Excitement continues to build in the community of Pedernales, Esmeraldas, Ecuador, as work has begun in earnest on your church plant, Iglesia Alianza Cristiana y Misionera Pedernales. While older, unstable structures are torn down and rebuilt, children and adults eagerly await the new construction because, for most, the place where they are meeting temporarily is far away. We are so grateful for your investment in this city which was devastated by the 2016 earthquake. This field report demonstrates that you are restoring life and hope. May God bless you.
Construction Progress
- The columns are being finished.
- When they are complete, the roof will be added.
Church Activities
Currently, 40 adults and 10 children regularly attend the church, and 150 children attend activities at the child development center. Due to distance, most of these children do not attend church on Sundays.
The next baptism service will be Jan. 15, 2019, and at the time of this report, five baptisms are expected.
At the spiritual level, we have advanced with discipleship sessions. Not many people have been able to meet – only about 20 people. For most, this is because of work or distance. People are waiting for the church to finish building as soon as possible.
Pastor Omar Barroso is helping families with discipleship. He talks to them about God and ministers to the physical and spiritual needs of the people. Likewise, the child development center director intervenes with spiritual help for the children.
Challenges Encountered
We didn’t know much about construction, and many times we didn’t know how to proceed. But we received advice from the architect.
Another challenge is to know the needs of each person and try to help them. We believe it is of the utmost importance that children have this security.
Next Steps
The ceiling and walls will be placed.
Testimony of Impact
The Lord is shaping us to perceive and meet the needs of the people. Throughout the community, beneficiaries and their families are happy to see the establishment of this center. They have a high expectation of service and positive impact for the people who attend.
– Antonia, child development center director
Praises and Prayer Requests
Praises
- We thank God for His blessings and His strength.
- Thanks to Compassion International for making this dream possible.
- Thanks to the sponsors who have given their donations benefiting the parents and children.
Prayer Requests
We ask you to pray:
- for the pastor
for the children’s parents and their needs
for the family conflicts
for Pedernales
that people remain engaged in the service of the Lord