Dear Anna:

Please accept a hug [cultural expression] and a very special greeting in the love of our Lord Jesus Christ.

To the conclusion of the time that you were sharing with us in the Dominican Republic, I want to personally express how grateful I am to the Lord for allowing us to get to know you, to share with you, and, above all, to see up close your heart and your willingness to serve Him.

During those weeks, we were able to appreciate your vocation, your gifts, and that genuine desire to put them at the service of God and others. It has been a great joy to see how you’ve integrated with us and to learn a little more about what the Lord has placed in your heart.

That is why I want you to know that we have a genuine longing and high hopes that you can return to our country as soon as possible, as the Lord opens the doors, provides what is necessary, and makes it possible. We would be very happy to have you back among us and to see you developing here the calling and gifts that God has given you.

In fact, based on the conversations we’ve had and what we’ve observed during your stay, I see several very specific areas where I believe you could serve and be a great blessing.

First, at the Hogar Betesda Foundation (Orphanage), collaborating with the care and well-being of our children, both spiritually and physically.

You could also join us in the community service projects we carry out quite frequently, through which we have the opportunity to serve many people and families.

Another very special area would be discipling our youth and teenagers—walking alongside them, listening to them, teaching them, and helping them grow in their relationship with Christ.

Likewise, I see a wonderful opportunity for service in the Sunday School and evangelism ministry, supporting Biblical teaching in the various churches and communities where we’re working, including Iglesia Bautista De La Gracias in Pica piedra, Autovía, and our church, as well as collaborating in personal evangelism related to the new church we’re seeking to establish in Bayahibe.

Anna, there are many possibilities for service, but above all, our desire is that it will be the Lord who guides every step. We don’t want to get ahead of His plans, but rather to walk as He opens doors and confirms His will for your life.

I want you to know that we will be praying for you, that God may give you clarity, confirm His purpose, provide everything you need, and prepare the way. We eagerly and joyfully look forward to your return to the Dominican Republic soon, if the Lord permits it.

I’d also like to ask you to extend my warmest regards to your parents and to all your family. Likewise, please convey my greetings and gratitude to the pastors of your church. We deeply appreciate those who have accompanied your spiritual growth and have been part of shaping that servant’s heart we’ve come to know during this time.

Anna, it has been a blessing to have you among us. May the Lord keep you, strengthen you, and continue to guide your life. We hope, if He so wills, to welcome you back very soon and continue serving together for His glory.

With much affection in Christ,

Ramon Castro

Pastor of La Romana Baptist Church

Dominican Republic