El Refugio

This is El Refugio, La Casa Para Ancianos.  This is one of the nursing homes found in Tijuana.  Ancianos is the spanish word for elderly.  I like that this one is named "the refuge".  I have been spending Wednesday mornings over there this fall.   Part of my job this year  (as we prepare to open in September), is to become familiar with the city and to establish relationships with local ministries.  Next year the students will be working with local ministries and serving the people of Tijuana.  I hope some will have the opportunity to serve at El Refugio.  

At this point, over 100 ancianos live here.  It is a Christian facility, so I have enjoyed seeing the the presence of Christ's love in a place that can be lonely and often lacking kindness.  The facility was started as there were many older people on the streets with no place to go.  Now they are given shelter, warm meals, and a family.  

Last week I enjoyed watching the ancianos be spoiled.  Lots of groups come through to serve, doing things like shaving, bathing, cutting fingernails and toenails, or simply cleaning the facility.  One of my favorite groups thus far is a group of ladies that are from a local gym.  They are probably just a bit older than me and they come to visit once or twice a month.  This last visit was great as they brought Birria (a shredded beef), warm tortillas, and papaya.  Oh... people were very happy!  In addition to the good food, they brought live music.  So at one point, one of my favorite ancianas, was wheeled up to the singer and just started dancing in her wheelchair.  It was such a sweet sight.  She had a huge grin on her face.

My favorite couple at the Refugio happens to be from China.  They do not speak much Spanish, or English, but frequently talk to the staff, and to me in Chinese.  They are very sweet, and the Senor is such a hard worker.  He was helping the staff with chores this past week.  

A word of wisdom from one of the women at the nursing home.  God is love and nothing will we need.   Just a good reminder that we have a great Father in Heaven who loves us a lot, and He takes care of His kids.  Gracias a Dios!