Nazarene Youth International (NYI) of the Western District of Guatemala carried out an inspiring community service activity called 4×4 Todo Terreno (All Terrain), which took place over 10 days, from December 23, 2024, to January 1, 2025, in Palmarcito, Retalhuleu. This event, driven by the district’s ministry Missions Mobilization , brought together a team of approximately 20 people, including teenagers, young adults, and the pastoral family of the Church of the Nazarene in Palmarcito. More than 200 people from the community were impacted by this act of love and service.
The activity benefited 130 children and 75 adults through various initiatives led by the missionary group. The main activities included:
* Painting of community and residential spaces: The team painted both the interior and exterior of a church member’s house and repainted a pedestrian walkway.
* Home visits: The team provided prayer support to individuals with various needs.
* Activities with children and teenagers: These included discipleship sessions, where one young person received follow-up, and two teenagers began lessons.
* Faith decisions: Five young people decided to renew their relationship with Jesus, marking a significant moment in their lives.
The initiative also extended to nearby communities:
1. Vacation Bible School in Las Marías: Over three days, 70 children participated in special activities in this community, where Palmarcito has a mission presence.
2. Evangelism in Los Ángeles: The team conducted house-to-house visits and children’s activities, with 40 children attending on the first day. This effort led to the establishment of a new preaching point. The church has committed to continuing its support for this community through regular visits and pastoral care.
The initiative also fostered spiritual growth and a commitment to missions among the participants and the host church:
* Training sessions: Meetings were held to emphasize the importance of supporting missionaries and preparing for missionary service.
* Bonfire night: This gathering for worship, prayer, and reflection concluded the event with challenges of faith for the future. Many attendees made personal and ministerial commitments.
“A culture of missionary care was developed in the local church, and the lives of young people willing to serve were impacted,” said Jhosselyn González, Coordinator of Missionary Mobilization for the Western District. “The pastoral family got involved and cared for the participating youth, who developed skills and affirmed that God is calling them to engage in His mission.”
This 4×4 Todo Terreno (All Terrain) not only transformed lives in Palmarcito but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of the participants, reaffirming that service and love for others are the true reflection of a church united in action.
Information provided by: Jhosselyn González, Coordinator of Missions of Guatemala.
