An eager group of 8th graders from Ignite Academy set out on a short-term mission trip to the Dominican Republic to meet our ministry partners, Pastor Kendar and his wife Hozanna. The kids were stepping into a new culture with open hearts and a willingness to serve guided by leaders, who share their own stories of faith and purpose. The students quickly found themselves immersed in meaningful connection and joyful service. They spent two mornings serving at CECCAI. Playing with the students, singing songs, dancing—an unmistakable sense of love all around. Despite language differences, joy became a common language, and bonds formed quickly between the students and the children they served. Day 1 they heard testimony from Hozanna, who shared about the school and the very real struggles they face—both financially and personally. It was a powerful moment, witnessing her deep desire to serve her community despite the challenges. Her honesty and faith left a lasting impression on everyone. The following afternoon, they heard from Pastor Kendar, whose personal testimony was equally impactful. He spoke openly about his past as a troubled kid, someone who once brought fear to his community. Now, he serves as a pastor, pouring into the lives of kids just like he used to be. His story of transformation and redemption are nothing short of a miracle as he now serves as the “Patros” in a community like the one he once terrorized. Pastor Kendar then took the team to a nearby neighborhood marked by extreme poverty. As they walked the streets, they prayed over people whenever the opportunity arose, offering encouragement and hope in meaningful ways. They also got to experience a “sky ride”, part of the public transit system, that gave a bird’s-eye view of the same community—a striking contrast that helped give a unique picture of the complexity of life there.
The ground has been broken and the new construction has begun! Last month the first bricks were laid for the classroom expansion at CECCAI. This project marks a very important step in continuing to offer a safer, more comfortable, and opportunity-filled educational space for the children at CECCAI. Pastor Kendar and his wife Hozanna have committed their lives to seeing this community transformed and they are doing it through love and education. Some of our staff visited CECCAI recently to see all that God is doing in and through this ministry. They are so very grateful for every donation, prayer, gesture, and word of encouragement and it is an honor to partner with them in the fight for the fatherless!
Earlier this summer, three of our team members had the privilege of traveling to the Dominican Republic to visit our ministry partners. One of the highlights of our trip was celebrating the end of the school year with Pastor Kendar, Hozanna, their staff, and students at CECCAI. We witnessed firsthand the power of education, love, and hope in the lives of their students and their families. A major focus of the trip was speaking at conferences at Pastor Kendar's church on biblical masculinity and marriage. We had the opportunity to speak to both men and couples about God’s design for manhood, leadership, and covenant relationships. The response was humbling — many expressed a renewed commitment to living out these biblical principles in their homes and churches. The meetings were rich with conversation about biblical masculinity, shared experiences, and shared vision for strengthening the families and communities. It was inspiring to hear their heart and to encourage one another in our shared mission to end fatherlessness. This trip reminded us that the gospel transcends borders and cultures, and that God is moving powerfully in the Dominican Republic. We returned home grateful, encouraged, and excited to continue partnering with CECCAI and witness what God is doing there.
CECCAI Graduation 2024 - Awarding of Certificates. A day full of emotions and thankfulness! Our meritorious students demonstrated that it doesn't matter what adversity and limits are presented to them. Our students exceed in academic excellence, good behavior, and highest grades. Grateful to Our Lord Jesus for once again providing everything necessary to make our party and graduation possible. Your prayer and contribution is what God used to bless our children, thank you very much from all our heart, the CECCAI family thanks you. To our partners/supporters, in recognition of your valuable support, which has significantly improved the lives of the children of our foundation. Thanks to your generous contribution, we can continue our mission to provide a better future for every family. God bless you and your family always! We recognize deserving parents for having been excellent, responsible, and striving both in the schooling of their son/daughter, committed and dedicated with Gethsemani Baptist Church and the CECCAI Foundation.