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Guatemala Children's Mission Newsletter MAY 2016

Pure religion is this: To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction... James 1.27

“I Love My New Life"

A young boy named Ever arrived at Agua Viva in January. While adjusting to life at Agua Viva can be difficult for many children, the transition for Ever has been a happy one. He loves living at the home and says that he feels safe and happy in a way that he has never experienced before at home.

Though Ever is a quiet child, he loves playing soccer and has made many new friends in Casa Josue, especially Pepe whom he considers to be one of his best friends (pictured above). Though he entered school behind by several grades, Ever has big plans to pursue a career in medicine or as a teacher so he can help other people. He receives extra technical training and enjoys the creative aspect of his sewing class. His favorite memory from these past few months is his relationship with one of his house parents and the love he feels through the care and teaching he receives from him.

Please pray that God would continue to bless Ever and that he would come to know Jesus as Lord and Savior at a young age.

Celebrating God-Given Talents

We love to encourage our children and see their talents blossom. This past month, Pastor Dave hosted a special talent show night for the children and they had a great time! We had a wonderful night of music and dancing to celebrate the talents that God has given to the children.

A Reminder of God's Love

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life” John 3:16

We had a beautiful sunrise service for Easter, and though the children were a little tired in the beginning, they really enjoyed the special message Pastor Dave prepared for them. It was a beautiful reminder of what Jesus did on the cross and that His resurrection has an eternal impact on each of their lives.

Please pray with us that all our children would come to saving faith in Jesus Christ and that this would be a year full of seeing God working in the lives of children and staff alike!

Old Friends Return

John Kilpatrick Jr. lived at Agua Viva for years while his father was director of the home back in the 90s. He and Melvin, one of the children living in the home, became good friends growing up and that friendship has lasted through the years. Last month they got together and decided to visit Agua Viva. They had a great time with the children and were happy to see how God has blessed the ministry over the years. As a special treat for the children, they brought in pizza and sodas for lunch. The children were blessed by their special visit and the lunch they provided.

Life After Agua Viva

William came to Agua Viva back in 1989 while the home was still based in Guatemala City. He and his younger sister both grew up at the home and William worked hard to finish high school. He moved out of the home when he was 18, later met and married his wife Guillermina, and they now have two beautiful daughters, Jasmin (8) and Yarelin (2).

It took years of hard work and perseverance through good times and bad, but William is proud to have had a good, steady job as a security guard for the past six years that has allowed him to completely support his family. He recently visited the home with his wife and children and spent the day reminiscing over good memories and lessons learned while at the home. He is thankful for the start that Agua Viva game him in life.

Vacation Week

The children were out of school for Holy Week and the staff and house parents worked hard to fill the time with lots of fun activities. Thanks to the pools that were donated a few years ago, we had several water days as well as soccer games, outdoor dinners, bonfires, and a special outdoor movie night. The children enjoyed the break from school and the extra time available to be with their friends. They were blessed by all the work the staff and teachers put into the activities.

Team Report | Sherwood Oaks
Submitted by Lorianne Briggs, Sherwood Oaks Christian Church

About a year ago, I set my heart on coming to Agua Viva and sponsoring a child. The experience was nothing like I expected. At first I was a bit nervous because of the language barrier, but I soon realized that language is not the only form of communication.

While the children were in school, our team worked on projects around the home. The work helped me get closer to my team and it taught me to persevere and to be diligent in my tasks. It made me feel good to know that I could help the home in so many different ways.

I was an orphan until the age of 4 and was angry about my situation. I thought the children would be the same, considering their horrific backgrounds, but they were loving and accepting. To my surprise, they walked up and talked to me, and we played and laughed together. It touched my heart that the children were so loving and happy, especially after all they have been through. Their backgrounds helped me appreciate my family more.

I loved my time at Agua Viva, seeing the love the children have for each other, their love for us, and their grateful hearts. Most of all, I loved seeing them encouraged to walk with the Lord. I am grateful for the chance to spend time with the children and to experience the amazing things that happen at Agua Viva.

GET INVOLVED

Become a Sponsor | Provide a Scholarship | Donate a Book | Bring a Team

Contact Us

General Info
Team Coordinator
Sponsorship Coordinator

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Our mailing address is: P.O. Box 398, Spicer, MN 56288

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Agua Viva · P.O. Box 398 · Spicer, MN 56288 · USA