Greetings, Agoura Bible Fellowship! Thank you for your faithful support of church planting in Bolivia. The church you planted, Iglesia Bautista Misionera, is now fully built and ready for use! Currently, over 80 children and their families are coming to know the love of Christ because of your generous gift. In the photo above, registered children enjoy a nutritious snack during Bible class.
This report includes updates on the implementation and impact of the intervention, interviews with a church leader and the mother of a registered child and photos of the implementation process.
Implementation Progress
Most recently, the following steps were completed:
- Construction workers added doors and windows to all rooms in the church.
- Electricity was installed.
- Leaders from the mother church visited community members to invite them to church.
- Women in the church visited registered children to share the gospel.
In the months to come, construction workers will finish installing tile. The church has started curricular activities with newly registered children.
Impact of the Intervention
The new church facilities include a sanctuary, office, four classrooms, two bathrooms and a kitchen. These facilities provide children with a safe, comfortable place to learn and grow. Currently, there are 80 children enrolled, 70 children in the process of being enrolled and 30 additional children who attend Sunday school. The church leads evangelism activities, including Children’s Bible Club, Sunday School and fasting and prayer gatherings. Many younger children bring their older siblings to these events to hear the Word of God. The church shares that 80% of registered children are able to share the gospel in their own words after 14 months in the program.
As a result of home visits, 30 caregivers have professed faith in Jesus. Caregivers are overjoyed that their children are being supported by church staff. The church hopes to become a place where children not only learn about God but learn languages and develop musical talents too.
A Testimony From Modesto, the Program Director
“This intervention was the answer to many prayers, It taught me to depend more fully on God. During construction, I saw the miracles of God unfold. This makes me very happy, because there will be more opportunities to help families in need and share the gospel.”
An Interview With Jorge, the Pastor of the Mother Church
How have the lives of the affected beneficiaries been changed since the intervention’s completion?
People in this area are in great need of food, clothing and other basic necessities. Above all, they need to know the hope of God. Now, children will have the opportunity to learn new things in Sunday school, and parents will have a place where they can attend church.
How has this intervention benefitted the community?
This church is helping us to extend the Kingdom of God. We hope that this will not only be a place that welcomes children, but a school of music and languages.
What would you like to say to those who provided the financial support for this intervention?
We are so grateful God moved your hearts to contribute to this project. This intervention was a product of five years of prayer! We know God answers our prayers and never leaves us. We are always praying for you.
A Testimony From Janethe, the Mother of a Registered Child
“As a mother, it is difficult to explain the joy in my heart. Having my children attend program activities is a great blessing. It brings joy, peace and tranquility to my heart.”
An Interview With Juana, the Mother of a Registered Child
What was your life like before and after the intervention was implemented?
I live in a rented house with my seven children. We have electricity and water but no bathroom. During the pandemic, we suffered financially. It seemed there was no hope. Everything was lost. Now that my children are registered with Compassion, I am very happy. My children receive food, we attend church and my children learn about God. My children will receive an education and may even teach me things I haven’t learned.
What lessons have you learned from this intervention?
We learned that nothing is impossible. Belonging to this church is like having a family that will always be by my side.
What would you like to say to those who provided the financial support for this intervention?
You give me hope! May the Lord bless you and multiply your work. With all my heart, I thank you.
Thank You for Your Support
Thank you for partnering with Compassion International to release children from poverty in Jesus’ name. The support you have provided will impact children for years to come. May God bless you abundantly!