Andrew Chapel’s UMW donated funds to missionaries via the Prayer and Self Denial Program. Here’s a response they received from one of the missionaries:

“Peace and hope to you.

It is always great to hear from UMW sisters. Thank you for your prayers and support; they are very much appreciated. We, regional missionaries, can only do what we do because of incredible people like you and the sisterhood of United Methodist Women. Thank you!

For sure, COVID-19 has impacted our lives for the long run. Unfortunately, Latin America is suffering a lot with the presence of the virus in the region. Most of our countries have been either in quarantine or lockdown since the end of March. Some places are just now starting to open up with a lot of restrictions, while others are seeing things get out of control. In the midst of it all, women and children are the ones suffering the most.

Due the current situation, our programs and events are all on hold; nonetheless, women are still in mission. From their homes, the women have been finding ways to be together, to pray for one another, to support one another. Thank God for technology. And it has been an empowering experience to be part of this movement. The women from Peru have been inviting all of us to share our lunch with someone who does not have any; the women from Ecuador have been sharing some of their own crops with other women; and the women from Brazil have been sharing resources to fight domestic violence. Women have been using their creativity to promote life, and they have been doing in powerful ways.

All the best to you as we try to learn how to live in this new reality. Big virtual hug to you and all the women from ACUMC.

Many blessings,

Rev. Andrea Reily
United Methodist Women
Regional Missionary in Latin America”