Three is Good

'Diggin' it!' Jim (left), Father Paschal (right) dig holes to emplace the 12' 4x4 beams that serve as the framework for a new house. 

Mark (left) and Russ (Middle) connect new water pipe to the main.

Father Ussef and Deacon Allen (right) visit local friends at the market in Comayagua.

Spiritually speaking, there is something wholesome about the number “3,” such as the “Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,” or the “Passion, Death, and Resurrection,” of our one Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  Today, in a small way, we were blessed with three opportunities to go out and serve. ‘ We began our first day of work gathered together for prayer and morning Mass.  Shortly after breakfast, our group of 11 split into three different teams: The “‘Pipe Lay’n’ Mountain Climbers,” the “Diggers,” and last but not least, the “Visitators.”

Mark, Russ, and Tom pause for a picture on the hill leading up to the home.

The “Pipe Lay’n Mountain Climbers” worked all day to lay and connect PVC pipe from the main water line to a family home on top of a hill. The home was approximately 150m uphill from the community’s main water line, making it no easy task in the hot Honduran sun.

This mother and her child have not had access to running water in their home in over a month. 

Father Richard and the group take a break for lunch in the family's home.  

The “Diggers” dug – 12 holes in rocky mountain soil. Digging was the first step in an ongoing project to build a home for a family in need. By the end of the day, with the help of the family, members from a Honduran parish in Comayagua – the initial framework for the new home was established.

Treating the 12' 4 x 4's in order to prevent rotting.

Father Paschal be trippin' over the strings used as guides for the emplacement of the new house

Los Hermanos (the brothers)  oversee and assist with the building of their new home.

Rick and John.

The “Visitators,” ventured into the crowded chaos of the marketplace in Comayagua in order to mingle with friends and to beg. The friars depend on God’s providence to provide for their basic needs, and therefore beg for donations from the locals.

Charlene and Allen.

 

Father Ussef with Melony Sofia and her mother.

In addition to visiting the market, Charlene and Deacon Allen accompanied Father on house visits to the sick and elderly.  One family graciously welcomed the Father Ussef, Charlene, and Allen into the home as their 100 year old grandfather was dying. Father Ussef was able to administer three sacraments in one visit: anointing of the sick, confession, and Holy Communion.