Don:
We are Don and Gwen McGee. Two years ago, we moved from north Alabama to Bedford to be closer to our two grandchildren in Lynchburg, as well as our daughter and son-in-law. Because serving and fellowshipping with a local body of believers has always been an important part of our spiritual walk, we quickly began searching for a church home and settled at the Bedford campus.
We have also felt called to participate in short-term mission trips and have served in Kenya, Rwanda, Honduras, and Jamaica. Now we can add Guatemala to that list. One objective of this trip was to further explore a potential partnership between Blue Ridge Community Church and Manos Unidas. Gwen, in her role as church treasurer, was specifically tasked with reviewing the ministry’s financial records.
Gwen:
While that may sound serious and business-like, supporting and observing what this group of women is doing in Guatemala was pure joy. Don and I agreed that it was probably the most enjoyable mission trip we have ever taken.
Crystal, BRCC’s Missions Director, and I had the privilege of sitting down with the founder, Sarai for a deeper look at Manos Unidas. Yes, we reviewed the ministry’s finances, but we also gained insight into the heart of a faithful servant of God. We witnessed firsthand how Sarai is living out Christ’s command to make disciples
Each young woman who enters the discipleship program is asked, “In what area are you passionate about serving?” From there, they begin praying, dreaming, and exploring ways to serve through those passions. The result is a multifaceted ministry in which each woman is given the opportunity to develop and lead an area of service under Sarai’s guidance. The women work eagerly and tirelessly alongside one another. Sarai lives simply and sacrificially to see the women she works with succeed with their God given dreams.
Don:
A few examples of their ministries include:
- Honey World – a small business that helps fund missionaries sent by Manos Unidas, supports ministry projects, and provides income opportunities for some of the women being discipled.
- Indigenous People Outreach – a partnership with the Guatemalan government to provide food, practical assistance, and Bible teaching. It is evident the love Sarai has for them and the love they have for her. When she stood up in front of them, the atmosphere changed. They really have a lot of respect for her.
- Los Lemones – a partnership with Cru and a Chicago-based organization that provides nutrition and discipleship for children, as well as practical training for adults in the village.
- Bible College Partnership – collaboration with a seminary in Puerto Rico, including administration of a satellite campus for Guatemalan students.
- Mission Team Hosting – welcoming and supporting visiting mission teams from around the world. Sarai shared that they are expecting a team from Mexico later this year.
Discipleship takes place both formally and organically. Ministry activities are intentionally planned and prayed over, but discipleship also happens naturally through preparation, service, and everyday life together.
Gwen:
One of the most striking aspects of Sarai’s vision is her desire to move Guatemalan Christians from a “consumer” mindset to a “sending” mindset. The Guatemalan church is accustomed to receiving mission teams and assistance, but Sarai longs to see Guatemala become a nation that sends missionaries. She leads annual mission trips to other countries and is introducing Guatemalans to the idea of sponsoring children in a predominantly Muslim nation by funding tuition at a Christian school.
Every part of Sarai’s home is being used for the Lord’s work. Even her bedroom serves as an office for her and her assistant. She recently sold her car to purchase a small plot of land, taking a step toward her dream of building a mission center and school.
These women live by faith on very limited resources while meeting both the spiritual and physical needs of the people they serve. It bears repeating that they work tirelessly, often grabbing short naps whenever possible, yet they laugh constantly. Their joy is unmistakable as they pour out their lives for Jesus.
I believe we would have much to offer in pursuing this partnership, but I also believe we have much to learn from them.
Thank you for letting us share.