We truly praise the Lord for the tremendous favor he has given us to allow us the privilege to minister to so many children. It all happens one child a time, because each child is special and needs to be loved as an individual. There is probably no better story to emphasize this point than that of Pepe. When the Children’s Cup team first met Pepe she was six years old. She suffered from such horrible malnutrition and neglect that she was only the size of a three year old. She spent most of her days asking for people’s garbage to rummage for something to eat, and drinking out of little dirty streams of water. She was extremely ill, and cried continuously because of the pain from the infections in her throat and mouth, most likely cause by drinking bad water. Sores covered the rest of her body. She was also extremely sad and withdrawn because of being sexually abused.

Pepe’s mother had recently passed away and her father was on his deathbed dying of AIDS, and she was clearly close to follow as well. Over the next two years the Children’s Cup team ministered the love of Jesus at the point of Pepe’s needs. First meeting her physical needs for food and medical care, then ministering to her emotional and spiritual needs through the Bible Clubs and plenty of personal attention. Several times we thought we would lose her to the sicknesses and health issues she has. But each time, God has healed her. It’s as though He has a special plan for her life that we cannot possibly dream. In fact, we’re convinced of that very truth. Jeremiah 29:11 even tells us that it is true: “I know the plans I have for you… plans to give you hope and a future.”

Pepe is now a very active loving young lady. She told us that when she grows up she would like to be a teacher so she can help other little kids just like her. We are so thankful that Pepe’s story continues to be written, and that we get to be part of what the Author is writing in the pages of her precious life.