Pray for Every Nation: Bolivia

This series is based on the Radical Experiment by David Platt. You can find more information about my decision to join here. If you would like to participate, please let me know with a comment or email and feel free to grab the button on my sidebar. I hope this journey will enrich your prayer life as much as it does mine!

Today, I want to share an article with you from Samaritan's Purse about Bolivia:

In Villa Chocorosi, there were no bathrooms; no showers; no sinks or faucets. Most of the water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning came from the river, which was also used as a toilet, or dirty unfiltered wells.

The lack of clean water and hygiene led to the spread of deadly water-borne illnesses in the region, contributing to chronic malnutrition in infants. In addition, trips to the nearest water sources are hazardous. Parents typically send their children to fetch water from the wells, and sometimes the children are hurt while trying to pull up the water.

Samaritan's Purse staff in Bolivia became aware of the needs in Villa Chocorosi and began implementing clean water projects in the village last fall.

They drilled a deep-water well and installed a motor pump so that hundreds of people could have clean water and sanitation facilities in their own homes and at the local school. Now they can easily drink a glass of safe, clean water, shower, and use bathrooms.

Samaritan's Purse health workers continue to teach proper hand washing and hygiene practices in the community, and the lessons have been integrated into the school's curriculum. In turn, the children are bringing this lifesaving information home to their families.

The number of water-borne illnesses in Villa Chocorosi has dramatically decreased. But the rewards go beyond just health. The project has also allowed Samaritan's Purse to earn the villager's trust, enabling their staff to share the Gospel.

Currently, 20 people participate in a discipleship group led by the Samaritan's Purse team. Eight of them have come to know Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.

By meeting the physical need for clean water, doors are now open for future projects and opportunities to meet the spiritual needs that only Jesus can satisfy.

~From March/April 2011 print edition of Prayer Point

Prayer Requests:  

• The village will continue to have improved health as they drink clean water and practice safe hygiene.
• For the staff of Samaritan's Purse, as they educate, evangelize, and disciple in Villa Chocorosi.
• That the people of Bolivia will run to the living water of Jesus for their hope and satisfaction.