Thursday, October 20, 2016

Final Quito Update

As I sit here in Quito watching the sun set behind one of the many beautiful mountains in the area, I can't help but be thankful for the opportunities that were presented this week to pray, reflect, and advocate at Habitat III. Our group of leaders continued to advocate today all the way through the end of the proceedings as the New Urban Agenda was officially adopted. We have opened up doors for participating in meaningful ways in urban transformation efforts in cities around the world.

We are an active group of leaders at the Urban Shalom Project. Outcomes from our time in Quito will include a press release, a call to action to millions of Christians around the world, a book with our published papers about the New Urban Agenda, a new website, an Urban Thinkers Camp, and many opportunities for collaboration in academic circles with people who are teaching urban ministry and planning.

Here are some photos from our last day in Quito:


Quito is an amazing place. The weather was great, the surrounding hills provided incredible views, and there was often a cool breeze rolling through the Habitat III areas. This was the perfect place for global leaders to gather.


The whole city came to life all week with entertainers, light shows, the arts, shops, awesome food, and welcoming people. We will never forget the warmth of the Ecuadorian people as they showed off their country to the world.


I'm leaving Quito with a full heart, not only because of the good time that I had in South America, but because it was such a powerful experience to be a part of the Christian witness here at this historic event with so many passionate leaders. I am excited about what God has in store from here.

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