Last December, nearly 400 children and 150 adults celebrated the birth of Jesus, organized by the House of Worship Church of the Nazarene in Villa Verde, Dominican Republic.

Included in the celebration were a devotional sharing of God’s Word, songs in praise to God, and fun events to enliven the gathering. In addition, a special dinner was shared with children and adults.

During the celebration, Yajaira Soledad M. was recognized for her work with children through a project called Un paso de Fe y de Victoria (A Step of Faith and Victory). The project operates Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. About 200 children and adolescents between the ages of 3 and 14 are provided with a homework room with volunteer teachers and church members (7 currently).

Because of the church, the children receive food, clothing, shoes, and school supplies.

House of Worship Pastor Newton Ramírez says that this project began more than four years ago, and it has grown so much that more room is needed to fit all the Children in the building. He plans to expand the facilities as church members continue to serve the children and their community, witnessing to the love of God.

“Many lives have been blessed with this ministry,” he said. “Families have been able to eat thanks to the food that the church shares and many people have had an encounter with Jesus.

Happiness has come to children through a plate of food and the Word of God.”

--Church of the Nazarene Mesoamerica Region