Tears came as I watched children march into the church, celebrating their Promoción/Graduation. This was my first Promoción and It occurred in Monteria, Colombia
Rev. Glen Thorp saw your impact in the lives of these Icthus children in Monteria, Colombia.
Icthus children entered wearing orange T-shirts with white sashes. The sanctuary was full. Worship was led by two Icthus kids. Ten Guides, including pastor Edwin and his wife Mirna were thanked, and given pins. These guides volunteer to help the children experience and apply what they are learning. Several Icthus Kids wanted a picture with me because I knew Don and was from the USA. I heard one of them say: “I am sad we won’t have Icthus until January,”
Memories of 58 years ago flooded my mind of that Summer I did my Seminary Internship in Nazareth, Colombia. On my return trip to the USA, we visited my parents in Guatemala, where I met Donald Weisbrod. He had been an Eagle Scout and God was leading him to use his scouting skills to create a program for youth with a Christ-centered emphasis. My Father, Robert Thorp, recommended using the Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-17) instead of merit badges.
From that first visit to Colombia, and meeting Don in Guatemala, I saw the fruits of all those who prayed, visited, financially supported, and served in Icthus ministry. Thus, the tears.
God’s Sovereignty came when I told Luis Yon about my visit to Colombia and he contacted Samuel Ramos, National Director in Colombia who hosted me. He drove me to Nazareth church for their 50th Anniversary Celebration. I invited Samuel to share about ICTHUS.
Sunday Afternoon, I went with Samuel and Julieth Martinez, the coordinator for Monteria, to deliver Christmas gifts to a family in a poor neighborhood. I saw how our gifts, through Icthus, brought joy to the family.
It was an honor to participate in Icthus.
Glen encouraged some families who received your help. This is one of over 800 families that received a Christmas Care package in December thanks to Amigos like you.
The first and foremost goal of our non-profit organization is to make a difference in as many people’s lives as possible. We strive to improve the living conditions for those who need the help, who can’t do it themselves. Have you ever thought about how much you could change things just by volunteering?