Dr. Fernando Abella (Grace Director of Spanish Bible Program), Pastor Joaquin Yucailla, Leonel Reyes (Grace Ecuador Coordinator)

Joaquin Yucailla, is the pastor of Iglesia Mushuj Jerusalen, an indigenous church in the historic center of Quito, Ecuador, and a student at Grace.   Joaquin (pictured above in the traditional striped poncho worn by pastors) is an incredibly faithful, hard working, loving leader in his community.   Joaquin is a father, husband, pastor and local business owner.  His church warmly welcomed the Grace family this past Sunday and Dr. Fernando Abella delivered the message during the service.  

Joaquin shared the importance of Grace with his congregation and explained that this was the first time a seminary school has paid attention to and invested in their community!  What a blessing it is that Grace is reaching such a unique group of believers.   

We currently have two students from the Mushuj church: Joaquin and another young man named Jorge.  The practical and theological education that they are receiving through the Spiritual Life class with Dr. Abella will be shared with the over 400 indigenous church members, many of whom travel over 3 hours from the country side on Sundays!   

The service was primarily given in Spanish while prayers were given in Qichua (traditional language).    The service lasted around three hours and we were treated with a performance by the children and traditional Quichua dancers.   

The church also honored Dr. Abella and Leonel Reyes (Grace Coordinator) by giving them each a traditional pastoral Poncho – a major privilege in the Qichua church signifying high respect! 

And last bust not least, the entire church shared a meal together at the end of the service  that the women prepared.   It was a beautiful and unique experience to see the Lord’s blessings in this community in Ecuador.  

Please join us in praying for the Iglesia Mushuj Jerusalen and Grace students Joaquin and Jorge.   Specifically please pray that they continue to share the love of Christ, one that cannot be earned and cannot be lost, with the indigenous community in Ecuador.