Expanding our Staff in Peru
The Lord continues to expand our work in Peru, despite the COVID-19 shut-downs and the inability to meet in churches and schools in person. Paths of Hope missionary Billy Greenman has been working hard to lay the groundwork for several ministry opportunities this year and has reached the point of needing additional team members to help the work go forward.
In March, Paths of Hope and Health Bridges International (our partner in staff training in the Girasoles homes in Ica and the Sacred Valley) invited Jocabeth Perez on staff to help with the growing work we are doing in partnership. Billy and Kate Greenman knew Jocabeth from their time at Scripture Union, and she is uniquely qualified to help with the work we are doing with at-risk youth and young adults. She was sent to us by God at just the right time!
Additionally, Paths of Hope has made Linda Gamero, long-time volunteer and friend of our ministry, a part of our Lima staff. Linda’s role as coordinator and liaison with churches and prayer groups is vital as we build our mentoring program through the local church. Linda’s background in outreach and expansion in ministry, plus her natural ability to connect and network with people, confirm this decision as the Lord’s divine providence. Linda is also serves on the Peruvian board of Kids Alive International, a Christian non-profit organization with whom Paths of Hope also has a partnership.
Meet Jocabeth Perez
How do you feel that God has prepared you for work with Paths of Hope?
I began the year meditating on Psalm 143: 8 “…Show me the path I must follow.” I had quit my last job because I felt like I wasn't doing what I should be doing, but at the same time I didn't know what I should be doing.
I decided to take some time to rest and think about the way forward. I thought about the time my friends and I would lead meetings for the children in my neighborhood on Sunday mornings and the jobs that I had in Lima after finishing university, thanks to God’s blessing.
I started by teaching classes on values education for primary and secondary students in public schools, then as a counselor for adolescents and young people in a residential care center, then as a tutor for adolescents and young people who received a government scholarship for higher studies at an institute in Lima and finally, within the government office that promotes access to education by awarding scholarships to talented young people with limited economic resources. Through each of these experiences, God has been equipping me with resources and tools for working with vulnerable populations.
When Billy shared POH's vision for work with me, I knew in my heart that this was the way to go...and thank God I'm here!
What excites you about taking on this new role with Paths of Hope?
The opportunity to work so that children, adolescents and young people who live in vulnerable situations know that they are worthy of love and care. Through a safe relationship with a trained adult, they will understand their value as children of God is restored and they can hope for a better future.
Meet Linda Gamero
How do you feel that God has prepared you for work with Paths of Hope?
I started my Christian life at the age of 19. Surely the only way to grow in my spiritual life is by putting into practice what I read in the Scriptures. I am convinced that in each project I have been involved in, my love for Him has grown and made me want to serve Him better.
The words of Jesus are truly significant. “Whoever bears fruit, my father will cleanse him, so that he may bear more fruit.” (John 15:2)
What excites you about taking on this new role with Paths of Hope?
To be part of a team that has felt the call to serve a population in need. I get to be involved in spreading the Good News through POH's Christ-centered vision and mission.
Join us in welcoming Linda and Jocabeth to this exciting ministry as we guide and support young adults to discover and pursue the path God has for them. Please pray for Linda and Jocabeth, along with Billy Greenman as they clear the path forward into guiding the young men who we are already supporting as well as the preparation for staff training and mentor training to expand our reach. Your prayers and your financial support makes this work possible!
