What’s that you see up in the jungle up in the trees at El Faro? It is the new high ropes course that has only been opened since January, but already had huge success. It started with a dream to build something that could challenge individuals, help them face fears, and also build unity in the groups that come to visit El Faro from both Guatemala and the United States. God was able to put the right people together for this project including our missionary friend from Argentina, Marcelo Hanko, who has built these in the past as well as Alejandro Petersen who has worked at camps in the states on their high ropes courses.
Not only is the view from the top of the course incredible, you see the forests surrounding you, as well as the mountains and also a view of the ocean. I felt a great sense of peace standing at the top. The course was challenging but was extremely fun pushing myself to do things I didn’t know I could do. Throughout the course I felt a connection with the people I was participating with through encouragement and instruction. This is such a great addition to El Faro! I am in love with every inch of this place. Ryan Buck, Oklahoma
After the completion of the beautiful course, Alejandro stayed on as a missionary to serve as guide and liason for groups participating in the course during their time at El Faro.Alejandro was raised in Guatemala City but served for two years at the Doe River Gorge Christian Camp in Tennessee at their ropes course. The El Faro course includes the actual ropes course, low elements, and soon a zip line. It will enable El Faro the challenge and encourage local youth, missionaries, and visiting groups with activities geared towards building trust, overcoming fear, learning team work, and increase personal accountability. Alejandro says, “These activities also help to demonstrate individuals and teams how to walk by faith, not by sight. In addition, there is the element of just plain fun in a wonderful jungle setting!”.
When I first toured the ropes course, I was struck by it’s first-class construction and daunting challenges. When I strapped into the safety harness, I came to appreciate the support of outstanding staffers and cheering spectators. For me, the swinging tires were the hardest challenge, though I did not attempt the fearsome “x” challenge. I am determined to work out harder this year so that I physically master all of the existing challenges, including the “x”. As far as the “leap of faith” that’s now under construction, we’ll have to see….Steve Ephraim, Iowa
What makes the El Faro ropes course unique is that it was built by God’s grace and blessing through the donations to build it, the people he sent to draw it up and build it, and now how people are being affected by it. “We didn’t have any idea how to build it, but God has given us wisdom, grace, and blessings,” Alejandro adds with much pride.
So far every US team that has come has come to El Faro this year has gone through the ropes course and it has quickly become a highlight of their trip. We are excited to see how God will continue to transform lives here at El Faro and in now in this unique and adventurous way!
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