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Nehemiah's CallP.O. Box 95Broadway, VA 22815540-896-2580 |
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Eyes to See and Ears to Hear |
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Costa Rica: Rancho de Gozo y Paz
Our Vision for the Rancho De Gozo Y Paz:
To be Jesus on the mountain
We believe that God’s hand set us on the mountain three years ago and we have been earnestly seeking His guidance and wisdom, to determine the reason, ever since. We believe that it is every Christian’s calling to “be Jesus where you are.” Hence, for us, the question is, “How are we to be Jesus on the mountain.” At this point we believe that while many of the specifics are unclear, the general outline of the ministries God has for us is apparent.
First and foremost, we believe we are called to be servants to the communities around us Bijaguales, Paquario, and San Lorenzo, are composed of a total of maybe 200 families. These communities have no phone service, no secondary school, only dirt roads and no evangelical witness. God has opened the hearts of these people to us and we count some of them among our closest friends. We believe that we are to provide educational opportunities, including secondary education and in-home reading programs to these families. We also hope to bring computer technology and the Internet into the local elementary school. Above all, it is our vision that through being good friends to our neighbors we will have the opportunity to share the gospel with them and see them enter into the Kingdom of Our Lord.
Second, we believe we are to provide spiritual and tangible nourishment and rest to God’s people. Without exception, those who have visited the ranch have expressed amazement at the incredible beauty and peace that pervades the ranch. It is our vision this place be made available at no cost to God’s people who are in need of counsel, training or simply time to heal or gain strength. Se are particularly concerned that indigenous pastors and missionaries get the rest and training that they need and that troubled couples get help in revitalizing their marriages.
Third, we believe that God has provided resources that would allow this ministry to eventually be financially self-sustaining. We are in the heart of Costa Rica’s exuberant Brunca Region, an area National Geographic describes as “the most biologically diverse place on earth.” With its panoramic vistas of Central America’s highest mountains, pristine jungle hikes to huge waterfalls, easy access to world-class surfing, fishing and hang gliding. The ranch is and Eco/adventure tourist’s dream comes true. It is our vision that providing economical, world-class vacation and educational opportunities to God’s people in North America for a limited part of the year will provide the income required supporting our other ministries year round.
Chris and Joya Gorton, directors
Rancho de Gozo y Paz
Trip to Costa Rica August 23-30,2004:
Recently, Chris approached Lawrence through Sam and Vai Miller and a referral from Virginia Mennonite Board of Missions personnel. Chris met with Lawrence and the relationship has grown from there. Chris has requested Nehemiah’s Call consider provided spiritual oversight and accountability to the Gortons, along with practical insight in setting regional prayer research and strategy. The Gortons have requested a personal visit of board members of Nehemiah’s Call this summer to better share with others this vision.
Most of the trip will be ground laying and on site prayer. Direct observation and discernment will be the primary means of spiritual counsel on this trip. Some time will be given to being introduced to neighbors, and indigenous pastors.
We are excited about this relationship and prayer retreat center high above the Costa Rican mountains. For those eager to participate in this ministry, you can contact Nehemiah’s Call or e-mail the Gortons directly.
Chris and Joya Gorton can be called at 011-506-354-9324
See additional information at www.retreat.emercy.org
Prayer Needs:
A big need is ongoing financial support in these initial stages of growth. They also have four children with them and therefore schooling needs and family time. Chris and Joy desire to work with indigenous churches please pray for these connections to be life giving. Pray for those willing to share this vision and ask the Father for ordained partnering relationships. Strength, health and safety are important too.
