Too much to share!!!

Labor developed by the programs during the month of February:

 Mental Health Network, first meeting of the year

On 22 February, fifteen professionals from the Mental Health Network met in order to initiate the activities planned for this year. Among the initiatives is to support the training program developed by the Public Ministry for the custodians of prisons.

It was agreed to get an appointment with the Director of Public Ministry to suggest the intent to provide training to custodians; it will be on March 2 and delegates the network. This is an opportunity to share to them the God’s love and His Word.

In April, MOP (Public Works Ministry) will be conducting a “career guidance fair” for its employees and similarly the IPHE (Panamanian Institute for Special Disabilities) will have a health fair in May, where we are invited to participate as members of the Network Mental Health.

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El Redentor Lutheran Church, “Reaching Communities Seminar: New Church planting”

On February 26, the ministry attended in El Redentor Lutheran Church, the seminar “Reaching Communities: planting new churches”, taught by Rev. Bill Woolsey from Cross Point Community Church.

Pastor Woolsey shared in this workshop interesting strategies from a “community church perspective” to rescue people who do not attend church and bring them to congregate. The church community is one that serves as a bridge connecting different people in different cultures with the destiny God has prepared for them. This means that the church needs to reach the community, closer to people and to build bridges using attractive activities to people where they can participate and feel they are taken into account.

It was an opportunity to talk with the Lutheran pastors on the dates for the ELS seminars for this period, dates that should be agreed with the members of their congregations.

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Pediatric Specialties Hospital’s external consultation area, special visit and Bible Studies follow up

On February 23 the ministry had the opportunity to share with 130 people Christian tracts on the protection of God. These people were waiting for medical attention for their children. Among them were a young girl and her uncle. She told us: “The care of God is real in the lives of people because she experiences every day in her life and that is helping her to cope with the circumstances of the life without her parents.” Her mother died when she was 7 and her father does not live with her.

The ministry shared a Bible study to a mother and her 13 years son, encouraging them to develop it at home and attend the next meeting, in one month, which coincides with their next medical appointment.

On March 2 the ministry shared with parents about the care and protection of God in the midst of difficult circumstances, urging them to rest in God who can help them to cope with their burdens and cope with their anxieties and fears. We encouraged parents to make the Bible study “The Power of Prayer”. 8 adults were developing this study and 3 children began the study on “The Creation.”

We pray for the seed germinates the Word of God in these hearts and in the midst of the circumstances of their illness can open their hearts to God and put their trust in Him. Bible studies were received by 11 students, both parents and their children.

At each visit to develop Bible studies, we took time to share the Christian tracts with people who were in different rooms waiting for medical attention. 

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Pediatric Specialties Hospital, the CPTLN Puppet Theatre sharing hope and joy

With a lucid presentation of Puppet Theater, CPTLN was on February 17 at the Pediatric Specialties Hospital to share with children the lessons of the Parable of the Good Shepherd.

Blanquita, the innocent sheep, was about to be eaten by the wolf because of her disobedience, but was saved from the clutches of the wolf by her loving shepherd and taken to safety in the fold along with the other sheep.

This drama was well received by the children and their families to whom we shared flyers with coloring pictures and the Bible verse of John about the Good Shepherd. Their parents received the tract “God’s protection” based on Psalm 23.

We were blessed because we could visit the hospital wards where we prayed for the children and their parents giving words of encouragement and hope in Christ. During this presentation and visits we had the support of the Hospital Social Work Department, the presence of visitors from USA (LHM) as well as the Director of CPTLN in Panama.

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MIDES (Ministry of Social Development), Summer School

Coordinated by the Ministry of Social Development (governmental entity dedicated to the family, youth and children) the ministry was invited to the community of Alcalde Díaz in the outskirts of the capital city, road to the Province of Colon.

Mrs. Briceida Sánchez, a member of the community, opened his home to develop the activity, which gathered 50 children from the community. For two consecutive days, the “Summer School” was realized. Its purpose was to share with children some Project Joel’s presentations focusing Christian values.

During the event, the children sang, reflected on the content of the booklet “Wonders of Creation”, saw short films and read the Word of God. To conclude, the activity was completed with incentive prizes, as well as snacks.
 
Project Joel gave specific materials and videos to Mrs. Briceida to support the follow-up labor on what they learned with local children. Importantly, she performs a task of education to children, who often get her home. She shares with them Christian values.

The Church of God, a Christian church near the home of Mrs. Briceida, pledged to support her and take in the Sunday School those children interested on.

To date, 34 of these children are studying the booklet “Wonders of Creation.” Upon completion of this study they will receive their graduation certificate.

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Bethania Polyclinic, “Peer pressure and good decisions” seminar

On February 6, and as a follow-up work with the staff of the Bethania Polyclinic, on this occasion we talked to youth, staff’s children. For this activity a film about the life of Jesus was presented, the topic was analyzed with the support of print material. Youth received the information about the values ​​and principles that the Christian faith offers.

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Bethania Polyclinic, “Dealing with difficult people” Seminar

On February 2, Mr. Jorge Lasso, CPTLN ministry’s volunteer and responsible for Bethania Polyclinic staff development, invited the ministry as speaker at the seminar “Dealing with difficult people”. The ministry can help bridge differences by providing a seminar, besides of improve quality relationships. 

This two-day seminar was presented to different groups of employees. God allowed us to reach the hearts of these people. We talked about the pure message of forgiveness, reconciliation and love of our Savior Jesus Christ. We prayed for this activity and for God’s guide. 

The conference was complemented by hugs dynamics which is how many hugs people can give each other. People sang, prayed and gave thanks to God. 

For Mr. Lasso, “This activity is unique in the history of my time working at the Polyclinic. The results were real good and we had presented the seminars to youth and children of staff and bring them the Christian message.”

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Mayorof Arraiján, Happy Summer

Prof. Tatiana Cornejo, CPTLN ministry’s volunteer, is developing an internship in the Mayor of Arraiján (area where Project Joel works in three educational institutions) and invited the ministry to participate in the “Mayor’s Happy Summer” event.

The authorities of the Mayor of Arraiján selected some children and young people in social risk with the purpose to receive training in Christian values ​​and improve their self-esteem. The seminar “My Purpose in the life” was presented to them, besides of Christian music videos, and the therapy of Mr. Heart (part of the Puppet Theater, which is used to support this kind of interactive activities).

During the presentation there was a special time to share their fears and anxieties. They prayed and sang Christian songs.

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Talking about “Sexuality and risks” 

It is marvelous to reach youth with messages that help them to build their values. This has been the case that Project Joel shared a teaching on “Sexuality and risks” to young people of one of the schools where they develop the integral prevention program. We seek through the presentation of messages and dynamics that they could be strengthen and at the same time, promote healthy lifestyles in spirit, in body, in mind and emotions. It is a hard work, however, is part of the mission that we hope to share with everyone, and especially to teens that are living in a time where negative influences dizzying reach them continuously. We have the desire and the collaboration of schools willing to provide a truly integral growth, contributing to achieve this objective. Thank you, Lord for these wonderful opportunities.

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Bethania Polyclinic, sharing the Good News to children 

In the middle of songs, dynamics and movies, Project JOEL developed a special activity with the Bethania Polyclinic staff’s children. The message shared was the friendship and the creation. Mr. Heart was there helping to the kids to learn that when someone lie or is selfish the heart gets sad, and God gives us a clean and happy heart. Booklets related to the God’s creation were distributed among the children. Also, the children pray and thank God for the blessings for having their parents, teachers and friends.

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Labor developed by the programs during the month of March: 

Pediatric Specialties Hospital’s external consultation area, Bible study completed by patients

On March 30 we had our first group of children who completed the Bible study “History of Creation.” Were six children, patients in the outpatient Pediatric Specialties Hospital who enthusiastically participated in this study reviewing, asking questions and showing great openness and interest in learning more about this wonderful topic about the creation of the world and everything that inhabits it, including man.

The girls learned about what God made since the first day until the last one and how God created men and women in a special way, making his own image and likeness, sharing His capacity for love and thinking.

These children recognized that they are part of this beautiful creation that shows the greatness of God. In gratitude to him for all the blessings He has given them, they accepted the responsibility to care for this earth and themselves: eating healthily, practicing good hygiene and taking the medicine on time.

We prayed for this group of children so that this seed of the Word of God can germinate into their hearts and their parents’ ones, so they can guide them through the ways of God.

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Jesús Divino Salvador Lutheran Church, Equipping the Saints workshop “Answering difficult questions”

The ministry began the annual tour training to Lutheran churches. We had the opportunity to visit Jesús Divino Salvador congregation in the Province of Colon. “Answering Tough Questions” workshop was presented to church members. This material is intended to equip the church members with tools and strategies to help them strengthen their knowledge and skills to respond to the concerns and objections of people about God and His Word.

Responsiveness and participation of this group of brothers and sisters show their interest and concern for people who do not have a relationship with Christ. This was the sixth time in which we can develop an ELS workshop in the congregation. And as sister Elida de Lobán said, “I have a great burden and worry that the souls without Christ are lost and I wish all our brothers and sisters in the church would understand that and be encouraged to share more the Good News of Salvation.”

It was a great blessing and joy to participate in the Sunday worship and receive the teachings given by the Pastor José Angel Fernandez, who quite rightly talked about the parable of the Prodigal Son and how repentance and forgiveness that God offers us through His Son Jesus Christ, brings us closer to Him.

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El Redentor Lutheran Church,  training on “Friendship, dating and communication”

During the days of carnival, El Redentor Lutheran Church developed a retreat for church members. Twelve young people participated enthusiastically in the dynamics and sharing their opinions on the issues presented.

It was a great opportunity to share and guide them on topics of interest as the theme of friendship and dating; likewise we knew about their concerns and about starting friendships that can turn into a dating relationship.

We emphasized the importance of the book of Ecclesiastes that says that “everything has its time” and they need to finish school and get prepared emotionally, spiritually, physically and financially before committing to a relationship that could lead to form a family within the provisions of God and the bond of marriage.

Young said that they would like to have a boyfriend or girlfriend in the correct time, as in the case of Cristina, who thinks that marriage is something very beautiful, but carries its responsibilities that should be accepted with commitment.

Apart from, we had the support of Ing. Eric García, who developed the theme of communication, which was of great value and interest for the participants. We thank Ing. García sharing his time and valuable knowledge during this event that we know was a time of great blessing for these youth.

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7) Therefore, we ask God to give us His power and love to continue sharing the Gospel.

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Omar Torrijos Herrera Pediatric Specialties Hospital, sowing the seeds of the Gospel 

Every moment is an opportunity to sow the seeds of the Gospel of Christ, so that we can reach those in need of encouragement and hope, those who are suffering the pain and illness of a loved one. Thus, in each of our visits to the Outpatient area we share Christian tracts with the people, tracts with the message of the Good News of Salvation and comfort that only Christ can give. 

At the last visit on March 30, 60 people received the tract titled “To the end of the Earth”, where we read that only God and His Word can bring love, abundant life and a new dawn of hope. We noted a good host from people who mostly get the message giving thanks. We could see them reading it with great interest. 

We pray that this seed falls on good soil and germinate in these hearts so that they may have and put their faith and hope in Christ.

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 “My first book of advice”

Children at this school began a comprehensive prevention training. Project Joel used the booklet “My first book of advice”, which provides guidance on the care and the risks that children and young people face in everyday life. Griselda Aguilar, a member of staff of the ministry and theLutheranChurch, teaching this material with the support of prayers, songs, videos and dynamics. 298 elementary students (pre-kindergarten to 6th grade) have received this material, which reinforces the values ​​taught at home and then at school. 

Mrs. Griselda Aguilar had been developing this work this month, twice a week, in which not only shares the message of Christ but the church activities, so this could be an opportunity to establish a relationship with these families. These students will be invited to the service and special events related to Easter. 

A coordinated strategy had been established at this school. Twice a week students in the morning and afternoon shifts are handled by Project Joel. Everyone is very active, likes to sing and learn from the Bible. The teachers in charge of these groups of students have shown gratitude for the support that the ministry is providing them. We thank God for the door that opened this school to carry the message of love and hope of Jesus.

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 “How to study successfully”

Prof. Zunilda Henry, Project Joel volunteer, is in charge of Ethics, Music and Art signatures. She asked the ministry to start this year with a special topic: “Methodology to Study“. To develop this methodology, we decided to begin the day with a short devotion. Later, we continue the study of the booklet “How to study successfully”. The objective of this methodology is reducing the number of school failures and creates study habits. For Prof. Zunilda, “This is an effective way to start the year, getting prepared for success. For this year we will have a great campaign for Easter in which is included a concert, dramas and videos about the life of Jesus. I appreciate the decisive support of Project Joel. We are a good team work.”

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“Caring for our Heart”

This is the title of a series of presentations that took place in the Jerónimo de la Ossa School. Duringthese presentations were used as a communication strategy to share the message to younger students, the Puppet Theater, and seminars for older students, which are offered at the campus library. During the developing of this message, the booklet “How to know what is right and do it” was shared and analyzed by the students through reading comprehension sessions. 

The volunteer Nelson, one of the facilitators of Project Joel, expanded the subject from the perspective of his experience working in the emergency room ofSt. ThomasHospital. The content of these seminars is enriched further; it was emphasized in the physical and spiritual health. The word of God was read and shared, and the basis for good health to enjoy the spirit which in turn, impacts the health of the body. 

In the words of Professor Susana Pérez, contact person in this school, “this event provided an opportunity to promote healthy lifestyles in a comprehensive way and rich in Christian values.” 

The volunteer Antony Sánchez, recognized student for his labor in the puppet theater, portrayed the Little Duck Juan during the presentations, sharing Christian tips to students in each classroom. Very curious to note is that the younger students, sympathizing with the character of Little Duck Juan, singing his song with enthusiasm and in turn, carefully paying attention to their wise words. 

This is a sign of how the techniques that allow interaction while still being entertaining are excellent tools for the words to be better understood and accepted.

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Seminar “Being Woman”

One day seminar was developed by volunteers Professor Dayra Ruíz, Bachelor in Education, and Nelson Araúz to 37 female students in the American Christian School. The seminar “Being Woman” was presented, including topics as female aesthetic, projections of success, Bible verses related to woman, and the video on “Queen Esther”.

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Volunteers of the Month, “Thank you for give me Jesús. Just Recognition”

An important group of volunteers formed by Olmedo Madrigal, Professor Dayra Ruíz, Nelson Araúz, Antony Sánchez and teachers from schools where Project Joel works. Thanking them for their support, they received a certificate of recognition and prizes. 50 students fromAmericanChristianSchoolsigned a document with the title “Thanks for giving me Jesús”. This document was very emotional and represents the appreciation and participation of youth in the Project Joel. The 10 years old student Anthony Sánchez from Jerónimo dela Ossa School was well received for his performances with the puppet Little Duck Juan giving advice on the spiritual care of the heart.

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Graduation 

During 18 hours, 135 students received valuable information from a special training program. This program included several topics: My Life Project, Healthy Sexuality, Knowing myself, Managing my emotions – facing natural disasters; among others. This type of topics was well received by young people.
The topic “My footprint in the earth” was the last one, being the closing topic. Students received recognitions, certificates, prizes and surprises. At the same time, 50 students received their certificates for finishing the Bible studies “Towards a new life” and “Being woman”.

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“Managing my emotions – facing natural disasters”

Volunteers Nelson Araúz and Olmedo Madrigal presented the first part of the seminar “Managing my emotions – facing natural disasters”. This material was prepared by the ministry related on the emotions that people should manage when face natural disasters, as we had seen through the medias the last months, and how God can comfort and give peace and hope in the middle of these situations. 

As the planned schedule, during the first three months, the theory about this topic will be given, practices and exercises will be done, and the students will become in multipliers of this information. 

Professor Militza Torres commented: “This seminar is so different from others, because it’s based on the Scripture; it’s very practical and realistic. We really needed it; and we plan to present it to parents as well”.

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“Being a leader“

As a strategy to meet leaders, the ministry presented a seminar on Leadership during a whole morning. Select students studied the profile of Jesus’ leadership and were encouraged to follow Christ’s model. This seminar was part of “training on values” developed in one month. During this activity the movie “Jesús” was used to talk about His example and testimony.

Volunteer Nelson Araúz gave his testimony and highlighted the influence of Christian leaders on people, the importance of having Jesus as his top leader and role model, but most important is having Him as his personal savior.

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“Talking about Alcoholism”

One day training in which students received information about the effects of alcohol in the body. The booklet on this topic was studied. Group activities were developed and exposed by the students.  Professor Dayra Ruíz commented: “We see more closely the negative results of this type of addiction, especially in this vulnerable population such as young people. We expect this training to support the training they received and especially to share the message of Jesus as a living model of integral prevention“. 

Our country doesn’t escape from the harsh reality about the continuous growing of the alcohol consumption and the terrible consequences we have to see in the medias and how millions of dollars are invested to promote alcoholic beverages. 

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“Mr. Heart talks about…“

One of the strategies created to talk to children and youth is “Mr. Heart”. Mr. Heart is a toy; it is a big red heart with a nice smile and opened arms ready to give a hug. It’s incredible the acceptance this strategy had received by students. Mr. Heart represents their own hearts and in this manner, students feel confidence to make questions or to talk about special emotions or situations. 

A seminar titled “Mr. Heart” was presented by the volunteer Professor Dayra Ruíz, Bachelor in Education. She focused the topic from a Biblical perspective and from scientific data on heart care. This seminar begins with a forum that makes the road of the topics. Students are touched by the word of God.

The student Ana López said, “The things learned are for eternal life, and now I understand it. I pray for my parents and my boyfriend, I want to be a new creature and have a clean heart “- This view was shared by all students. 138 students in various Christian conferences received this training.

Volunteer Olmedo said, “This generation think that there is no other way to celebrate and enjoy life but through the consumption of alcohol. This is a lie of the devil and the only thing they get is pain and death. I don’t recommend alcohol consumption and I encourage young people just don’t do it, the damage in the body and soul is too many.“