| From an intern’s perspective the SEPA Synod Costa Rica team was by far one of my favorites. (And I’m not just saying that because I’m a member of Christ Lutheran in Oreland :P). To give you a little bit of background. I had been in Costa Rica as an intern for 7 weeks before Molly and her crew arrived at SJO [airport]. Needless to say I was burned out and I hate to admit it, but a little homesick. Little did I know what would be in store for that week. SEPA was one of the most diverse groups that we had at Pura Vida. Most groups come with one church or youth group but countless areas were represented. Not only that, everyone’s individual story was different. I really enjoyed all of the in depth conversations I was able to have with such a mixed group. This group’s cohesion was unmatchable. It was truly a blessing how God was using everyone’s individual spiritual gift to truly become one body in Christ to do His work with our hands. Connecting with this group was so easy and the relationships that were made I’m sure will be everlasting. Another thing that I noticed was it took no time at all for SEPA to love the kids with their hearts on their sleeves. I looked forward to asking everyone how their day was because I was always flooded with detailed stories about the kids that I have grown to know for 7 weeks prior to the groups arrival as well as swapping some of my own. God was truly stretching everyone to use them in incredible ways and I pray that this group will never forget this experience. Watching everyone break out of their comfort zones to be vulnerable was truly a blessing. Whether it was trying to speak Spanish without a translator, sharing a testimony, or even praying out loud. I enjoyed watching and experiencing every second of it. I wanted to take a second to thank everyone who supported the SEPA team weather it was financially or through prayer because it was truly a blessing to have each and every member of the team. I mentioned in the beginning that before SEPA arrived I was burned out and homesick but, their energy was so contagious that it was hard to not be excited for the next meal of rice and beans or whatever the day had in stored. Being surrounded by the synod was sincerely a gift from God that made week 8 one of my favorite. With so much love, MaryJane “MJ” Moyer-Fittipaldi Pura Vida Missions Intern |