The Story Continues

Charles & Ximena Dean
Jul 25
2 min read

**Meeting with leaders and workers at Iglesia Maranata**

🔥 Preaching in the Dark: My First Candlelight Service in Peru

I remember hearing a seasoned minister share how he once preached in total darkness. I found the story hilarious at the time—never thinking I’d face something similar myself. But as it often happens in ministry, the Lord loves to surprise us.

✈️ Flashback to Arequipa

This adventure dates back to my second trip to Arequipa, Peru. I was serving as one of several traveling pastors, assigned to preach in a rotation across six satellite churches. Every Sunday, after the service at our home church, we’d head out to one of the satellite congregations to share the Word.

🍽️ A Hearty Peruvian Lunch

On this particular Sunday, I arrived around 3:30 or 4:00 p.m., with the service scheduled to begin at 5:00. As I waited, the host church kindly offered me lunch. I assumed something light—maybe fruit, a sandwich, or a refreshing drink. I was wrong.

They brought out a massive plate featuring a whole fried fish—head, eyes, and all—accompanied by rice and potatoes. I’d eaten plenty of fish before, but never one that stared back at me. I couldn't help but wonder, “Do they want me to preach after this... or sleep?”

🕯️ Let There Be Light—Eventually

By 5:15, the sun was setting and the room was growing darker. I realized they hadn't turned on the lights and asked about it. Their response? The neighbor who normally provided electricity via an extension cord wasn’t home.

After a few moments of scrambling, they decided to begin the service—no lights, no sound. Thank God the church was small and didn’t require me to shout. Still, I was concerned. I rely on seeing faces to gauge how the message is being received.

“How am I going to read my notes?” I asked. Their solution? Candles.

🌟 Preaching by Candlelight

And so began my very first candlelight service. I stood there in the glow of wax and flame, preaching the Word as best I could. Halfway through the message, the neighbor returned and the power came on—lights and sound at last.

But even with illumination, the congregation remained stoic. It’s fascinating—Peruvians might not be expressive in church, but catch them watching their favorite soccer team, and they’ll show emotions you didn’t know they had!

One lady, in particular, spent the whole message gently shaking her head “no” to everything I said. Eventually, I decided to stop looking in her direction and keep going.

🙏 A Lesson I'll Never Forget

I wrapped up the sermon, prayed for everyone, and was genuinely glad to leave. That night, I learned a powerful truth: never be moved by what you see—or don’t see. Ministry isn’t about perfect conditions. It’s about obedience, faith, and trust that God will use every moment for His glory.

Let me know if you'd like to add a Scripture reference, a title image, or a closing reflection for your readers. This post would be a wonderful way to connect your anniversary celebration to a lesson lived and learned on the field.