Two Days Together in Cartagena

In August 2026, Alejandro and Mariela visited Una Luz in Cartagena with their two daughters. These are a few moments from two days we spent with the children, their families, and the local team.

The welcome on August 3.

Monday, August 3

The children welcomed us in Colombia jerseys beneath a yellow, blue, and red balloon arch. There were songs, a dance, and handmade certificates. The teachers told us the children had helped plan the welcome. By the end, everyone had gathered for a group photograph.

We remember the care the children put into it, and the time the teachers spent helping them prepare. The morning gave our family a chance to be with the people whose work and friendship we had known mostly from a distance.

Mariela, her daughter, and the children together.

After the children's dance.

Tuesday, August 4

The next day, about 80 people, including children, mothers, grandmothers, teachers, and our family, went to a park in Turbaco. There was time to swim, play, eat lunch, and simply be together. Each child received a gift bag with their name on it.

Together at the welcome.

At the park the next day.

The visit was a special moment in the year, but the work continues on ordinary afternoons. Today, 32 children come to Una Luz in the afternoons. They share lunch, spend time learning, brush their teeth, hear about God's love, and head home with a snack. Our kitchen serves around 100 neighbors each day.

We hope to build a permanent school and expand the kitchen. Food remains the greatest immediate need. Monthly giving helps the local team plan for that work throughout the year.