After dedicating 17 years of our lives to missionary work in Latin America, we have intimately encountered the harsh realities that many people face on a daily basis. Yet, amidst these challenges, we have also witnessed the transformative power of education in breaking the vicious cycle of poverty for countless individuals.
Throughout our journey, one recurring theme has been the vital role that churches play in responding to the diverse needs of their communities. While the immediate response to a request for food is clear – we provide sustenance to the hungry – addressing more complex issues such as domestic violence requires a nuanced approach.
This is where the concept of Holistic Community Care comes into play. Over the past few months, we have dedicated our efforts to develop a comprehensive university-level course aimed at training church pastors and leaders from across Latin America. The objective of this course is not only to equip them with the practical skills and knowledge needed to effectively demonstrate God’s love but also to assist individuals in their journey towards healing from the various adverse experiences they have endured.
At its core, this initiative seeks to empower these already-committed individuals to embody the compassion of the Samaritan who cared for the wounded traveler on the side of the road. By providing them with the necessary tools and resources, we aim to enable them to make a tangible difference in the lives of those they serve.
In 2023, we had the privilege of conducting training sessions for leaders in different communities across Ecuador. Encouraged by the positive response and impact of these sessions, we have already received invitations to extend this initiative to Argentina and Uruguay this year.
Through strategic partnerships with esteemed institutions such as Lee University and SEMISUD (the South American Bible School of the Church of God), we are committed to delivering high-quality training and resources to our participants. By collaborating with specialists in various fields, we ensure that our leaders receive the most relevant and up-to-date information to enhance their capabilities.
As we continue to expand our reach, we are humbled by the growing interest from other countries eager to participate in this transformative program. More and more churches are seeking guidance on how they can become actively involved and have their leaders trained to better serve their communities.