Izalco

When the Santa Ana Volcano erupted last year the town was moved to shelters. Many months later the people were given land by a church in Izalco. They made their homes out of aluminum and plastic bags, their security continues to be an issue. Here they have a common "pool" of water that is used for bathing and washing clothes. In this second picture Roberto, from "the band," is helping a child draw and paint.

Warning!

"NEVER TOUCH MY LUNCH.
DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT.
NO REALLY DON'T."

Is is alright that this boy's shirt says this or is is worse that I'm sharing it with you? Anyway, here's Daniel w. his puppet near the city of Izalco.

Romero, el Heroe

El Salvador's history of war surrounding politics and religion is to say the least, pretty devestating. Went to the University of Central America (UCA) and saw the memorial / museum to the Jesuits that were assasssinated as well as Romero. The first picture is a quote from Romero (outside the chapel) stating "If they kill me I will come back to life in the Salvadoran people."

Behind the Titere Scenes

Here in San Augustin, families were flooded out of their homes due to massive rains. Part of the healing process involves puppet shows where the children re-tell their personal stories when the rain came. Mary and I worked with a "Master Puppeter" and "the Band" in creating the puppet shows with the children of San Augustin.

Los Talleres de Musica

Franklin, from "the band" showing Leonel how to use the guitar. Leonel's community was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 2005 and they are now living in a shelter, where we visit weekly.

Suchitoto Views

A distant view of Lago Suchilan, a short walk from the town´s center on a rather rocky road. Suchitoto is a Nahuat (the indigenous language) word, for Pajaro Flor.

Town of Suchitoto

The local church, Santa Lucia, situated in the town´s plaza, offering a convenient Sunday night mass.

Suchitoto Roads

Suchitoto, supposedly the most desired town to live in, filled with friendly Salvadorans and random international volunteers. It´s a solid hour and a half bus ride from San Salvador.