We were so excited to welcome 11 foreigners and 24 Nicaraguan partners to celebrate an International Encounter. After a few years of not being able to see each other face to face, it was a beautiful time of reconnecting.

Our program consisted of Biblical reflections, presentations from our Executive Director, Emily, and staff member, Evenor, providing updates on CEPAD’s work over the past few years. Damaris Albuquerque, former CEPAD Executive Director, shared the history of CEPAD through a timeline. Each partnership then created their own timelines. We shared in activities to foster connection and creativity and dream together of ways we can improve the international communication.

At the end of our time together, we painted our handprints on the new perimeter wall around CEPAD’s office. While the wall is still in construction, we were able to make our mark as a symbol of working together. We hope that over the years, we are able to fill up more sections of this new wall with the handprints of those who have partnered with CEPAD.

After the official event in Managua, partners had the opportunity to visit the Nicaraguan communities they partner with. It was an exciting week to be together and share fellowship with one another again.

We are so thankful for everyone who attended and for those that supported their Nicaraguan partners to attend!