Back to work (well, for some!)

After a two week break in July, we are back into the swing of school and CEP. We didn't go away, but did some fun things for a "holiday at home." Stephen's teaching load this semester is fairly light, so he is working on digitizing a lot of CEP paperwork, which is currently done the old-fashioned way.

Students on strike
We generally feel safe here in Santiago, but every now and then something happens to remind us that this is Latin America, not Australia. Many high school and uni students here have been on strike for the last 3 months, demanding free public education, improved standards and non-profit universities. A good education leaves even middle-class Chliean parents with enormous debts. Students, parents and others have been marching the streets banging saucepans -- a type of protest called a cacerolazo. Tension is growing and the riots are becoming more violent. Add to the mix a growing dissatisfaction with the government in general, and the political situation could become unstable. Thus far, CEP has only been mildly affected by nearby riots and tear gas.

This school has been “seized” by the students—no learning happening here!

Give thanks...

• for a fun and restful holiday
• for the recent chance to have our neighbours in for a meal, and for their questions about why we are here and what we believe (please pray for more chances to share with them)

Please pray...

• for a quick resolution to the political tensions in Chile regarding education reforms
• for safety as Stephen travels to Antofagasta (Aug 26-28) to teach a PTC course

Nations rage, kingdoms topple; the earth melts when He lifts His voice. The Lord of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold. -- Psalm 46:6-7

CMS depends on regular support from people like you. If you would like to know about how you can support us, please visit our CMS page.