Greetings, Mission Hills Church! Thank you for your support of church planting in Ecuador. Because of you, children in a remote jungle in the Amazon rainforest are receiving holistic care in an environment where they are known, loved and protected. Currently, 40 children regularly attend church at Centro Cristiano. An estimated 150 children receive care. Church staff share that they continue to have big dreams to reach the hearts of many people in their community.
In the photo above, a child and her mother receive a Christmas gift from church staff.
Construction Progress
Construction workers have completed the following:
- Two classrooms made of wood have been built and are now ready for use.
- Land was cleared, so construction workers can begin building a dining room.
- Six bathrooms, with sinks and showers, were built.
- Church staff continue to purchase materials.
Challenges and Opportunities
Transporting materials to the church has been challenging because workers and volunteers grow tired from physical exertion. They transport materials over long distances and uneven terrain. Heavy rains also caused rivers to overflow. The church was reminded that they must trust God, leaving everything in his hands. They also had the opportunity to strengthen relationships with caregivers in the community.
Next Steps
Over the next 60 days, construction workers plan to complete dining room construction.
Church Activities
Currently, 30 adults and 40 children regularly attend church services. The church rejoices that in the past 60 days, 14 people have professed faith in Jesus. Church leaders say they see the community’s commitment to God growing.
The church is hiring more teachers and is involved in curriculum planning. They also supervise construction and deliver food baskets to children and their families. During home visits, church staff pray with children. On Christmas, teenagers performed a celebratory dance, and children received gifts, such as shoes, clothing and candy.
A Testimony From a Church Leader
“One of the mothers in our program was devastated when her oldest son passed away. It was a difficult time, and her children had nothing to eat. The mother prayed every day for provision of food for her family. In December, she came to the church to receive a Christmas gift. Without knowing their situation, her daughter’s sponsor had sent food for their entire family. The mother could hardly believe how God had answered her prayers. God loves his children.”
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- Isaura receives an unexpected gift from her sponsor.
Praises and Prayer Requests
The church praises God they were able to give Christmas gifts to the children they serve. They ask that you join them in praying for safety while working on construction in the jungle, for God to soften the hearts and minds of people in the community and for the children they serve to stay healthy.
Thank You for Your Support
Your generosity is bringing hope to children in Ecuador. Thank you for partnering with Compassion International to release children from poverty in Jesus’ name.
