April 2021 Update
4/3/2021
Dear friends of Amor y Esperanza,
This week is Holy Week, and as we look forward to the hope of Jesus’ resurrection on Easter, the words Love and Hope are at the forefront of our minds. Easter is always a welcome reminder of God’s great and generous love. This year as we feel the hope of spring and vaccine rollout, and of the world slowly returning to normal, we remember Jesus’ great act of love that brings us hope of a fuller life with him.
We also remember Jesus’ parting words to his disciples, calling them—and us—to go and make more disciples. To live in imitation of Christ--loving and serving the world that so desperately needs his love.
Families in Ecuador, especially in impoverished areas like Carmen Bajo, have been hard hit by the pandemic. These families have lost jobs and income, the government there has not provided relief, and therefore many families can no longer afford their tuition payments as in the past.
This year, the board of Love and Hope Foundation has committed to “Bridge the Gap” for these families in order to make it possible for children to return to school and receive the good news of Jesus. Currently, monthly giving to Amor y Esperanza sits at $3,700. The monthly need is $13,000. You can help to provide the $9,300 needed to cover the shortfall.
We, the board members, are breaking into teams to raise money for each of the remaining months of 2021. We believe we can make a big difference in the lives of our friends in Carmen Bajo by dividing and conquering. You will be receiving an email depending on when and how you or your child went to Ecuador in the past. Below is a list of the different teams:
April – Parents and Students of Whitefield EMT 2016 to 2020
May – Parents of Whitefield EMT 2004 to 2015
June – Whitefield 2021 EMT (virtual mission trip)
July – Past Whitefield EMT 2004-2006
August – Christ Journey Coral Gables
September – Trinity 2021 EMT (virtual mission trip)
October – Past Whitefield EMT 2007-2009
November – Past Whitefield EMT 2010-2012
December – Past Whitefield EMT 2013-2015
As teachers are making the final preparations for students to return to school in person, students need monetary help, now more than ever. You can help make this happen. Please consider donating to our fund for the month of April and talk to your family about how you could help our fundraising efforts. While we give so much to Amor y Esperanza when we go down on mission, we know that in reality, they have given so much more to us. Help us to thank and support them.
Join us to Bridge the Gap financially so that Amor y Esperanza will be able to continue to transform lives for Jesus Christ in the community of Carmen Bajo, Ecuador!
Christ calls us to action—to actively love him and to demonstrate that love through extending love to those around us and especially to those in need. As he told the disciples on the beach after his resurrection, we are to feed his sheep. Please join us in giving as we remember the one who gave it all.
We are so thankful for you every day. Please stay in touch with us via social media and continue journeying with us in prayer.
In Christ,
The Board of Love and Hope Foundation
Matthew 25:40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”
