We have some incredible updates to share—so much has been happening so fast, it feels like God is sprinting ahead with Aliento and we’re just trying to keep up! It’s been a whirlwind, but such an exciting one, and we can’t wait to tell you all about it.
The response has been overwhelming—in the best way! Demand is so high that we’re often running out before everyone gets some. We’re working to find more efficient methods to increase the speed and productivity of our water production and distribution in order to reach more people. Our goal is to keep the price as low as possible so that clean water is accessible to everyone. Any profit goes directly back into maintaining the equipment, paying workers to bag and distribute the water, and—if there’s any left—supporting the feeding program. Every dollar stays in Aceituno to further the mission.
But with success comes new challenges. This project has essentially become a whole new ministry, bringing with it a significant increase in workload. We’re really feeling the weight and realizing that we cannot sustain this on our own. Would you consider helping by supporting the monthly salary of someone to assist with the water project? Your support would not only keep things running smoothly but also provide stable income for a local family.
Clean Water Project
After a year and a half of preparation, prayer, and hard work, the people of Aceituno are finally receiving clean, purified water straight from the well on our property! It feels almost surreal to see this dream finally become a reality after so much work. We’re distributing water in both 5-gallon jugs and small plastic bags—these bags are the typical and most practical way people here drink water. Just bite off a corner and drink!
Maudilio has been working tirelessly to set up the logistics and handle the inevitable bumps in the road. God has been so faithful to provide solutions each step of the way. It’s truly amazing to look back at everything this project required and see how far we’ve come.
And just as those funds were used up, an incredible blessing came: an auction held in Colorado raised $19,000 for the construction of our future center, Centro Aliento de Vida! We are absolutely blown away by the generosity of our supporters and the provision of our God. Once the funds arrive, we’ll begin construction. Please continue praying for wisdom, clarity, and ongoing financial provision as we take these next steps. We believe God has amazing plans for this center and the impact it will have on the community.
Building Progress
In our last update, we shared that Maudilio and his brother were working on the perimeter wall—and they finished it! Not only that, but they immediately moved on to replacing the roof on an existing structure on our property. These were not small expenses, but once again, God provided everything needed.
Personal Update
We celebrated our 3-year anniversary with a nice dinner—and a pretty epic adventure! This past weekend, we hiked Acatenango, a dormant volcano here in Guatemala. It sits right next to the very active volcano, Fuego. We even climbed Fuego and got within about 300 meters of the crater! While we didn’t see any explosions that close, we did get to experience the thunderous eruptions all night and an unforgettable lava show. At 4:00 a.m., we hiked to the peak of Acatenango to watch the sunrise from 13,040 feet. It was breathtaking—and freezing! (0°C/32°F is not something we’re used to around here.) It may not have been relaxing, but it was definitely memorable.
Prayer Requests
- Please pray for wisdom and strength as we continue to juggle multiple ministries: the feeding program, school sponsorship, water project, and now the building project.
- Personally, I (Taryn) am feeling a deep weariness after nearly six years of full-time ministry. It’s a kind of long-term exhaustion that doesn’t go away with a day or two of rest. Please pray for renewal, encouragement, and clarity as I work through this season of discouragement.
- Please pray for Maudilio as he carries a heavy workload and faces many important decisions related to these projects. Ask God to give him clarity, strength, and an abundance of wisdom as he leads.
- As always, we ask for your continued prayers for financial support. Each of these projects comes with substantial costs, and we can’t sustain them without the generous support of people like you.
We are so grateful for your ongoing support, encouragement, and prayers. It’s because of you that any of this is possible.
