Pray for Ecuador on Sunday, November 16, 2014
Lectionary Selection: Matthew 25:14–30
Prayers for Ecuador:
Oh loving God, for whom all things are possible, we pray that we are moved to use our gifts, talents, abilities in your service. Help us to see those in need, the hurting, those hungry for love or community, the sick, those without sufficient resources. May we be of use to you: Let us be your loving hands, your comforting arms.
Dearest God, move us to do your will, to assist in bringing justice to those who seek it and to bring sufficient resources to those who lack. Open our eyes that we may see the poor in spirit who pass through our lives and open our hearts that we may learn to share. In the name of the most Holy, Amen.
Mission Stewardship Moment from Ecuador:
Recently, FEDICE became aware of the Cuascota family that passed through a crisis, but is still in need. The mother of four young boys died because of medical reasons. Then, 2 years later, the father was killed in a traffic accident. The boys were taken in by their grandmother who lives in a three room, mud dwelling with her grown daughter and her daughter’s 4 year old daughter. The grandmother has serious health problems and is living with cancer, but still sells gelatina, mote (a kind of corn), mellocas (a kind of potato), and habas (fava beans) in a local market. The daughter works and goes to University. The boys are 7, 9, 11, and 15 years of age and continue to go to school.
A local church in the community made FEDICE aware of the financial need of the Cuascotas. The family could be from anywhere, but happens to be in Ecuador (could this be a situation one of your neighbors faces?). Do we at FEDICE question their need? Do we ask if they are lazy? Did they bring this on themselves because of their actions?
No, we know that could easily be one of us. The staff of FEDICE has pulled together and is helping provide some food, clothing, school supplies. We think of what projects FEDICE supports that might help the family become more self-sufficient. Could they raise guinea pigs or chickens? What could the older boys could take on? We are glad as the local soccer team begins to also help by fund raising for a larger house.
This story has not ended yet. We hope that with God’s love, FEDICE, the nearby church, and the Cuascota’s community can make a difference in these lives.
We appreciate your past prayers for FEDICE’s ministries that make it possible to help others become self-sufficient. And we thank you for your generous support. May you be moved to see the suffering in your midst and beyond and take action to share God’s love.
(Prayer and Mission Moment by Marilyn Cooper and Glenn Hebert)
Mission Partners in Ecuador:
Fundacion Ecumenica Para el Desarrollo Integral Capacitacion-Education (FEDICE)
Iglesia Evangelica Unida del Ecuador (IEUE)
More information on Ecuador:
http://globalministries.org/lac/countries/ecuador/
Global Ministries Missionary in Ecuador:
Marilyn Cooper, a member of United Christian Church, Austin, Texas, serves with the Ecumenical Foundation for Integral Development, Training and Education (FEDICE). She is working in Christian Education with FEDICE and the Association of Indigenous Evangelical Churches of Imbaburapreschools and community centers in Indigenous communities teaching English. Her appointment is supported by Our Churches Wider Mission, Disciples Mission Fund and your special gifts.
Glenn Hebert, a member of United Christian Church, Austin, Texas, serves with the Ecumenical Foundation for Integral Development, Training and Education (FEDICE). He is working in Christian Education with FEDICE and the Association of Indigenous Evangelical Churches of Imbabura on FEDICE website design and a blog about his experiences. His appointment is supported by Our Churches Wider Mission, Disciples Mission Fund and your special gifts.