Child of the Month
Submitted by Jim & Sue Brannan, Field Coordinators in Peru
Maria grew up in a tribal community far upriver in a remote area of Peru. Five years ago Maria’s stepfather took her, her younger sister and two younger brothers on a trip away from their mother. Her mother searched for them until she heard a rumor they had drowned. But the authorities found them and sent them to various orphanages. Maria came to us at the Girls’ Refuge. Her dream was to find her mother and be part of her family again.
At age fifteen she has a sweet, childlike character and strives to please everyone. She has daily Bible studies at the Refuge and goes to church once or twice a week. Maria is learning personal hygiene, farm work, crafts, cooking and is studying for her GED. She loves to learn words in other languages and speaks two languages fluently – her native tongue Machiguenga and Spanish. She is a joy to all who know her. She never starts a fight among the other rescued girls in the Refuge, but instead gives a gentle answer that stops maby fights before they escalate.
Last month, Maria’s mother was told her children were still alive and came to visit them. Maria was ecstatic, but unfortunately her mother was only there to complete the process that declared Maria abandoned and available for adoption. Maria is sad to lose her mother, but expectant about her future as she remains at the Refuge for now.
God has been good to Maria. The Lord will continue to take care of Maria using other Christians to supply her needs and teach her what she needs to know. Maria, in turn, will grow up and be able to minister to others. Thanks to all of you who are part of this beautiful cycle.
Give now to sponsor a child for $30 a month.
Sign up to receive the Child of the Month e-newsletter each month.