The first time I saw Enrique Fernando, he had a Pampers tied on his face like a western kerchief and was running around the playground. His classmate Jessica, had her head on her desk trying to catch a little nap while the others enjoyed recess. It was 2007 and I was on my first Mission Trip to Guatemala. The ‘prepa’ (equivalent to kindergarten) students were without a teacher that day, so a friend and I volunteered to teach the class. Jessica and Fernando were two of our students that day.
I continued to observe them throughout the week. I had decided that I would sponsor a child, but should I go for quiet reserved Jessica, who had no interest in getting to know me or energetic, funny, creative Fernando. I decided to sponsor both!
I’m one of the lucky ones! I’ve continued to travel to Morning Glory Christian Academy each year, if not more often. Seven years later and Fernando is still laughing and clowning around, and Jessica is still tired from working till late night in the family business. When I arrive, Fernando and his friends are calling out ‘Madrina, Madrina’ which means Godmother (or sponsor). He runs up to me and wants me to talk and play with them. But, he’s learned to focus, after being held back one year. Now he takes his studies more seriously, but still has fun. In the last couple of years Jessica has approached me, with a shy smile, and a tentative hug. She is gaining confidence, gracefulness, although still shy.
Jessica has been allowed to continue to Middle School. Generally in her family, the girls have not been allowed to continue past 6th grade. Jessica is breaking the mold. Miss Lori begged and pleaded with the grandfather so this could happen. Miss Lori was also there for Fernando when his father died suddenly, leaving him in a very typical one parent household. But more importantly, Morning Glory Christian Academy taught Jessica and Fernando that they have another Father who cares for them deeply, they have been introduced to Jesus. This Father is there for them when their family cannot be, He smiles when they dream big, and He listens to their prayers. He has changed their life.
I love seeing the difference Jesus is making in San Raymundo Guatemala. I love seeing how God is making a difference in the lives of Jessica and Fernando.
So many of you are sponsors who cannot travel to San Raymundo. Lori and I have had countless discussions on how we can give you the blessing of watching your sponsored children grow, change, and accept the Lord. I’m so passionate about the program, last year I volunteered to spend a few hours each month at an attempt to improve and organize the program.
We have agreed this year to communicate with you at least four times a year. You should have received an updated profile on your child this past spring. Expect a couple more communications this year. We want you to know how they are doing in school, what prayer requests they have, and what their dreams are. The kids love to receive letters from their sponsors. Please write to them through Rob Courtney [
rob@morningglorychristianacademy.org]. He’s great about making sure they get the letters.
As the sponsorship program continues to grow, we are always looking for ideas for improvement, or creative ways you can stay involved in your sponsored child’s life, even from afar. Please send me your ideas.
Encourage friends to sponsor a child. Of the nearly 600 students, about 150 have sponsors. I would love for every child to have a sponsor, and for each sponsor to experience the joy I have felt as I’ve watched God work in their young lives.
God bless you for reaching out and touching a life.
