In El Salvador, Central America, a brutal civil war was fought from 1979 to 1992. It was a time of extreme violence, with death squads, the recruitment of child soldiers, the deliberate terrorizing and targeting of civilians, as well as other violations of human rights. During that time, the young member of a Baptist church called Nelson Juarez, like many young men of his generation, was conscripted into the army. Very soon he found himself witnessing horrific acts. Unable to bear this any longer, he deserted and fled to neighbouring Belize.
In Belize, he gradually drifted away from the Lord. During that period in his life he met a Christian missionary, who led him back to Christ. The missionary then proceeded to disciple Nelson, using SEAN courses – starting with the Abundant Life Course. Nelson’s life changed dramatically. He continued with his studies, dedicated himself to Christian ministry and became a leader and pastor.
When the war finally came to an end, and an amnesty was declared for deserters, Nelson returned to El Salvador and there, planted his first church. He named the church Abundant Life – Baptist Church, after the SEAN course that had been such a blessing to him! This church is thriving and has grown by setting up daughter congregations in other parts of El Salvador and in Belize too. In order to generate more leaders for these new congregations, they have formed a Bible Institute in which SEAN courses play a central role. The Institute is now dedicated to training other churches and denominations in the effective use of SEAN Courses in Central America.
Source: SEAN – Spread magazine
BIBLE STUDY: Nehemiah 8:8-10
THANK: God that SEAN courses are building up church leaders around the world. Pray that the Gospel may permeate Central American society.