Blog 20 - A focused look on our partnerships in the Dominican Republic
Hello family and friends,
In this blog, we will update you on our work and lives with a particular focus on the Dominican Republic. Ruben will share about his experience during his trip in July, where he spent valuable time meeting with church leaders and ministry partners. First, Abby would like to share more about our upcoming trip to the Dominican Republic in October.
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Year 2 of the Leadership Program in the Dominican Republic
Written by: Abby
Last year we shared with you about our trip to the Dominican Republic to help facilitate leadership training for our partners. In October, we will be traveling back to start the second-year section of the Leadership Program with a four-day conference.
The first year of the training focused on the internal character of a leader grounded in Christ. Our time in the Dominican with the participants was so powerful and transformative. It has been beautiful to walk alongside these leaders as they put these principles into practice in their daily ministry and relationships.
Throughout the first year, we met regularly with the participants to provide continuous support and coaching. Each leader in the program has a one-on-one coach who they meet with regularly. They also have a peer group which meets together regularly to discuss spiritual growth, character growth and the challenges along the way.
In addition to this, we host a monthly video call with all the participants where we have a short teaching on a leadership principle and then discuss how to apply this. Through these calls with them we have been able to touch base and hear about their leadership growth as they work out the principles in real life.
As we have met with them each month, we have become really excited to go back this October for the second in-person training. The second year will focus on the competencies of a leader that are rooted in Christ-like character. We look forward to seeing how God works through our time together and the lasting impact these leaders will have as they serve their communities and ministries from a place of personal transformation through Christ.
A meaningful visit to the Dominican Republic in July
Written by: Ruben
During my recent visit to the Dominican Republic, I met with local leaders to reflect on the progress being made and to discuss priorities for the coming years. At Hungry For Life, we believe that lasting transformation happens when local leaders are equipped to serve and strengthen their own communities by sharing the love, compassion, and justice of Christ.
It was encouraging to hear local leaders share their vision for a better future in their community. The leaders shared stories of growing youth programs, stronger community involvement, emerging leaders, and churches serving as places of hope, discipleship, and encouragement.
In recent updates, I shared about the community of Vasca, where David and Ana faithfully serve alongside the local church and broader community. Like many Batey communities, Vasca faces challenges such as family instability, poverty, malnutrition, and violence. Yet these local leaders like them remain committed to bringing hope and restoration to children, youth, families, and seniors.
As a result of my visit, I have written a strategic plan that will allow Hungry For Life and our Canadian Partners to come alongside the local church in Vasca. By supporting the ongoing programs, discipleship initiatives, family support efforts, and community outreach ministries of the local church in Vasca, we can help more people experience the love of Christ while creating opportunities for positive change and a brighter future for the next generation.
Personal Update
On a final personal note, We became an aunt and uncle in August as Caleb and Alice welcomed their sweet boy, Arkias. We spent some time in Saskatoon to support them and get all the baby snuggles we could! It was a blessing to watch Caleb and Alice embrace this new chapter of life and step so naturally into their roles as Arkias’ mom and dad.
We look forward to the months ahead as we continue our work in the Dominican Republic and with partners around the world. As we prepare for our upcoming trip and the final months of the year, we invite you to pray for us:
Our trip to the Dominican Republic: Pray that the leadership conference will go well, and that the participants will be encouraged, equipped, and strengthened in their leadership roles.
Hungry For Life's Annual Fundraiser on November 13: This event is our primary fundraiser for operational funding. Pray for strong participation and generous support.
Ruben's Permanent Residency application: Pray for wisdom and favour as we navigate the process. International travel can make some aspects of the application more complex.
Thank you for your prayers and support.
Ruben & Abby Verheij
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