November 20, 2006
Randy and Joy Newburn, Alliance missionaries and directors of Awana Clubs of Ecuador, have seen God work in the lives of countless children across the country. About 50,000 youngsters attended a recent Billy Graham children’s crusade in Quito. Of those, 10,000 made professions of faith. “It’s hard to explain the excitement of seeing a sports stadium filled with children and then watching the seats empty as thousands of kids made their way to the field to [receive Christ],” said the Newburns.
Even though she cannot participate in any games at Awana meetings, a four-year-old handicapped girl attends faithfully. “She has little muscle control and difficulty forming words,” Randy said. Yet when asked to share Bible verses, the child recited each one. She insists that her father, an unbeliever, help her with memorizing Scripture. “Her parents are greatly encouraged with her development through Awana,” said Joy.
Recently, the Newburns began an Awana club in one of the largest men’s prisons in Ecuador. Many children of prisoners spend weekends in jail with their fathers. Since the young people have little to do, they are drawn to criminal activities. Prisoners who have become Christians are leading the club. Thirty-five children attended the first meeting.
The Newburns are grateful to Alliance family members for their prayer and financial support. “Your ministry to us makes these stories possible,” they said.