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A Honduran Christmas: Family, Food, and Traditions

Christmas in Honduras is more than just decorations, food, and fireworks. It’s about family, love, and reflecting on the blessings we’ve received throughout the year. Whether it’s through a humble painted tree, a plate of homemade tamales, or a warm glass of rompope, these traditions remind us of the joy of being together and the beauty of a culture that values simplicity, creativity, and community.

The Humble Christmas Tree

Ms. Osorio, our Principal, fondly remembers her childhood when her family couldn’t afford fancy Christmas decorations. Like many Honduran households of the time, they would find a dry tree branch, paint it white with lime power and water, and decorate it with lights. It wasn’t about grandeur—it was a simple expression of the joy of Christmas.

Even today, this tradition continues, particularly among families with limited resources. Now, some people even sell these handmade trees, turning them into a symbol of nostalgia and resourcefulness. They remind us of simpler times and provide a joyful alternative in a season often dominated by consumerism.

Torrejas: A Sweet Tradition

One of the most beloved Christmas desserts in Honduras is torrejas. This sweet dish is made from slices of bread fried then soaked in a syrup made with panela (unrefined cane sugar), cinnamon, and cloves,  to golden perfection. Ms. Eduvijes, one of our Jubilee staff members, has a special tradition of making the bread from scratch for her torrejas.

She recalls how she’s been doing this for years for her children, friends, and coworkers. Every Christmas, she shares her torrejas with the Jubilee staff, showing not just her culinary talent but her heart for giving. She reminds us that Christmas is about sharing what we have with love and generosity.
 

Rompope: A Honduran Classic

No Honduran Christmas gathering is complete without rompope, a creamy eggnog-like drink that can be enjoyed with or without alcohol. Ms. Keyla shares a heartwarming story about her family tradition. Every year, her father eagerly awaits her return to their hometown of Villa de San Francisco, just outside Tegucigalpa, so they can share a cold glass of rompope.

Ms. Keyla prepares it with care, and non alcohol, pouring her love for her family into every batch. For her, it’s not just a drink; it’s a way to connect with her loved ones and keep their traditions alive.
 

Tamales: The Flavor of Family

Ask any Honduran, and they’ll tell you their family makes the best tamales. Ms. Thare lights up when she talks about her grandmother’s tamales, which are truly something special. They are made with two types of masa (corn dough)—one seasoned with achiote for its red color and the other white with savory spices. Inside, they’re filled with rice, chicken or pork, chickpeas, raisins, olives, peas, and potatoes, all wrapped in banana leaves.

For Ms. Thare, arriving at her grandmother’s home during Christmas is a feast for the senses. The smell of freshly steamed tamales fills the house, instantly reminding her of family, love, and the joy of the season.
Watch our recent video with the most popular Hondurans traditions. 
 
 

Fireworks and Burning the Old Year

Hondurans also love celebrating with fireworks! On New Year’s Eve, a unique tradition takes center stage: the burning of años viejos. These are life-sized dolls made from old clothes and stuffed with firecrackers, representing the “bad things” from the previous year. At midnight, they are set on fire, symbolizing a fresh start and hope for a better year ahead.

This tradition is celebrated across the country, bringing neighbors together for a moment of shared joy, reflection, and renewal.

Estrenos: New Clothes, New Beginnings

A much-loved Christmas tradition in Honduras is wearing estrenos, or new clothes, to celebrate the season. Children especially look forward to this, as it’s a chance to feel special and start the season fresh. While this custom might seem simple, it’s a beautiful expression of joy and renewal, as families come together to give thanks for the blessings of the year.
 
 
But as beautiful as these traditions are, they are not the true reason for the season. Christmas isn’t about trees, lights, or even the delicious meals we share. It’s about Jesus—His birth, His life, and the salvation He brings. As Christians, we are called to look beyond the festivities and reflect deeply on the meaning of this season. We must remember the greatest gift ever given to humanity: the Son of God, born in a humble manger to bring hope, peace, and redemption to the world.
 

Ms. Osorio and her family have a powerful tradition that embodies this focus on Jesus. On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, just before the clock strikes midnight, her family gathers in prayer. They kneel together, lifting their voices in thanksgiving and worship. They cry out to God, praising Him for His love and for the sacrifice of sending His only Son to save us. It’s a sacred moment of humility and gratitude, a reminder that while the world around us celebrates with noise and lights, the heart of this season is found in quiet reverence before our Savior.

As we approach Christmas and the New Year, let’s take a moment to do the same. Let us kneel before the Lord in prayer, thanking Him for His boundless love and mercy. Let’s ask Him to prepare our hearts not just for the season but for His return. Every day of our lives should reflect the joy and hope of His coming, not just during Christmas but throughout the year.
As we celebrate, may the words of Luke 2:14 echo in our hearts: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” May our prayers and actions honor the One who gave everything for us, and may this season remind us that Jesus is the true light of the world.

 

 
 
 

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Meet Obed and Marjorie – A Journey of Music, Talent, and Sports

This year is a milestone for Jubilee as we celebrate the graduation of our first-ever senior class! Among these pioneers are Obed and Marjorie, two outstanding students whose faith, talent, and leadership shine brightly.

Obed is an exceptional student whose story reflects unwavering faith, academic dedication, and artistic talent. Since enrolling at Jubilee in the 5th grade, he has blossomed into a well-rounded young man, leaving a lasting impression on all who know him.

Faith and Gratitude

Obed often expresses his deep gratitude to God for guiding him every step of the way. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “I am deeply grateful to God for always being by my side and to my teachers for guiding me along the way. I’m also thankful for the gift of playing the guitar and being part of the Jubilee band.”

 

A Talented and Active Participant

One of Obed’s most remarkable qualities is his enthusiasm to get involved. He was a key participant in our Cultural Fair, representing the beautiful municipality of Valle de Ángeles, located in the department of Francisco Morazán. This picturesque town is a must-visit destination—one you can experience firsthand during a Jubilee mission trip!

Obed also stood out during our Bible Month celebrations, portraying a biblical character with poise and passion. His love for Scripture and creativity shined brightly during these events, inspiring those around him.

Musical Excellence

Obed’s musical journey has been nothing short of inspiring. As the lead guitarist in Jubilee’s original song performance, he delivered an unforgettable solo that showcased his immense talent and dedication. His guitar teacher, Jonathan, remarked, “Obed is just steps away from becoming one of the best guitarists in the city.”

You can listen to this original song and witness Obed’s incredible performance here: 


A Journey of Perseverance and Achievement

Though Obed initially faced academic challenges, his determination and the support of his teachers helped him rise to the top. Principal Yeni Osorio shared, “Obed has grown tremendously since joining Jubilee. We are proud to see him graduate and are certain he will go far with God’s guidance.”
 

Big Dreams for the Future

Obed’s dream is to study Civil Engineering at the National Autonomous University of Honduras in Tegucigalpa, the country’s largest and most prestigious university. “I plan to keep studying, enter university, and graduate. I want to try developing new skills and improve the ones I already have,” he shared.

Obed’s journey has been a testament to his faith and perseverance.

Marjorie: A Journey of sports and Leadership

We also had our amazing Senior Marjorie. Marjorie has been part of Jubilee since pre-kindergarten, growing into a confident young woman whose talents and leadership inspire everyone around her. As a skilled bass playersinger, and member of the handball team, Marjorie has shined in every opportunity.
 
 
This year, she proudly represented her community during the Cultural Fair and sang in the choir for Jubilee’s original song. Her coach describes her as a natural leader who reflects her Christian values both on and off the court.
   

Marjorie plans to study Architecture at the National Autonomous University of Honduras, focusing on interior design. She shares, “Jubilee has marked my heart and given me confidence to chase my dreams.”

We are so proud of Marjorie and can’t wait to see how God uses her talents in the future.
 

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Meet Carlos: A Humble leader in Jubilee’s First High School Senior.

Carlos is one of Jubilee’s most outstanding students, a young man we are incredibly proud of, and someone we will miss dearly as he prepares to graduate. Known for his calm and friendly demeanor, Carlos has consistently excelled in both academics and extracurricular activities. His dedication, intelligence, and kindness make him a role model for his peers and an unforgettable part of our community.
 
 
What sets Carlos apart is his incredible talent for acting. As a key member of our theater program, he has brought characters to life with passion and skill. This year, during the 2024 Jubilee Concert, Carlos delivered a memorable performance that left the audience in awe. His commitment to his craft and his ability to connect with others through storytelling have made him one of the best actors in Jubilee.
 
 
But Carlos’s impact goes far beyond the stage. As a member of Jubilee’s first-ever High School senior class, he represents the culmination of years of hard work and faith-filled growth. His teachers often speak of his dedication, leadership, and the joy he brings to the classroom. While we are excited to see him take the next steps in his journey, the thought of Jubilee without Carlos feels bittersweet.
 
 
Carlos dreams of studying Psychology at the National Autonomous University of Honduras, the largest and most prestigious university in the country. He shares how inspired he is to become a professional who not only excels in his field but also serves Christ wholeheartedly. His passion for helping others and his desire to glorify God in his future career speak volumes about his character.
 

Take a moment to watch this video and learn more about Carlos, a remarkable young man whose story has touched all of us. As he prepares to leave Jubilee, we are filled with gratitude for the time we’ve had with him and excitement for the incredible future that awaits.

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In Everything, Give Thanks – A Special Thanksgiving Message 🍁

As we approach the end of 2024, we stand in awe of everything God has done in Jubilee. This year has been filled with blessings, growth, and incredible testimonies of His faithfulness. Let’s take a moment to reflect on these wonders and give glory to the One who makes it all possible.

A New Playground: Laughter and Joy 🛝

One of the most exciting additions this year was the construction of  our brand-new playground. Every piece of the construction remind us the God’s provision. This space is more than just for fun—it’s a place to build friendships and create unforgettable memories.
 

Mission Trips: Learning and Transforming 📚

We were privileged to host mission teams who joined us in sharing God’s love through educational activities. From creative workshops to teacher training, these experiences profoundly impacted our students, enriching their knowledge and drawing them closer to the Lord. Thank you for teaching, learning, and transforming alongside us!
 

Great Things Concert: Worship in Action 🎶

A highlight of the year was our Great Things concert. Our students showcased their God-given talents through dance, music, and drama. From the youngest children to our high school students, every performance was a reflection of God’s work in Jubilee.
 

Growing in Faith 🌱

This year has also been one of spiritual growth. Many of our students accepted Christ, and some even took the step of baptism. Seeing how they, and even their families, are being transformed fills our hearts with joy and hope.
 
 

Christmas Is Here! 🎁

As we close this chapter, we welcome the Christmas season—a time to celebrate the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ. It’s a season of giving, joy, and reflection, and we invite you to join us in sharing His love.
 
 

Ways You Can Celebrate With Us:

  • Pray with us: Lift up our students, teachers, and families as we continue serving.
  • Give a gift: Consider sponsoring a child or supporting our Christmas initiatives.
  • Join us: Plan your educational mission for 2025 and experience Jubilee firsthand!
Thank you for walking this journey with us. We are deeply grateful for your prayers, support, and love. Together, we are changing lives and bringing Christ’s light to Honduras.
 

From our family to yours, may this Christmas be filled with His peace and joy. 🌟

“The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” – Psalm 126:3

Visit us and be a part of what God is doing at Jubilee!


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Great Things The Lord Has Done: Jubilee Concert 2024

This year’s Jubilee concert was a powerful event filled with blessings, unity, and moments of deep faith, but it also brought unexpected challenges that highlighted the strength of our community. We gathered on Saturday, ready for a night of worship and powerful performances, yet as the concert was set to begin, an unforeseen power outage affected the entire area. This delay reminded us that even when plans change, God is always in control. The lights returned after a few hours, but as we were about to start, the electricity failed once more. Despite the obstacles, everyone stayed waiting patiently together.
 
As a community, we decided to lean into faith, embodying “faith as the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). Our faith was put into practice, and we could feel God’s presence as we prayed, trusting that He would make a way. Miraculously, the lights returned once again, and this time they stayed. It was a true answer to prayer, and the event began with the kind of joy and enthusiasm that only God can bring. The evening was filled with worship, dance, and heartfelt performances that left a lasting impact on everyone present.
 

Sunday brought even more blessings, as we hosted two additional sessions of the concert, each filled with messages of hope, redemption, and God’s unfailing love. From the moving reenactments of Christ’s sacrifice to the powerful depiction of Jonah’s journey, each performance touched hearts and reminded us of God’s grace. Witnessing lives transformed and hearts surrendering was a profound experience that showcased the beauty of worship.

This year’s concert was not only a musical event but a testimony of faith prevailing against all odds. We felt God’s hand in every moment, turning challenges into testimonies of His power and love. As we move forward, may we all remember that “if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, nothing will be impossible for you” (Matthew 17:20). Let’s carry this faith into every area of our lives, knowing that with God, every setback can be transformed into a story of victory.
 
Stay tuned for more photos and videos from the concert, and for those who couldn’t join us in person, we invite you to watch the livestream recordings on our YouTube and Facebook pages. We hope these moments of worship and faith will inspire you as much as they inspired us.
 
Do you want to live the full experience? Watch our livestream now. 
 
 
 
 

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Our Students Gear Up for the Big Concert!

As Jubilee’s classes wrapped up, our students have turned their full focus to preparing for our upcoming annual concert. This week is dedicated solely to rehearsal, an opportunity for each child to put their heart, dedication, and talent into every note and every movement. Our concert will be a true celebration of God’s glory, where we hope to share this joyful experience with everyone through our livestream on YouTube and Facebook. We’d love for you to join us, cheer them on, and experience the heartfelt worship of our kids!
 
 
 

Throughout the year, our students have been growing spiritually, and now, they are ready to shine. Their dedication brings to life the essence of Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Every rehearsal, every note sung, and every step taken is a testament to this commitment, teaching them the value of hard work and faithfulness.

As the concert approaches, we’re reminded of 1 Corinthians 15:58, which encourages us to, “stand firm… always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” These words inspire our children to offer their very best, knowing their efforts are valued by God. And as they prepare, we pray they not only perfect their performances but also deepen their understanding that their worship is a beautiful act of faith.
 
 
Seeing our students’ passion and commitment is a blessing, and we know this concert will reflect the joyful work they’ve put into each song and scripture. Join us in celebrating their hard work, tuning into our livestream on both YouTube and Facebook. Let’s gather as a community to witness and support our Jubilee kids in their heart-filled worship and be reminded together of the blessings that come when we put our whole heart into serving the Lord.
 

 
We warmly invite everyone to witness this special event through our full livestream on YouTube and Facebook. This isn’t just a concert—it’s a celebration of faith, hard work, and the power of worship. Join us as we come together in praise, lifting our voices and hearts as one community. We can’t wait to share this unforgettable experience with each of you.

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The Epic Tale of Our First Medieval Fair

In the kingdom of Jubilee, where the young hearts of our secondary students beat with vigor, an extraordinary event took place—the grand Medieval Fair. On this day, the halls of our school were transformed into the ancient castles and villages of the Middle Ages, where knights, princesses, clergy, and peasants roamed once more.
 
It was not only a day of spectacle but of wisdom, as the youngest in our school ventured through the fair, wide-eyed and eager to learn. Through games and merriment, they discovered the customs of medieval life—the battlegrounds where knights defended their honor, the simplicity of the peasants’ toil, and the reverence for faith that guided the clergy. 
 
 
Our students learned not only of medieval food and clothing, but also of the politics and governance that shaped kingdoms, and the values that echoed through castle walls. Every corner of the fair offered a glimpse into a world both foreign and familiar, a reminder that the past informs the present. Sweet treats were won as prizes in these games, reminding us that knowledge is both sweet and rewarding.
 
This grand event marked the final fair of the year, a first of its kind at Jubilee, and it was a triumph. Under the wise and careful planning of Ms. Guadalupe, our esteemed social studies teacher, students from two eras—the modern and the medieval—were brought together. She wove the threads of history and fun into an unforgettable tapestry that will live in the hearts of all who participated.
 
 
Thus concludes the first chapter of our grand Medieval Fair—a day when history came to life and our students stepped into the shoes of knights and maidens, clergymen and commoners. Through games, costumes, and storytelling, we glimpsed a world long past but still alive in lessons of courage, faith, and perseverance. It was a journey that connected two eras, enriching both the minds and hearts of all who participated.
 

If you, too, want to experience the emotion of moments like these, we invite you to join us on a mission trip to Jubilee! It’s a week filled with love, worship, and cultural adventures, where history, faith, and joy come together in powerful ways. Come be part of something truly extraordinary!


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Bible Day at Jubilee: A Joyful Celebration of God’s Word

We know that the Bible is more than just a collection of ancient stories; it’s the living Word of God, offering wisdom, guidance, and inspiration for every believer. To close out our special Bible Month, we hosted an exciting Bible Day celebration filled with heartfelt worship, creative expressions of faith, and deep reflection on the Scriptures that shape our lives. Our students acted out scenes from the lives of iconic Biblical figures, bringing the stories of Noah, David, and Daniel to life. Each performance was a testimony to the impact of these stories on the lives of our students.
 
 
A Day of Festivities and Faith
Our celebration began with joy and excitement as students, teachers, and families came together to honor the Bible. The children participated in various activities, including dances, where they expressed their devotion through movement and joyfully celebrated God’s goodness. One of the highlights of the day was the Biblical character costumes—students dressed up as some of the most beloved figures from Scripture. We saw everything from Moses with his staff to Esther adorned as a queen, each child proudly representing a story from the Bible that had touched their heart.
 

The excitement and energy carried over into the worship time, where the Word of God came alive through songs and scripture recitations. There was a tangible sense of reverence for the Bible, and everyone felt the powerful presence of God as we gathered to reflect on His truth.

The Word in Action: Favorite Bible Verses from Our Students
Throughout the day, several of our students shared their favorite Bible verses, each one representing the unique ways God speaks to us through His Word. Here are a few of the verses that hold special meaning for our children:

  • Mateo shared Proverbs 1:7: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” He loves how it challenges him to grow in faith and knowledge.
  • Kensy chose Philippians 4:13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” This verse gives Kensy confidence and reminds her that no matter the challenges she faces, God’s strength will always carry her through.
  • Briana finds courage in Ezekiel 3:9: “I will make your forehead like the hardest stone, harder than flint. Do not be afraid of them or terrified by them.” Briana draws from this verse when she feels overwhelmed, trusting that God makes her resilient in the face of challenges.
  • Josue spoke of the power of John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Josue is inspired by God’s sovereignty and how His love is so deeply.
  • Maydlin favorite verse is Psalm 23, a passage that brings her peace and comfort. “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing… Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” For Maydlin, this psalm reminds her that God is her protector and guide, providing for her every need and walking with her through life’s trials.
 

 


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New Life in Christ: A Baptism Journey at Jubilee

A few Sundays ago, we had a truly special moment at Jubilee as we witnessed several of our brothers and sisters in Christ take the beautiful step of baptism. It was a day filled with joy, peace, and the overwhelming presence of the Lord. Watching these young people and adults publicly declare their faith in Jesus was a powerful reminder of what it means to follow Him with our whole heart.
Baptism is much more than a simple act. It’s an outward expression of an inward transformation—a declaration that we have died to our old selves and are raised to new life in Christ, just as Romans 6:4 says: “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
 

As each person stepped into the water, you could see the joy in their faces, the peace in their hearts, and the courage it takes to stand before others and say, “I belong to Jesus.” This is the kind of faith that Jesus calls us to—one that acknowledges Him before others, trusting that He will be with us every step of the way (Matthew 10:32).

I had the opportunity to speak with a few of those who were baptized, and their testimonies were moving. Emmilson, a 7th grader, shared that he chose to be baptized because he truly sees himself as a child of God. “During the baptism,” he said, “I felt joy in my heart because I was accepting the Lord as my Savior. I could feel His presence, and afterward, I felt like a better person and more patient. It was a very beautiful experience.” His words remind us of the peace and renewal that baptism brings, as we take on the identity of being God’s children.
 
 
José, a 10th grader, shared how significant this moment was for his relationship with God. “I felt that this was the right step to have communion with Him,” he said. “Now, I feel like a more open person, and I know that God is walking with me.” José’s decision echoes the words of Acts 2:38: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” His baptism was more than just a ritual—it was a step into deeper fellowship with God, a commitment to walk hand in hand with Him.
 
One of the most touching testimonies came from Sister Gaby, who helps in our cafeteria. She shared how for a long time, she didn’t feel ready to be baptized. But recently, she felt God calling her to take this step, not just for herself, but for her daughters. “What pushed me to do it now was my daughters, my testimony, and the inheritance I can leave them. I wanted to feel right with God and with myself,” she said. Leading up to the day, she was nervous, but as soon as the moment came, she felt God’s peace. “Afterward, I felt complete, full of peace and joy in my heart—the kind of peace only God can give,” she shared.
 
 
These stories of faith are a powerful reminder that baptism is not just about us; it’s about the ongoing relationship we have with God. It’s a public declaration that we are His, and we will continue to trust Him in all that we do. Baptism is also a step of obedience, as Jesus instructed in Matthew 28:19, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” It’s a commitment to walk closely with the Lord, knowing that we are never alone.
 

As we reflect on these baptisms, let us be reminded that this is just the beginning. Each person who stepped into the water has begun a deeper journey with God, one that will be filled with growth, challenges, and many more moments of His love and grace. We praise God for these precious lives and pray that many more will follow in their footsteps, experiencing the joy and peace that only He can give.


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Honduras’ Independence: A Spiritual and Cultural Reflection

Today, we celebrated the closing of the “Mes Patrio” here in Honduras, marking 203 years of independence! Hondurans commemorate their independence every year on September 15, and this year was no different—full of joy, history, and tradition.

This morning, the students from 11th grade gave us a beautiful reenactment of our country’s journey to freedom. They depicted how José Cecilio del Valle, the brilliant intellectual and patriot, drafted the declaration of independence. It was a powerful reminder of the courage, vision, and wisdom that shaped our nation back in 1821.
 
 
 
 
The celebration didn’t end with just history lessons. We were treated to vibrant traditional dances like El Barreño, showcasing our rich cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations. The rhythms, colors, and movements filled us with pride. Our talented students from the martial band also delivered a special performance, filling the air with the sounds of national unity and joy. Their music and precision reminded us that our struggle for freedom continues—but now, it’s a spiritual battle.
 
 
As the Scriptures remind us:
“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world” (Ephesians 6:12). Our battle today is not against foreign nations, but against the forces of sin and darkness that seek to enslave our hearts and minds. We fight every day through prayer, standing on the frontlines to protect not only ourselves but also our children from the grips of sin.
 

So we ask you, dear brothers and sisters, to continue to lift us up in your prayers. We long for more than just political freedom—we desire the true freedom that only Jesus Christ can offer. As Galatians 5:1 reminds us: “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
 

Let’s stay united in this spiritual fight, constantly encouraging and praying for one another. We deeply appreciate your continued support and prayers for our country as we strive not only to celebrate our independence but to walk in the true freedom that comes from the Lord. May Honduras be a nation that honors God and experiences the freedom that Christ gives.


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