I had heard about a community of war refugees— families who had escaped violence in various regions across El Salvador. When the war broke out, they left their homes in fear, seeking refuge in places where they were not known. But it wasn’t until we were encouraged to do something different—something bold—to serve our neighbors that I felt impressed to fast and pray about joining this community of Saint Anthony.
Gathering my courage, I introduced myself to the community president and offered my services as a nurse, free of charge, to anyone who needed help. He welcomed the idea and even invited me to speak at a plenary meeting. Soon after, I began arriving at the community hall on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, ready to serve whoever came.
At first, only a few people did. Eventually it dwindled to just three little ones—children only two, three, and four years old. I was discouraged. Feeling that perhaps I was not meant to be there after all, I informed the president that I would be stepping away. He understood, though he was deeply disappointed.
But after leaving, I couldn’t sleep. Night after night, I woke between 2 and 3 a.m., restless in my spirit. I finally asked God to reveal His will. I prayed that if even one soul needed me there, He would show me. I also approached a nearby church, asking them to join me in 40 days of prayer and fasting.
Then came the phone call that changed everything. A patient reached out to ask why I hadn’t been coming—was I sick? In that moment, tears flowed. God was reminding me that He has people in that community whom He longs to reach. I immediately called the president and told him I would return the next day.
From that day until now—December 5th—my heart has been filled with joy. Serving the children has become one of the greatest blessings of my life. I teach them to read and write; I care for the smallest ones with love; I continue to see patients who need help. What began with three children is now a small, beautiful school of seventeen little learners who are hungry not just for knowledge, but for love.
Every day I am reminded why God sent me here.
And I am deeply grateful to Ultimate Mission for their commitment and compassion—because their support allows us to reach those who need it most.
