El Encinal

Monday, January 19, 2026

The 2026 Trinity team is comprised of 13 members, of which 5 are first timers to Honduras. Today the team traveled to the El Encinal community in Santa Barbara. The team served 37 families. The veteran team members commented on the general good health of the community.

The dental clinic performed 14 teeth extractions, and 2 cleanings, while the vision clinic fitted 15 pairs of glasses. Roger Hart was touched by the fact that two young girls remembered him from previous years. They loved seeing him so much, they taught him a “banana- chicken” dance.

New this year is documentation of a mental health assessment, and renewed attention to the spiritual care of the communities we visit. Pastor Daniel’s first day was hallmarked by a significant conversation with a young woman whom he encountered in the medical clinic.  When fellow team member Dr. Mark noticed that this young woman appeared to be in distress, he suggested she speak with Daniel.  With the help of Friends of Barnabas Director Lidia, who acted as a translator and fellow counselor, Daniel and this young woman spent a half hour talking about life, and the challenges of school and family.  Lidia left her with a teddy bear, and Daniel gave her a cross.  Before she left the clinic, she made sure to give Daniel and Lidia a big hug. 

This is why we do the work that we do, and why Friends of Barnabas is so necessary.  Together, we serve people in multiple ways, supporting them in their physical health, and treating them with love and dignity in every encounter. 

~Linda & Daniel