Family Ministry in Los Molinos

As I look back over the last year at one of my ministries here in Cochabamba, I am filled with gratitude for the fruits that have come from Franciscan virtues such as prayer, solidarity, and accompaniment. Family ministry in Los Molinos has flourished from a weekly evening Bible study group to involving numerous families in the ministries of group gardening, baking courses, couples meetings, and courses to obtain various sacraments. We are expanding our efforts to support the local preschool children and families in need of transportation and meals as well.

The local Sisters of the Thirsty Christ have been the neighborhood’s foundation for our growing ministry. It is at their home where we hold meetings, sacrament classes, gardening, and baking lessons. Sister Faviola has been the glue to growing relationships and trust within this 30 or so family floral farming community.

Padre Greg McPhee of Maryknoll Missioners has put together a team that includes two psychologists, Mabel and Rossemary along with myself. We organize family home visits for prayer, rosary intentions, and open discussions about the family unit which uncovers various issues with which to focus our attention. One of which was to hold separate meetings with couples who struggle to support the family needs. Our focus is to bring them closer to Christ through confession, forgiveness and the pursuit of the sacraments. Holy Catholic matrimony and pre-Cana courses are even being considered by a few couples in the community. We have been able to renovate the local chapel and hold special masses and prayer nights that support the community needs and cultural celebrations. 

In review, we are so grateful that God has led our hearts to supporting the Los Molinos community, where the Holy Spirit is touching these loving people and families to flourish via family ministry in a growing Catholic faith.

Question for Reflection: What communities can you join to accompany family ministry?