Church of Christ:San Estéban (Centro de Recursos: Punto de Misiones)

Iglesia de Cristo: San Estéban, Valle de Agalte

While still within the departmental state of Olancho, and served by the MPRC,

San Estéban is located a 3 hour drive by car through the scenic mountains north of Catacamas. The San Estéban Church of Christ has several unique characteristics. While it is not uncommon that a preacher be the same one that was present when the church first started, which in this case was in 1990, it is unique that the preacher was one of those local folks that was first baptized by the North Americans that came to the area to start a church. When Manuel Rubi first became a Christian the founders were present for the first two years. But whenever they were absent, making trips out of town or to the US, Manuel would assist with the preaching or teaching duties. When they left in 1992 Manuel stepped in as the full time preacher.

While it is not unique that Manuel supports himself and his family by making and selling leather works, such as belts, it is unique that he also also supports them by purchasing rare and antique jewelry or precious items unearthed in locations of Mayan ruins and reselling them. Also unusual is that Manuel has baptized 40 of the 50 members of the congregation.

The atmosphere and singing at San Estéban is joyful and loving, and guests are greeted by many members before the guests can exit the attractive building with its shaded porch. The San Estéban worship service is well worth the trip and the time.

Also of interest to us, is the many people who take notes during the sermon.

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One of the brothers giving the introduction to the Lord's Supper. This man has one arm (and a half), but that did not stop him being very expressive in his delivery.
Taking notes.
Mother and daughter