, love, education and the gift of our Lord to these children...if only the rest of the world would catch on.

Yours truly,

Sandy Ciccaglione

~Donation Collection ~

2011-06-01T12:40:00.000-04:00

Amigos de Jesus is collecting donations this summer to send to the orphanage! We are collecting the following items:

Summer Clothes - all boys & girls sizes, mens sizes small & medium

Shoes - all boys & girls sizes

Bikes & Scooters

Sports Equipment

Fans - oscillating, free standing, ceiling (it's hot in Honduras!)

Please contact our office in Malvern (610-644-8237) to schedule a drop-off time OR coordinate a collection at your church, office or school! As we grow our capacity we need a lot of donations for the children! Thank you for your continued support and care.

2011-05-27T10:41:00.000-04:00

~Save the Date~

Amigos de Jesus

Fall Family Picnic

Sunday, September 18, 2011

Come out to our Fall Family Picnic and meet some of the boys from Honduras! We are hosting a family picnic for all of our benefactors and friends. The day will begin with Mass by Fr. Den followed by lunch, games, fun and more! Bring your family to meet our family. Thank you to everyone that has worked to make Amigos de Jesus a loving home for boys in need.

Stepping Stones to the Cross

2011-05-19T16:47:00.000-04:00

The Amigos de Jesus property has a tall white cross that sits high on a hill. This cross can be seen for miles and is a beacon to the surrounding area. The motto of our organization is "Follow the Cross and you will find Hope." This motto has been a reminder to all of us involved with the organization to seek out the cross, or Jesus Christ, and in him we will find hope. Some of the children that now live at Amigos de Jesus literally followed this Cross to find our home for boys. This home became their hope. It became their home and it became their family. Their path to the Cross, to Jesus Christ and to a renewed life at Amigos de Jesus is symbolized in our motto and by this Cross.

As we begin a new chapter at Amigos de Jesus with a construction project that will triple our current size, we extend an invitation to our benefactors to be part of this project. We are making a pathway to this Cross out of 'Stepping Stones' that are being made by the children, engraved with our benefactors' names. This path is a symbol of the journey that our boys have traveled and that we all have traveled in our lives as we strive to Follow the Cross. Please contact our office to receive more information on how you can purchase a 'Stepping Stone' and become a part of this historic project at Amigos de Jesus.

Construction Begins!

2011-03-21T16:30:00.000-04:00

Amigos de Jesus is proud to annouce that construction has begun on new dormitories that will grow our capacity to three times it current size. This will also allow us to bring girls to our care and reunite siblings that have been divided. Ubil Landaverde, Director of Development, will be heading the construction project along with a group of engineers from the US. Thank you for your prayers as we take on this huge project. More details will come as building gets underway!

Amigos de Jesus Service Community

2011-02-25T13:31:00.000-05:00

We are now accepting applications for the 2011-2012 Amigos de Jesus Service Community. If you are called to service and would like to spend a year of your life changing the lives of children in need - contact us today. You can download an application on our website www.amigosdejesus.org/service-community. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact Emily Ford at director@amigosdejesus.org or 610-644-8237.

"Prayer in action is love, love in action is service."

-Mother Teresa

2011-01-13T10:14:00.000-05:00

2011-01-11T16:10:00.000-05:00

Amigos de Jesus Golf-A-Thon

Monday, April 18, 2011

Philadelphia Cricket Club

Militia Hill Course

You can support Amigos de Jesus by becoming a:

Golfer

Sponsor

Donor

100% of the proceeds of this event go to the care of the children at the Amigos de Jesus orphanage in Honduras!

Visit our website for more information at:

http://www.amigosdejesus.org/golf-a-thon/golfeventbrochure.html

or contact Emily Ford at 610-644-8237 or director@amigosdejesus.org

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T10:38:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas from all of us at Amigos de Jesus!

"We are privileged and happy to have spent the past 4 months with the boys and young men at Amigos de Jesus. We are thankful to them for keeping the spirit of love and wonder alive this Christmas and grateful to all who support and pray for us. Feliz Navidad!"

Amy & Wilson Escoto, Directors of Operations

Amy and Wilson Escoto - New Directors of Operations

2010-09-28T11:14:00.000-04:00

Please welcome to Amigos de Jesus - Amy, Wilson and Thomas Escoto. They will be a vital part of the growth and development of our organization and will work hand in hand with our current Director Ubil. Please keep them in your prayers as they settle in to their new home with us in Honduras!

ROANOKE MAYOR BOWERS VISITS HONDURAS ORPHANAGE

2010-08-30T10:11:00.000-04:00

It was a wonderful moment of my life to finally meet my orphaned Godson, whom I will refer to as “Billy” (to maintain his privacy and anonymity), at the Amigos de Jesus orphanage in northern Honduras in August.

God has truly blessed this boy, who was found abandoned on the streets and taken into this orphanage, begun and operated by Father Dennis O’Donnell of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The education of this fine boy is a testament to our Catholic faith in Central America.

I first learned of Amigos de Jesus while attending Mass along the mainline west of Philadelphia several years ago. There was a speaker at the church and handouts were provided. I then visited Father O’Donnell and had a pleasant summer evening discussing his missionary work in Honduras.

Consequently, I began my financial sponsorship of the orphanage and Amigos de Jesus designated “Billy” as my Godson. I am his “El Padrino Americain.”

My friend, Margarita Cubas, and another friend, Mark Powell, and I all decided to travel to Honduras. Margarita’s late father, Alberto Ramirez, served as Governor of the State of Santa Barbara, a couple hours from the orphanage site, and she still has family in the area.

Honduras, “founded” and named by Christopher Columbus, is a tropical paradise, plentiful of banana trees, palm trees, coconut groves and productive farms.

We flew into San Pedro Sula, a modern city of about 500,000 people, rented a car and drove west on the international highway towards the Copan ruins, built by the Mayans between 200 and 900 A.D. About 2 hours along the road, we turned towards Macuelizo, a beautiful village 5 OR 6 miles off the main highway. When we arrived at the town square, we inquired as to the proximity of Amigos de Jesus orphanage and we were informed it was right around the corner and just down the road. However, we were then told that we couldn’t get there on that sunny day because the rains had washed out the road earlier in the week.

By the luck of the Irish (I guess), we began speaking to a college student who had graduated from Amigos de Jesus a couple years before and he agreed to take us on a detour back up the highway 12-18 miles to another village, and then out several farm paths to Amigos de Jesus.

Amigos de Jesus is a beautiful and well-run modern children’s home amidst a tranquil rural setting in a green valley of Honduras. The buildings are all clean and well maintained and we spoke with volunteers from American Catholic colleges who have been doing missionary work there. One was a young lady, named Regina, a graduate of Villanova University, whose parents went to my college of Belmont Abbey in North Carolina. What a small world!

We then got to meet “Billy.” We walked over the soccer field to the classroom. There he sat, along with 10-15 of his friends, all in black pants or skirts and white tops. His hair was combed and when he saw us, he smiled and then teared up, as we did. My long relationship with him through the mail, sending small gifts, letters and photographs over the last couple of years came to a wonderful homecoming reception there in the back hills of Honduras.

“Billy” is 13 years old and he seems very happy and is doing well in school. They have a sports program for him there. His life without Amigos de Jesus would have been most likely in a slum.

He was able to leave his classroom and walk with us around the campus. We walked to the top of a hill where a cross overlooks the entire valley. I told him about the Star on Mill Mountain that overlooks my hometown of Roanoke. He said he would like to visit someday and I hope he will.

We gave him some gifts, including a Roanoke T-shirt and a Virginia Tech baseball cap, and I gave him a Rosary from the Knights of Columbus here in Roanoke and told him to always carry it in his left pocket. I told him how I’ve done that for many years and it’s always provided me some comfort and strength during the day as I face the many challenges of my life back in the United States.

After our brief visit to Amigos de Jesus, we went on to the Copan ruins, visited with Margarita’s family in Santa Barbara and San Pedro Sula, visited a coffee plantation and ended up at the beach at Tela on the Caribbean Sea.

However, nothing could be more tender in my heart than the memory I will always have of seeing God’s precious child, “Billy,” smile and tear up as we greeted him in that Honduras classroom.

May God Bless Father O’Donnell and all those who work and support the orphanage. In my opinion, they truly do abide by the Belmont Abbey motto, “That in all things, God may be glorified.”

If you would like to support a child, please contact Emily Ford, Administrator at Amigos de Jesus, 118 Woodland Ave., Malvern, PA 19355, Phone: 640-644-8237, Fax: 610-644-8246, or www.amigosdejesus.org.

Community Dollars Program at Whiteland Towne Center

2010-08-13T16:14:00.000-04:00

Help Amigos de Jesús Raise Money by Shopping!

You don’t need to sell anything or

“solicit donations” – just shop!

What: Community Dollars Program – a chance to earn up to $1,200 for Amigos de Jesús!

When: Aug. 27th-Nov. 14, 2010

Where: Whiteland Towne Center -- Routes 30 and 100, Exton, PA

Details:

1. Each time you or any of your friends shop at the participating stores at Whiteland Towne Center, be sure to ask for a Community Dollar voucher. You will receive one dollar in “vouchers” for each $1 you spend at the participating stores. Vouchers can only be received at the time of purchase. Salespeople will not automatically give “vouchers” with each purchase – you must ask for them!

2. Collect your vouchers and turn them in to us no later than Nov. 14, 2010. Drop off in person or send in the mail to:

Amigos de Jesús

118 Woodland Ave.

Malvern, PA 19355

3. Tell all your family and friends to collect the “vouchers” each time they shop at Whiteland Towne Center. Anyone can collect for our group!

4. The program runs Aug. 27-Nov. 14, 2020. There will be an awards dinner at the end where the “vouchers” will be counted and the cash prizes awarded. We are competing against other groups for the top prizes. Let’s work to be the winner and earn money for the children we support!

It’s that simple – Support Amigos de Jesús NOW!

Participating Stores

Acme –Note: take receipts to Customer Service center to get receipts stamped; receipts can be turned in at the awards dinner with Community Dollar Vouchers
Black’s Bag & Baggage
Catherine’s
Country Bagel Bakery
Creative Nails and Spa
Definitely Dance
Devi Indian Restaurant
Dress Barn
Exton Eyeworks/Singer Specs
Famous Footwear
The Framer’s Market Gallery
Gamestop
Jack’s Camera
Jack’s Pizza
The Hair Cuttery
Hollywood Tans
Learning Express
Music & Arts Center
Mustard Seed
Party City
Payless Shoesource
Petco
Pizza Hut Express
Plato’s Closet
Riverstone Café
Sally Beauty Supply
Sleepy’s
Snip Its
Subway
Ulta
Warwick Jewelers
Whitford Flowers
The Winner’s Circle
Towne Center Cleaners
Zwei Asian Cuisine and Sushi Bar

The following stores are not participating in the Community Dollars program by handing out vouchers. You can bring receipts from purchases from the stores below to the dinner, and we will credit you for the Community Dollar Vouchers:

Kohl’s
TJ Maxx

Off Campus Excursion

2010-08-10T10:56:00.000-04:00

The boy recently took an off-site adventure to Zizima Water Park outside of San Pedro Sula. Thanks to the staff, volunteers and children that made this a fun day for all!

Regina DeCristofaro's Reflections

2010-06-23T10:46:00.000-04:00

Each day, I am witness to little miracles that allow me to understand more fully the call I have to work with these boys. Each day truly is a gift from God. In February, I was able to take José Nahun Quijada to the local hospital here, in a town called Sula. There we met with a Medical brigade who agreed to operate on Nahun’s ear. Nahun has lived his whole life with only ½ of his ear drum in his right ear. The brigade went in and reconstructed Nahun’s ear drum and gave him medicine to protect from infection. The consult, the surgery, and the meds were all given free. This past week we followed up with the specialist in San Pedro Sula, Dr. Borjas, who said, Nahun does not need to return to him, nor does he need more medicine. It was awesome. We just have to monitor him for symptoms of a cold/cough, and take him directly to a doctor to be sure his ear is safe. It is pretty amazing.

Last month, Don Ubil, Grace Nuzzi and I took one of our boys José Luis Arita (lovingly known as Arita) to “find” his mother. He had not seen his mother in 6 years, and we were literally looking for a needle in a haystack. We arrived in Corquin, Honduras, not knowing if she was alive or dead, asking about her. Arita had last been to this area when he was 3 years old, and then went to live with his father, and then was put in different orphanages until he came to us. In all honestly, we thought she could have been dead. However, we found her. Amigos de Jesús reunited one of our boys with his mother. He got to smile, hug, talk, and look at his mother again. He was reunited with his little brother, 10 years old, who looks like a mini Arita. The moments were breathtaking. I waited to cry until we were back at the hogar, and cry I did. Since then, Arita has been able to stay in contact with his mother, and we are planning on continuing to grow their relationship.

To me, this is Amigos. A place for growth. A place to form relationships. A place where we answer God’s call to serve our brothers and sisters in Christ. What happens on the ground here is NOT of me, or the volunteers or of the board. It is of Christ. It is a small glimpse of his glorious kingdom. Amigos, the hogar, has decided to answer a call. A call that is bigger than just feeding and clothing street kids. It is more than just a place where our boys get food and shelter. We have the potential to influence a new generation of Hondurans; the opportunity to create more growth and change in each boy we ingress into the Hogar.

In God’s hands our boys find a home here. I am blessed to have the opportunity to witness and play a role in Amigos de Jesús.

Matthew 25:40

2010-06-17T13:20:00.002-04:00

"I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me."

"Honduras Orphanage Collage" Written By: Anneliese Strube

2010-06-15T14:52:00.000-04:00

Amazing Grace
A wide and vast valley
Ringed by mountains
A sanctuary
Bienvenidos Ninos
How Sweet the Sound
A tall white cross on a hill
Visible for miles on approach
Through many danges, toils and snares
The dark eyes of the smiling boys
Resilient despite adversity
I have already come

A gate that stays open all day
As a symbol that everybody
Is free to leave
I once was lost, but now I'm found
A dining hall for all
With equal portions for child or adult
How sweet the sound
Clean beds and bathrooms
Towels hung up neatly
Drying laundry hanging on fences
Amigos de Jesus -yes, friends indeed
In this land of poverty

My son, giving his time and money
To serve the less fortunate
Tis grace that brought me safe thus far
I see him crossing himself
In front of a plate of yucca and vegetables
And grace will lead me home
It makes me smile to see him adapt so easily
To his new environment
Having never crossed himself in his life
Before he arrived here
I once was lost, but now I'm found
Was blind, but now I see.

Toothbrushes for Toddlers

2010-05-19T11:41:00.004-04:00

A BIG Thank you goes out to Christy from Toothbrushes for Toddlers and all those that supported the children at Amigos de Jesus with their generous donation!

Easter at Amigos de Jesus

2010-05-11T10:41:00.004-04:00

Father O'Donnell recently visited Amigo de Jesus for Easter. He reported that the children, by the grace of God, continue to be happy and healthy. Father gave mass, held a feet washing ceremony and shared in all the celebration of the Easter festivities. His thoughts and reflections will be shared with everyone in our next newsletter.

unicef Background information on Children in Honduras

2010-04-29T14:09:00.001-04:00

Background

¡Feliz Navidad!

2009-12-22T12:51:00.003-05:00

Things are busy at the Hogar these days. Everyone is on vacation from "escuelita" ("little school," which takes place during the (summer)time when school is not in session). The tree is up in the comedor (eating hall), some (practical!) presents have been bought and wrapped for the boys, and the volunteers are preparing to receive some visitors right after Christmas.

This past Saturday, the 19th, the volunteers took the boys to a poorer area to sing Christmas carols and distribute some gifts to other children who have nothing. This is imporant - that we promote within our boys the awareness of what is going on in the world around them, to not enable a sense of entitlement within our orphanage, and for them to recognize that they have been very lucky at Amigos, and that we are all blessed, and it is our duty to help others around us.

Within the country politically, Zelaya is still advocating for his reinstatement, and still residing in the Brazilian embassy. Yesterday marked three months that he has been residing there. According to Telesur (www.telesurtv.net) yesterday Zelaya visited with Hugo Llorens - US Ambassador to Honduras - and spoke of the need to bring this country out of the crisis that has existed since June 28th. Hopefully with the Christmas season bringing new life to all of us, there will be some clarity and resolution to the situation of the past months in Honduras.

As we, as a Christian family, move from the anticipation and hope of Advent into a Christmas season of incarnation and celebration - with still much to be done - let us embrace the challenge to do God's work in this world as Jesus did in becoming human, when he walked this earth. Let us look one another in the eye, serve one another, fight for one another, and in a very special way, care for the most vulnerable among us: the children.

May you and your loved ones be blessed with immense joy and deep peace this Christmas that will last the coming year through.
¡Feliz Navidad!

The Work of Christmas Begins by Howard Thurman
When the song of the angels is stilled,when the star in the sky is gone,
when the kings and princes are home,when the shepherds are back with the flocks,
then the work of Christmas begins:
to find the lost,to heal those broken in spirit,to feed the hungry,
to release the oppressed,to rebuild the nations,to bring peace among all peoples,
to make a little music with the heart… And to radiate the Light of Christ,
every day, in every way, in all that we do and in all that we say.
Then the work of Christmas begins.

Honduran Elections, Hogar Updates, and Happy Advent!

2009-12-09T10:50:00.008-05:00

Many apologies for how much time has elapsed since the last post on here. There is much to update on!

Honduran Elections...
Let's start with the current situation in Honduras. Presidential elections were held on Sunday, November 29, 2009. According to Ubil (and a recent article from BBC world news!), approximately 68% of the citizens of Honduras did not vote in those elections. However, of the 32% that did, there was a majority vote for the candidate from the National Party (Partido Nacional), Porfirio "Pepe" Lobo. Opinions of this candidate are mixed, depending on with whom one speaks, but regardless the question still remains: are these elections legitimate or are they illegal?

On December 2nd, Honduran Congress put to a vote the reinstitution of Manuel Zelaya to serve out the remaining tenure of presidency (until the 27th of January). In a landslide vote of 111 to 14, Congress voted against reinstating Zelaya. The OAS continues to support Zelaya in saying that they will not recognize the new government without putting Zelaya back in office first (Note that the US has removed themselves from this statement and is now in support of the newly elected government regardless of Zelaya's reinstatement. Others are beginning to follow suit, i.e. Mexico, Peru and Colombia, whose representatives in a meeting yesterday spoke to the need to recognize this step in the Honduran political crisis as valid, even if not the most desirable or democratic course of action.). Some news reports say that this is a manipulation of the OAS - that there is inside persuasion from Chavez (Venezuela) and Lula da Silva (Brazil). Others say that by the OAS staying strong they are truly supporting the Honduran people. Whatever the case may be, these international relationships are important ones for the Honduran people, and will have a significant impact on the country's economy, trade market, and international stature.

Zelaya stands strong that he must be reinstated, and he has supporters to back him (there are rumors that if he is not reinstated, the upcoming school year may be largely affected by the teachers - as many educators are Zelaya supporters - going on strike). There is definitely adversity to the newly elected government; there is likewise definitely adversity to Zelaya. We have yet to see a route that will lead to a definite resolution.

Hogar Updates...
The school year has come to a close. The clausura (graduation/closing ceremony) took place on Thanksgiving day, Nov. 26th. It was quite a celebration, and in a special way as the day before one of our boys, Adonis, also graduated from the public high school. These monumental stepping stones were celebrated with a fiesta in the comedor (dining hall) - and a full Thanksgiving meal complete with turkey! Spirits were high as everyone celebrated these successes and got excited for the upcoming vacation time.

In the meantime, "escuelita," or "little school," has begun. Every morning the volunteers run a program for all of our boys that keeps them busy with educational activities, fun classes (like cooking and dance!), and opportunities to continue learning new skills and lessons. It is a group effort that all of our volunteers do together, and it keeps the boys busy and continuing to grow and learn. Many afternoons are spent playing soccer, marbles, and hanging out at the Hogar.

Happy Advent...
In this time of waiting, anticipation, a little bit of anxiety and lots of hope, much of life in Honduras can mirror this liturgical season.

As we continue to wait for what will come in the political arena of this country in crisis (for soon coming up on six months), we wait and wonder what the outcome will be. Here in the States, we continue to read news articles and reports day after day, waiting for the one time when we will read that a definite movement has been made and a sure step has been taken. In Honduras, the people wait in suspense, standing strong by their beliefs (for whichever political party it may be), and long for calm, tranquility, and justice to reign. Perhaps this sense of constantly wanting resolution, and feeling disheartened by the unrequited search for stability and peace, somewhat mirrors what Mary and Joseph must have felt as they searched for a room at inn after inn. A sense of rejection and great struggle, a sense of desperation, but also a great hope in the grace that would soon come.

As our boys grow - as they get bigger, taller, more developed, learn new things and continue this journey of one day becoming independent, competent adults - we see in them pure goodness and light that can and will surpass the ugly reality they have lived in the past - we see the divinity in their broken, human hearts. They are the Child - they are the face of Christ, they are the manifestation of the Spirit, they are the gifts from God that grace this world. And we ask for your prayers for them, as they live as Jesus did - small children whose light and beauty shine amidst a darkness, bringing much hope and great joy.

Thank you for your support, love, care for the children. May you and your families be blessed this Advent season with deep peace, and may the joy of Christmas remain in your hearts the whole year through. Know that our children hold you in prayer this Christmas and always.

Long Overdue Good News

2009-10-30T13:07:00.004-04:00

Late Thursday night the two governmental regimes in Honduras, led by President Manuel Zelaya and de facto President Roberto Micheletti came to an agreement that just might put an end to the extended political crisis that this country has been enduring since June 28th, 2009.

Last night - almost four months to the day after Zelaya was ousted from his position as President - the two men came together and signed an agreement that would allow Zelaya to be restored to presidency for the remaining three months of his term. Micheletti has conceded to putting Zelaya's restoration to a Congressional vote. If Congress agrees, Zelaya will be reinstated, control of the army will shift to the electoral court, and the upcoming Presidential election (set for November 29th) will have the recognition of not only both sides, but also of the international community.

This agreement was reached after a team of senior American diplomats arrived in Honduras to mediate the crisis, and made it clear that time was running out for the two men to come to some sort of an accord. Over the past four months, sanctions have been placed on Honduran citizens, casualties have occurred, international aid has stalled, and many have lived in uncertainty and fear for what would come. This agreement, though long overdue, might be the beginning of a pathway to restoring peace.*

In news at home, things at the Hogar are good. The flu that was passing through has left, and all of the boys are back to their normal smiling, rambunctious selves. They are getting ready to take exams and finish up the school year. Our psychology department is growing and some of the boys in most need are starting speech therapy. They spend much of their free time playing with marbles and dancing their toes off to Michael Jackson... some of their favorites are "Thriller" and "Beat It." They are happy and healthy, Gracias a Dios (Thanks be to God).

The more recently arrived volunteers just concluded the final stages of on-site orientation, and soon the outgoing volunteers will be leaving the Hogar to return to the United States and begin a new chapter of their lives.

As always, we ask for your continued prayers and support, as you know the Amigos de Jesús family prays for you in a small, tucked-away haven in Honduras. Have a peaceful weekend.

*For more information on the current political happenings in Honduras, a good article from this morning can be found in the New York Times at:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/31/world/americas/31honduras.html?_r=1&hp

Recent Updates

2009-10-02T11:23:00.003-04:00

Since last writing, the political situation in Honduras has only continued to intensify. Manuel Zelaya remains finding refuge staying in the Brazilian embassy, where he has been staying since his return to Honduras on the 21st of September. Shortly after Zelaya returned, at the end of last week on Sunday September 27, Micheletti announced a halt on all forms of public reunions (i.e. people gathering in the streets), as well as a cease in media releases - it was noted as a 45 day suspension of civil liberties for the Honduran people. Two of the larger media sources, Radio Globo and Channel 36, were temporarily shut down. Airlines suspended travel for approximately five days in and out of Honduras.

Micheletti has since noted that he will be revoking the suspension, though he has not said when. There has yet to be some form of a resolution found within the country - the crisis continues. A growing concern is the effect that Honduras' current situation is having on trade throughout Central America. Honduras is a port of passage for much trade that flows in to this area, particularly Guatemala, Costa Rica and El Salvador. These three countries are said to be losing millions of dollars of trade business every day, according to BBC World News.

Meanwhile, public schools are still not in session, which means our colegio boys are getting some "time off" from school schedules. Additionally, the Hogar has been hit with a rough bout of the flu, keeping a good number of our boys in bed and resting their way back to health. Hence an extra push to keep our boys nourished and healthy, and keeping the doctor on call. Please keep them in your prayers.

Although we have had to cancel the picnic and our boys are unable to be with us this weekend, we continue to offer our prayers and support and stand in solidarity with them through our love as an Amigos community. Our thoughts, hearts, and prayers go out to our boys, staff and volunteers at the Hogar, and to the nation of Honduras as she and her people continue to struggle in strong hope for peace.

Zelaya has returned to Honduras

2009-09-23T17:39:00.003-04:00

There has been quite a bit in the news over the past 48 hours or so regarding the political situation in Honduras. Manuel Zelaya (the ousted president) returned to the country on Monday (after living in exile in Nicaragua for the past three months), and is currently staying at the Brazilian Embassy (please note: neither the Organization of American States [OAS] nor Brazil played any part in planning and executing the return of Zelaya). As a result of this, a curfew was put into place for the entire nation (due to expire this evening). However, many citizens disregarded this curfew on Tuesday and flooded the streets of Honduras in support of Zelaya, and subsequently were dispersed last night and this morning by police. Many schools and offices closed since the return of Zelaya, though our boys continue to go to class and have lessons at our on-site school. Right now continued accessibility to food and other resources is one of the more prominent concerns for Honduran natives, according to BBC (though Ubil, our Honduran director, has been conscious of this from the beginning and at this point it is not an immediate issue for the Hogar).

The majority of the action – as has been the case since the beginning of this on June 28 – is taking place in Tegucigalpa, the Honduran capital. While airlines have cancelled flights to Honduras for today, and many for tomorrow as well, the most recent reports say that the streets all over are quiet now. Roberto Micheletti (the current de facto president of Honduras) has said that he will step down after Honduras’ national elections in November; however, Zelaya continues to demand his own reinstallation to presidency prior to the elections (noting he would then hand over the presidency in January when the presidential change takes place), and the international community is continuing to support him. According to the Honduran news source, Telesur, Insulza (the president of the OAS) sees Zelaya’s return as a possible golden opportunity to move forward and solve this national crisis and come to a peaceful agreement; for now, news reports say that the nation of Honduras is purely watching and waiting to see what will happen next.

Our children, our staff, and our volunteers are safe and sound; again, Macuelizo (the town where our orphanage is located) is many hours from Tegucigalpa and where the main demonstrations are happening. Ubil and our Honduran staff continue to take any necessary measures to ensure the well-being of our children and the Amigos family.

Right now we ask for your thoughts and prayers, as the nation of Honduras continues to struggle in the fight for stability and peace. Our Honduran friends have yet to lose hope or faith, despite the difficulties this country has faced for years, and in an intensified way for the past three months. We are called, as Christians, to offer them thoughts and prayers of solidarity and peace in these days. Thank you for your support.

Cancelled: Amigos de Jesús Picnic Sunday October 4, 2009

2009-09-23T17:38:00.000-04:00

Urgent Message Concerning the Cancellation of the Amigos de Jesús Picnic Sunday October 4, 2009

Two weeks ago the USA embassy cancelled all new visas to the United States which prevents the children from coming to the States for the picnic. I emailed the Ambassador and the Consul General and they responded that they could not grant an exception but would let us know if the situation became better. Two days ago the situation became worse and the airports are now closed in Honduras with no chance for the children to come to the States. In light of this new development, and since the purpose of the picnic was for you to meet the children we are cancelling the picnic with the hope that when things settle down in Honduras we can bring the children up for you to meet them. I am sorry for any inconvenience this may cause you but I want you to meet the children and it is impossible for that to happen at this time.
Thank you for your love, support and generosity to the children.

Primero Dios,
Fr. Den

Come Celebrate Amigos de Jesús!

2009-09-17T10:44:00.003-04:00

¡Todos son bienvenidos!
All are welcome!

What: A community picnic complete with food, games, events and FUN!
There will be a moonbounce, bracelet making, face-painting, free food and good company.

You are welcome to come first to 12:00 noon mass at Saint Patrick's and then stay for the festivities!

When: Sunday, October 4, 2009 from 1:00pm - 5:00pm

Who: All are welcome! We just need you to RSVP before September 20th to our office:
610-644-8237
amigos@amigosdejesus.org
Or post a comment right here on our blog telling us you'll be attending!

Once more, the details...
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Mass 12 o’clock Noon
St. Patrick’s Church, Malvern, PA

followed by

A family picnic to share in and celebrate the Amigos de Jesús Community
1:00pm - 5:00pm
Malvern Preparatory School
418 S. Warren Ave. Malvern, PA 19355

We do hope you will be able to join us! Thank you for your continued support!

Hope for Renewal

2009-09-17T10:33:00.005-04:00

Two days ago, on the 15th of September, Honduras celebrated her national independence day. Festivities abounded, "fiesticas" (little parties) were held in schools, parades could be seen in the bigger cities, there was celebration of the nation's independence, of the nation's sustainability, of her individualism as a country. The overt pride felt by the citizens of this country in being Honduran was evident. And yet, one cannot help but wonder, what sort of independence it really is that the people of this small Central American country can celebrate as they continue to struggle with a situation of political crisis.

Yesterday President Oscar Arias of Costa Rica, who has been a pivotal player in trying to aid the journey to resolution for this country, held a meeting with four of the six declared candidates in the upcoming November election. The purpose of this meeting was to try to get them all on the same page insofar as what the world's leaders are saying - to clarify that no electoral results would be seen as legitimate by the international community (no matter who wins) if Manuel Zelaya was not first reinstated as President of Honduras. There has yet to be a report published regarding the success of yesterday's meeting.

Meanwhile, our boys are well at the Hogar, happy and healthy. The new group of volunteers is finishing up their last week of language school in Guatemala and will be arriving at our Hogar - their new home for the next 14 months - on Saturday. Here in Philadelphia we are "preparing the banquet," as you read in our recent newsletter, and getting ready for our October 4th Picnic celebration of the Amigos de Jesús community. We do hope you will join us!
[See above blog entry.]

As we accompany our sisters and brothers in Honduras in this time of celebration and independence, in the faith-filled journey towards a better tomorrow, and in the daily petition for peace, perhaps we can offer up together a prayer of hope.

Prayer for a World Renewed

O God,
our creator and sustainer,
we pray to you:
We want to celebrate life.
We cry out against all that kills life:
hunger, poverty, unemployment, sickness,
debt, repression, individualism,
abuse of the earth, injustice, and all other
forms of slavery.
We want to announce fullness of life:
work, education, health, housing,
safe environment, bread for all.
We want communion, solidarity,
a world renewed.
We hope against hope.
With the God of history,
we want to make things new again.
Amen.

The U.S. takes a stronger stand

2009-09-04T14:14:00.003-04:00

The United States government has announced that it is halting all non-humanitarian aid to the Central American country of Honduras, which is currently equivalent to approximately 30 million dollars, as a result of the lack of resolution after the 28 June ousting of President Manuel Zelaya.

According to BBC World News, Zelaya was quoted by the AFP news agency as saying "With this decision of the United States, the countries of the Americas have formed a single bloc in condemning the coup."

As a result of this withdrawal of aid, Rafael Pineda, minister of the de facto presidency under Micheletti, points out that due to these economic sanctions being issued by the US now "some of the infrastructural works will be sacrificed; if they are nost paralyzed completely they will continue in very slow progress because the influx of resources will be much less." (read in and translated from the article "Gobierno de facto hondureño lamenta cancelación total de ayuda de EE.UU.," found in today's online news at www.telesurtv.net)

The United States continues to impose sanctions on visas being issued to Hondurans; Brasil has also now announced the suspension of issuing visas to citizens of Honduras. According to BBC, at this stage the US additionally notes that any elections insuing from this de facto government will not be recognized internationally as being legitimate. Honduras is due to have presidential elections in November 2009.

While this beautiful nation continues to struggle on the political front for the restoration of peace, our children at the Hogar are as bright and energetic as ever. They are a true reminder to all who are in their presence of the goodness that comes from a human child's innocence, and the beauty that resides in the human heart, blessed by Christ's divinity.

Thank you for your prayers.

More Recent Happenings

2009-08-26T11:38:00.007-04:00

On Monday a delegation from the Organization of American States arrived in Honduras to meet with the de facto government, in the hopes of their acceptance of the mediation peace plan proposal developed mainly by President Oscar Arias (of Costa Rica). This delegation included representatives from Argentina, Canada, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, and the Dominican Republic. The proposed plan, which the delegation was hoping to persuade Honduras' interim government to accept, would include the reinstatement of Honduran President Manuel Zelaya, and bump up the November elections to a bit earlier (to hold them in October).

This meeting concluded yesterday without success. Micheletti's government in Honduras rejected the proposal, saying that they will go ahead with elections in November, as planned, regardless of whether or not the international community recognizes the current government and whether or not they will recognize the future results of the November election. Micheletti has made it clear that the de facto government is not fearful of sanctions from other nations that have and may continue to ensue following the ousting of Manuel Zelaya.

According to BBC World News, after meeting with the delegation, Micheletti spoke:
"We are not afraid of an embargo by anybody. The country can carry on firmly and calmly without your support and that of other nations."
"Nobody is coming here to impose anything on us, unless troops come from somewhere else and force us."

The U.S. has announced that it will cease issuing visas from its embassy in Honduras as a result of the interim government refusing to accept the proposal.

The good news is that things are going well at the Hogar, and our children are safe and well. The incoming group of volunteers have now all arrived to Guatemala/Honduras for language school, and are gaining expertise in the language while beginning to get accostumed to the Central American culture. They will arrive at the orphanage mid-September.

Thank you all for your prayers. May we continue to ask for God's guidance and intervention during these difficult times in Honduras.

In other words...

2009-08-14T08:30:00.003-04:00

These "other words" is what we are waiting for.

The Organization of American States, following the consent of the de facto interim government in Honduras, has decided to send a delegation of chancellors to Honduras. The mission of this group is to insist on a negotiated solution to the national crisis this Central American country has been experiencing since the 28th of June.

According to BBC World News, "The OAS hopes Mr. Micheletti can be persuaded to accept a detailed plan proposed by the Costa Rican President, Oscar Arias. Under this, Mr. Zelaya would return to serve out his presidency and a government of national reconciliation would be set up. There would be an amnesty for political crimes committed during the crisis, and presidential elections would be brought forward to 28 October."
A date has yet to be set for this reunion to take place.

Meanwhile, on the ground in Honduras supporters of Zelaya continue to gather and make their voices heard. Jean Monahan, the mother of one of our current volunteers, who just recently returned from a visit to see her daughter in Honduras on Tuesday, offered the following observation:
“About an hour from the airport yesterday we met up with the marchers heading to San Pedro Sula, so we inched along with them -- quite an adventure. They were all calm and cheerful and the police even seemed to be enjoying themselves."

It is interesting that the current situation in Honduras continues to be referred to as a "national crisis." Interesting, because in the area where our orphanage is located, and the places where our children come from, the struggle to survive every day can - and should - be considered a crisis. Amigos offers children a respite from this crisis, a chance to be well-fed, educated, loved, and breathe a bit more easily. But that daily life crisis continues for so many.

Jean Monahan concludes her reflection with a beautiful note, a few poignant "other words" that we may let sit on our hearts:
"I would encourage any parents who can do so to go visit and they will be impressed by the peace and beauty of the people, even in their simple life. I am reminded of Mother Teresa's insight that loneliness is the greatest poverty.”

Let us continue to unite our prayers in hope for a restoration of peace to this beautiful Central American nation, and for an end to the daily crisis of all the children.

Hacia adelante... Moving forward!

2009-08-12T14:25:00.005-04:00

Yesterday it was estimated that a few thousand supporters gathered in the streets of Tegucigalpa in support of the reinstatement of President Manuel Zelaya. Smaller groups of people came together in San Pedro Sula (the country's second largest city) in support of the same.

Today, Zelaya was set to meet with Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the president of Brazil, "to analyze the situation of this Central American nation, victim of the military coup which took place on the 28 of June" (translated from today's article in www.telesurtv.net).

In other news, things at the Hogar are continuing well. The boys are healthy, and we have just brought on board a new director for our school who comes with a great deal of experience and knowledge in education, so hopefully this will be a good step for Holy Family School at Amigos.

About half of our incoming volunteers have arrived in Guatemala and begun language school. We would ask for your prayers for one of our volunteers who has unfortunately suffered a bit from the change of culture, diet, etc., and could use some intercession to get her health back on the right track.
The rest of our volunteers are headed down to language school in the next week and a half, and our prayers are with them as well as they prepare for their departure.

Finally, remember to mark your calendars!

On Sunday, October 4, 2009 from 1:00pm - 5:00pm Amigos de Jesús will be having a community picnic complete with food, games, events and FUN! A few of our boys will be coming up from the Hogar to meet and spend time with you, Amigos' generous and faithful supporters.

We would love for you to come to noon mass and then stay for the festivities!
Mass will be at St. Patrick’s Church in Malvern, PA and will be followed by the picnic at Malvern Preparatory School, Malvern, PA. All are welcome!

Be on the lookout in our next newsletter for more information and an RSVP form! We hope you will be able to join us for this exciting event!

Update

2009-07-27T09:35:00.002-04:00

The nation of Honduras continues to be in a state of division as the days pass.

Just a few days ago, on Friday, July 24th, President Zelaya attempted to enter his home country on foot by way of the shared border with Nicaragua. He made it only a few steps onto Honduran soil before he was forced to retreat back across the border. He returned to border again on Saturday, in a second unsuccessful attempt to cross into Honduras.

While the peace talks (mediated by Costa Rica's president Oscar Arias) have not resulted in any sort of solution, the Honduran military made it clear in a recent press release that there is no disunity: they are subordinate to the Honduran government. Yet the question remains: who is, and who will be, the true Honduran government?

The country is divided in the support of Zelaya and Micheletti. It does not seem that Zelaya is helping his cause by attempting to force his way back into Honduras - in fact, on Friday US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton called this move "reckless." While this might not be the ideal way to go about it, Zelaya does not seem to be willing to negotiate at all on his return. The waiting game continues.

Meanwhile, at Amigos all are far from any sort of action/reaction to what is going on. The public schools re-opened last Monday and the colegio boys are back to their studies. Volunteers are continuing to suspend travel to San Pedro Sula; Ubil and others are keeping a close eye, monitoring the political situation and the daily occurrences in Honduras.

We continue to pray for peace and resolution in Honduras. Additionally, we ask for your prayers for our incoming volunteers, who have begun to depart for language school in Guatemala! Hopefully this is a time of new beginnings, exciting paths to be explored, and safety and stability for all.

Peace talks to begin...

2009-07-08T09:52:00.002-04:00

Yesterday brought words that will hopefully be good news for our friends and loved ones in Honduras: Secretary of State Hillary Clinton met with Pres. Zelaya [yesterday] and both he and interim president Robert Micheletti have agreed to begin the dialogue process tomorrow (Thursday), under the guidance of Costa Rican president Oscar Arias. Arias has made no mention of how long he believes the talks will go on, other than he will mediate the conversation for as long as necessary. Arias was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987 for helping to end the region’s civil wars – so hopefully that is a good sign!

Neither Zelaya nor Micheletti seems to want to give up the position of President and are hesitant of the term “negotiation”, but both are open to dialogue, which is hopeful. Both have made public comments that the last thing they want is violence and bloodshed to occur in their country, which is also a good sign. Zelaya has said that this dialogue will not be to negotiate, so much as to plan the exit of those responsible for the ousting (Newspaper La Hora, Guatemala), and with the backing of the international community for Zelaya, the pressure seems to be on the interim government (BBC World News).

All are well and safe at the Hogar, and again the volunteers are anxious (as are most Hondurans, I imagine!) for this all to pass. In speaking with Ubil, I was struck by the disappointment he must feel: a man who has spent his life dedicating so much time and energy into creating a safe and healthy environment for the children, a man who is so very clearly an agent of change in a world that desperately needs to be altered, only to be witness to the affects of a government creating such discord, out of the control of any one person.

Perhaps the helplessness we all feel at this point could serve as a good lesson to better understand those in Honduras and around the world: those who are stuck in a cycle of poverty, lack of education, and powerlessness to do much to change their fate, a fate that has been determined by a global society that favors the elite. Let us try to use this as an opportunity to stand in solidarity with those who have no voice, of our children who are vulnerable, and to be with those who feel helpless, who face what seems like a hopeless situation in faith.

Let us say our prayers with greater conviction and more frequently for the Honduran people.

Once more, we wait and hope.

Esperar: to wait; to hope

2009-07-06T08:35:00.006-04:00

We continue waiting today as the holiday weekend here in the US has passed; we find ourselves standing in solidarity with the people of Honduras in curiosity and anticipation of what is yet to come.

Last week, the OAS (Organization of American States) met and decided to grant the current interim government in Honduras 72 hours to concede to the return of Zelaya (the ousted president). On Saturday, after waiting and hoping for the interim government to act, the OAS suspended Honduras from the coalition as a result of failure to allow Zelaya to return to the country. (This is the first time the OAS has taken such a measure since the removal of Cuba in 1962.)

Yesterday (Sunday), Zelaya decided to take action a bit more into his own hands by attempting to fly back to Honduras, accompanied by the Presidents of Argentina and Ecuador, as well as the head of the OAS. However the military (in support of the current interim government) as well as anti-Zelaya protestors, lined the runway in Tegucigalpa and prevented the plane from landing. Zelaya was diverted to Nicaragua, from where he would proceed to El Salvador.
The country seems quite split in this political arena, as many pro-Zelaya supporters were also present there in Tegucigalpa, rallying for Zelaya's return.

According to BBC world news, the interim government in Honduras, spearheaded by the appointed (interim) president Roberto Micheletti, offered that they are open to negotiation with the international community; what they are not open to is the return of the deposed president Zelaya.

Zelaya has commented that he will attempt again today or tomorrow to return to his home country, though there are also some news reports that say Zelaya may possibly head back to Washington to continue conversing with international leaders before taking more action.

From here in Philadelphia, we continue speaking with Ubil and the volunteers in Honduras on a near daily basis, ensuring their safety and health as the days progress. They all seem in good spirits, though more than ready for this current situation to come to an end, for fellow volunteers to return to the hogar, the colegio (high school) boys to return to school (all public schools have been closed since the ousting occurred over a week ago), and life to assume a welcome state of "normalcy."

So once more, we wait to see what the days will bring and how things will proceed.

*An interesting note: in Spanish, the words “to wait” and “to hope” are the same: esperar. There is perhaps comfort to be found in this simple reminder of God’s presence and plan for all of us.

With continued prayers for tranquility, the restoration of peace and the return of democracy to Honduras, thanks for reading.

A Letter from A Parent

2009-07-06T08:29:00.002-04:00

Below you will find an email from Kevin, a father of one of the current volunteers at Amigos. This will perhaps grant some insight into Amigos from a different point of view. We thank him for his words, support for his son and for the Amigos community.

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As the father of one of the current volunteers, I thought it might be helpful to... know about our experiences with Amigos de Jesús and my contact with our son Dan over the last few days. We had the good fortune to visit Dan and the orphanage in February. It is a wonderful place with many excellent staff and a superb group of young volunteers. My wife and I were tremendously impressed with the commitment and the maturity of the young people who are currently serving the children.

As I am sure you know, the orphanage is in a rural area surrounded by some small villages. The reputation of the orphanage and the people who work there is very high among the local people. Indeed, a large number of local people work or have worked at the orphanage in recent years.

The year has been a wonderful one for Dan. He and the other volunteers feel a great sense of purpose and accomplishment and also feel strongly supported by the staff in the United States. I am sure the new group of volunteers will feel the same. Hopefully, conditions will return to a more normal state very soon.

Sincerely, Kevin

Current Political Happenings in Honduras

2009-06-30T12:09:00.004-04:00

The past few days have brought some uncertainty, extended caution and a lot of prayers to Amigos de Jesús.

On Sunday, June 28th, democratically elected President Manuel Zelaya of Honduras was removed from his home by military force and escorted to Costa Rica. This day there had been a vote planned to determine whether or not the people of Honduras would be open to a non-binding referendum to the constitution. Some took this as an attempt by Zelaya to change the constitution in favor of him continuing into a second term of presidency (which is currently not allowed under the present constitution). Military forces entered his home in Tegucigalpa, and put him (in his pajamas!) on a plane to Costa Rica. Congress immediately named an interim president, Roberto Micheletti; though Zelaya continues to speak that he is still president and has full intention of continuing as president through the end of his term (in January).

What does this mean for us at Amigos de Jesús? Well, most manifestations and demonstrations are taking place in Tegucigalpa and some in San Pedro Sula, which is still a good distance from our humble home in Macuelizo, Santa Barbara. However, full precautions are being taken to ensure the safety and well-being of all at the Hogar (orphanage). For now, no travel is being permitted outside of Macuelizo. Ubil, our Honduran director, is keeping incredibly up-to-date with the situation, and we are in communication with both him and the volunteers daily. Here in the office, we are trying to keep as informed as possible on the play-by-play happenings. And more than anything - both in Philadelphia and in Honduras - we are praying for safety and peace.

President Zelaya is set to address the United Nations this afternoon in New York, in the hopes of gaining increased international support. Right now, his return to Honduras is slated for Thursday... we'll see what the days bring.

Please keep the children, staff, volunteers and the governing peoples of Honduras in your thoughts and prayers, as we ask God to grant guidance and peace to all.

Welcome to Amigos de Jesús!

2009-06-29T14:37:00.005-04:00

Thanks for reading! Here you will be able to keep informed on the current happenings at Amigos, find out what the latest is in the lives of our children, and get updates about our volunteers. You can also contact us if you would like to become a donor, sponsor a child, or become an Amigos de Jesús volunteer. Please don't hesitate to contact us for more information at any time.

A little history to Amigos de Jesús:

Amigos de Jesús, or Friends of Jesus, is a home for the impoverished children of Honduras. For them, Amigos de Jesús is a safe haven. It is their school, playground, bedroom, chapel, family.
We provide food, clothing, shelter, education, and love to over 50 children living at Amigos de Jesús. Big-eyed preschoolers, young boys, adolescents, and young adults who used to eat out of garbage cans now eat in our dining hall, sleep in our dorms, pray in our chapel, work in our woodshop, and learn life skills in our school.

Amigos de Jesús also supports hundreds of impoverished children living in local Honduran villages and overcrowded shelters through our Sponsor-A-Child program.

Everything we do is for the children. At Amigos de Jesús, we work to help boys and girls grow up to be healthy, independent Hondurans who will, in turn, help lift the spirit of other children struggling to survive in Central America’s poorest nation.

Our mission:

We work to get the children off the streets and out of harm’s way. As part of that mission, we strive to model a Christ-like lifestyle of spirituality, community, education, and health. We teach the children how to grow in creative ways within this belief system as we ourselves become students of these children and our lives become transformed by them.

Amigos de Jesús Service Community:

Our Amigos volunteer community is a faith-based, post-graduate, international service program bringing hope to impoverished and abandoned children at Amigos de Jesús Orphanage in Honduras, Central America.
Volunteers live together as a Catholic Community that models a Christ-like lifestyle founded on the four pillars of: spirituality, community, education and health.

Our volunteers spend 14 months living and working in community at Amigos de Jesús (September-November). There are a variety of opportunities for different types of work, as there is much to be done at Amigos. Our volunteers are teachers, after-school homework helpers, nurses, social workers, coaches, engineers, mentors, disciplinarians and friends to name a few! Regardless of what the specific work is that a volunteer is doing on a daily basis, our volunteers, along with the Honduran staff at Amigos, are to model a healthy Christian lifestyle and be examples for our children.

Amigos de Jesús is a very special place with very special children. We thank you for reading and ask for your support and prayers as we provide for the children and become transformed by them.

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Interested in becoming more involved with Amigos? Contact us at amigos@amigosdejesus.org. We would love to hear from you!