This summer, Bread of Hope had the privilege of hosting several short-term mission teams from different churches across the US. These teams traveled to La Guajira, Colombia, to serve alongside our indigenous Wayuu partners, empowering local believers and sharing the hope of the Gospel in tangible ways.
The teams’ work was a beautiful example of our mission in action: equipping and empowering the Wayuu church to transform its community. One of the primary focuses of their trip was to host eye clinics. Many in the community have never had access to eye care, and the simple act of providing glasses became a powerful way to visually represent the Gospel—giving sight to those who could not see, both literally and spiritually.
Beyond the clinics, the teams also invested time in deepening relationships. They spent valuable hours with Wayuu pastors and their wives, engaging in biblically-based discussions on the roles of husbands, wives, and parents. These conversations provided a space for mutual learning and encouragement, reinforcing the foundational principles of a healthy family and a strong church.
The highlight of this experience, however, was witnessing the transformative power of a well-guided, culture-aware, and local-empowering short-term mission trip. Rather than a one-sided aid effort, these trips were a true partnership. The US teams came to serve, not to lead, and their efforts amplified the ongoing work of the local Wayuu church. This approach ensures that the impact is sustainable and the gospel message is rooted deeply within the community, shared by those who understand its culture and language best.
We are deeply grateful for the dedication of these teams and their willingness to learn, serve, and partner with the Wayuu church. Their trip was not just about what they did for the community, but about the profound relationship that was built with the community, a relationship that reflects the heart of the Gospel.
