Unless God build the house, it is built in vain!

OUR JOURNEY

In December 2003 a seed was planted, this seed has been watered and nurtured and has developed into what we now call HopeHouse। HopeHouse is a provision of God and God alone. He has touched the hearts of many people, beginning with Bridget and then myself, to accomplish this amazing ministry. God has touched our hearts to such a degree that He has moved us into action in ways that no man could do. Many have witnessed the devastating reality of young children abandoned, alone and trying to survive on the streets of Lima. Bridget for one, was totally crushed by the desperate plight of these children. As she listened to their stories she was moved to the point of brokenness. She sensed an emotional hunger,they were not only hungry because of their empty stomachs but they were starved of any love or affection. These young, tender lives had experienced nothing but anger, aggression,turmoil and scorn from the adult race. The question we were left with was.......
...... How could we make a difference ?

ORIGINS & HISTORY
Every journey starts with those first steps. Mine started when I visit Nepal to carry out volunteer (building) work in a tiny hospital in Banepa. Bridget’s was seeing first hand the plight of street children who had escaped unwholesome family situations only to find themselves lost and hungry on the often mean streets of Lima. We joined forces in 2004 having agreed to tell of this plight not only to churches within the area of Gosford NSW but also to various Rotary clubs within the Sydney region. Our meeting at the Blood Blank was proving to be a turning point for both of us. We raised sufficient funds (mainly through Rotary) to construct a house in Jicamarca, which could accomodate twenty five girls.
Bridget returned to Peru in April 2005 and I was to follow in July. Bridget had agreed to work as a volunteer in the newly established girls home in Jicamarca, 1 ½ hours out of Lima. I was to be her “logistical support”.
Upon arrival, Bridget knew something was very wrong. The girls had often been left on their own daytime and at night without supervision, without proper nutrition, sometimes without water. Negligible hygienic practices were the norm, exacerbated at times by no electricity, no clean water and no sewerage system. It seemed close to chaos with the girls at high risk of injury and infections. Fleas and fungal infections were rampant and there had already been one house fire.
CHAOS & SCANDAL
By mid July we were to learn that the pastor who had been managing the refuge had been behaving improperly towards the girls, that a police investigation was to occur and that the refuge would be closed. At that time we felt shattered and low in spirit. The authorities did not trust us. We were “visited” by local and regional news papers, who sensationalize an already awful story which in turn caused the locals to have thoughts of tearing down the building stone by stone. The backing church, situated in one of the better suburbs of Lima, instead of offering support, chose to protect itself by staying in the shadows. There was little financial support (only the Australian church remained faithful) and we struggled with insufficient funds even to buy enough food and water. There was nothing in our former professional training or life experience to prepare us for this.All we could do was pray. Our Australian supporters and the handful of Americans that knew us, were praying as well..........by the Grace of God, the situation change.

GOD'S GRACE & PROVISION
The authorities agreed to give us a chance to become legal and therefore remain open. A German group (Wilhelm Oberle Fundation) introduced itself to us and offered to assist with wage support so that we could employ a social worker and other professionals to help with the girls. Another church group offered to provide us with the support of their legally recognized association (albeit with the understanding that they would take control of the land of the refuge).
Somewhere, in 2006 Bridget and I found time to be married in Peru, a marathon of red tape in itself. Significantly, by then we were receiving unsolicited and generous support from a group of American churches under the banner of New Covenant Creation Ministries (a name we hardly knew). We were visited by optical, dental, medical and drama teams consisting of sincere, friendly people, who just wanted to help out. This was for us, very encouraging.
We passed Christmas 2006 in high spirits, feeling sure the past was buried and confident we could meet new challenges relating to building a team of Peruvian professionals, necessary to meeting the ongoing needs of the girls and the requirements of the 'Ministry of Womans Health'. We also believed that we could secure sufficient financial assistance to provide adequate, nutrition, education, clothing etc.for the girls, particularly as the associated Peruvian church had promised significant financial support. Sadly this was not to be. Far from being able to support us, spiritually and financially, the Peruvian group found they were in debt to us for the transfer fee of the property into their name. They also realized that they were too far away to visit the girls regularly and the forecasted fundraising never happened. We parted company in February 2007.
LIVING BY FAITH
Again, we found our own skills and determination inadequate to the task and that we could depend only on our Lord....that is..... 'total' dependence on God. We had experienced that for us "Prayer works". Bringing everything to God in prayer........ we waited.
Soon we found ourselves in a position to see if the New Covenant group felt they had the capacity to bring the refuge into their ministry. Their response at the time was that they would pray on this! So yet again, many people were praying.

NEW COVENANT MINISTRIES
By mid 2007, we had successfully transferred the refuge to New Covenant with the cooperation of the Peruvian Assocciation. Around the same time we welcomed work teams from Colorado and Georgia who completed the boundary wall around the 2500 square metre property, beautified the entire living room and living quarters with fresh paint and demolished the eyesore of a pool that could never be used. Work continued and a new separate building was constructed for Bridget and I, as well as a sewing room and a classroom in the main building. Plans to expand and improve the complex continue and are exciting.

To describe our ministry here we use words such as, God's love in action, spiritual growth, education, socialization, family re unification, and so on. Really, it is our strong desire that each and every one of these children gets to experience first hand, the love of God. That they might have a living breathing relationship with God in an intimate way.
To witness the light coming into a child’s eyes (where there was nothing) is incredibly moving. Our journey has brought us to a place where we realize that our perception about our faith, our strengths, our professionalism or humanity has little importance. We have learned that God does it all, He is the author and finisher of any good work and we are just the earthen vessells who are truly privileged to be co-workers with Him and to watch it all unfold.

With Joy !
Greg and Bridget Bonner

SOME OF THE GIRLS CURRENTLY AT HOPEHOUSE

ABIGAIL GLADYS CORRERO BUSTAMANTE
DOB 12/FEB/02

VALERIA KATRINA CCANCE MARISELO
DOB 16/SEPTEMBER/91

EVELIN PIO HUAMAN
DOB 10/OCTOBER/94

YESENIA CUMBIA CONTRERAS
DOB 08/ JANUARY/90

ENMA
DOB

FARAH
DOB

FLOR SOLEDAD QUICAÑA QUISPE
DOB 12/JUNE/96

NEWSLETTER JANUARY 2009

‘LOVE IS THE BEST GIFT’
It’s Christmas Eve, feeling very privileged after being prayed for by the girls. I injured my back, the pain was excruciating, radiating from the lower lumbar region right down my left leg and into my calf muscle. I would like to say I was doing something sensible but sadly...no. It’s the result of my mad urge to try out the kid’s roller blades. Yesterday I took 7 girls to the internet (they all have an email address now) and then to the local park. Two of the girls were having so much fun on their new rollerblades (early Christmas Presents) I just couldn’t resist so, I too had a crazy half hour which was a lot fun, but definitely not worth the pain I now feel, and, what’s worse is, I now have to admit that my roller blade days are over.

6pm was ‘knock off’ time for Rocio (our solicitor) she had been a great help, and so busy with the girls, but now she had to go, leavings just me. Only three hours to bed-time, I should make it! I became aware that Farah was observing me closely; she noticed that I was hobbling around, and groaning as I tried to sit down, she asked what was wrong. When I told her, she straight away asked if she and some other girls could pray for me. Of course I thought this was a good idea. I was ordered to sit on a chair in the centre of our living room as all twenty children gathered around me. They were definitely ‘in charge’. Talk about ‘role reversal’…….I felt so strange……their little hands placed on me. Farah commenced with her heart-felt prayer and Mery continued praying fervently until the tears flowed and she couldn’t pray anymore. With this, Jessica started off strong but soon became teary too. How could I not be touched? This time their tears were for me! I felt humbled, and at the same time honored……this is what it feels like……...wow!.......... Its quite powerful to have someone pray for you (me), with tears………real tears. Such sensitivity from young tender hearts, I felt so good all over.

CHRISTMAS PARTIES

The girls did a special dance in traditional costumes at the Christmas parties।

The first Christmas party was provided by the NCM team guests included the women form Pat’s place, sixty people in all. In contrast to last Christmas Alex & Holly were absent, as they recently returned to the States to purchase a home and settle back there.


Nataly has just
turned 8 years old. Due to
the traumas she suffered last year, she has to repeat the school year, but she is recovering and is emotionally settled,enjoying the love and safety that HopeHouse offers.

The second Christmas Party was provided by Jaime Dugand & family and much enjoyed by all. Jaime is from Columbia and has been in Peru for four years, he is committed to helping HopeHouse and has been blessing us on a regular basis

। Jaime and his wife Jaquie comes to visit HopeHouse every month bringing with them food supplies and lots of goodies for the kids, not only this but they spend time with the girls getting to know them on a more personal level। Often the girls have been spiritually fed when Jaime visits, as he shares the word and we have a time of praise and worship together। The girls love the Dugan family dearly.



Abby is
growing up !










She has been with us since she was just 3yrs old.

The third party and live entertainment was provided by Compassion the children had an abundance of gifts this year and were truly grateful.

Roger and Elverson at the airport excursion, excited by the aeroplanes and of course the ice cream.



ESTEFANY is 14 years old and has been with us for
5 months; she is a bit on the wild side, a stranger to discipline so she is finding it
hard to adjust to the structured environment. Please pray for Estefany.

REFLECTIONS - 2008
FEBRUARY 2008
· First trip to Atlanta to attend the annual NCM fund raising Banquet proved very successful, raising sufficient funds to complete the building which was previously begun by the HOP. This new building provided the Bonners with separate accommodation within the grounds of HopeHouse.
Other projects which were initiated as a result of funds raised were the construction of a new Youth Church Building, and a soccer field, close by, both of which are currently in the finishing stages.
The vision of HopeHouse Two is still alive; much talk and building plans of the proposed new orphanage for boys has been drawn up. We continue to pray and wait on God, his timing is perfect.
Also, provision of the sum of US $1000.00 a month for the period of one year has been given to HopeHouse, which has meant that the living conditions and nutrition of the girls has improved by 100% .
While in Georgia, Greg and I had the pleasure of trekking the Appalachian Trail for 10 days straight. We would highly recommend this excellent trek, such a variety of absolute majestic countryside and wonderful wild life। It snowed while we were there………the icing on the cake for us………Fantastic !

RELAXING , BOOTS OFF,ON A CLIF EDGE

MAY - AREQUIPA
· Greg and I were invited to Arequipa to attend an APEC conference (The Digital Economy forum for women).
· Unfortunately we were kidnapped by our taxi driver and three thugs ,blind folded and taken to some place where we were held for five hours, robbed of everything we owned, plus credit cards which we were forced to give our pin numbers। It was a bad experience but with a good outcome.…we were set free ! Our God never lets us down.
JUNE 2008 – SEPARATE RESIDENCE
· The current semi-built house for the Bonner’s was finally completed; all the basic electrical appliances were purchased by NCM। (TV, fridge, cooker, washing machine and coffee maker) and the Bonners moved in. Thank you NCM and thank you David Gutiérrez who donated a CD player. We love our new house!!
· NCM teams arrived, this time smaller groups, but we were still blessed immensely.

SEPTEMBER 2008
· Health scare for Greg, diagnosed with an Arrhythmia and Hipertensión; now controlled with medication.

NOVEMBER -
· Second trip to Atlanta, proved worthwhile financially, and very insightful regarding the people and the culture of America.
· Again the opportunity arose for another magnificent trek in The Great Smokey Mountains section of the Appalachian Trail. Though this time a few bruises were sustained, and a few anxious moments due to BIG BLACK BEARS ! it was a great trip. We can’t wait to go back.
A ´concerned looking´ Greg !
DECEMBER 2008

Health scare for Greg’s mum who was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and scheduled for surgery by the time we heard about it। Greg was able to fly out to Sydney to spend a few weeks with his mum। Unfortunately for us it was over Christmas, but we survived…।just ! Thankfully Greg’s mum is making a good recovery. Thank you for your prayers ।
PRAYERS ANSWERED

• HopeHouse will be full to capacity, with 17 girls, 3 boys and one more girl expected to arrive this month। We have also reached our full potential, with a complete
  Multidisciplinary team and sufficient funding to provide the needs of children and staff।



• Wilhelm Oberle continue to fund the wages, albeit at a reduced rate।



• Most of the girls/boys we have are more likely to be permanent rather than transient at HopeHouse।



• We found a specialist for Patty, unfortunately Patty ran away from HopeHouse on a number of occasions, and finally the psychologist recommended that she should be returned to a higher security facility।·


• All the girls/boys were placed in the local public schools। We continue to have two girls attending an accelerated learning school।



• God has been with us all through the year, keeping the girls and us safe from dangers which could have proved to be fatal। Praise Him ! May we continue to be led by Him in every decision we make।

PRAYER REQUEST
1. Fruition of the vision for HopeHouse Two
2. Direction and guidance for the Bonners as they reach the end of their four year term in Peru
3. Estefany, that she may find the Lord and know the depth of His great love for her
4. Our staff would feel that they belong to the family of HopeHouse, and be blessed in all their efforts
5. Funding for rewiring of the refuge
6. Funding to replace gas cooking with electric cooking for safety in the refuge
7. Protection of all from electrical dangers or gas explosions
8. Funding would continue in spite of the economic situation, more than anything else, so that the Kingdom of God may increase

INSIGHT

Greetings and Blessings,

The children of HopeHouse send warm wishes and hugs to all.

Recently we were invited to go to Atlanta to touch base with the supporters there and at the same time, to promote HopeHouse.
It’s been 9 months since our last trip to Atlanta, so much has changed but most of all, our outlook has changed. This trip was a real eye opener. Unlike our last visit to Atlanta we got to know, on a more personal level, the people who support us.
The focus is now somehow different. Time after time we became more aware of the difficulties and struggles that the people of Atlanta were experiencing. We were stirred in our spirits at the severity of these struggles and we found ourselves praying constantly for each one.
Even in the midst of so much wealth, so much possessions so much knowledge and resources the battle continues. I had thought that poverty was the major cause of the struggles among the people of Peru, yet, now I see the same struggles replicated in one of the wealthiest countries in the word. They are the very same, and though resources and wealth exist, the reality is the same. People are afflicted, they are hurting, and they feel the anguish, the suffering, and the distress of their own personal struggle.
I cry out to God for each one of them, and I know that they do तू He is our only hope…... He is faithful…... He will never let us down.

Let’s imagine for a moment, that you live in Peru, you have a young child recently diagnosed with a Bi-Polar disorder, each psychotic episodes becoming more violent than the last; resources are so limited but you have to do something. Your biggest challenge is putting sufficient food on the table for the other six mouths to feed, but you know that the local government clinic (La Posta) provides a psychologist at subsidized cost, so you scrape up the money, somehow, and you manage to get the S/. 5.00 fee. The psychologist refers you to a pediatric psychiatrist and counseling; they are so far away you can’t even afford the bus fare, let alone the fees. You know they would probably recommend medication anyhow, so, what’s the point, you just don’t have the money for that. The feeling of total helplessness is overwhelming. In desperation you cry out to God…..
He is our only hope…….. He is faithful …... He will never let us down.

In Peru and in the U.S.A I have witnessed the suffering of many people hurting from many different afflictions…………. a sick child, an addiction, adultery, cancer, a wayward child, financial insecurity, fear of loss.

In the end, it’s the same………… God is our only hope!

God is not limited to any one country, we all have access to Him and He will answer us when we call out to Him.

I share this truth with the children of HopeHouse and they are learning to trust God. One small step at a time is all it takes, until finally we will grow to depend on Him for all our needs………

He is faithful……….He will never let us down.

Loved by God and ग्रातेफुल,
Greg & Bridget

PRAISE POINTS

1। A family of four children has been re-united, when we changed our profile to accommodate the two younger brothers of Mary and Mercedes. Royer is 6 years old and Elverson is 4 years old. This means we can now receive boys up to age 12 years old.

2. The living conditions and quality of life at HopeHouse are better than they have ever been before.

· Our diet has become more nutritional and satisfying
· The new staff are reliable and dedicated
· The children are settled and are growing in the knowledge of God

All glory to HIM!

PRAYER POINTS

1. Support from the U.S.A would continue unhindered
2. Medical and dental needs are met
3. Education costs are provided for the girls who need catch-up due to lack of schooling in the past
4. That we would be able to retain the excellent staff we now have. Currently we are paying the bare minimum wage, but we would love to pay our staff a little more as they are worthy of it
5. The children we currently care for have siblings in other orphanages who are 1 and 2 years old, currently we cannot take them. Pray that circumstances would change so that we can take them. We need to provide another staff member and a play area of safety.
6. We would love to provide a book corner for the children, please pray for donations of books, bookshelves, sofa, coffee tables and bean bags

CHRISTIAN HIGHS & LOWS !

To family and friends afar off,

As you know our camera was stolen recently, we now have a replacement, thankfully, but we haven’t taken many photos, so I hope you feel like reading.

Even as a Christian, life is full of highs’ and lows.

Paul says……..”I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.”

I can really relate to this because I have experienced the contentment in both situations. But still, I find I have low points in my life. That is not to say, I am not trusting God in all things. Even in the low’s I continue to trust God. What I am saying is that, I am a human being with feelings and emotions and the situations around me do affect me. I feel low at times, yet, I have an anchor for my soul.
I want to share an excerpt from my journal describing one of those low times……….

13/8/08

Such a dismal day, thick fog, drizzling with rain, it’s been like this for days, unusual in Agosto, unusual in Lima anytime ! I’m walking along in slippery, slimy mud, no pavement to walk on………welcome to Jicamarca, el Porton to be precise. I need to get to the internet cafe; Greg opted to stay at the casa, the better of two evils if you ask me. Greg is not too well, he’s been unwell on and off for a couple of weeks now. We have an appointment at the Cardiologist on Tuesday.
So, I’ve just walked pass a man urinating on the wheel of a bus …..lovely! Though it’s a common sight, I will never get used to it.
As I splatter along, disgusting smells invade my nostrils, my sense of hearing is assaulted by the noise of various different radios blaring, a mixture of Reggae-ton, or, cu … cu … cu…..Cumbia. Competing noises from car and bus horns add to the chaos. Then to top it all, walks by the rabid dog, wretched to say the least, it’s just skin and bone, somebody should shoot it! Out of compassion for it’s suffering, given a pistol, I would. I feel almost sickened by it all.

I’ve tried 6 different chemists to buy Greg the Betaloc tabs which he needs, not one chemist has them in stock …….. …hopeless.
Before that I tried to get some advice off the vet, our guinea pigs have come down with some dreaded disease which looks like leprosy. Could I get any advice? ........ noooh! the vet is not available.
Poor Greg, he had a terrible day, shooting and burying the dead guinea pigs. He had a good plan, but it was destined to doom. I put 5 of them into double thickness black plastic bags, thankfully the girls helped me. It was Greg’s job to get rid of them. He threw them down into the huge crater nearby; unfortunately the bags split (Peruvian quality) and out popped the guinea pigs, scurrying around the hole. Greg was worried he might cause an epidemic ….. hmmm!........ What did you do in Peru……Yes, well ! We caused a major epidemic and wiped out half the population! He felt he had to do something. With his air gun, he shot the pigs dead, but it was a bloody mess. He had to go down into the crater and bury them somehow, so the rabid dogs wouldn’t eat them and spread more than just rabies.
It’s a crazy place ! We have a bizarre range of duties which include killing cats and guinea pigs, mending clothes, gluing shoes. We bring correction and discipline balanced by love and affection. We are the judge and the jury. Yes we wipe their noses but we also bring hope to neglected, desperate children. They are so needy. We make financial reports and spreadsheets, and have to be nothing short of diplomats to maintain funding with the Germans. We hire and fire people, create contracts of work, organize grocery shopping, create menus and have days out, just for fun. We keep in touch with family and friends, pay bills, order water, fix electrical problems, patch up broken windows, repair holes in the roof, and lock up gates to ensure safety. We try to make a homely environment by making a wood fire on cold nights, and getting a good DVD to watch while eating popcorn. We take photos and have them around the house in frames which inevitably get broken. Man! I could just keep going on and on, it’s never ending.
On the bus coming home, I felt kind of special, the female conductor refused to take my fare, she addressed me as Hermana, “bendiciones Hermana”, she said. (blessings to you sister). Then within minutes, like a ton of bricks, she came down on a middle aged man who was trying to evade paying his fare, she insisted that he pay the correct fare of 70c not 50c, she explained how petrol had gone up twice recently (like everything else) and was determined that he should pay the full fare. This puzzled me, could she possibly appreciate the work we do?
-----------------------------------------------
On reflection, I felt, I was erring on the side of negativity; yet, I couldn’t deny the truth of the situation. I don’t want to ignore how I feel (at times), but I do want to acknowledge that, even during that time an inner contentment remained, because my contentment is grounded in God, not in the situation.

We may be hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed but not in despair; persecuted but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.

In His service and still grateful !

Bridget and Greg

Prayer Points:

1. Healing of emotions and bad memories for Katty.
2. The girls in general would feel settled and contented at the house.
3. Olimpia turns 18 this year, pray that we can find her some employement.
4. Spiritual growth amongst the girls & boys at HopeHouse.
5. The team continues to work towards the same goals.
6. God’s guidance regarding furlough for Greg and I, possibly sometime next year.
7. Greg’s health.
8. We may know God’s grace towards all of us, but in a personal way.
Praise Points:
1। Most of our girls have adapted to Greg and I living in a separate house।2। Financial support has increased since our last newsletter.3. We have employed two new staff who share the position of ‘mother’. They have been with us for two months now and are both very reliable, a true blessing.
4. It was determined from Patty's final eye appointment, that she does not need an operation to maintain her sight, provided that she continues to use eye drops. 5. In June the teams from Colorado and Atlanta have again blessed our socks off.

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

EXCITING TIMES
It’s very exciting times, Greg and I had such a refreshing time in Atlanta, the hospitality was exceptional; we felt like it was home, especially at church. The Sunday service at the Landmark church is so much like the House of Praise church, lots of spontaneity, and participation from the congregation. We feel that we now have a third home from home.
Greg loved it there, especially the fellowship with other likeminded Christians. We had so many good memories of our stay in Atlanta including
our short trek on The Appalachian Trail which was the ‘icing on the cake’.

THE APALLACHIAN TRAIL
Of course our primary purpose for the trip was to attend the annual ‘Banquet’ hosted by New Covenant Ministries (you may have noticed that there has been a slight name change of the Association.) The banquet was a huge success raising US $300.000 in Faith Promises.My understanding of a Faith Promise ‘in a nut shell’ is.............……………. A Faith Promise is where a certain amount of money is promised to the ministry in faith believing that God in return will do something for us that we could not possible do for ourselves. There might be a time limit of say a year for this promise to be fulfilled; if the request from God is not fulfilled, then the promise is not binding. The key is “only believe”. If we only believe, a Faith Promise can be a wonderful opportunity to see the hand of God Move Mountains in our own personal lives, to be in awe of His amazing power, and then to be able to give back in some way that will benefit the kingdom of God. IT’S AWESOME!

THE BANQUET
So we wait Greg and I, expectantly on God, believing that we will be able to fulfill our own personal Faith Promise. It’s very exciting times indeed.
More exciting news as a result of our trip to Atlanta, is that regular sponsorship of HopeHouse to the sum of US$750.00 per month has been raised. Thanks to all those people who responded to the needs of the children here at HopeHouse.
Mathew 25:40
In as much as you did it to least of these my bretheren you did it for me.
What an amazing difference the extra funds combined with the support from Australia is making in the lives of these girls.One of the first things we did on return was to buy a pump, this means that now the girls don’t have to cart water to the veggie patch. It’s a chore none of them liked, so they are thrilled about the water now freely flowing from a garden hose, they almost fight over who gets to hose down the plants.We have also been able to increase the food intake adding meat, chicken and fish to the diet as well as fruit and milk. With the help of the girls input we have created a new menu, which I am very happy to say, means that, lentils andbeans are no longer an everyday feature. As you can imagine .................the girls are thriving and are so very
appreciative.

THE SANDPITT : Building their own ‘Machu Picchu’

Even though we had such a good time in Atlanta, it’s good to be back with our girls. They gave us such a warm, warm welcome, it was very touching. Most of them were biting at the bit to tell of their news, and what had been happening during our absence. The younger girls were more interested in the lollies we brought for them, while the older girls wanted to know all about the Banquet; it was a great time of sharing.
The Bonners’ new house is finished. ……..Hooray !
We moved in two weeks after our return and are so enjoying our own space. A reliable hot shower, a fridge that really works, cold drinks on hand all the time……….such luxury. We even have our own T.V. and DVD player (Thanks David).

There are no chairs to sit on yet, but still.....it's great. All in good time.
The foundations of the house and the stone sections of the walls were built by generous donations from Sydney and the top of the walls and the roof were built by more generous donations from Atlanta. I would like to acknowledge the combined effort and say a huge big ‘THANK YOU’.
It seems that with everything there is a cost benefit, though we are delighted about the house the girls are not so keen. They miss having us in the house, and they have expressed feelings of being a bit distant from us. We even had two girls run away, but fortunately they returned the same day. It takes time to adapt to any change but we know it will happen (please pray about this), our God is faithful. He provides for all of our needs even above and beyond what we could ever imagine.
God provided a wonderful opportunity to spend
some quality-time with the girls just recently.

CHOSICA - THE SOLICITORS CLUB
We all had two wonderful days staying at the ‘Solicitors Club’. This is an exclusive outdoor swimming pool area, with bungalows and other attractions such as a volley court and paddle boats. Although we only had one night there the girls had such a great time as too, did we. It was a time of bonding and spending some real quality time with each other. We felt this was needed to compensate for the way the girls were feeling. I would like to thank
Laura Reynalds for carefully choosing a swim suit for each of the girls and for making this trip possible. We could not have done it without your help.
Also the staff at HopeHouse pitched in as well as Greg and I, to make it happen. The girls know that we love them, and are begining to adapt to the new living arrangements. PRAISE HIM !
Trevor Goodson paid us a visit from Sydney, we had a great catch-up time and really enjoyed hearing the Aussie accent again.
Trevor will be remembered by the girls for a long time, he spoilt them with lollies and took us all out for a meal after church on Sunday, not only this, but Trevor made a connection with all of us, we hope he will come back soon.
So many more significant things have happend but they are too numerous to mention in any detail, suffice to say in all of these things our GOD is faithful, and His mercies endure forever.

Prayer Points:
1. Our girls will continue to adapt to the new living arrangements.
2. Gregs health.
3. Emotional recovery from our experience in Arequipa (see post on 'Arequipa')
4. Continued financial support since the German group have reduced our funding.
5. Korean connections and support would materialize.
6. To find more reliable staff to cover Greg and I when we are away.
7. Salvation of all the girls and in fact of our own children.
8. That the construction of the new HopeHouse 2 could materialize soon
9. Patty's final eye appointment will bring good news after all her tests.
Praise Points:
1. Our God is faithful. Greg and I have been strengthened in our faith and we know, first hand that when we call on Him He answers us.
2. The girls who are growing stronger in their faith, wish to be baptized (pray for them too).
3. Construction is underway for the new church, clinic and football field.
4. We expect some more teams from Atlanta and Colorado in June to help out at HopeHouse.
5. Visit from 3 APEC representatives of Korean nationality.
Saved by His grace, and so greatful,
Bridget and for Greg

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NEWSLETTER JANUARY 2008


On 23rd of December 2007 our Christmas fun began. We had our very first Christmas party at HopeHouse and invited the women from the other refuge, 'Pat's Place, which is another ministry of NCCM. (the refuge is for battered women).


The party was so much fun. We made a piñata, (Santa Clause head) and it was a hugh success, everyone had a go at it, even the adults. There were 49 people in all, it was a lot of organizing but Greg was so helpful, he put up some decorations and balloons, leaving our dining room looking just so beautiful.



We all really enjoyed the day.



Christmas day was also lovely. First thing in the morning we had ‘devotional’. We gathered together as normal in the living room and dedicated the day to God, each child´´s prayer went up as a sweet aroma to our God. Though these children miss their mothers and fathers, there was a good feeling in the room.
A cheer of elation went out as I explained that nobody had to do their usual chores today and that we were going to have Christmas movies, play party games and enjoy good food all day.

It was a very relaxing day, just lazing around the house most of the time, but of course we played volley ball, which everyone always enjoys. It was probably the most active thing we did all day. Now that there are so many of us the game has become very exciting, especially when the winners receive a small prize.
Alex and (Holly above), are newly arrived missionaries from Atlanta, who came for lunch on Christmas day, along with Kareen, a volunteer teacher. It was a great day.

NEW YEAR'S EVE

We had a sleepless new year with very loud music and explosions all through the night.........Peruvians love to party conspicupusly! After much persuasion from the girls, we too had the traditional New Years Eve, with a bonfire and fireworks at 12 mn, burning old clothes in the form of a type of guy-fawkes figure, but with a different meaning. The old clothes representing old things gone forever! Also the colour 'yellow' is significant, people wear yellow clothing or underwear, we simply had yellow streamers instead. Nobody really gave me an answer as to why this colour is significant, it just is.

Moving on to the future, we still have room for 7 more girls. Right now it seems as if for every 3 girls we take on, 1 will be a permanent stayer. We currently have fifteen girls, Marcos (Flor´s brother) went back to his mother at his mother's request.


The house has been unsettled this week as two of our girls ran away during the night. It seems, no matter how much we give them, no matter how much we love them, there is an emptiness, a longing, a broken heart deep inside. Sometimes at night they wake and all they want to do is cry, cry, cry, so they cry themselves to sleep again, not knowing, not really understanding why they feel the way they do, not communicating their feelings because they don't know what to communicate! Please pray for these ones.

Out of the two girls that ran away, one of them has returned, she related to our psychologist the truth I have just shared with you. May her broken heart be healed in Jesus name.



PRAYER POINTS

• 1) Pray for the girls who have a deep longing for love, that their needs would be filled at HopeHouse, that they could experience the love of God through Greg and I, the other girls, and, all the staff.


• 2) That we find a replacement for our Social Worker Deyanira who has moved on to look after a dying relative in Piura, up north.


• 3) That the Oberle Fundacion continue to fund wages for our psychologist, House Mother and social worker (new).


• 4) That we receive girls more likely to be permanent stayers rather than transient.


• 5) That we can find a specialist who can help Patti one of our newer girls who has a bad eye since birth. We will take her to a specialist next week.


• 6) That we can find a second house mother to take some of the load from Elena, when we go to Atlanta to raise support for Hope House one and for (potentially) Hopehouse 2.


• 7) That God would empower us in our attempts to communicate the needs of the girls in Peru.


• 8) That we can find schools for all the girls, this year.


• 9) That Greg and I would be able to minister effectively to the girls and their specific needs.


• 10) That we would know the Lord`s leading for our future, that we may hear His still small voice.

PRAISE POINTS

• Pastor Bruce, from NCCM was here for five days to purchase the land for the construction of HOPEHOUSE TWO, a new church, a clinic and a sports complex.


• Our Christmas party was initiated and fully funded by NCCM.


• An opportunity has arisen for Greg and I to go to Atlanta in February 2008 to attend a banquet and do some fund raising, we are hoping to raise the money to build HopeHouse Two, for boys.


• This year will certainly be an exciting year, a year where I believe, we will see HopeHouse One reaching it’s full potential, and where the vision of HOPEHOUSE TWO may to become a reality `

Blessings to all

Bridget

&

Greg

Psalm 37. The Lord is close to the broken hearted, He is near to those crushed in Spirit.

Dear Friends,
'THERE IS NONE LIKE OUR GOD''
Over the past few months He has brought about amazing achievements. We have observed the miraculous way in which God has provided for us and all we did was to...........make our needs known, cast all our cares onto Him and stand back and wait !!

Of course we know that, many people have been and, are praying for HopeHouse, we want to thank you for all those faithfull prayers and we acknowledge that the prayers of righteous men and women AVAIL MUCH. We can testify to that.

Look what's happening at HopeHouse !

COMBINED TEAMS FROM THE U.S.A

AN INTERNATIONAL INTEREST

It is so positive that a number of sometimes disparate nations can pull together to help another nation in need. This is what is happening with HopeHouse, it's developing into an international interest, with united efforts from the Australians the Germans, and the Americans.

This is great news, but, it doesn´t mean that we don´t need help from any other interested organisations, we have many needs but we are confident that ¨Our God will provide all of our needs¨

FLOR, ABBY & MARCOS

A WORK IN PROCESS

Whilst undeniably, HopeHouse is Australian in origin the block of land on which it stands, has now been transferred into the name of the Association....................

'NEW COVENANT CREATION MINISTRIES'

NCCM

(a legaly registered Association in Peru).

This group has a passion and a heart for the street children of Lima. NCCM have contributed greatly towards HopeHouse in a very practical way by sending teams of youth, to work at the house, their main mission being, to finish the building of a wall all around the perimeter of the land.
THE WALL BEGINS

A TEAM EFFORT

Not only did the teams finish the wall, but they have accomplished so much more.
A new gate has been installed, which Greg & I designed by combining the logo from NCCM with the name given by House of Praise Christian Church, Sydney, Australia.

HOPEHOUSE IS FINALLY SECURE

AND FREE FROM RABID DOGS

The teams have demolished the swimming pool, which most of you know, was a bizarre reminder of misplaced priorities. It was so good to see the pool being smashed to pieces; it crossed my mind............... what a perfect analogy .............
THE WORK OF THE ENEMY BEING BROUGHT TO NOTHING !

The interior of the main building has been painted and with such artistic style, ‘well done’! all you creative young people, I love the office with my favourite scriptures carefully painted, calligraphy style, on the walls and the beautiful spring flowers in the living room.

Todd, one of the building team, installed new electrical cables, and repaired old cables, as well as a zillion other electrical jobs. Thanks Todd, you really blessed us.

There were also drama teams
and medical teams who worked very hard on public outreaches.
On the Friday of each week, we had a

Typical Peruvian Lunch made with the help of 3 other ladies, who cooked for 100 people. Our dining room was full to capacity it turned out to be such a great experience for me, the girls and Greg, an experience we will always remember.
On the last day we felt a mixture of sadness and joy as everyone gathered around, we stood on rubble...........the pool now triumphantly gone.

I was moved as they prayed for us.


Such passion for God.....
so young !
A deep precious joy filled my heart as I listened, each prayer had one thing in common…..…….. “His Glory”. There was no boasting, no claiming any credit, ‘to God be the Glory’ that was their only motive, no personal gain. These people certainly had made a difference.
Greg was touched, more than he would like to admit, his comment later was…….................. ‘Yeh !!! .....................a bit emotional’

There were so many good experiences with the Americans, but, the highlight for me would have to be the few hours I spent with women on the prayer team. We prayed, we sang, we laughed and we cried, it was truly sweet fellowship.

BEFORE

& AFTER

I would like to acknowledge how the Australians, back home continue to faithfully support HopeHouse by providing the essential basics, that is, food, clothing, medical, administration, repairs and maintenance. Most of the ongoing, general running costs are met by them, not to mention their contribution towards the construction of the walls and the new dwelling intended for the in-house residents. (Greg and I for the moment).

What we value most of all is the way that the House of Praise Church has encouraged us through very difficult times, they have cared enough to stand by the girls and Greg and I, through thick and thin. We could not do this work without that support. We thank God so much for the way that He has united our spirits in spite of the geographical distance between us.

BRIDGET & MARCOS (at the gym)

GREG & ABBY
(ON ONE OF OUR TREKS)

When we received a care package from Carmen my youngest daughter, she made a friend forever ! Greg was hanging out for some ‘Vegemite’ so you can imagine, when he saw tubes upon tubes of it, he was so pleased. I truly enjoyed the Cadburys chocolate and Greg had 'two bites of the cherry', as he didnt have to share his vegemite. Thanks heaps Carmen for thinking of us.

ELENA, ROCIO & DEYANIRA


Our multidisciplinary team is now complete, thanks to the added help of the Wilhelm Oberle Foundation, who took the time to watch a Video Presentation and to visit HopeHouse. They responded in a very positive way by providing ongoing funds to employ a psychologist.

CLEMENT OBERLE (red 't' shirt)

We now have on staff, a psychologist, a social worker, a solicitor and a live – in house mum, as well as Greg & I. (Photo of our Psychologist Catalina is yet to come. )

Our load is so much lighter, we can now dedicate more of our time to legal compliance among other things.
The application for accreditation with the Ministry for Women’s Health (MIMDES) has now been submitted after many, many hours of hard work at the internet cafes putting it all together. The application took over 100 hours to complete, it was an inch thick document, full of certificates, licences, integral plans, MOF (Manual de Operaciones y Funcionamientos) projects, programmes, financial reports and spread-sheets, etc etc etc.

MARCOS & FLOR (before the wall was built)

On a follow – up visit by our social worker to ‘Flor’s house (one of the girls who went home at Christmas) she and her brother were found home alone, hungry battered and beaten. The courts have ordered that they both should live at HopeHouse. Marcos is only 5 years old, he is our first and only boy, the youngest of all and, naturally he is being thoroughly spoilt.

PERUVIAN VOLUNTEERS CHIP IN
Also contributing towards the improvement of HopeHouse is a group of Peruvian voluntary students from the ‘University of Agriculture’. They have helped us with our new project ‘Breeding Guinea Pigs’. (Greg calls it our ‘Guinea Pig Stud’).

INSIDE THE GUINEA PIG HUTCH WITH STUDENTS

We hope to be able to sell the guinea pigs. If all goes well, this should provide an income, which will contribute to the house becoming self-sufficient.
The students have also helped us to establish a second project ‘the veggie patch’. We are now growing food for the Guinea Pigs, Alfalfa and Corn, as well as veggies for us, carrots, lettuce, onions, beetroot, radish, and pumpkin.
ANOTHER CONTRIBUTING FACTOR TO SELF-SUFFICIENCY

SOME OF THE TEAM FROM ATLANTA

It’s so exciting to finally have our electricity supply up and running, what a huge difference it makes. The days are now much longer, we can do so much more, to read a book or study at night, have toast for breakfast, access to the lap-tops at the house and most popular with the girls is the hot showers we have been able to install. Initiative and funding for the guinea pig project and electricity supply was provided by NCCM. We are so grateful. Thank you.

Our most exciting news, however, is that Greg and I are hoping to visit Australia soon, we are aiming to go in October, God willing. We would like to thank the House Of Praise Christian Church for their generous contribution of A$2000.00 towards the purchase of our tickets. We are so looking forward to seeing you all again.
We feel priviledged and humbled to have such wonderful support from our sisters and brothers in the church, our family and friends, all over the globe.

In His service and thoroughly blessed.

Bridget & Greg Bonner

(bgeraghty_1@hotmail.com)

P.S. FEEDBACK ON THE LENGTH OF THIS BLOG IS WELCOME