Sermon + Small Group Series: Walk This Way
Featured
Partner Highlight: Paths of Hope
Walking with Peru’s Youth Toward Healing & Hope
This month we’re honored to highlight Billy Greenman and his family, serving faithfully in Peru through Paths of Hope. Many at Ward will remember Billy—he grew up here, and now, 16 years later, continues living out his faith by walking alongside vulnerable youth who have grown up in residential homes.
Paths of Hope’s mission is simple and powerful: to help teens and young adults build healthy relationships, experience healing, and step confidently into adulthood.
Growing Relationships & Expanding Mentoring
This year, Paths of Hope focused on expanding mentor–mentee relationships. While they launched four new pairs, two more will begin soon through a partnership with Buckner Peru. These mentors walk with young women who are navigating life after leaving residential homes—work, studies, friendships, and independence.
They also trained mentors, caregivers, and church partners through Trauma Competent Caregiving courses, strengthening the network of support for youth across Peru. And a new mentoring initiative in Cusco, modeled after Caminando Juntos, now has six mentors walking faithfully with boys at the Girasoles home.
Small Moments of Joy & Big Reminders of God’s Faithfulness
One of the most meaningful moments this year was a “Thanksgiving celebration” the team hosted for teens at the Puericultorio Pérez Araníbar home. Many had never ordered from a menu before. Their excitement was contagious.
Around the table, mentors led conversations about gratitude and God’s faithfulness—simple, sacred moments that reminded everyone that transformation often begins with shared meals and trusted relationships.
A Vision Trip That Opened Eyes & Hearts
Earlier this month, Paths of Hope hosted its first-ever Vision Trip, inviting several from Ward—Eric and Sheri Sholander and Sue Hanstad—to join the Paths of Hope Board in Peru. Over four days, they visited children’s homes, met mentors, and learned about the realities of caring for youth with deep trauma.
One morning stood out: mentors sharing honestly about the weight they carry and the hope that keeps them going. It was a powerful reminder that mentoring is more than a program—it’s a ministry of presence and compassion.
Looking Ahead
The coming year includes several exciting goals:
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Recruiting and training new mentors
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Strengthening church partnerships
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Preparing for the Peru por los Niños Summit in May 2026
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Continuing to equip caregivers, staff, and foster families
Family Updates & Prayer Requests
The Greenman family is grateful for their long-term community in Peru and for the many churches—like Ward—who support them. Their son finishes 3rd grade soon and looks forward to summer break. Please pray for:
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A strong finish to his school year
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A restful summer before starting 4th grade
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Renewed strength and encouragement for the year ahead
