Horror and Hope in Pucusana (Peru)

Around the world, we continue to receive news and reports of how our partners are weathering the storm of crisis during the Pandemic. Some have reported that, while the quarantine has been tough, they are doing well. Many have adapted to new ways of handling worship and work. However, the stark reality is the quarantine has put an incredible strain on millions, perhaps billions of people who typically survived before on a hand to mouth existence. Around the world, people with little to no access to medical help have been exposed to the virus with no relief other than God's grace, or death. If that sounds a little heavy-handed or guilt-inducing, it's reality. The truth is, life in many regions where the Brethren Church and partners exist is not back to some semblance of normal. The fallout, both medically and economically, has yet to be seen or felt here in the U.S. The reality is, people are now struggling not just from the disease, but from the inability to work, which in turn leads to no income, no way to provide for their families, and in many cases, is leading to starvation.


Yet, hope remains because of the love and willingness of God's people to step up as best as they can continues even while the storm rages on. People are finding hope and life and are holding on because of Brethren churches and people, who around the world continue to act as the hands, feet, and heart of Christ.


Read our story from Elena Prado Effio our partner in Pucusana, Peru. Discover for yourself the stark realities of life that are true, not just in Pucusana, but throughout the entire country and most of South America, Africa, the Philippines, and India.


From Elena,

“In Peru, we remain in quarantine until June 30. Here we have not yet reached the peak and decline as in other countries due to the poor health system we have. We have never been prepared to serve so many patients, so there is a lack of beds, equipment, medicines, doctors, nurses, hospitals. It is all too few for the number of people who go to hospitals for help. Often, they are returned to their homes without treatment and many die there. Some die even at the doors of the hospitals because they are not allowed to enter. The panorama in Peru is very sad.

In Pucusana, there is no hospital for COVID-19 patients, there is one clinic that is mainly for maternal issues and children. Those who have been identified as infected patients must hire a car to go to Lima to receive attention. Typically, most of them end up returning without attention and quite a few die at home. One of the biggest issues in the hospitals themselves is that there is not enough oxygen to save lives. Oxygen has become such an expensive product that no poor can afford it.


Pucusana has had many deaths, even a doctor has died by the coronavirus.


Our work, (my son and I) in the last few months, has been very intense. We have organized donations for very poor people and thanks to the money that Allison Wallace and The Pucusana Project, sent we have donated bags of food to two human settlements to feed them for several weeks. By God's grace, we have been able for over a month to prepare and give nutritious breakfasts to 168 people who live near the school building in Cerro Colorado (The building the Brethren Church has in Pucusana). We have also donated protective equipment for doctors thanks to the contribution of some relatives and friends. We have also raised food donations for another group of 168 very poor people. Everything is received with great thanks and always making it clear that we are only instruments of God.


One of the biggest difficulties in this has been dealing with financial issues at the same time. Much of the time we have had to do without entering the money to the bank account of our association. It is because to get the money we must do it in a bank and by check. Pucusana does not have banks, nor does any nearby. The nearest place is in Lima. This is very far and with the quarantine it usually it was not possible to go out Pucusana.  These have been very difficult times! Additionally, even if I take the money from the bank, I still need to present invoices for the purchases to the taxpayer's office, but in Pucusana they do not give invoices because most of the stores and markets are informal, so they only give tickets and those are not recognized by the tax office.


The tax system here is very complex. In other words, since March we have not been able to deposit money into the association's account because the bank is far from making transactions and Pucusana does not have formal businesses to issue invoices that we can present to SUNAT (tax collector)


It is very difficult to leave Pucusana, there are weeks that people cannot leave because there are many infected and other nearby districts close their entrances, so we are locked in the district. Some may leave but risk their lives because in the few buses there are too many infected people. Two days ago the pier was closed in Pucusana for 10 days, the market, 5 days and the transport company, 5 days as well. They tested them at these sites and found many people infected. This is what I am doing every day. Trying to help others in this "Emergency State" This is the way Jesus uses me. I am so grateful for this task.

This is what I am doing every day. Trying to help others in this "Emergency State" This is the way Jesus uses me. I am so grateful for this task.

Brothers and sisters, our partners all over the world are facing unprecedented and unparalleled difficulty. Even with all our current problems, we have access to so many resources and help. Most of our partners do not have that luxury.


You can help though! You can make a difference! Please consider giving to our COVID-19 Relief Funds today to help our churches worldwide, continue to change lives daily. Your gift will help feed families, give access to people to medicine and protective equipment, and basic supplies for their homes. This is the call of Christ to the church. You can help our partners change the world, one family, at a time!



“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” James 1:27

 

By Scott Soden June 24, 2025
Imagine a peanut butter business sparking a spiritual awakening! That's exactly what's happening in Malawi, thanks to an amazing chain of connections and the incredible generosity of people like you. God is moving in powerful ways, weaving together faith, entrepreneurship, and community transformation. It all started with Moses, a dedicated believer and successful peanut butter entrepreneur in Malawi. He met our friend Doug Cooper, who leads Coffee Growing Community – a nonprofit that helps low-income communities grow stronger, both economically and spiritually. Thanks to a generous grant from Coffee Growing Community, Moses received the support he needed to expand his business and uplift his community. But the story doesn't end with business growth. Moses, fueled by a passion for his faith and his community, traveled to South Africa. There, he connected with our Brethren Mission Partner, Pastor Sandile. Moses wasn't just there to talk business; he wanted to learn how his company could spread the life-changing message of Jesus Christ even further. He spent invaluable time with Pastor Sandile and the vibrant Life Spring Church, soaking in the Brethren faith and vision from many local pastors and leaders. Today, because of these powerful connections, Moses and Pastor Sandile are working hand-in-hand to establish the very first Brethren Church in Malawi! A location is secured, a building is already under construction, and a dedicated group of believers has gathered, ready to see this new church blossom. Moses will soon begin discipleship and ordination training, preparing him for even greater ministry. And the best part? Pastor Samkelo Noholoza, his wife Clara, and their family are preparing to move from South Africa to Malawi this September to join Moses! They'll bring their wisdom and experience from their ministry in Durban, helping to nurture this new spiritual seed as it grows into a thriving church. This inspiring partnership is a testament to what happens when faithful hearts like yours come together to make a difference. It shows how we can work together to build communities where everyone can flourish – spiritually, economically, and socially. Will you help us continue to sow seeds of hope and expand God's Kingdom in Malawi? Your support makes these life-changing connections possible. Every gift empowers faithful leaders like Moses and the Noholoza family to bring light and opportunity to those who need it most. Please consider making a gift today to support this vital work. https://secure.qgiv.com/for/southafricadonationform/ Thank you for adding a few more drops of life-giving nourishment to sustain growth in this incredible story of faith and transformation. Sincerely, Scott Soden Global Partners Coordinator
By Scott Soden June 24, 2025
Imagine a love story, complete with twists, turns, and a triumphant ending – but instead of two people, it's about two churches. Sunday, June 8, 2025, marked such a story in Ashland, Ohio, as Five Stones Community Church and Garber Brethren Church officially united, beginning a powerful new chapter in their shared mission. The air was filled with immense joy and a clear sense of divine purpose. The celebration began with a powerful message on the themes of Pentecost, reminding everyone that this merger was truly a work orchestrated by a higher power. Amidst the excitement, the newly formed congregation immediately looked outward, pausing to offer heartfelt prayers for Emily Huestis and her vital work with Bread for the World, an organization dedicated to ending hunger. As John Shultz from Five Stones shared, the journey to this union felt "a lot like a Hallmark movie." Both churches, living separate lives, were brought together by circumstance, discovered a special connection, faced unexpected challenges, but ultimately, their shared faith prevailed. Steven Cole, former Executive Director of The Brethren Church, highlighted the foundational efforts of past leaders who paved the way for this moment. Then, John Shultz and Drew Meziere of Garber Brethren Church recounted the individual histories of each church. They spoke of decades of ministry, acknowledging not only the triumphs but also the "stories of difficulty, setback, and pain along the way." Their honesty showed the resilience and perseverance that brought them to this joyful day. Pastor Bill Ludwig of Five Stones then joined them, offering his unique perspective on the dedicated work of the past few years that made this merger possible. He spoke of the deep joy and unwavering belief that this unification was undeniably God's work, a testament to His guiding hand throughout the entire process. The celebration culminated in a deeply moving and symbolic act: the lighting of a unity candle. Usually seen in wedding ceremonies, this poignant symbol perfectly represented the spiritual marriage of two distinct congregations becoming one. John Shultz and Drew Meziere together lit the flame, a tangible sign of hearts and spirits uniting in shared faith and a common future. With the bright flame of unity shining, Pastor Bill offered a heartfelt prayer, asking God to continue pouring His spirit on the combined church as they serve the greater Ashland community. Finally, in true Brethren tradition — where good fellowship always includes good food — everyone shared a meal. Laughter and conversation filled the room, cementing the bonds of their newly expanded family. Now powerfully united, Five Stones Community Church and Garber Brethren Church look forward to a future of expanded ministry, deeper community, and an even greater impact in Ashland, Ohio. Guided by the same spirit that brought them together, their combined strength promises a vibrant new chapter of service and faith for years to come.
By Scott Soden June 17, 2025
The Brethren in Durban, South Africa, have launched a critical new sewing school ministry, bringing a thread of hope and opportunity to the women there. This inspiring initiative equips women with valuable skills and empowers them to establish small businesses that significantly enhance their family's well-being and economic prospects. This new ministry carries a special resonance, drawing inspiration from the incredible work being done by our partners in India. For a remarkable 48 years , the Brethren Church in India has successfully operated a similar sewing school, transforming the lives of thousands. In both contexts, these ministries aim for more than just teaching a skill; the sewing school aims to transform entire lives and families and to open hearts to the enduring hope and boundless love of Jesus Christ. The work in India has shown us just how critical these programs are. By providing women with valuable, marketable skills, these schools offer a lifeline that can keep desperate women and their families out of dangerous situations, including the horrific threat of human trafficking. It's a powerful reminder that practical help, rooted in faith, can be a shield against incredible hardship. Like its counterpart in India, we believe the new sewing school in South Africa will become a beacon of hope, bringing economic stability and introducing women to the life-changing message of the Gospel. These ministries are powerful expressions of God's love in action, creating a lasting legacy of empowered lives and flourishing communities. Your support makes these beautiful stories of transformation possible! Scott Soden Global Partners Coordinator
By Scott Soden June 17, 2025
What a truly special and joy-filled season it has been in the Philippines, as two vibrant Brethren churches in Bocaue and Caypombo celebrated public declarations of faith through baptism. These events, occurring days apart, marked profound moments of transformation and commitment to Christ, highlighting the flourishing of faith and life in The Brethren Church of the Philippines. In Bocaue, ten new believers took the powerful step of baptism, surrounded by friends, family, and the overwhelming love of their church community. It was a beautiful reminder of God’s grace in action—a fresh start and a public embrace of the eternal hope found in Jesus Christ. “Such a special and joy-filled day as we witnessed lives made new through water baptism! A group of amazing individuals took this powerful step of faith, surrounded by friends, family, and an overwhelming amount of love. It was a beautiful reminder of God’s grace and the fresh start He gives. ‘Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new is here!’ – 2 Corinthians 5:17. We’re celebrating each of you and excited for all that’s ahead!” Each life made new was a testament to God's redemptive work and the unity we share as members of His body, regardless of where we are in the world. Shortly after, JOFF (Jesus Our Firm Foundation) Caypombo Brethren Church welcomed eight new members through baptism. This congregation is barely a year old, and the atmosphere there was filled with joy and worship as the church family witnessed hearts transformed and lives renewed. As the church proclaimed with gratitude, “What a glorious day it was as we witnessed hearts transformed and lives renewed through water baptism! Heaven rejoices as our brothers and sisters boldly declared their faith in Jesus!” These words resonated with the truth of Romans 6:4: “We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death… that we too may live a new life.” Together, these celebrations in Bocaue and Caypombo represent more than just individual milestones—they reflect a larger movement of God’s Spirit stirring across the Philippines. The commitment and faith of these new believers are a powerful reminder of why we continue to pray, serve, and give: to see lives transformed, communities strengthened, and Christ’s love embodied in tangible ways. To all who support Brethren Global Partners, know that your investment is not just fueling ministry—it’s multiplying life-changing moments like these. Through your partnership, churches are empowered, disciples are made, and the hope of the Gospel multiplies across the globe. Scott Soden Global Partners Coordinator
By Scott Soden June 11, 2025
The sounds of laughter, singing, and the bustle of activity recently filled the air as your partners in Visakhapatnam and Rajahmundry, India, hosted their annual Vacation Bible School (VBS) gatherings! Both the Visakhapatnam and Rajahmundry churches welcomed over a hundred children who were eager to learn about Jesus and grasp His deep, unconditional love for them. These VBS programs were filled with opportunities for the kids to engage their hearts and minds, from creative arts and crafts projects that brought Bible stories to life, to shared moments of prayer, and enthusiastic song and dance sessions. Every day of the VBS was an adventure in faith. The energy was electric, culminating in a dance and music performance where the children showcased what they had learned for their families. It was a wonderful time for all involved, a joyous melody that surely filled our Heavenly Father's heart with delight! The Brethren Church in India continues to shine brightly despite various challenges and governmental pressures. They bravely share the Good News of Jesus, bringing hope and light to places where it's desperately needed. Their faithfulness is a powerful testimony. Your generosity makes these incredible ministries possible, not only in India but also in other parts of the world. Your support helps them flourish and creates a lasting legacy of faith and hope for countless others. Thank you for being so instrumental in bringing joy and transformation to so many young lives! Scott Soden  Coordinator, Brethren Global Partners
By Scott Soden June 11, 2025
India Sewing School Celebrates 48 Years of Empowerment
By Scott Soden June 4, 2025
A glorious celebration unfolded on Sunday, May 18th in Medellín, Colombia, as twenty-three new believers declared their faith through baptism. This was more than just a ceremony; it was a vibrant expression of new life in Christ! The excitement of seeing these individuals step into a new life in Jesus is contagious. Each baptism is a powerful story of hope, forgiveness, and a fresh start, reminding us of the profound change that occurs when someone chooses to follow Christ. It's a beautiful picture of what it means to be part of God's family, and it underscores the vital importance of our role as members of Christ's body. Through our prayers, support, and willingness to share the Good News, we participate in these unforgettable moments of spiritual rebirth. The church in Medellín beautifully captured the spirit of the day with this powerful statement: "We have decided to follow Jesus! Today, we take a step of obedience and faith through baptism, knowing that there is nothing better than walking hand in hand with Him." This is why we serve, why we give, and why we pray – to see more lives embraced by the love of our Savior. Let us rejoice with our brothers and sisters in Medellín and be inspired by their faith to continue sharing the hope that only Jesus provides!  Scott Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners
By Dan Acker June 4, 2025
In a powerful display of community and compassion, Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) and Summit Ridge Community Church recently joined forces to bolster Intended Hope Ministry in Benson, Arizona. For two weeks in May, dedicated volunteers from the Arizona Unit of MDS and Summit Ridge poured their energy into restoring a mobile home heavily damaged by smoke. This newly refurbished home is set to become the sanctuary for Pastor Louise Waller, beloved as Pastor Weezie, the co-director of Intended Hope. Intended Hope offers a critical lifeline: a secure haven for up to one year for women and children bravely navigating the aftermath of domestic violence. Pastor Weezie's vision extends far beyond immediate shelter. The ministry's expansive 40-acre property is slated to evolve into a thriving working farm. This ambitious plan will not only cultivate fresh, nutritious food but also provide invaluable job training, life skills development, and other essential services. The ultimate goal? To empower these women to heal, grow, and ultimately achieve lasting independence. Overwhelmed by the tangible impact of their collaboration, Pastor Weezie shared, "God is continuing to knock my socks off!" Her words reflect the profound gratitude and awe at the transformation taking place through the combined efforts of MDS and Summit Ridge. Even with more work on the horizon, Intended Hope is already providing a sanctuary for several women, a testament to the urgency and success of their mission. This impactful partnership between MDS and Summit Ridge Community Church is truly a blessing, bringing light and hope to those who need it most. Dan Acker Pastor, Summit Ridge Community Church West Regional Resource Coordinator
By Scott Soden June 4, 2025
A spirit of unity and devotion recently filled the mountains of Colombia as Brethren men from across Medellín gathered for their Annual Men's Camping Retreat! It was inspiring to see every Brethren church in Colombia represented, coming together for a time dedicated to growth, connection, and renewal. This special retreat wasn't just about getting away; it was a powerful blend of recreation, delicious food, heartfelt fellowship, in-depth Bible study, and intentional prayer. This kind of gathering is important, and reminds us how God calls men together – not just for fun, but to build one another up, sharpen each other, and stand firm in the faith. The emphasis of the retreat was fellowship and prayer, but their vision extended even further. These men prayed for their churches, the communities they serve, their denomination, and the world at large. This retreat served as a powerful reminder of God's call for men to lead with God's strength and to be a vital force for good in every area of life. Our brothers in Colombia are setting a wonderful example for us all. We are called to be men of faith who actively support and pray for one another. What if our churches here in the U.S. were to follow this inspiring model? Let's consider how we, too, can gather our men, dedicating time for fellowship, encouragement, and deep prayer–for each other, for our local churches, for the communities we are called to serve, for the entire Brethren denomination, and indeed, for the whole of the world. When men unite in God's will, the impact can be truly transformative! Scott Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners
By Scott Soden May 23, 2025
The joy of the resurrection echoed across Andhra Pradesh, India, this past Easter, as our Brethren partners celebrated the baptism of twenty-four new believers at the Rajahmundry and Visakhapatnam churches. What a powerful testament to the living hope found in Jesus Christ. Each of these individuals has embraced a transformational change, choosing to follow the light of the Savior over the multitude of deities in the Hindu faith. This courageous step, while filled with spiritual joy, often comes with real earthly consequences. For some, choosing Jesus means facing the painful reality of being shunned by their families and communities. Yet, in their baptism, these brothers and sisters have declared a profound truth: following Christ offers not only hope for this life, filled with His love and guidance, but also the eternal promise of life everlasting with Him. This beautiful event, occurring on Easter Sunday, is a vibrant expression of the resurrection we celebrate. Just as Christ rose from death to new life, these twenty-four individuals have risen to a new life in Him. Their baptism is a powerful reminder that the victory over death is real, and the hope we have in Jesus is a hope that transcends earthly trials and stretches into eternity. Let us celebrate their courageous faith and continue to support our partners as they nurture these new lives in Christ!  Scott C. Soden Coordinator; Brethren Global Partners
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