Day 4 Our CSP Women's Conference!

Imagine the surprise when we got off the bus on day 4 of our tour to visit a CSP (Child Survival Program) at a Compassion church project... We were greeted by an adorable marching band filled with excited children in uniforms playing so proudly to welcome us to their community! On top of that, they went through the effort of creating a float of reeds, branches and balloons pulled by a mule (with a poopy bum:) We giggled so, riding that float all the way up the street to their beautiful little church. Who knew that we'd have this much fun!  They blessed us big time when we least expected it.

 Although the electricity went out and the heat was scorching, we were undoubtedly refreshed by God's Spirit as we worshipped together in both Spanish and English! We sang and shared a message of being precious in God's sight using the story of the 'Lost Coin' as found in Luke 7:8-9 . So many of these young mothers have found great support through Compassion's CSP.   Such an honour to sit with these women in small groups and hear about their stories, struggles and hopes for the future. Some were enrolled in the CSP program receiving care for both their infants and themselves. As their child turns 3 and if there is a need, they can then be sponsored through CDP. (Child Development Program). What a beautiful ministry to reach out to these young moms in need. We were touched by their eagerness for hope, grace and love as they shared so freely with us Canadian sisters in faith.

"Afterwards, we had a lunch and sat down with these mothers and I noticed that they weren’t eating. I thought they didn’t like the food, and then I realized they were saving the food to take home to their children. They couldn’t eat while their children were at home hungry.  These mothers love their children, but they don’t have the means. We have the opportunity with our sponsorship to walk alongside them and give them hope.” -Maureen

 “It was extremely impacting meeting the children face to face. Seeing the hope in their eyes because of sponsorship and realizing the impact it makes in their families! How grateful the mothers are that we cared enough to sponsor their children and knowing the letters I send them, changes their life. The work that compassion does and the difference it makes in the life of each individual child is incredible… because the difference is Jesus. Sponsoring a child transforms their life, but it also changes you.”- Lisa