It doesn't seem that long ago since I was asking people if we could help the project in Bolivia to build a house for Volunteers, at a total cost of $8000 - it was about 12 months ago, actually!!

It was a great pleasure then, for myself, Simon Treacy (ex- Salesian College, Farnborough) and his friend Rich New, to visit Montero in August to officially open said house. What was an old dilapidated shed now has two ensuite rooms for volunteers, with a separate shared living/kitchen area - as you can see from our photos, what a transformation!!

Named after St Michael the Archangel, defender of children and young people, the dedication service called on him to protect the youngsters of the Kindergarten, the Primary School and the Orphanage, as well as the Volunteers who would work in these places. Highlights of the ceremony consisted of Simon and Rich's Spanish duet (it was a hymn!!), and even I got into the act with the call to prayer, and blessing in Spanish (after hours of practice!!).

Later on there was a party in the Orphanage - you will be pleased to know that the three of us wowed everybody with a rap rendition of Baa Baa Black sheep - and there is a rumour (with pics) of me taking part in a "sack race" (there's certainly one of me lying on the floor exhausted!).

Our thanks go to you from all the Community and children from the project for your generosity - your support is very much appreciated, and there are many promises of prayers from Madre Rosario and the Community.