It was a neighbourhood with the reputation for being
dangerous. As a matter of fact it was known as the most dangerous neighbourhood
in the San Salvador area, the capital of El Salvador. There were 3 to 4 murders
every month here related to gang activity. But then a group of people started a
church, and they started reaching out to children in the community. Soon a
Compassion Centre was established and children were sponsored. The children could come for a meal, Bible
teaching, medical care and just a safe place to play. Children and siblings of
gang members came to the centre too. And soon the community started to change.
It came to the point where the media came to the neighbourhood to find out what
was going on. The crime rate dropped so drastically that it drew
attention. The answer the community
gave for this amazing change is, “It’s the church!”
This is the Compassion Centre we were privileged to visit
today. With 373 sponsored children in
this centre they are doing an amazing job of teaching these children, providing
for them, and loving them with the gospel of Jesus Christ. They have started a program for the
graduated students with a business of sewing and selling backpacks. They have a
music program for children to learn instruments and become part of the worship
teams at church. They are currently in process of initiating a program for
special needs children which is a huge need in El Salvador. What a blessing to see what God is doing at
this Centre!
But the best part of this day for me, was meeting the two
children that we sponsor through Compassion.
There’s nothing like seeing the smiles on their faces, playing with them
and giving them big hugs. We talked
with their parents to find out the progress of our kids and how they are being
cared for. It’s always a highlight of
going to El Salvador! These families have become family to us. We love them so
much and feel blessed to be a part of their lives. If you’ve never considered sponsoring a child, consider it
today. Compassion Canada is a great
organization where not only children’s lives are changed but the impact reaches
the family and beyond to the community as well!
Oh, what a great opportunity we as Christians have to go and make a difference in the lives of others, especially when we see such a great need in El Salvador! And to hear the difference it IS making encourages us to keep on! Thanks for sharing of your day!
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