A Faith Rich Beyond Measure
By Gabriela Rodriguez
July 7, 2026
Day 4: CHICABRACAN l PT.2
Today marked our last day serving with the children at the school in Chicabracan I. Although the children had never met us before, they welcomed us with open arms, endless smiles, and hearts overflowing with love. Their joy and genuine affection have been a beautiful reminder that this kind of love comes from God Himself. So often we become consumed by busy schedules, work, and the many responsibilities of daily life that we forget to recognize God’s constant presence. Through these children, He has reminded us that His love is always near and is often revealed through the people He places in our lives.
Later in the day, we were blessed to participate in the parish’s adult faith formation, where we listened to heartfelt testimonies of perseverance, sacrifice, and unwavering trust in God. Hearing how they continue to serve the Church and remain faithful despite the many challenges they face was both inspiring and deeply humbling. Their witness reminded us that faith is not measured by what we have, but by our willingness to trust the Lord in every circumstance.
Afterward, we had the privilege of visiting members of the parish in their homes. With incredible generosity and humility, they welcomed us into their lives and shared the beautiful altars they have lovingly built in their homes. While their homes may look different from what many of us are accustomed to, their faith is rich beyond measure. Seeing the same faith we had just heard about lived out in their homes was a powerful reminder that Christ is truly at the center of their lives.
Our mission team has also continued to grow closer with each passing day. Some of us arrived already knowing one another, while others met for the first time on this trip. Yet through prayer, service, and our shared mission, we have quickly become one family, supporting and encouraging one another in Christ.
As our mission continues, we also ask for your prayers for our team. A few of us, myself included, have been dealing with allergies and other minor illnesses. Despite these challenges, we are grateful that the Lord continues to provide us with the strength and grace to serve each day.
Thank you for continuing to keep us in your prayers. We ask that you continue praying for our mission team as we finish this week of service and for all of the families and children we have had the blessing of meeting. May the Lord continue to strengthen each of us, deepen our faith, and remind us that His love is made visible through every act of service, every smile, and every heart open to Him.
-Gabriela Rodríguez
