Although quarantine measures in Peru were progressively relieving in July and early August, due to COVID-19 spikes around the country, they have continued to extend their national state of emergency and even re-implement some of their quarantine procedures. This means that yes, their borders are still closed, and therefore I will remain in the states for the time being.
Indeed, even early August was showing some hopeful signs that the country might re-open by September; on the contrary, that hope has gradually declined as the month continued, and even diminished hope for a re-opening in the next month—but we'll see! I have tried inquiring with those I know in Peru, and even a contact at the Embassy there in Lima, but a this point there is no prediction as for how long the borders plan to remain closed nor for when they hope to re-open. It will still be evaluated on a month-by-month basis. I will add that I very much feel for those in Peru. As much as I would love to get back, I think it is much harder for them than for me, as they are just wanting to be able to freely come and go. Seriously, they have been experiencing some sort of restriction on leaving their homes and gathering socially since March. The most recent update included the following parameters:
"National State of Emergency Extended: The government of Peru extended the current state of emergency for an additional 30 days beginning Tuesday, September 1. Children under the age of 14 will no longer be allowed outside for any duration of time, and adults aged 65 and older are to remain inside except when absolutely necessary. No social gatherings of any kind, including in the home with family, are permitted. The 10:00 pm to 4:00 am curfew from Monday to Saturday and all-day quarantine on Sunday remain in effect in most of Peru." –Alert from U.S. Embassy in Peru
I mean children are prohibited from going outside to play! Unfortunately, a number of regions in Peru have re-entered a full quarantine state which includes a daily curfew. Thankfully, Cajabamba is not within one of these regions, and therefore they are enjoying some more freedoms than other areas. To read the full alert update from the Embassy, click here.
Peru is now one of the top countries listed in the various COVID statistics. However, from those that I know in Peru, it seems to be a similar feeling and perspective as to how it is for many in the states in that they feel directly unaffected by the sickness itself and do their best to go on with their lives yet still try to act with some measure of precaution. To read more about the COVID situation in Peru, here is an informational blog that a friend shared on Facebook.
In regards to what this means for me, I will simply continue carrying out the ministry work that I am able to take part in from here. At this point most of my tasks and projects are a steady and routine process. We are in our fourth week of our Zoom small groups, and they are pretty awesome. I myself am learning and hearing from the Lord through these. I have also been thinking on some ideas on how to expand our Kids ministry efforts in this time, so please be praying for God's guidance in this! I am also continuing to volunteer with the Kids ministry at Calvary Chattanooga, helping a few hours during the week to prepare lessons/materials, and then I am teaching the 3rd/4th grade class on Sunday mornings.
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