In Cerro Cama, Panama, a local church has brought light and tangible help to hundreds of people.

Through the leadership of Pastor José Navarro and the support of Nazarene Missions Teams, the Church of the Nazarene in Cerro Cama on the Panama Central District is experiencing a move of God that is evident in its service to the community.

Multiple high-impact social initiatives have been carried out by local and district volunteers with the support of Tammy and Eliezel Soto, Nazarene Missions Teams coordinators for Panamá. These initiatives have included Vacation Bible Schools, medical mission teams, support sessions for teenagers and families, hot meal distributions, and support for public schools and families in need.

Several districts have participated through Nazarene Missions Teams and traveled to support this work. The Philadelphia, Eastern Michigan, Indiana, and Western Canada districts visited between February 2024 to March 2025. Each district brought hands, resources, and willing hearts to serve alongside the local church.

In 2024, the Cerro Cama church began construction of a new sanctuary, a children’s dining area, and a pastoral apartment. This infrastructure project aims to not only strengthen the spiritual life of the congregation but also to offer social assistance and practical support to the community. The construction continues steadily, reflecting the vision of a congregation that understands its role beyond the church’s walls: to be a refuge, a resource, and an active presence in the lives of its people.

“Whenever a missions team arrives, the number of local church participants is equal to or greater than the missionary volunteers,” the Sotos explained. “This shows that this project belongs to them as a church and that the teams have simply come alongside to support them.”

Navarro’s personal testimony is a vital part of this story. Transformed by the power of God as he overcame alcoholism through the ministry of the El Progreso Church of the Nazarene, he now passionately leads the work in Cerro Cama. He not only helped plant the church but also donated the land for this project, showing his full commitment to God’s call.

On May 3, with their own resources and willing hearts, the church brought hope to a neighboring community. Around 100 people received food, gifts, and a message of salvation through the Word of God.

These actions are not isolated events but the reflection of a living church—committed and aware of its calling. Cerro Cama is not only building a physical structure but also a strong testimony of what God can do when his people choose to serve with faith, generosity, and unity.

Today, the Church of the Nazarene in Cerro Cama is a testament to the fact that not much is needed in order to give everything. All it takes is a willing heart and the certainty that in serving, each person is participating in the greatest miracle: transforming lives for the glory of God.