The Gimpels, from Chile, spent a year in Northern Ireland from September 2006 to October 2007. Here is how they felt about the year,

What a year we’ve had! We are so grateful. We have been so loved. Our time here as part of the SAMS Ireland Fusion programme has been full of joy, new friendships, struggles, prayer, discipline, learning, tears and dependency on the Lord.

It’s difficult to summarize our time here with you in the Church of Ireland. Firstly we worked in Tyrone and Fermanagh with six parishes. It was a busy time doing Bible studies, mums and toddlers groups, school assemblies, teaching Spanish, men’s groups, women’s groups, youth cell groups, preaching, confirmation classes …

We then moved to Belfast Bible College to study for a couple of months. What an enriching time meeting people from various nations. Hard work in a second language, but very rewarding.

We then returned to Fermanagh for a few months and worked in partnership with an initiative which aimed at reaching out to young people in an informal detached youth work programme.

Finally we arrived in Bleary (between Lurgan and Portadown!) working with Shankill Parish Lurgan and St Saviours Craigavon for a three month period. We participated in various church and community groups.

Looking back we are reminded how faithful God has been to us. We also want to acknowledge the help and support of you the people who make things happen by your love and commitment. What an honour and privilege to work alongside you, to serve you and be served. May we all grow in grace, love and knowledge seeing God’s kingdom unfold.

Thank you SAMS Ireland for making this dream a reality.

People of Ireland we love you. You live in our hearts and we hope to see you again.

A big Chilean hug.

Gerardo & Suyai Gimpel