“We firmly believe children are disciples in training, not in waiting.”
In Santo Domingo, NCM leaders gathered to strengthen their team, renew their vision, and reaffirm their commitment to children and communities across the region.
Fourteen leaders from Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (NCM), Sponsorship, and the Holistic Child Development (HCD) team from the Mesoamerica Region met May 5–6, 2025, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. They gathered to develop the ministry team, reflect on current challenges, and renew their commitment to expanding God’s Kingdom.
Throughout the event, participants engaged in daily devotionals, times of worship, reflection, and key presentations aimed at strengthening the ministry. One of the most enriching sessions focused on the importance of children and urban contexts—highlighting these groups as especially sensitive and strategic for advancing the Gospel today.
“We firmly believe children are disciples in training, not in waiting. We believe children are made in God’s image and with dignity. Therefore, our work is to care for them and educate adults to care for them in the way God intends,” said Marlen Soria, Regional Coordinator for Children’s Ministries.
Hope Brock, project manager, and Jeremy Moser, coordinator of finance and operations—both from the NCM Global Office—shared updated tools to help ensure the ministry’s effectiveness in the region.
Regional Director Dr. Carlos Sáenz also participated and shared the guiding vision for Mesoamerica: “United in Christ to serve.” He emphasized that while numbers can help measure results, the true core of ministry must be a life surrendered in service to the Lord.
Throughout various sessions, leaders shared key reflections. Marlen Soria encouraged participants to strengthen NCM’s presence on social media as a means to expand its reach. David Campos, NCM Regional Coordinator, highlighted the importance of well-structured reports and storytelling as a way to testify to God’s work through the ministry. Similarly, Cutberto Tenorio, NCM Coordinator for North Mexico, emphasized that sharing stories should become a regular practice in every district.
One of the most meaningful moments of the gathering was the devotional on May 6 focused on the value of humble service, inspired by Jesus’ example in John 13. This time encouraged attendees to renew their commitment to servant leadership rooted in love and self-giving, and it strengthened team unity through a symbolic act of mutual service and prayer.
This gathering not only deepened the bonds among leaders but also renewed their shared sense of purpose and vision. Participants returned to their areas of ministry inspired to continue impacting children and communities across Mesoamerica—serving with excellence and willing hearts.
Source: Milda Marenco Amador, Communications for NCM and Children’s Ministries, Mesoamerica Region
