This past week I had the opportunity to visit Gracie again at Heart of Christ Ministries here in Honduras. For me, it was a couple of days to have Christian (English-speaking) community and to have hours of uninterrupted quiet time with God. Since being there a year ago, God has provided in huge ways and her ministry has taken off- more than doubling in members and property size! She currently has a month 9 World Race team there with 7 beautiful women, and I was blessed to spend time with them. Gracie has designated shopping days for her to run errands and shop in Tegucigalpa, so I tagged along with two of the racers.
On our way back, I sat in the truck bed with one of the young women and had a great discussion on Christianity. It basically boiled down to this: you cannot put Christians in a box.
I don't mean you can't shove a bunch of Christians in a cardboard box. I'm sure it would be possible in some strange way. What I mean is, there is not a required profile to be a Christian and to live a Christian life. To be a Christian is to live for the Lord, to answer His call, to honor and obey Him, and to love Him with heart, soul, and mind. Aside from that, God doesn't give a 'Christian profile.'
It is almost the opposite, really. God calls us to be different, to be unique, to answer the specific call that He gives each of us, and to respond to it according to our experiences, character, and individuality. If He wanted us to be the same, He would have made us just that- cookie cutter versions of each other.
There are different types of Christians because our pasts shape who we are; everyone has a different testimony. Likewise, there are different types of missionaries because there are different areas of ministry. To think that all ministry is the same and that each person does the same sort of work is false. There are missionaries here who focus solely on support for other missionaries. Without them, we would all be a mess! Others work primarily in schools or partner with existing local churches. Others build churches. Some do informal ministry with house visits, family support, and education support. Some have children homes. Some work in the streets.
We cannot all be put in the same box, the same category.
Because each person answer a different calling and has a different ministry, we cannot all be the same. I will not look, act, or think the same as every other Christian.
In order to accomplish what God has called me here to do, I have to step out of the box of Christianity. Outside of the stereotype and the cookie-cutter perception. I have to level myself with the Honduran people, especially the young adults, in order to reach them. I have tattoos, piercings, and black hair. They can relate to me. But they can also learn from me and from what the Lord has given me. Likewise, they will learn about the Lord. This does not make me a 'bad Christian' because I do not look like someone else. It only makes me different.
What has God called you to do?
Have you stepped outside of the box?
I am sure this post will step on some toes, but maybe that is a good thing. It is beneficial to be self-aware and to recognize how you can better reach those to whom you are ministering.
Here in Ciudad Espana I am continuing to work with the young people and different families. The past month there have been numerous extra visitors almost each night for dinner. It is so wonderful to have them here! To see and feel the response of the community, and especially the jovenes, is encouraging. I love spending time with them and showing them more of who the Lord is. They each have started to take turns praying before dinner and are learning more each day about what it means to be a Christian. Not only that, but they are able to eat a good, healthy meal that they probably would not have gotten otherwise. Many of them come from poor, struggling families who are unable to buy food each day. Pray for each of them that they will accept the Lord into their hearts and that He will continue to bless them!
Because of this increase in dinner guests, I am using a bit over my budget for food. I am looking for one or two supporters that will help this aspect of my ministry so that I can continue to have dinners with these wonderful people and they can learn more about Christ! Please consider helping! I am estimating that it would be two monthly supporters at about $25 each.
God called me to be different, to live outside of the box, and to go into the unknown. He continues to put people in my path and to give me the resources to help them. I am so thankful I am an out-of-the-box Christian!
God bless all of you!
To help with my ministry in Honduras, donations are possible online and through mail at:
www.worldoutreach.org/donations (click Jennifer Olsen from the drop down box)
and
World Outreach Ministries (Jennifer Olsen #263)
P.O. Box B
Marietta GA 30061
Friday, May 29, 2015
Saturday, May 2, 2015
Lose Yourself to Find Yourself
In the past week, we went from 98 degrees with a blazing sun to 70 degrees with pouring rain. It has been more than a blessing, but also a struggle. Living in a secure home with a hole-free roof and windows that close, I am able to sit in my house- dry- while the rain passes and nourishes the earth. With the heat from the past weeks, the grounds are dry, the rivers are non-existent, and the crops have little water to grow. We need water. On the flip side, there are countless people that do not live in a secure home like my own. They live in homes made from cardboard boxes and scrap wood that they can salvage from the garbage. They live on mountainsides that throw water and mud from the downpours or in valleys that collect all of that same water and mud. The rain is good, but it is damaging. A blessing, and a travesty. Our prayer: Send the rain, God, but be please be gentle.
There is, however, something about rain that brings me peace. It transports me back to my old apartments on rainy days where I could sit for hours with a good book and a pot of coffee. Yes, a pot. (A cup just never seems to be enough). With little explanation, it connects me to my 'old life' and launches me into self-reflection. How far I have come, how much has changed, how I have changed. And those looming, eternity-long questions, who am I and why am I here?
Then I realize, somewhere along the way, I lost myself. Not like the early 2000's Eminem song, but like someone who has changed. I am no longer the same as my 17-year-old self; the one that people have imprinted in their minds as 'me.' My dreams have changed, my goals have changed, my priorities have changed, and I have lost that old self.
Without a doubt, living in another country changes a person. Or, it should. A culture with different traditions, rules, history. A language that doesn't always seem to make sense. It is challenging, rewarding, and life altering. Even more so now that I am the only gringa in the town that I live in, I have lost. Lost selfish qualities that I used to have. Lost previous goals and dreams. Lost fear and embarrassment (not that there was much less of either for me to lose). Lost self-dependency. Lost unwillingness.
But, I have gained.
Losing myself has been the best thing that has ever happened to me. Because I have not lost myself involuntarily or begrudgingly. I have lost myself to this culture, but more importantly, I have lost myself to God. And by losing myself to Him, I have gained. I have lost my goals and they have been replaced with His goals, His plans. And boy are His goals better than my own. There is no impossible or improbable. There is only hope.
Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it."
Luke 9:23-24
I came to Ciudad Espana almost temporarily. Then God gave me a house, community, and new goals. After seeing the need for various services in the community, God has called me once again to step in. In a culmination of what seems like all of my life skills and past ministry experience, I am responding. I will be opening a coffee shop that will sell fair-trade coffee and basic pastries. More importantly, it will be used to teach English classes, tutor, give artisan workshops to women, have small groups for young people, and just generally provide a safe place for the community.
This is not something I would have previously done or even considered. It was not my goal when I came to Honduras, and certainly is not what graduated from college to do. But things change, people change. I lost myself to find myself. I found myself in the plans of God and His plans for this community. I found myself in His love for me and His love for this community. He has provided the plans, the place, and the people. Likewise, I know He will provide the proper finances and resources.
Goals change and plans change, we lose and we win, but God's ultimate plan does not change, and with Him, we always win. We are always found in Him.
The rain comes, and it makes all things nourished and new.
Please join in prayer with me for this new chapter that is anything but temporary.
If you feel called to help, funds will be required for the start-up and initial preparation. Donations are accepted both online and through mail. Details can be found on the right hand margin of the page.
There is, however, something about rain that brings me peace. It transports me back to my old apartments on rainy days where I could sit for hours with a good book and a pot of coffee. Yes, a pot. (A cup just never seems to be enough). With little explanation, it connects me to my 'old life' and launches me into self-reflection. How far I have come, how much has changed, how I have changed. And those looming, eternity-long questions, who am I and why am I here?
Then I realize, somewhere along the way, I lost myself. Not like the early 2000's Eminem song, but like someone who has changed. I am no longer the same as my 17-year-old self; the one that people have imprinted in their minds as 'me.' My dreams have changed, my goals have changed, my priorities have changed, and I have lost that old self.
Without a doubt, living in another country changes a person. Or, it should. A culture with different traditions, rules, history. A language that doesn't always seem to make sense. It is challenging, rewarding, and life altering. Even more so now that I am the only gringa in the town that I live in, I have lost. Lost selfish qualities that I used to have. Lost previous goals and dreams. Lost fear and embarrassment (not that there was much less of either for me to lose). Lost self-dependency. Lost unwillingness.
But, I have gained.
Losing myself has been the best thing that has ever happened to me. Because I have not lost myself involuntarily or begrudgingly. I have lost myself to this culture, but more importantly, I have lost myself to God. And by losing myself to Him, I have gained. I have lost my goals and they have been replaced with His goals, His plans. And boy are His goals better than my own. There is no impossible or improbable. There is only hope.
Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it."
Luke 9:23-24
I came to Ciudad Espana almost temporarily. Then God gave me a house, community, and new goals. After seeing the need for various services in the community, God has called me once again to step in. In a culmination of what seems like all of my life skills and past ministry experience, I am responding. I will be opening a coffee shop that will sell fair-trade coffee and basic pastries. More importantly, it will be used to teach English classes, tutor, give artisan workshops to women, have small groups for young people, and just generally provide a safe place for the community.
This is not something I would have previously done or even considered. It was not my goal when I came to Honduras, and certainly is not what graduated from college to do. But things change, people change. I lost myself to find myself. I found myself in the plans of God and His plans for this community. I found myself in His love for me and His love for this community. He has provided the plans, the place, and the people. Likewise, I know He will provide the proper finances and resources.
Goals change and plans change, we lose and we win, but God's ultimate plan does not change, and with Him, we always win. We are always found in Him.
The rain comes, and it makes all things nourished and new.
Please join in prayer with me for this new chapter that is anything but temporary.
If you feel called to help, funds will be required for the start-up and initial preparation. Donations are accepted both online and through mail. Details can be found on the right hand margin of the page.
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
Making a House a Home & Resting in His Glory
That I may come to you with joy by the will of God and may be refreshed together with you.
Romans 15:32
The past couple of months have been hectic, to say the least. Bouncing around between homes of close friends, transporting a 60 lb dog and my belongings across the city, searching for somewhere to call my home. Creating new budgets; planning for the future, or at least, trying to plan; and prayer for provision... so much prayer. Not only provision financially (I am still looking for support!), but also spiritually, mentally, provision for community, for fellowship, for rest.
After living with a close family that is dear to my heart for about a month, so many prayers were answered. I had inquired about houses in several areas close by and had zero luck. No one knew the owner (or didn't want to tell me), the phone number was missing or incorrect, a family member may be coming back so it's possible the house is available, but also possible it is not, etc. Finally, just when I had stopped looking, a house fell right into my lap. It is right in front of the house I was staying in before, so I have support and family just a few steps away. The house is large- much larger than I could ever need- but it was offered at just under what I had budgeted. 3 bedrooms, a terrace, a garage, living room, dining room, kitchen... it is so much more than what I had hoped and prayed for. With a fresh coat of paint, a bit of furniture, and basic appliances, it would truly become a dream house for me.
Although the house is beautiful and I am so thankful for God's provision in giving it to me, I am even more grateful for the blessings that He has given me through the house. I am living alone in this giant place, but I am hardly ever the only one here. Whether it's abuela (grandma) stopping by for afternoon coffee, friends gathering to share a meal together, other friends stopping by for the leftovers, students dropping in for homework help, or the neighbors coming to help clean, organize, and make the house a home- there are always visitors. The community that God has given me here is outstanding- and a great platform for ministry. I will continue to do ministry in Los Profesores and La Kennedy, but right now, I am praying and waiting for God to open up doors here as well. He has given me a home, and I know he will show me just how to use it for His glory.
More than the house, more than the community, God has given me the opportunity to rest. Not only rest physically and have time to reboot to continue ministry, but also time to rest spiritually, in His name, and soak up time with Him. I didn't realize how tired I was, how much I was doing and, in turn, draining myself, until I finally had a quiet place to be refilled, refreshed, and rejuvenated. Sometimes we don't know how empty we have become until we begin to be made whole again.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28
The plans that I have for this house are seemingly never-ending. Plans for a place of rest, of community, of worship, of fellowship. Plans for tutoring sessions, English lessons, game nights, movie nights, family dinners. Plans for gardens, a prayer room, furniture, appliances. But I know now that, in comparison, my plans are nothing in front of our great Lord. He is able to do exceedingly more than we could ask or imagine. (Eph. 3:20)
As you can see, the house is pretty bare and in need of a little bit of love (and furniture). If you would like to help me make my house a home, there are so many items that are still missing. A small fridge; basic furniture such as tables, chairs, and a small couch; an oven; paint. I am looking to get used appliances and furniture so that the cost is not so outrageous, but it will still be more than what I have on my own. If you would like to help renovate and fill the house, you can donate at:
www.worldoutreach.org/donations
Just click my name, Jennifer Olsen, from the drop down box
Romans 15:32
The past couple of months have been hectic, to say the least. Bouncing around between homes of close friends, transporting a 60 lb dog and my belongings across the city, searching for somewhere to call my home. Creating new budgets; planning for the future, or at least, trying to plan; and prayer for provision... so much prayer. Not only provision financially (I am still looking for support!), but also spiritually, mentally, provision for community, for fellowship, for rest.
After living with a close family that is dear to my heart for about a month, so many prayers were answered. I had inquired about houses in several areas close by and had zero luck. No one knew the owner (or didn't want to tell me), the phone number was missing or incorrect, a family member may be coming back so it's possible the house is available, but also possible it is not, etc. Finally, just when I had stopped looking, a house fell right into my lap. It is right in front of the house I was staying in before, so I have support and family just a few steps away. The house is large- much larger than I could ever need- but it was offered at just under what I had budgeted. 3 bedrooms, a terrace, a garage, living room, dining room, kitchen... it is so much more than what I had hoped and prayed for. With a fresh coat of paint, a bit of furniture, and basic appliances, it would truly become a dream house for me.
 |
| The new place |
 |
| Living room and part of the kitchen |
 |
| The kitchen |
Although the house is beautiful and I am so thankful for God's provision in giving it to me, I am even more grateful for the blessings that He has given me through the house. I am living alone in this giant place, but I am hardly ever the only one here. Whether it's abuela (grandma) stopping by for afternoon coffee, friends gathering to share a meal together, other friends stopping by for the leftovers, students dropping in for homework help, or the neighbors coming to help clean, organize, and make the house a home- there are always visitors. The community that God has given me here is outstanding- and a great platform for ministry. I will continue to do ministry in Los Profesores and La Kennedy, but right now, I am praying and waiting for God to open up doors here as well. He has given me a home, and I know he will show me just how to use it for His glory.
 |
| Dining room area |
 |
| Terrace |
More than the house, more than the community, God has given me the opportunity to rest. Not only rest physically and have time to reboot to continue ministry, but also time to rest spiritually, in His name, and soak up time with Him. I didn't realize how tired I was, how much I was doing and, in turn, draining myself, until I finally had a quiet place to be refilled, refreshed, and rejuvenated. Sometimes we don't know how empty we have become until we begin to be made whole again.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28
The plans that I have for this house are seemingly never-ending. Plans for a place of rest, of community, of worship, of fellowship. Plans for tutoring sessions, English lessons, game nights, movie nights, family dinners. Plans for gardens, a prayer room, furniture, appliances. But I know now that, in comparison, my plans are nothing in front of our great Lord. He is able to do exceedingly more than we could ask or imagine. (Eph. 3:20)
As you can see, the house is pretty bare and in need of a little bit of love (and furniture). If you would like to help me make my house a home, there are so many items that are still missing. A small fridge; basic furniture such as tables, chairs, and a small couch; an oven; paint. I am looking to get used appliances and furniture so that the cost is not so outrageous, but it will still be more than what I have on my own. If you would like to help renovate and fill the house, you can donate at:
www.worldoutreach.org/donations
Just click my name, Jennifer Olsen, from the drop down box
Monday, January 26, 2015
A Fallen World
Today has been a hard day.
The weight of this country and of its people is heavy on me, causing me to seriously question the impact I can make as only one person. To see the fallen world through foggy, gray glasses is much different than rosy, red glasses.
I posted a few months ago about a guest speaker we had at our church. He talked about his life in the gangs and how important it is for Christians to enter into the fires in order to pull out those who are lost, hurt, and seeking an unknown solution. If you haven't read it yet, check it out- Into the Fire, Without Fear.
Recently, the activities of the gangs and their presence has become even heavier on my heart.
While working with the same youth for many months, their lives as I know them have begun to unfold and develop into complex and painful stories. One particular young man stays strongly on my heart.
After being abandoned by the majority of his family and those who were close to him, he went to the gangs. Initially it was only to find drugs and a sense of community, but it quickly evolved into something bigger than he could have imagined. He was mixed up in MS-13, one of the most dangerous gangs in the United States and Central America. Forced to commit unspeakable crimes in order to progress through initiation, he gave up his innocence and traded it for violence. In a miracle that I still do not fully understand, he escaped membership in the gang and just narrowly missed a lifetime of violence, but so much damage has already been done. As I spend more time with him through scattered visits, he opens up more and more about his time in the gang and the things that he has done. Sometimes, he breaks down to tears in remorse, guilt, and shame. The weight of his pain is so evident in his face, in his words, and in his tears.
Through his stories, I have learned more about the gangs and what they do to a person. While claiming to give community, they strip one of one's self, of one's soul.
The pain from these gangs is heavy on any person they encounter. It is unavoidable. Which starts me thinking,
How is there even room for so much pain in the world?
How is there room for so much abandonment?
For so much hate?
For so many tears?
I question the impact I have on this individual's life in comparison to the oppressive past he has faced and will carry with him for the rest of his life. What can I do in response to that?
Turning to my Bible, God is always one step ahead of me.
His words speak so much clearer than those of the gang.
I will not cause pain or suffering without allowing something new to be born.
Isaiah 66:9
The suffering and pain of these gang members, both past and present, is evident. But God is so much more obvious. He is new life, revival, redemption. He is love.
He carries the pain that we cannot bear.
He sent his Son to carry the cross so that we need not carry our past of sin.
He gives us a new life, a new future.
Today is heavy and hard.
The world is fallen and broken.
But tomorrow is possible and conquerable because of Him.
The weight of this country and of its people is heavy on me, causing me to seriously question the impact I can make as only one person. To see the fallen world through foggy, gray glasses is much different than rosy, red glasses.
I posted a few months ago about a guest speaker we had at our church. He talked about his life in the gangs and how important it is for Christians to enter into the fires in order to pull out those who are lost, hurt, and seeking an unknown solution. If you haven't read it yet, check it out- Into the Fire, Without Fear.
Recently, the activities of the gangs and their presence has become even heavier on my heart.
While working with the same youth for many months, their lives as I know them have begun to unfold and develop into complex and painful stories. One particular young man stays strongly on my heart.
After being abandoned by the majority of his family and those who were close to him, he went to the gangs. Initially it was only to find drugs and a sense of community, but it quickly evolved into something bigger than he could have imagined. He was mixed up in MS-13, one of the most dangerous gangs in the United States and Central America. Forced to commit unspeakable crimes in order to progress through initiation, he gave up his innocence and traded it for violence. In a miracle that I still do not fully understand, he escaped membership in the gang and just narrowly missed a lifetime of violence, but so much damage has already been done. As I spend more time with him through scattered visits, he opens up more and more about his time in the gang and the things that he has done. Sometimes, he breaks down to tears in remorse, guilt, and shame. The weight of his pain is so evident in his face, in his words, and in his tears.
Through his stories, I have learned more about the gangs and what they do to a person. While claiming to give community, they strip one of one's self, of one's soul.
The pain from these gangs is heavy on any person they encounter. It is unavoidable. Which starts me thinking,
How is there even room for so much pain in the world?
How is there room for so much abandonment?
For so much hate?
For so many tears?
I question the impact I have on this individual's life in comparison to the oppressive past he has faced and will carry with him for the rest of his life. What can I do in response to that?
Turning to my Bible, God is always one step ahead of me.
His words speak so much clearer than those of the gang.
I will not cause pain or suffering without allowing something new to be born.
Isaiah 66:9
The suffering and pain of these gang members, both past and present, is evident. But God is so much more obvious. He is new life, revival, redemption. He is love.
He carries the pain that we cannot bear.
He sent his Son to carry the cross so that we need not carry our past of sin.
He gives us a new life, a new future.
Today is heavy and hard.
The world is fallen and broken.
But tomorrow is possible and conquerable because of Him.
Los Profesores
During the past 6 months, I've been focusing the majority of my ministry and energies towards working in the streets with young people and women. The area that I started in, La Kennedy, has a massive need and I will by no means end my time there, but I will be expanding ministry to other parts of Tegucigalpa! This past week, I was able to spread my ministry to a different area of the city, Los Profesores.
While I am glad that Karla and Ana Rosa have moved out of La Kennedy, Los Profesores is no less dangerous or less poverty-stricken than La Kennedy. To be completely truthful, the guys that go with me to do ministry were even hesitant to go there. But, many months ago, I had promised Karla that if she were to move, I would continue to work with her in her home and with her children. I was not ready just yet to break that promise.
We were able to go down to La Kennedy first and visit with our friends down there. Because it was a Wednesday, there were only three or four people there. Luckily, most of them are working to recycle bottles during the week, so there are rarely more than 5-10 people. Now that Oscar is getting registered for classes, I am no longer working with him in one-on-one tutoring sessions, so we are pretty free to just chat with everyone. It is so nice to catch up and learn more about everyone's lives! I have started to be on the lookout for new prospective students as well, so getting a bit of 'free time' is a blessing.
After visiting La Kennedy, we met with Karla so that she could take us up to her house. The new area, Los Profesores, is located on the other side of town, across from the centro and the mercado, so it is quite a bit trickier to find, especially if you do not know the area. A couple bus rides later, we finally made it to her new house. She and her two children are living with the family of Ana Rosa in a one-room house. We were so blessed to share a meal that they prepared for us and to plan a bit for the future.
Within the next month, the women are going to begin to sell soup! Here in Honduras, street vendors are more common than sit-down restaurants, and much more affordable. Ana Rosa had told me that she had previously sold sopa de mondongo, tripe soup, but was forced to stop because she could not afford (via time and money) to do it on her own. After a bit of discussion, the ladies agreed that they would like to do that in order to start taking a hold of their future and support their children. I will have more news on this when we start purchasing the materials and enter the next stage for their business.
I was also able to spend a little time with 13-year-old Elida, who will start 4th grade this next week. While she is not super excited to go back to school, she is promising to start and finish out the year strong. I had been concerned earlier because there was a large gap in funds for her supplies, but I am so happy to say that someone has stepped forward and decided to sponsor her for the jump-start of the year. Praise God!
Unfortunately, I do not have any pictures from this past week because we were very hesitant to bring cameras into Los Profesores. Now that I know (sort of) the area, we will be able to bring a phone or a camera to take pictures next time.
I am so excited for this new branch of street ministry and so blessed for God's provision to make it happen. Within the next couple of weeks we will be planning purchasing the utensils, pots, etc. for the women to start their small business, Elida and Oscar will begin school, I will start a new devotional with the women, and we will continue to build new relationships and foster old ones in both La Kennedy and Los Profesores.
God is so good and faithful to this new, growing ministry!
If you would like to help jump-start Karla and Ana Rosa's soup business, let me know! They will need pots and utensils to start and the ingredients as they sell the soup.
As always, donations are tax-deductible and can be made through World Outreach Ministries at
www.worldoutreach.org/dontaions
simply click my name from the drop-down box
or
World Outreach Ministries (Jennifer Olsen)
P.O. Box B
Marietta, GA 30061
While I am glad that Karla and Ana Rosa have moved out of La Kennedy, Los Profesores is no less dangerous or less poverty-stricken than La Kennedy. To be completely truthful, the guys that go with me to do ministry were even hesitant to go there. But, many months ago, I had promised Karla that if she were to move, I would continue to work with her in her home and with her children. I was not ready just yet to break that promise.
We were able to go down to La Kennedy first and visit with our friends down there. Because it was a Wednesday, there were only three or four people there. Luckily, most of them are working to recycle bottles during the week, so there are rarely more than 5-10 people. Now that Oscar is getting registered for classes, I am no longer working with him in one-on-one tutoring sessions, so we are pretty free to just chat with everyone. It is so nice to catch up and learn more about everyone's lives! I have started to be on the lookout for new prospective students as well, so getting a bit of 'free time' is a blessing.
After visiting La Kennedy, we met with Karla so that she could take us up to her house. The new area, Los Profesores, is located on the other side of town, across from the centro and the mercado, so it is quite a bit trickier to find, especially if you do not know the area. A couple bus rides later, we finally made it to her new house. She and her two children are living with the family of Ana Rosa in a one-room house. We were so blessed to share a meal that they prepared for us and to plan a bit for the future.
Within the next month, the women are going to begin to sell soup! Here in Honduras, street vendors are more common than sit-down restaurants, and much more affordable. Ana Rosa had told me that she had previously sold sopa de mondongo, tripe soup, but was forced to stop because she could not afford (via time and money) to do it on her own. After a bit of discussion, the ladies agreed that they would like to do that in order to start taking a hold of their future and support their children. I will have more news on this when we start purchasing the materials and enter the next stage for their business.
I was also able to spend a little time with 13-year-old Elida, who will start 4th grade this next week. While she is not super excited to go back to school, she is promising to start and finish out the year strong. I had been concerned earlier because there was a large gap in funds for her supplies, but I am so happy to say that someone has stepped forward and decided to sponsor her for the jump-start of the year. Praise God!
Unfortunately, I do not have any pictures from this past week because we were very hesitant to bring cameras into Los Profesores. Now that I know (sort of) the area, we will be able to bring a phone or a camera to take pictures next time.
I am so excited for this new branch of street ministry and so blessed for God's provision to make it happen. Within the next couple of weeks we will be planning purchasing the utensils, pots, etc. for the women to start their small business, Elida and Oscar will begin school, I will start a new devotional with the women, and we will continue to build new relationships and foster old ones in both La Kennedy and Los Profesores.
God is so good and faithful to this new, growing ministry!
If you would like to help jump-start Karla and Ana Rosa's soup business, let me know! They will need pots and utensils to start and the ingredients as they sell the soup.
As always, donations are tax-deductible and can be made through World Outreach Ministries at
www.worldoutreach.org/dontaions
simply click my name from the drop-down box
or
World Outreach Ministries (Jennifer Olsen)
P.O. Box B
Marietta, GA 30061
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
New Year, New Ministry
Changes seem to come naturally with the coming of a new year, and this year will be the start of many changes and transitions for me here in Honduras. Some changes will be easy, and some will be difficult, but I am confident that they are all the will of the Lord and the plans that He has.
Because I have neglected to write blogs for quite some time, I will start from the beginning of the transitions that have transpired in these last months.
As you, or most of you, know, I was living and working alongside Zions Gate Ministries just outside of Tegucigalpa for the first 8 months of my time in Honduras. In November, the head of the ministry left Honduras to go on sabbatical in the states. While I recognized how beneficial this could be for the ministry in terms of growth and progress, I was beginning to feel that my ministry goals and visions no longer aligned with those of Zions Gate. I no longer felt at peace with the way my time was being spent knowing the Lord's calling for me to do street ministry. With the ministry head leaving, it was time to take on a great deal more responsibility and commit fully to the ministry and its future. Although the need was clear, I could not commit to something that I did not see in God's plan.
After vising the states at the beginning of December, I began to think more strongly and seriously about what leaving Zions Gate would mean for me and my ministry. With tremendous support from the Honduran Fellowship, I have decided to break off and start my own formal ministry working in the streets.
While there are many changes in where I am living and the ministry in which I am under, my work will not be changing. My focus will continue to be in the streets working with women and young people. More than anything, I have seen that education brings hope and a future to those who have nothing else, and I will continue to move forward in the capacity that I am able in order to bring education, whether it is formal classroom teaching or informal vocational training.
After working with 17-year-old Oscar in La Kennedy for several months, he is finally ready to begin school again. Because he will start again in 3rd grade, I had been tutoring him in math and reading comprehension as preparation. At the beginning of February he will start a dual program that will allow him to finish 3rd and 4th grade in the same year so that he can 'fast-track' the earlier years that he has missed. He is excited for this huge opportunity and is looking forward to advancing in school. If you would be interested in supporting Oscar in this upcoming year, please let me know! With your help, you could bring him a new future.
My hope is that Oscar will be the first of many who will be able to restart their education and eventually finish school. Because of the gang influence and heavy use of drugs such as marijuana and paint thinner, many young people have only finished school up to 2nd or 3rd grade. With the right resources, personnel, and finances, it would be possible to oppose that norm and bring hope for a future to members of the new generation.
Aside from tutoring Oscar, I had also been doing a small Bible study of the gospel of John with the women of La Kennedy. Through the study, I was able to both disciple the women and build relationships with them. After much talk about their desires and hopes for their future, I had though strongly about how I could help them with vocational training rather than simply bringing food or resources, and God answered my prayers faithfully! Rayna Cohen, founder of Four Letter Word, visited Honduras in November and has committed to a partnership in order to work with these women. Together, we are researching possibilities and resources to train them so that they will eventually be able to become self-sufficient.
Within the past month, several of the women have moved out of La Kennedy and into a new colony, Los Profesores. I will continue to do ministry and serve in La Kennedy, but I will also be expanding my ministry to this new colony in order to continue to work with Karla and Ana Rosa. I am so excited about the new opportunity to do ministry in a different place and for the work of the Lord to be spread to a new area. Pray for this new branch of ministry, both for protection and provision.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "pans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Jeremiah 29:11
Currently, I am residing in Ciudad Espana with the family of Luis, a young man I met at Zions Gate, until I can find a suitable house for myself. It is crowded and loud with 8 of us in a one-bedroom house, but it is wonderful to have a family and community. Initially I did not look at living here as a ministry in itself, but it most certainly is. Here I am able to spend time with each member of the family and have even spent time in the word with their abuelita (grandma). Outside of the house, there is a great need for help and service in the city. There are countless young people that are starting to experiment with drugs and the gang presence is not lost. Pray that the Lord will show me His plans in this new place so that His will may be done!
With many transitions and changes come many challenges. I am confident that the Lord is working and that His work will be seen.
Stay tuned for more updates on this new ministry and how it grows!
It is never too late to partner with me for the new year! Donations are always tax deductible and help support ministry in La Kennedy, Los Profesores, Ciudad Espana, education, family ministry, and my life here in Honduras.
To donate, visit
www.worldoutreach.org/donations and click my name from the drop-down box
or mail checks to
World Outreach Ministries (Jennifer Olsen)
P.O. Box B
Marietta GA 30061
Because I have neglected to write blogs for quite some time, I will start from the beginning of the transitions that have transpired in these last months.
As you, or most of you, know, I was living and working alongside Zions Gate Ministries just outside of Tegucigalpa for the first 8 months of my time in Honduras. In November, the head of the ministry left Honduras to go on sabbatical in the states. While I recognized how beneficial this could be for the ministry in terms of growth and progress, I was beginning to feel that my ministry goals and visions no longer aligned with those of Zions Gate. I no longer felt at peace with the way my time was being spent knowing the Lord's calling for me to do street ministry. With the ministry head leaving, it was time to take on a great deal more responsibility and commit fully to the ministry and its future. Although the need was clear, I could not commit to something that I did not see in God's plan.
After vising the states at the beginning of December, I began to think more strongly and seriously about what leaving Zions Gate would mean for me and my ministry. With tremendous support from the Honduran Fellowship, I have decided to break off and start my own formal ministry working in the streets.
 |
| Some of the women of La Kennedy |
While there are many changes in where I am living and the ministry in which I am under, my work will not be changing. My focus will continue to be in the streets working with women and young people. More than anything, I have seen that education brings hope and a future to those who have nothing else, and I will continue to move forward in the capacity that I am able in order to bring education, whether it is formal classroom teaching or informal vocational training.
 |
| Oscar enjoying birthday cake and Coca Cola at his birthday party |
My hope is that Oscar will be the first of many who will be able to restart their education and eventually finish school. Because of the gang influence and heavy use of drugs such as marijuana and paint thinner, many young people have only finished school up to 2nd or 3rd grade. With the right resources, personnel, and finances, it would be possible to oppose that norm and bring hope for a future to members of the new generation.
Aside from tutoring Oscar, I had also been doing a small Bible study of the gospel of John with the women of La Kennedy. Through the study, I was able to both disciple the women and build relationships with them. After much talk about their desires and hopes for their future, I had though strongly about how I could help them with vocational training rather than simply bringing food or resources, and God answered my prayers faithfully! Rayna Cohen, founder of Four Letter Word, visited Honduras in November and has committed to a partnership in order to work with these women. Together, we are researching possibilities and resources to train them so that they will eventually be able to become self-sufficient.
Within the past month, several of the women have moved out of La Kennedy and into a new colony, Los Profesores. I will continue to do ministry and serve in La Kennedy, but I will also be expanding my ministry to this new colony in order to continue to work with Karla and Ana Rosa. I am so excited about the new opportunity to do ministry in a different place and for the work of the Lord to be spread to a new area. Pray for this new branch of ministry, both for protection and provision.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "pans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Jeremiah 29:11
Currently, I am residing in Ciudad Espana with the family of Luis, a young man I met at Zions Gate, until I can find a suitable house for myself. It is crowded and loud with 8 of us in a one-bedroom house, but it is wonderful to have a family and community. Initially I did not look at living here as a ministry in itself, but it most certainly is. Here I am able to spend time with each member of the family and have even spent time in the word with their abuelita (grandma). Outside of the house, there is a great need for help and service in the city. There are countless young people that are starting to experiment with drugs and the gang presence is not lost. Pray that the Lord will show me His plans in this new place so that His will may be done!
With many transitions and changes come many challenges. I am confident that the Lord is working and that His work will be seen.
Stay tuned for more updates on this new ministry and how it grows!
It is never too late to partner with me for the new year! Donations are always tax deductible and help support ministry in La Kennedy, Los Profesores, Ciudad Espana, education, family ministry, and my life here in Honduras.
To donate, visit
www.worldoutreach.org/donations and click my name from the drop-down box
or mail checks to
World Outreach Ministries (Jennifer Olsen)
P.O. Box B
Marietta GA 30061
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