Genesis missionaries held the first Vacation Bible School in Carrasquilla, Panama City, Panama, Feb. 4-9. For most of the children, it was their first time attending a VBS. The theme was “Shipwrecked People Rescued By Jesus.” The GENESIS team prayed months before for a way to make an impact and reach many children and families with the message of salvation. By the end of the week there were 66 children in attendance.
The Carrasquilla community council helped with the event. In addition to what the team requested, they also donated piñatas and food for the closing celebration as well as volunteers to help with the different activities.
Youth from the Panama Central District participated along with volunteers from other denominations including people from six different countries: Venezuela, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Mexico, and even Japan!
“We thank God for each one and for their efforts. Every day some people traveled more than two hours to be able to be here and be part of this event. They not only donated their time but also their resources to be able to hold this activity,” said Mesoamerica Genesis missionary Keila Molina. “Each one of them served as the hands and feet of Jesus this week, and our prayer is that their lives would continue to be the light and instruments in the hands of God. They were part of God’s answer to our prayers.”
The Church of the Nazarene in Carrasquilla is developing as fruit of the children’s ministry, discipleship club, compassionate ministry and evangelism efforts in that community. These ministries have opened the door to minister to entire families. At the close of the VBS, the children received boxes from Samaritan’s Purse, and the leaders shared with the families about the gift of Christ. As a result, 23 children and three adults attended Sunday School.
Source: Joselyn Garcia and Keila Molina, volunteer Mesoamerica Genesis missionaries
