Because you gave, I’ve spent the last month living in El Salvador. My hosts, Melvin and Dena, have cared for us so well! We’ve gotten to know their family and their ministry; we’ve shared many laughs and many memories. Melvin and Dena are like parents—always loving, always doing what is best for everyone, and they carry such joy at all times. They give so much to their community, and they always do it with a smile on their face. They have been such an inspiration.
Because you gave, I’ve gotten to know this amazing church that teaches and demonstrates the victory we have in Christ. Each week, we had the opportunity to dance to the worship songs (it’s more of a workout, but it’s been an amazing experience). We’ve gotten to know the adults, youth and kids, and we’ve had the opportunity to minister with them. Once a week, we play competitive games with the youth and enjoy a night of laughter!
Because you gave, I’ve learned something about myself: I love to preach! Not once have I felt uncomfortable or nervous being in front of the church!
Because you gave, I’ve taught English in the schools, and assisted my teammates with teaching basketball. While it can be mentally exhausting, the joy that radiates off the children’s faces is priceless! They have enjoyed learning new words and playing new games.
Because you gave, we had the opportunity to share the gospel in the schools. At a specific school, we taught the gospel through soccer. We even played against the girls at the school. It was a close game, but they won! No hard feelings though; they needed a victory in their lives!! It was fun getting to know them and sharing laughs with them.
Because you gave, we had the opportunity to visit a children’s hospital today. We went around to all the children and gave them (or their parents) a little ball with an encouraging word or scripture on it. We got to bring smiles to their faces and pray with them. We blessed the nurses and doctors by giving each of them a heart sticker for their uniform (yes, they enjoyed it immensely)! We experienced the hospital life and how it differs from those in the U.S.
Because you gave, we had the opportunity to pray with a local pastor at the mall who was having health issues. He was crying when we approached, but was smiling when we left!
Because you gave, I’ve gotten to know an amazing team of women who strive for a deeper relationship with each other and with the Lord. We spend hours every week reading and discussing the bible together. It has been such a blessing to be in a community of girls that have a heart for the same things as I do. That is definitely something I didn’t take seriously while growing up, but I now see how important it is. I am very thankful for my team and their constant encouragement!! They are such a blessing!
Because you gave, I have experienced a culture that I never thought I would ever experience; I never thought I would go to El Salvador, let alone hike a volcano or swim in their lake or ocean, but I have.
Because you gave, I will be wrapping up my time here and will be moving on to Guatemala with my team; we will spend this next month with our entire squad!
Thank you for your generous donations and prayers!! It is such a blessing and an answer to prayer!
Be blessed!
