Testing the water in Ecuador

Martin and Ruth studied at Redcliffe before going to Ecuador with HCJB World Radio.  Martin studied for the 2-year Diploma, while Ruth took the Certificate, part-time over two years.

Redcliffe courses allow students to try out their skills with practical mission placements and the Harrisons decided to spend six weeks 'testing the water' with HCJB in Ecuador's capital city, Quito.

Their two children went along with them.  "We had both been abroad before and travelled lots, but we weren't sure how we would react having children with us" admits Ruth.  "They actually found it quite exciting and even tried to speak some Spanish.  I'm not sure they will take to our cold swimming baths again after visiting the hot volcanic springs!"

"At times you did feel more vulnerable especially when the children were ill with a tummy bug, but we found the missionary community were very supportive."

Martin, a water engineer, helped out at HCJB's main office and with community development programmes around the country.  While many people are not interested in a preached message or words, the projects are a practical way of demonstrating Christ's love and character.  Whole communities have come to Christ as a result.

He says: "I spent my last week in a Quechua Indian village in the Chimboroazo province.  We worked each morning and in the afternoons we held Bible clubs and Bible studies.  The whole community formed a 'minga' or work party and helped dig a 2-mile long and 4-feet-deep trench by hand.  It was very special to be part of this and I gained a much greater understanding of Quechua culture."

Back in Quito, former science teacher Ruth spent some time teaching practical biology to five home-schooled missionary families, who enjoyed the whole classroom experience immensely.  She also took the opportunity to find out more about other potential areas of ministry, such as a Bible study with well-to-do Catholic ladies.

"We felt we really benefited from the experience," says Martin.  "We experienced working with some of the future peers on the field and seeing what kind of work we will be doing.  It will also help us to focus on relevant areas of learning in our second year, and see what aspects of family life we need to enhance and develop."