We have the opportunity to share Christ's love in Nicaragua and put Matthew 25 into action. One of the ways we are able to do this is through student sponsorships. Sponsorships provide opportunities to empower young lives. In Nicaragua, a high school education is required to work basic jobs like being a cashier or a server. Education provides a path to employment and higher wages. Students that are sponsored share Christ's love by mentoring younger students in the collectivos.
In 2021, 48 homes and a community center were built, dedicated, and blessed in Las Mangas. Also in 2021, we packed 12,000 meals at St. John LaLande that we sent to Nicaragua. The 48 homes and community center in Las Mangas were sponsored by Cross Catholic Outreach, the West family, and in honor of our very own St. John LaLande Catholic Church. We now have an opportunity to sponsor students in this same area.
During our small group pilgrimage in December 2022, we will visit with St. John LaLande sponsored students. We will take letters and videos from parishioners to share with the students; and we will bring back letters and videos from students to share with their sponsors. Education sponsorships are $30 per month and support transportation, school supplies, uniforms, mentorship, and education materials. To learn more about sponsoring a high school student, contact Kate Ellis via email at kateellis@comcast.net.
