By Suanny Genao Ramirez of Centro de Mision Dominican Republic
There are many who say, “O that we might see some good! Let the light of your face shine on us, O Lord!” You have put gladness in my heart more than when their grain and wine abound. I will both lie down and sleep in peace; for you alone, O Lord, make me lie down in safety.
(shared as part of the International Leaders Meeting, June 2025)
In the area where my congregation is located, the inhabitants weren’t very devout in Jesus as Lord and Savior; rather, they believed in pagan things. This presented a challenge for our congregation and each of its members, as we were constantly scrutinized and observed by the community. However, this motivated us even more to develop Christ’s mission, which is also our mission in the community.
We began offering family talks with a Christ-centered focus in the congregation and invited families to participate. We started Mother’s Day and Father’s Day celebrations for every family in the community, and we offered prayers in homes for the sick. Even if they weren’t believers, we tried to get closer to them, bring Christ into their lives, and gradually change their perception of those who share our faith.
Over time, this message resonated deeply in people’s hearts, and we have been accepted as a congregation by the community members. In fact, some are now members of Community of Christ. This has allowed us to expand further, sharing the message of our Lord Jesus at various family gatherings, celebrations, inaugurations, and other events. Furthermore, for several years now, this same community has included us in their wakes and funeral services, giving us the opportunity to bring hope to their lives and to those accompanying them during these moments of profound grief. This is an opportunity we have embraced with great responsibility, which has allowed us to develop this ministry without seeking it.
God is wonderful and has taught us that behind every challenge lie opportunities for growth and learning, and above all, transformation. The Holy Spirit has been working little by little, transforming the lives of those families who now celebrate Christ with us at some of our gatherings.
Prayer Phrase
“Bear one another’s burdens…” (Galatians 6:2).
Spiritual Hunger
Jesus discerned hungers of body and spirit, and he fed them through a physical, verbal, spiritual ministry of presence. In a time of listening prayer, ask God to help you discern physical or spiritual hungers of people in your congregation, community, and global family. Invite the Spirit to move you to one hospitable act that “feeds” someone’s hunger today.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.