Victor & Karina

As friends and neighbors arrived, nothing was shared regarding Karina’s prognosis, only that Father Miguel was coming and could celebrate their Matrimony. Happiness filled the air as the busyness of preparing for such a grand event consumed us all. I too tried my best to remain joyful, but several times my facade failed. As I looked around at all the smiling faces, I knew that all these same people would be gathered in this same place in a matter of days to grieve the loss of our beautiful bride. They would coordinate food and decide what she would wear just as we were doing today. It was most difficult to see Karina’s children, who knew the truth, watching at a bit of distance in disbelief. When someone caught me crying and asked what was wrong, I could only smile and say, “Karina is SO beautiful. I’m very happy that they will be married today!” – which was true.

Karina always imagined herself walking to the church in procession on her wedding day, but sadly admitted she just didn’t have the strength. A moto took her and Andy instead. People from the community followed behind playing festive music, while friends walked alongside. At first there were just a few of us, but by the time we arrived at the town plaza there was a nice group accompanying her to the church. Both Victor and Karina’s families live far away. Given the short notice, they were unable to attend. Andy did an amazing job of stepping up and filling that role.

As I walked into the church, the excitement was tangible. The community was thrilled to celebrate this joyous occasion altogether. After Victor and Karina found their places in the front of the church, my daughters and I sneaked out the back in a rush to make it to our next commitment. Although we wanted to stay and be a part of their big day, we knew that our job was done. We jumped into a moto and headed back through the jungle on the little dirt path.

It all came together so perfectly that one may suspect that God Himself had a hand in it… Wait a minute, didn’t I already say that? Victor and Karina had an incredibly blessed day. Karina was baptized and received her First Holy Communion, Confirmation, and the Sacrament of Matrimony. We give thanks to our God who does real things for real people in the real world. We give thanks for everybody who helps to make this mission possible, especially those that donated their wedding dresses. Together we are bringing the love of Jesus to His beloved children here in Peru. We ask for your prayers, that Victor, Karina, and their children are able to draw their strength from Jesus during the heartbreaking days ahead.