Evelyn was six years old when she first encountered the love of Christ through a simple act of kindness. An older woman—a missionary in Evelyn’s home country of Guatemala—invited Evelyn and her sister to Vacation Bible School at her church. Though Evelyn’s parents were not Christians and were wary of both the church and God, they agreed to let their daughters attend the camp. Each day, the missionary picked them up and drove them to church.
For Evelyn and her sister, the church quickly became a place of safety—a place where people cared for them, welcomed them, and spoke openly about the love of God. That simple invitation marked the beginning of a powerful faith journey.
Evelyn accepted Christ at the age of eight and remained involved in the church that had so profoundly shaped her life. Today, she serves at Vida Nueva Church, working in children’s ministry and leading the youth ministry. She disciples teenagers ages 13 to 17 through mentorship, teaching, retreats, and intentional relationships, investing deeply in the next generation of believers.
To Evelyn, the church carries a sacred responsibility to care for children and youth—especially in communities like hers, where brokenness is often part of everyday life. Many children grow up without a father figure and are exposed to violence on a daily basis. As a result, many youth struggle with depression, creating a deep need for guidance, hope, and safe spaces to belong.
Alongside her ministry work, Evelyn is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in theology with a focus on biblical exposition at Central American Theological Seminary (SETECA), a partner seminary of Mesa Global. Through God’s grace and the generosity of others, she received a Mesa Global scholarship, making her studies possible and allowing her to share what she learns in meaningful ways.
“Most of the leaders at my church, apart from our pastor, work full-time and often have additional jobs to support their families,” Evelyn explains. “Studying at SETECA has given me the opportunity to share what I’m learning with other church leaders who have never had the chance to attend seminary.”
As she continues her studies, Evelyn’s heart remains firmly rooted in her calling to children and youth. She is passionate about ensuring the church remains a refuge—a place where young people are seen, valued, and pointed toward hope. Just as her own life was changed by a missionary’s invitation at six years old, Evelyn now shares the hope of Jesus, offering new life to others.
“I am an example of what the church can do for children,” she says. “My story makes me think about what could have happened if we had never met that kind woman who cared for us without even knowing us. That’s why I’m convinced that working for the children in my community is a mission worth giving my life to.”
Because of the ministry of Evelyn and others, more children in Guatemala are hearing the message of Christ every day. Lives are being transformed, hope is taking root, and generations are being redeemed—made new through the faithful presence of the church.
Stories from the Field
