A letter from Mona Dresbach
October 9, 2001

The horific events of Sept. 11 affected the people of Panama in many ways. The televisions stations became twenty-four hour news stations; visitors were removed from the Canal and the Policía Nacional (we have no Army) surrounded the Locks. There was much worry that the Panama Canal would be a target for further terrorist actions. The young people of the Canal Area like to park in front of the Pedro Miguel Locks, but the area is now roped off and has police patroling the area constantly.  Michael and I saw hundreds of flowers and cards placed on the sidewalk in front of the American Embassy.  Many people in our church have relatives who live in the States, especially in  New York and Washington D. C.  One lady in our congregation lost her son in the WTC [World Trade Center] that day.  Bishop Murray held a very nice prayer service on Friday the 15 at St. Luke's Cathedral for a peaceful end to the horrors this caused and in memory of those lost.

We held a single service on September 26 in which Luz de Mañana (Light of Tomorrow), St. Christopher's Youth Group, planned with Michael and participated.  They were the Chior, readers, and leaders of the service.  This special bilingual service was in honor of the founding of the youth group of St. Chirstopher's; it was their fifth anniversary.  Those who came from the English service were very proud of the youth for the good work they did.

The ECW held their annual tribute honoring nine women of the Diocese at the Bishop Clarence Hayes Gymnasium at St. Christopher's School. Women from all over Panama (as well as Michael and I) came and participated in the celebration.

At the end of last month, St. Christopher's held a luncheon at the Waikiki Restaurant just for fellowship and fun.  The entertainment included a wonderful fashion show with four of our beautiful little girls between the ages of four and seven.  Another great form of entertainment enjoyed by all were several "Elocutionary Items,"  by a lady of the congregation who is well known for this Afro-Antillian tradition. She performed dramatic recitations of several funny and enjoyable poems.  We also were entertained by children of the parish performing  Típico Dances in traditional costumes.

Once again I'm in Lori Keynes' choir.  Dr. Lori Keynes is a fellow missionary and is the wife of the Rev. Seth Polley, Priest-in-Charge of the Cathedral of St. Luke, seat of the Diocese of Panamá. This time we're rehearsing "Gloria" by Antonio Vivaldi and "Congregante y Festero" by Antonio Soler.  The performances will be in the beginning of December. We will perform not only in Panamá City, but also in the interior.

September was really a quiet month for us.   This month, October, we're on a much needed vacation.  Take care and remain safe.

May God's peace be with you all during this time of trial.

Mona and Michael Dresbach

Please feel free to check St. Francis' website at www.stfrancisepiscopalchurch.org which includes an archive of our letters and pictures of our mission.

In Christ,
Mona and Michael Dresbach
Panama