Norman's New Shoes

Wow. What a great day. This team is filled with passionate people who care SO much about these kids! Since this team is made up of individuals, we had to learn about each other fast. We have people here from Florida, Alabama, Michigan, Tennessee, Texas and Maryland. One couple adopted their son from Guatemala four years ago. Another woman was an IMB missionary in Guatemala for many years. And others have done medical mission work in countries all over the world. It's so neat to hear everyone's stories and learn more about what brought them on this trip to minister to orphans and share God's love through a new pair of shoes.

A big reason many people are on this trip is because of Christian music artist Geoff Moore. Geoff has been working with Buckner for over a year now, singing at special events and helping us spread the word about the needs of children all over the world. Some people heard him talking about the trip on radio stations or at concerts.

Several people are here because they heard Carmen Brown on the The Joy FM Radio in Tampa, Fla. Carmen initiated her station's shoe drive this year -- and they raised more than 8,600 pairs of shoes!

This morning we visited Elisa Martinez, a boys' orphanage in Guatemala City. There we met a little boy named Norman who has only lived at the home for about 10 days. He used to live on the streets. Since Norman is too young to stay at this older boys' home, they will be moving him to another home for younger boys later this week. At least now when he goes, he'll be sporting some new shoes.

Here's a video of Norman showing off his new kicks. That's Carmen giving him a hug at the end.