Greetings, Agoura Bible Fellowship! Thank you for your faithful support of church planting in Colombia. The church plant that you support, Iglesia Misionera de Dios, is now complete and fully operational! Currently, over 135 children are benefiting from holistic care from qualified church staff. Every day, children and their families are coming to know the love of Christ because of your generous gift. In the photo above, the mother and daughter church pastors spend time with registered children at the church.
This report includes updates on the implementation and impact of the intervention, interviews with a church leader and the father of a participant and photos of the implementation process.
In the photo above, participants gather at the church for child development activities.
Implementation Progress
During construction, the following steps were completed:
- Bathrooms, including three toilets for boys and three toilets for girls, have been built. An accessible bathroom was added in the lobby.
- Three sinks and one shower were installed. The sinks supply safe drinking water.
- A kitchen was built, including a pantry and refrigeration area. A stove was also installed.
- Construction workers built offices for church staff.
- The church walls were painted.
- An opening ceremony was held via Zoom with guests from Compassion Colombia and from the mother and daughter churches.
- Sunday services and discipleship groups have continued throughout the construction process.
Impact of the Intervention
Over 135 registered children currently receive holistic care at Iglesia Misionera de Dios. This facility itself is one that families say is the most beautiful structure in their community. The church has fully equipped bathrooms, which are rare in this area. Children are grateful to be able to wash their hands with running water and use flushing toilets.
Before the church facilities were complete, church meetings took place in a home where no more than 20 people could fit. During the pandemic, they met outside under a tree. Now, the children and their families gather for church services and other events in a large sanctuary where windows are being added for proper ventilation. The community shares that they are thankful for this gift from God that has changed their lives.
A Testimony From Linfer, the Community Council President
“The positive impact of this intervention on our community is unimaginable. As a leader, I see how hard the church works to meet the needs of our community. This center will be a huge blessing to children and their parents. They are happy to have this opportunity.”
An Interview With Edwerd, a Church Leader
How has this intervention benefitted the church and the community?
A larger church facility has enabled the church to continue to grow. The church can now accommodate 90 adults in a well-ventilated space. 135 children are also able to regularly attend Sunday school.
How has this intervention affected your ability to minister to the participants?
This intervention has helped me improve my ministry skills. God has given me eyes to see the children in our community through the lens of his love.
What would you like to say to those who provided the financial support for this intervention?
We are infinitely grateful to God for using you to support us. I know God will reward you for giving to the poor. God bless you!
An Interview With Yurian, the Father of a Participant
What was your life like before and after the intervention was implemented?
My family and I began attending the church five years ago. We met in a little pink house. My children are now so excited to go to church that they are often ready to go before me. Our new meeting places is no longer crowded. I am also thankful my children have a safe place to use the bathroom.
What will this change mean for your future or the future of your family?
My children are much more motivated to attend church. I love seeing them praying and thanking God, something I did not see them do before. I hope my children can make the most of this program and that it will allow them to have opportunities in life that I did not have.
What lessons have you learned from this intervention?
I have learned that God is faithful. He answers our prayers. For a long time, we have been asking God for a place like this, and seeing that dream come true is a reason for me to praise God for his goodness.
What would you like to say to those who provided the financial support for this intervention?
We have no way to repay you for this wonderful support that God has given us. Your generosity reflects the love of Christ and fulfills God’s call. 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!