Matilde Santillan is an indigenous woman from the community of Cuaraburo-Otavalo who has been an active participant in the Pan de Vida project for several years. Her faith and dedication have led her to be a true example of service and commitment. In her home, she has implemented an ideal life farm. Although Matilde attends church only with her daughter, her husband and her other son do not participate regularly, but they have found in the community development devotionals a space where they come to listen to the word of God. Through these teachings, God has used the tool of community development, provided by Pan de Vida, to transform not only their lives but also that of the entire community.
Matilde has witnessed the spiritual growth that her community has experienced, especially in the area of prayer. In the past, people used to say that they did not pray for anything, but now, in every meeting or activity, they pray to give thanks for what they have and ask for strength for what is to come. This change has been achieved thanks to the teachings they have received on how to pray, which has deeply edified their lives, bringing them closer to God and strengthening the bonds between them.
Matilde herself, although she sometimes feels fatigued and sick, has found comfort and strength in the prayers and teachings of the community development program. Through the prayers that go up for her, she feels surrounded by love and support. For her, being part of this project has not only been an opportunity for personal growth but also a constant reminder that God always sustains her. The mutual support and teachings she received strengthened her, allowing her to overcome her moments of difficulty.
Through this process, Matilde has seen how community development and faith in God are powerful tools for can transform lives. The work of the Pan de Vida, guided by Christian principles, has been key to bringing this change to her community, showing that love and faith in God are the basis for true spiritual growth.
