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Julie and I sponsored Edino through Compassion International three years ago when he was five years old. Edino was able to be sponsored because Stadia planted a new church near his home on Pampanal Island. Prior to this new church opening, no church existed in Edino’s community.

My daughter, Tabitha and I, had the opportunity to visit Edino in his home, on his island, just a few months ago. Edino was excited to show us his new church.

Unfortunately, Pampanal Island was near the epicenter of the recent Ecuadorian earthquake. Edino was probably terrified when the earth rumbled, the ocean waves poured throughout his community, all communication with the mainland was lost and electricity was gone.

Fortunately, Edino has placed his faith in Jesus Christ. Edino has a church community that cares for him. Edino has our family in the U.S. that love and support him.

I am reminded of the Scripture: God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. –Psalm 46:1-3

I thank God for the Stadia/Compassion partnership. This earthquake simply makes it even more compelling to plant new churches that intentionally and strategically care for children.

We won’t stop until every child has a church!

To learn more about how you can help with relief efforts in Ecuador, click here.

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