The planting of a new church in La Maná, Ecuador, began in March 2024. Pastor Damián Marmolejo and his family, together with the support of members of the Pujilí Church of the Nazarene, enthusiastically accepted the mission of leading this project.

Due to demographic and socioeconomic data, La Maná, a city in the province of Cotopaxi, was chosen as the site of this new church. According to the latest censuses, the rate of poverty often reaches 74.1%, accompanied by 13.2% illiteracy and an unemployment rate of 42%.

The planting began with various evangelistic activities, including trips during Holy Week with the support of the National Ministry of Church Development. In addition, the generosity and faith of missionaries Angel Sigui, Norma Quishpe, and Andres Herrera strengthened this noble cause.

The providential hand of God helped the team overcome each obstacle. 

“We arrived at the home of Elvia Rodriguez, a good-hearted lady who, upon hearing the vision, decided to donate the same proportion of the land the church had bought from her,” Marmolejo said. “500 square meters were purchased, and she donated another 500 square meters.”

Construction of the building began on 19 August 2024, with the active participation of a working group from the United States. Subsequently, support visits from the Latacunga Church of the Nazarene led by Pastor Juan José Zani were vital to the project.

This planting, which was born in the heart of Pastor Marcelo Fretes and supported by the district superintendent, Mario Paredes, has been rewarded with the testimony of lives reached and the positive impact on the local community, demonstrating that every effort is worthwhile in serving the Lord.

--Church of the Nazarene South America Region.