LWI crew drilling a well, photo via mnnonline.org

Clean water transforms an ancient Peruvian people group

Living Water International's Tommy Head has been working with the Cadoshi tribe in the Amazon region of Peru, reports MNN.

Head says when he first arrived, his intent was to teach Bible, leadership training and development. However, many members of the tribe were succumbing to waterborne diseases and poor hygiene. "They live now just like they lived 500 years ago in these villages that we go to and work in. We're really working in civilizations that have been untouched. These people haven't changed the way they make their houses. They're just hunter-gatherers, and they live the way they've always lived and the way their ancestors have always lived."

That means that the average life expectancy in the jungles is 47 years--22 years less than the national average. The infant mortality rate is more than 50 percent. In fact, most tribes don't even name a child until he or she reaches age two, fearful that they may grow too close to a child that may not live.

Two years ago, the team drilled 22 wells, adding to existing projects, not counting the numerous rehabs the team has seen through. How does drilling wells and bringing access to clean drinking water to the tribe translate to ministry? While clean water is important, it is not the most important aspect of their ministry. Head says, "If I had to state in one word what the Indians of the Amazon lack most, it would be HOPE."

Head explains, "We understand now that it is more important to spend a week or so in these villages and not work all day. Work half days, go hunting with them, and create a friendship with them and some sort of foundation with them that we can use as a platform to share Christ."

The team also works with a local Evangelist, Jorge Alvarez, who shares Christ in a way that transcends cultural barriers. Discipleship and evangelism ministry continues through Peruvian National co-workers who are well-trained, and they are more than able to carry on the ministry.

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[04/04/2008]

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