Dear Friends,
Thank you so much for all your prayers, support, encouragement, and partnership with us in the work God has called us to do in Guatemala. We are truly blessed to have you by our side.
While much of our work involves simple classes, instruction, and prayer with those God has called us to reach, we wanted to share some more visible highlights so that you, too, can be inspired by how the Kingdom is growing here.
Summer Camp Success
This year, we held a week-long summer camp for the children from the orphanage Fundaninos. It was a powerful event that God used to change the lives of both the children and the mission team members. The camp provided a unique opportunity for the children to experience God's love in a fun and nurturing environment.
Vocational Training and Daily Classes
Our afterschool programs in the slums of Colonia Santa Fe and the surrounding ravines are making a big difference and bringing hope to vulnerable children. Seventy-eight children attend our daily classes, learning computer skills, receiving homework help, and gaining spiritual input. These classes are vital for their personal and educational development.
Expanding Skills and Opportunities
We taught over 320 vocational classes this year, covering carpentry, woodworking, engineering, and culinary arts. These classes provide essential skills to help the children at the orphanage build better futures. One of our former students from an orphanage went through a difficult time, and we had the privilege of fostering her and providing the support and stability she needed.
Ongoing Support for Former Students
We regularly met with, counseled, and prayed with half a dozen of our former students from the orphanages who are now living independently. Our continued relationship with these young adults is crucial as they navigate life's challenges outside the orphanage.
Spiritual Growth and Evangelism
This year, we gave 45 Bible classes, nurturing the spiritual growth of children and young adults at the orphanage. We also worked with six mission teams in their evangelistic efforts in Guatemala, spreading the message of God's love and grace.
Supporting Special Needs Education
We assisted the Cadanino ministry in setting up a school for children with severe and profound mental, physical, and neurological disabilities. This initiative is a significant step in providing much-needed care and education for some of our community's most vulnerable children.
Service Trips and Learning Experiences
We organized three service trips with teenagers from the orphanage, teaching them that it is more blessed to give than to receive. These transformative trips allowed the teens to experience the joy of serving others.
Continuing Education and Collaboration
We attended the CAFO (Christian Alliance for Orphans) Summit to enhance our care for orphaned and vulnerable children. This event provided valuable insights and strategies we are eager to implement in our ministry.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on the past six months, we are grateful for the progress made and the lives touched. Your prayers and support have been instrumental in these achievements. We look forward to continuing this vital work, trusting God's plan, and faithfully serving those in need.
Thank you for supporting us as we strive to improve the lives of vulnerable children and families in Guatemala.
With heartfelt thanks,
Timothy Martiny
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