The Costa Rica North District held its inaugural training for the Family Care Ministry on 25 January. The training was led by regional coordinators Miguel and Irene de Garita.

There were two separate trainings: one in the Church of the Nazarene in Liberia, Costa Rica, and one in the Church of the Nazarene in Muelle. 

“We thank God for the Garita spouses, for the very fruitful ministry they develop throughout the region and that focuses on the family care of church pastors and parishioners,” said Jorge Baños, coordinator of ministries in Costa Rica. “So we also thank God for this ministry that we believe will be a blessing to the church in the Northern District.”

The regional ministry began after a study conducted with psychologists and pastors of the Church of the Nazarene in the Mesoamerica Region revealed nine of the most common conflicts of families, including domestic violence, addictions, economic problems, communication problems, parenting, physical illnesses, and emotional illnesses, among others. Family discipleship also confronts the issues of single parenthood.

Through the program, these areas of conflict can be confronted and healed and prevention programs can be developed. The program has a duration of two years and can be adjusted for the convenience of the church or district. The program is currently being developed in the Guatemala Central District and has had positive results.

--Church of the Nazarene Mesoamerica