Hector was still a teenager when he first joined a devotional at Les and Rita’s home. At that time, he could never have imagined that this small group would soon become the Río de Vida Church and that one day he would be its pastor!
Today, Río de Vida Church has grown from those early prayer meetings into three congregations, with each congregation growing local leaders and reaching its community. Devotional times – now called connection groups – still meet in addition to more formal church services. And when all three congregations come together for a joint worship service, more than 450 people lift their voices to God together.
Río de Vida Church has grown out of the Vida Schools.
“Many of our students share at home what they learn from the Lord every day,” shares Teacher Jacqueline. “They take the seed of the Word to their families. It is wonderful to see how small children with a heart full of sincerity can be used by our Father to bring others to Him.”
After Les and Rita’s living room, the first congregation met for many years at Vida Chamché School. Today, two additional congregations worship at Vida Mocohán School and Vida Purulhá School, where many of our students and their families worship.
“The Lord continues to work in the different families of the church and in the team of leaders who are faithful in their service to the Lord,” explains Hector. “We have seen members of the congregation take part in serving, visiting, and praying for the sick. This motivates us greatly because we long for a vibrant church that does not depend solely on the pastors”
Last year, Hector and three additional key leaders completed their theology degrees through Seminario Teológico Cristo. This program builds on a solid foundation for ministry and helps them grow as godly leaders – and lead others to grow as well.
“What excites me most,” Hector says, “is seeing how God is working in the lives of the brothers and sisters – bringing them to the Lord – and seeing the youth seeking God and stepping into leadership roles in the congregation.”
Will you pray for the Vida Churches, the leaders and the individuals and families who are part of Río de Vida Church? If you’ve come to Guatemala, I’m sure you’ve been blessed by these growing and vibrant congregations. Join us in praying that all who attend would continue to mature in their faith and to strengthen their commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ.