You might have seen the news today that Ecuador's vice president Alfredo Palacios has been sworn in as the latest president of the country. Although Ecuador is a democracy, it has had 7 presidents in the last 10 years. Today was a fascinating 'moment in history' that we watched on our television at home.

For the past week there have been demonstrations in the streets. All protests have been peaceful and creative, similar to a celebration after the home team wins the World Series. However, due to a variety of causes, the unrest escalated dramatically yesterday and turned more violent. This afternoon, as soon as the President was voted out by the Congress (none of his supporters were there to vote), the tone changed back to calm. When the news reached the streets, the protestors began to celebrate and the 'party atmosphere' returned.

Now the former President is looking for a country that will offer him political asylum. And the protestors continue asking for the resignation of all the congress members. Who knows what they will demand next.

What does all this mean for us? Well, more time at home, laying low. We do not travel the city nor pass through zones of protest. We write to ask for prayer for this country that is rich in natural resources yet desperate poverty affects so many. Please pray for the new government to be able to fight corruption and improve the economy. Please pray for peace. It's raining right now and that certainly has dampened the spirits of the protestors!

Jesus promised "my peace I give to you" (John 20:19). Pray that we can live and express the hope and truth of the gospel to those around us.

Thank you!
Yours in Quito,

Frank & Darlene

Address:
Frank & Darlene Helmly
Casilla 17-08-8403
Quito, ECUADOR 
S. AMERICA

Or Care of MTW (letters only)
1600 North Brown Road,
Lawrenceville GA 30043

Financial gifts:
Mission to the World
PO Box 116284,
Atlanta, GA 30368-6284
Payable to "MTW" with Helmly account
#013184 noted. A tax receipt will be remitted.