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Three Kings' Day

El Dia de Reyes...is a celebration of the three wisemen coming from the east to Jerusalem in search of Baby Jesus.  The visit of the Magi is depicted in Matthew 2:1-12.  They brought with them three gifts, gold, frankincense and myrrh.

Here in the Dominican Republic this day, January 6th is celebrated like Christmas is back in North America.  On Friday, us missionaries made a pancake and salami breakfast for all the kids, houseparents, and workers at the Ark Home in Jarabacoa.  It was fun being able to do something special for everyone.  They sang some songs, read from Luke 2 the Christmas story of Jesus' birth along with a short devotional from the home director prior to passing out gifts to the kids and staff.  It was cool to see everyone receive three gifts each just like the three gifts Baby Jesus was given from the wisemen.  The kids and staff opened their presents and it was a joy to watch the expressions and delight on each of their faces.  This day is really Christmas for Dominicans as on Christmas they traditionally do not hand out gifts.

I also, got to go with the Trautweins, Karen, Wendy, and Indiana to celebrate King's Day at the Ark Home in Constanza.  They read from Psalm 100 with a small devotional, one of the older boys shared some words of thanksgiving and two of the girls sang a song.  We had brownie sundaes before passing out the three presents and again watching the delight and joy on the faces of everyone.

I was really glad to be able to be part of these celebrations.  But reminded again of the best gift that God the Father gave us, His son, Jesus Christ.
Caraballo Christmas Program

Palo Blanco Christmas Program

Santo Domingo Christmas Party

Constanza Christmas Dinner

Ark-Jarabacoa

Family Group in the Ark Jarabacoa

Excitement 

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