Nicaragua: International missions with a domestic twist

NICARAGUA – From January 12-16, preparation and formation of future pastors and deaconesses of Lutheran Church–Canada’s (LCC) partner church in Nicaragua—the Lutheran Church Synod of Nicaragua—continued.

Seventeen diaconal and seven pastoral students participated in seminary classes focused on the Theology of Worship and sound Proclamation of the Word. The worship class was taught by LCC’s Director of International Missions, Rev. M.L. Smith, while the other was taught by LCC’s Director of Domestic Missions, Rev. Jacob Quast.

These courses lay the foundation for students to better understand the deep significance and gifts God gives to His people gathered in the Divine Service, as well as how to rightly handle God’s Word of truth when leading different activities in the church.

The international and domestic mission directors of LCC work hand in hand with each other to better oversee the broader mission of the church, especially since there is great overlap between LCC’s Domestic and International Missions. This trip presented an opportunity for Rev. Quast to receive firsthand experience of the mission work LCC undertakes in Nicaragua.

Following the weeklong seminary instruction, Revs. Smith and Quast were able to travel to various mission sites in Nicaragua and visit with pastors and people, encouraging them in the good work they are doing in serving the saints under their care and reaching the lost with the saving hope of Jesus. While desperately poor according to North American standards, these dear ones of God steadfastly serve their neighbours in love, caring for the their physical and spiritual needs. All of this is possible due to the support that is received from Lutheran Church–Canada.

While touring the church in Matagalpa, it was evident that the church building was in dire need of repair. Yet the people gather faithfully, week in and week out, to receive God’s gifts in Word and Sacrament. This small congregation has a thriving youth and young adult ministry that is keen on reaching out to others with the love of Jesus. They are faithfully served by Pastor Pedro and his wife, Deaconess Fatima.

Please keep all our brothers and sisters in Nicaragua in your prayers as they daily strive to share the goodness and love of God in Christ Jesus with those in their communities. May the Lord bless all that they do in His precious name.

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