I feel like I say this almost every month, but this one truly has been a hard one. Even so, in the midst of this valley, we know God is with us—and we’re grateful that we can still see His goodness shining through.
Trip to Colorado
Here’s a quick update about my trip and our fundraiser banquet on November 14th. I haven’t heard the final numbers yet on how much was raised, but we had an incredible turnout! I was so nervous beforehand—I had written out everything I wanted to say, but once I got up there, I barely looked at my notes. I had prayed that the Holy Spirit would speak through me, and that’s exactly what it felt like happened.
The trip was full of sweet moments: meeting long-time supporters face-to-face for the first time, catching up and laughing with friends I’ve known for years, taking in the gorgeous snow-capped mountains, and even getting to see the northern lights! It was truly a wonderful trip. And I even made it back to Guatemala on time to be at my friend’s wedding!
Water Project
The water project is up and running again!! It has been incredibly exciting to watch all of this come together! Jumping back into a full schedule has been challenging to navigate, but it has also been deeply fulfilling. Seeing the project operate out of our brand-new building with our brand-new filter system and our brand-new truck feels like a dream come true. Everything is running smoother and more efficiently, and these improvements have made such a difference. Of course, we’re still fine-tuning things—little by little, we’re getting there!
One major need we’re facing is increased financial support. A few months ago, I shared that the water project had become self-sustaining; unfortunately, that is no longer the case. As the project has grown, we have needed to hire additional workers to keep things running well. More workers means higher costs—and we are committed to paying our team fairly.
We are currently looking to raise an additional $500–$600 per month to keep the project healthy. Without this support, we may be forced to raise the price of the water, which we really hope to avoid.
Would you prayerfully consider joining our support team to help keep clean water accessible for the people of Aceituno?
School Sponsorship
Some of you may not know that we also run a sponsorship program to help teens stay in school during the years when many of them would otherwise drop out. I don’t often share about this because I want to protect the privacy of the students we support.
However, several teens have recently approached us for help with the upcoming school year, and we need to find about five new sponsors to cover their expenses. Sponsorship typically ranges from $40–$50 per month, depending on each family’s needs and the school they attend.
The Guatemalan school year runs from January to October, which means it’s right around the corner—we need to find sponsors as soon as possible. If you or someone you know would like to invest in one of these young people’s futures, please reach out so I can share how to get involved!
Personal Update
This has been a heavy season for us. Discouragement is real. Exhaustion is real. Burnout is real. And right now, all of it seems to be hitting at once. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that these struggles have come during a time of so much growth. We know the enemy pushes back when God is moving—but knowing that doesn’t always make the burden lighter. Our hearts are heavy, and our bodies are tired.
Financially, things are tight as we work to pay off the ministry truck. Because of that unexpected cost, we had to cancel our New Year’s plans, which was very disappointing.
This Monday we’ll be heading to my (Taryn’s) family’s annual beach trip. It’s always fun, but not always the most relaxing. Still, we’re hopeful that we can enjoy quality time with family and find moments of true rest so we can recharge.
We trust God’s plan, and we know that personal growth often comes through seasons like this. But we would really appreciate prayer for strength and encouragement as we walk through it.
Prayer requests
- Finances – As you’ve read, we’re facing financial needs in several areas, and it has been stressful. Please pray for quick provision.
- More help – We would love for God to send another missionary couple to join us here. Extra hands and hearts would make an enormous difference.
- Rest – Pray that our beach trip gives us the rest and renewal we desperately need.
Thank you for your prayers, your friendship, and your support. We’re only one part of this ministry team—God and all of you make up the rest. Your encouragement keeps us going, and we’re so grateful that you take the time to read our updates and walk alongside us.
We pray you have a wonderful Christmas and a joyful New Year!
