El Salvador 2003

January, 2003 Visit – School Dedication & Planning for Next Mission Trip

In January, 2003, Pastor Richard Gantenbein, along with 2002 Mission Team member Gary Stein and his wife Patti returned to El Salvador to attend the official dedication of the new school building, now named St. Andrew School at the request of the villagers of Buenos Aires.  Today, three teachers are now providing education to village children through sixth grade.

A large crowd of village parents and their children were on hand for the official dedication program.  The visit also included time for further meetings with village leaders, political leaders of the town of Armenia and other national and regional officials to review project possibilities and priorities for the next Mission team later this year and into the future.

Planning is underway to determine if we can aid in the construction of a new bridge over the stream below the village.  Gary and town officials survey the potential crossing point.  A bridge would allow busses from the town of Armenia to transport villagers to and from town for jobs, shopping and for education of older children.