May news from Ben and Scarlett

From Global Lutheran Outreach missionaries Ben and Scarlett Tino (Serving in Zacapa, Guatemala)

The last two months have been exciting ones for the both of us in Zacapa. The group consisted of 2 flutes, 2 trumpets, piano, guitar, cajon, and 2 singers. This was a much larger group then what would normally be seen on any given Sunday. With 9 advanced students we now have a rotation of 3-4 musicians playing each Sunday.

Scarlett has been busy leading the Sunday School programs in our church in Zacapa and in two nearby villages where we have mission churches. Scarlett has brought back to life the kids program in the village of La Trementina after more than 2 years of inactivity. For Easter she coordinated and Easter egg hunt for the kids, something which they had never done. I got to hide the eggs! Scarlett has also been an encouragement for the youth group in motivating them and creating an enjoyable atmosphere when they all get together. And her beautiful voice has also been a blessing for me as she joins us musicians in leading the congregation in worship.

During my work week from Tuesday through Sunday, I teach about 20 private lessons. Some lessons are in groups of 2 or 3, but most are one-on-one classes. Now that many of my students are advancing as far as reading basic chords and developing a good ear, I have began teaching almost all my students to read music. One of my newest students, is Antonio. Antonio is nephew to the Lutheran Pastor in the nearby city of Gualán (45 min drive). Musically talented does not only mean having a good ear or being naturally gifted, but having the proper discipline to practice on your own, something that I express to ALL my students. I thank Pastor Luis for seeing that in his nephew and bringing him to lessons. Click here to watch him play!

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