A Heart Expanded: Amy’s Trip to Ecuador

This past March, I had the opportunity to go on our church trip to Ecuador with Compassion International to meet my sponsor child, visit the Compassion center our church partners with in Jivino Verde, and see firsthand how sponsorship benefits not just the child but the entire family and community.

I’ve been a sponsor with Compassion for 17 years, and while I’ve always known it’s an amazing ministry, this trip helped me understand the depth of what sponsorship truly is.

Church at the Cross has sent me on several mission trips over the years, but none have impacted me quite like Ecuador. I think that’s largely because of the church in Jivino Verde. The people there are so genuine and welcoming—they reminded me so much of our own congregation.

Their church has a deep desire to care for their community, which is evident through their involvement in the Compassion Survival Program.

The Survival Program is part of select Compassion centers designed to combat global infant and maternal mortality rates. Survival specialists from the church visit moms and babies in their homes, offering prenatal and medical care, access to food and safe water—meeting both physical and spiritual needs.

While we were there, we had the chance to sit with several of the mothers and even visit their homes to hear how this program has changed their lives. Each woman was eager to share how God is using Compassion’s sponsorships and Survival Programs to save lives and further His Kingdom.

I left feeling inspired and grateful to play even a small part in this ministry that so tangibly reflects the love of Christ. God used this trip to remind me that His heart for the world is so much bigger than my own—and that when we step out in obedience, He multiplies our small acts of faith into something far greater than we could ever imagine.

The question is not if you’re called, but to whom and to where you’re called.

Join us for Sending Sunday on November 9 as we unveil our lineup of 2026 trips. After both services, stay for an interest meeting in Annex 2 to learn more about each trip and how you can get involved.