URGENT UPDATE: A group of area homeschool students is mobilizing the community to support their mission of building a church in Abrojo, Costa Rica. The students are hosting a crucial fundraiser on Saturday, January 20, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the fire hall in Juniata. This event aims to raise $13,500 for essential supplies and materials needed to lay the foundation for a new church.
The funds will specifically support the construction efforts for the local community in Abrojo Montezuma, one of the 24 indigenous territories in Costa Rica. Organizers report that this initiative is vital for fostering community and spiritual growth in the area.
Earlier this month, the group successfully raised $3,300 during a pancake feed in Aurora. The upcoming pancake breakfast will feature pancakes, sausage, coffee, and juice, promising a hearty meal for attendees while supporting a noble cause.
Looking ahead, a unique escape room experience themed around Alice in Wonderland is scheduled for the second weekend in February (February 13-15) at Hastings Evangelical Free Church. This event will run from 6-9 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, and 1-5 p.m. on Sunday. The goal is to gather more resources to support the church construction, which is set to begin when the group departs for their mission on April 20.
Leading this inspiring effort is Melanie Engelhardt, who is guiding a team of 12 students and two adults. Engelhardt expressed immense pride in the students’ commitment to this challenging endeavor. “I’m super excited to give these kids an opportunity to befriend indigenous people, people of a different culture, and plant that seed of service in their hearts,” she stated.
Engelhardt’s dedication to this cause stems from her previous mission work in Costa Rica, where she has formed meaningful connections with the local community. Her journey began with outreach trips through Hastings First United Methodist Church, where she participated in laying a cement slab for another church. This deep-rooted relationship has fueled her passion for returning to Abrojo.
Assisting Engelhardt in this mission is Obed Fernandez Ulloa, a native Costa Rican with a heart for service. Ulloa is actively involved in feeding the homeless in San Jose and is committed to helping those in need within his community. His collaboration is expected to enhance the impact of this mission trip significantly.
As this fundraising effort continues, community members are encouraged to participate and contribute to this meaningful cause. With the support of local residents, Engelhardt and her team hope to reach their financial goal, ensuring they have the necessary materials to make their vision a reality.
The urgency of this mission cannot be overstated. As the date for their departure approaches, every dollar raised will directly impact the lives of the people in Abrojo. Attendees of the pancake breakfast and upcoming escape room event will not only enjoy themselves but also play a critical role in building a foundation for hope and faith in a community in need.
For more information about the events, visit the official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/events/33208360642111579. Supporters are encouraged to share this news widely to amplify awareness and drive attendance to these upcoming events. Together, this community can help bring the vision of a new church in Costa Rica to life.