The Gustavian Weekly’s article picturing Machu Picchu gives comfort to Gustavus’ community, yet misses the larger story why our Gustavus Adolphus student were in Peru.

Three years ago, Emily Zahrer, Alysha Thompson and Emily Tommerdahl recognized a J-term “service” opportunity to serve the poorest of the poor in Chimbote, Peru. Soon Professor Deb Pitton explored their findings and began challenging Gustavus Adolphus, now establishing Gustavus’ first and possibly largest J-term service program in the Colleges history.

Chimbote is Peru’s third largest city with the highest per capita poverty rate.  Homes are made of grass weaved mats, a single bowl of soup their only meal and a dirt floor is a child’s bed.

Through God’s blessings, 23 Gustavus Adolphus students worked tirelessly in areas of English lessons, modern education, home repairs, bed deliveries and numerous other tasks.

These students service not only supplied the needs of God’s people but is also overflowing in the many expressions of their thanks to God. Their service to God’s leaves a presence of love, compassion, joy and grace, which will ripple for Chimbotano generations.

“Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus in my service to God.”  Romans 15:17

In addition, gratitude must be expressed to the Gustavus College Repubilcans.

Through various activities, the GCR’s raised money supporting “Shoes for Peru”, which recently delivered over 1,600 pairs to children and elderly in Chimbote.

For more information about future Gustavus Adolphus – Chimbote programs or more about Los Amigos, contact Professor Deb Pitton or www.losamigos-chimbote.org

Brian Tommerdahl