First, we met a couple from Canada. They are about our age. They have been regular pioneering for 4 years, and in that time have done a number of short need greater trips - both in Canada and overseas. They visited San Pedro for a couple of weeks last winter after receiving direction from the Mexico branch. 4 months ago they came here for a 6 month trip. However they are now considering staying longer due to the need out here, and are looking at ways to facilitate this. Both continue to pioneer, and he serves as a ministerial servant.
Next, we met a sister from the US. She is in her early 40s. She set the goal of coming here almost 5 years ago after talking with a few brothers and sisters who had been, and understanding the need for preaching support. Over the next 4 years she experienced a number of very difficult trials, including losing everything she had, but she never lost her focus. She arrived by boat almost 1 year ago, and credits every day she is here to Jehovah. She will be here as long as she can, hopefully until the new system!
Then we met a young brother from the US. He is 18. His cousin and her husband serve here. He has been staying with them for the last few months and will be here until February time. He is supporting the congregation both in the ministry and as a ministerial servant.
We also met a couple, in their late 60s/70s, who moved here two months ago from the US. They visited the island on holiday, realised the need, went home and sold up and moved here permanently. Although he suffered a stroke a few years ago which has left him with difficulties in mobility, he continues to pioneer and serves as one of the two elders permanently assigned to the congregation.
Finally, we met a couple from the UK. They are here for a couple of weeks before heading to the mainland where they have been asked to support a Creole congregation. They will stay there for the remainder of their trip - approximately 6 weeks. They are so far out of their comfort zone - too many creatures for them! But their love for Jehovah continues to drive them.
Everyone mentioned above is in different circumstances, from different backgrounds, and can contribute different things to the need out here. Together with the local brothers and sisters they fulfill the needs of the local congregation and territory, although more are needed! And this is one congregation, in one country - there are so many more!
Being here has really opened our eyes to the needs of the global organisation, and given us a way to say thank you to Jehovah for everything he has done for us. We don't know what will come next for us, but we do know we will treasure this experience forever!
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