Weekday mornings in Lima meant gathering at la Catedral del Buen Pastor (the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd for lectures on Peru’s history and culture. Students heard from 16 guest lecturers on a wide variety of topics (they are earning credit for 5 different classes). Lecturers were Peruvians or Americans who have lived in Peru from three to 50 years. Peru SST directors Richard R. Aguirre and Judy Weaver also shared on subjects such as the Catholic Church, cultural adjustment and current events. On Wednesday we met at Casa Goshen for a time of worship, socializing and reflection that we call Tambo after the Quechua name for rest stops on the Inca trail.
Stefan and BrodySST Director Richard Aguirre talks with students about the news media in Peru.Sierra checks a map.SST Director Judy Weaver leads a session.Brian and EdithReverend Jorge Zamudio, rector of the Buen Pastor church, kicked off our Lima studies by telling his fascinating personal story.Miranda and BrodyJames Plunkett, a Lima businessman, gives students an overview of recent history and current events.Plunkett married a Peruvian woman and has lived in Lima 50+ years.LucasTim and LeahNestor Vergara is a social worker, told us about the problems of Lima’s marginalized populations.DerekJoelFather Eduardo Arens, a noted theologian, talked about Jesus and humor.Father Arens JaimeLeahOn Wednesday mornings, students gathered at Casa Goshen for a time of worship and reflection.Tambo at Casa GoshenLeah and AndrewEmma introduces an upset-the-fruit basket game as part of worship.Edith gets caught without a seat.Matt and Brian in a reflective moment.Javier Lizarzaburu, former journalist who works for the municipality of Lima, spoke about Lima’s pre-Inca cultures.Stefan and BrodyTimSometimes, it’s all just too much, and we need a nap.Breaks help renew energy with a little time to relax.Students on breakSierraMattSome of the guys are quickly becoming experts with tops.Derek gets a top spinningBreak time is also birthday cake time.Alejandro gets ready to cut his cake.Jose Peralta, a sociology professor, spoke on agricultural and environmental issues.EmmaAuthor Leonardo Aguirre regaled us with stories about Peru’s colorful literary figures.EdithKaren Keagy told us about the diversity of Peru’s indigenous groups and languages. She grew up in Peru’s Amazonian jungle.Stefan and BrodyDerekEmmaAnother birthday!Andrew blows out the candle.We ate typical foods of the Amazon after our lecture on that region.Dr. Townsend Cooper described his work with Lima’s poorest children.Dr. Cooper’s lecture was helpful preparation for service.Bivi Goto Sanchez, an actress and teacher, gave the students a drama workshop.Emma with BiviMiranda and Brian do a theater warm-up.Derek and AlejandroPlay rehearsalLucas, Tim and Derek study for the final exam.Matt, Michael and AndrewBrian, Leah and JoelJudy quizzes students with a relay game.Hard at work.Getting ready to leave for the day.
