Tropicana Ward

We have been here only a week and a half and have fallen in love with the Tropicana Ward in Alajuela. They are one of the few wards in Costa Rica, most congregations are branches or groups. We have met so many wonderful people at church that have welcomed us and offered help wherever possible. Last night, Eduardo took Seth out to help him purchase a new vehicle. Eduardo has experience as a mechanic and knows the ins and outs of buying a vehicle here, which apparently is very complicated. It's required by law to have a lawyer help with the transaction. Seth was able to find a microbus for us that is decent, but not too nice. Perfect for us. 

Last night, Ethan and Sean met the Seminary teacher, a young mother who speaks only Spanish. She gave them the materials and we talked with the bishopric as they were there too. Many people speak varying levels of English, but most don't, so the conversation is usually in Spanish. The handful of interactions we've had with church members have been the best Spanish practice by far. They are very friendly, they really care about us and want to talk with us. They are willing to speak simply and slowly and they really want to build a friendship. 

The bishop pulled me aside (he speaks English) and asked us again what our plans are. I told him that we love the ward, but we found other areas we'd prefer to live, like Atenas. He asked me about previous callings we've had and told me that they are praying for a miracle that we will stay in this ward. They have two callings in the young women and young men that need filling ASAP and they want to put us in. I told him we'd be there 100% for 3 weeks, but no guarantees after that. I told him that we travel a lot and every ward we visit begs us to stay. Every ward needs us. That's one reason why we are here. I do find myself wishing we could find a situation here in the Tropicana Ward that we could be happy with so we could stay and help them a little longer. 

Last night I looked up language immersion classes nearby. I feel an urgency to get us all to fluency in Spanish. The Lord needs us as soon as we are ready and able to help. The faster we can learn, the more we can serve.