2026 Honduras Trip to Building a Church for Barrio Sipile

• Pastor Omar García’s Ministry: For 14 years, Pastor Omar García has led the Barrio Sipile community through faith, guiding generations of young people. His ministry has had a lasting impact, fostering unity and resilience.
• Lack of a Permanent Church: The church has never had a permanent building. They once rented space at La Sangre de Cristo church but have always needed a stable place to gather for worship and community support.
• Loss of Worship Space: The congregation was recently asked to leave their worship space without explanation, leaving them without a dedicated place to meet. This disruption has made it difficult to continue their mission effectively.
• Strong Community Presence: The need for a church extends beyond Barrio Sipile to communities like El Guamilito, Las Crucitas, and La Obrera. A permanent church would serve as a center for worship, support, and outreach for many families in the region.
• Faith and Resilience: Despite these challenges, the congregation remains strong in faith, trusting that God will provide. They continue gathering and serving, believing that with prayer and support, their vision of a permanent church will become reality.
• The Importance of Worship Spaces: Studies show that having a dedicated worship space reduces stress, fosters belonging, and strengthens mental well-being. The American Journal of Psychiatry links proper religious settings to lower anxiety and depression, especially in vulnerable communities.
• Churches as Community Pillars: Churches do more than provide a place for prayer—they o er education, social aid, and crisis support. A Harvard Human Flourishing Program report highlights how churches foster family values, stability, and hope, especially in low-income areas.
• Call to Action: Chosen to Shine is fundraising $30,000 by 9.1.2025 to fund the materials needed to build a permanent church for Barrio Sipile. This space will provide a place for worship, support, and spiritual growth for generations to come. Every donation, no matter the size, helps make this vision a reality. Join us in creating a lasting home for faith and community!

Sipile church build project inquiries:  Contact Lauri Cunningham: [email protected] or 618-978-9700