Irish Rodriguez Ramel

Rancho La Hermosa was the first orphanage I’ve ever stepped into and it was nothing like I expected. Built with beauty and dignity, it had a soccer field, a playground, and space to just be kids. But more than that, it’s a place where the goal is clear: to root these children in the unwavering love of God, believing that His love alone can break generational cycles of poverty, trauma, and abandonment.

We had the privilege of playing games, sharing meals, pulling weeds in the field. Doing small things with great love. The younger ones welcomed us with open arms, while the older ones, maybe too familiar with people who come and go, held back a bit. Still, just to be with them was holy.

My heart didn’t quite know what to feel—grief, awe, hope all swirled together. But I kept thinking of God’s promise in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope.”

I’m deeply thankful to have shared these moments with my church family. Their presence made all the difference; I couldn’t have done it without them.

Even if we were only there for a moment, Jesus is with them for a lifetime. 🤍🥹🙏🏽