At the front of our sanctuary are two flags. One, of course, is that of the USA. The other is the flag of Nicaragua. It is indicative of the strong kinship we feel with that nation and especially, the city of Wiwilí.

In the year 2000, 16 members of our church traveled to Nicaragua to help build houses in the aftermath of the devastating Hurricane Mitch. While there, we worshipped at a local church and that was the beginning of a partnership that crossed cultural and language barriers. We have learned much from each other and many deep friendships have been established. Coordinated by CEPAD, an ecumenical church group in Nicaragua, we have visited with each other, shared resources, and celebrated our Christian unity.

Church Visits 

Members of our partner church, Rios de Agua Viva, have made two visits to Indianapolis while delegations from our church have made numerous visits to Wiwilí.  

Improvement Projects

We have worked together with Nicaraguans in numerous building projects during our visits, including:

Building Houses

Our first project was home construction following Hurricane Mitch.

Building Bridges

Together we constructed a footbridge that allowed passage even during the rainy season.

Building Churches

We have helped rebuild the church building of our partner church.

Agricultural Projects

Together with our partner church, we helped cultivate a field the church was using to raise funds and provide food for the local population.

Water Purification system 

On our most recent trip, we worked to construct a water purification system is rural Santa Cruz.

Sharing resources

We have provided school kits to the school children of Rios de Agua Viva.

Additionally, we have provided funds for school supplies, Bibles, other bridges and many other items.

Currently…

Our partnership with Rios de Agua Viva ended recently due to internal problems in that church. We remain fully committed to our Nicaragua ministry and are exploring new partnerships.

To learn more:

Rita Hummel coordinates the Nicaragua Team. Email her at rithum1970@comcast.net for more information.