The year 2025 began with the intensive training of Genesis missionaries in the Dominican Republic, which prepared three young people passionate about the mission: Emanuel Guerrero from Honduras, Icsa Taisigue from Nicaragua, and Teresa De Cuesta from Mexico, who had previously participated in Genesis. 

Marco and Eunice Portillo from Northeast Mexico provided valuable logistical support for this training process. Eunice, who previously served as a missionary in Genesis, now accompanies her husband and three-year-old daughter as "parents of the Genesis house," providing guidance and ensuring the smooth running of the training.

During this time of preparation, the new missionaries addressed fundamental topics such as church planting, teamwork, regional vision, leadership, security, culture, urban mission, and the essential principles of the Church of the Nazarene. Along with theory sessions, the participants had practical experiences that strengthened their ministerial training.

"We have been challenged, but I have also been reminded that God is Lord of the work," said Teresa De Cuesta.

The team dedicated a day to serving the community of Los Alcarrizos in Santo Domingo. Despite cultural differences, they connected with residents, shared Christ's message, and witnessed his love through acts of service.

"Every challenge, serving in the culture, listening to the challenges, along with the wide range of opportunities and strategies received, motivates me… A phrase that Sugey emphasized in the city talk stayed in my heart: 'We don't start from scratch, we just join what God is already working on in the city,'" said Emanuel Guerrero.

Another highlight of their training was visiting various churches in Santo Domingo, where they shared their testimonies and the work God had done in their lives.

A unique practical moment was the medical operation carried out on February 8 in collaboration with the Nazarene Compassionate Ministries of the Dominican Republic team. Taking advantage of their professional skills – Emanuel as a dentist, Icsa as a general physician, and Teresa as a nurse – they served the community of Bonao, providing medical care and reflecting the love of Christ. This experience allowed them to work as a team and serve in an intercultural context, although their mission would not be focused on medical services.

A Call to Prayer and Support

Now more than ever, these young people need the church's support for prayer. The regional coordinator of Genesis calls on the church to pray for the new churches that will be planted in El Salvador, for solid interpersonal relationships, for their adaptation, for their families who are away from them, and for God's provision at every step.

Also, thank you to those who sent an offering to Genesis last month. This training was made possible thanks to the generosity of many congregations in the region. If you would like to be part of this mission, you can contribute toward their visa and residency expenses or directly support their financial goal during the next two years of church planting.

To learn more about the project, visit mesoamericaregion.org.