David Moreno, a partner of Mennonite Mission Network, works in the remote and lush jungle city of Iquitos, Peru, to mentor youth to be followers of Christ.

In Iquitos—as in many places around the world—poverty is widespread, and is linked with many other challenges like crime, lack of education, and inadequate health care. These are the challenges facing David Moreno and his wife, Cecy Wong, mission workers with the Colombia Mennonite Church.

Years ago, they began nurturing youth groups that meet on Saturdays and weekday evenings for devotions, music, art, and to share meals. The groups thrived, grew new outreach circles throughout the city, and became a small church that brought in the parents and siblings of participants.

The couple works side jobs to support their busy schedule of ministry, but finances are still a great challenge. With dozens of members and new church programs blossoming, the lack of space became a major obstacle to growth. The Colombia Mennonite Church received a grant from Mennonite Mission Network to fund ministries in Colombia or in their neighboring countries. The Colombian church designated the funds for Rumococha, Peru, so that the believers in Peru could build a space for children’s ministries, church gatherings and youth groups.

While waiting for construction to begin on their new meeting place, the believers in Peru began gathering for worship right away in an old wooden shelter on their new property.
This new group is part of a flourishing network around Iquitos with many newly baptized members and a constant stream of church activities throughout the week.

The Colombian church, which grew out of relationships with Mennonite Mission Network’s service workers, is now taking the initiative in planting new communities of faith, joy, witness and peace.

Small gifts invested with inspired partners can make all the difference for individuals, families, and whole communities.