I am a single, retired elementary teacher who went to the mission field in answer to God’s call. Having a Master in Education and being a reading specialist did little to prepare me for this incredible journey. I’ve been in Guatemala since July 30, 1999, with the idea that I would be here in ministry for the rest of my life.
After teaching missionary children for two years, I co-founded the James Project of Latin America, according to James 1:27, to help orphans and widows. This project consists of an orphanage (Shadow of His Wings) for boys and girls, a school (Liberty Christian), a weaving program for widows, a clinic, and a transition program for teenagers seventeen years and older. There are presently ninety children with continual growth.
In October 2013, we founders handed over the administration of the Project to a great couple. Since that time, I continue to volunteer at the Project, and I am vice-president of the James Project of Latin America board and the Shadow of His Wings board in the US for the 501C3.
An exciting project I have in the works is writing a book, Living Under the Shadow of His Wings: Finding refuge and hope. The Word says we need to share our testimonies with others and to future generations. “We will tell the next generation the praise worthy deeds of the Lord, his power and the wonders he has done…He commanded our forefathers to teach their children, so the next generation would know them…and they in turn would tell their children” (Psalm 78:4-6, NIV). My desire is to give glory to God, to help people discover hope in their difficult situations, and to point others to a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.
I am currently enrolled in an on-line writing program through the Non-Fiction Writers University, to learn how to write and publish in today’s times. Nina Amir, a fantastic coach and teacher, is guiding me on this exciting path with her huge storehouse of resources.
Retirement to me is being able to wear my pajamas longer in the day. I will retire at night and then wake up to a fresh new day, anticipating what the Lord has planned.
So excited to hear you will be writing a book on your experiences there and to testify to what God is doing in the lives of those who learn of God’s love for them.
I am Heidi Graham Olivares grandma. My husband and I first met you 14 years ago. You are in our prayers.
With our love,
Melba and Glen Beachy
Creston, BC
I do remember you Melba and our meeting while in flight. You were coming to Guatemala for Heidi’s wedding. I greatly appreciate your note and your prayers. It’s always fun to share with people who relate to what you writing about. I know the children of Guatemala have a special place in your heart. Many blessings, Carroll
Beautifully written, Carroll! I’m excited for you and this venture you have taken on and look forward to reading your testimonies. As someone who has seen firsthand the marvelous wonders the Lord has done in our lives and in the development of the Project, I know there are many exciting and inspiring things to tell. Thank you for being willing and for putting in the long hours of work to see this new project through. Surely it will be an inspiration to many to also follow the call of the Lord on our lives. Much love and blessings to you.
Cyndi you are an encourager and I am encouraged! You’ve been a huge blessing in my life in many ways and since we have a common love for these kids, it will be fun to share about their lives and what the Lord has done. You have been a witness to some of the testimonies and have seen God’s hand move in many areas. Your plans too are for the youth and your venture with them will bring blessings and changes into their lives. Thank you for being with me at Shadow over the years through many ups and downs and changes. You will always be Tia Cyndi in the Shadow family.
Carroll, it is so great reading how God laid the orphanage on your heart. I remember when you first shared this with us. We knew God was going to mightily use you as you were obedient. I still know God mightily used you in our school to be a loving, listening teacher for our children in our community. Thank you for sharing in the form of this blog. We will be excited to continue reading. Treasa and Terry
It is so sweet of you to share such kind words. Welcome aboard on this journey. In reality, you have always been on-board with your love, encouragement, support and prayers. You are Terry have been a blessing to me from day one and I’ve always considered you as family.
Love you and miss you, am praying, may our Lord bless you for working with the young people for they will follow us.
Thank you Jean for your continued love and encouragement.You were one of the first people who knew of my plans to come to Guatemala and you have been encouraging me over all of these years. Love you!
Carroll, You are simply amazing! I sure would love to see you again. It’s been a long time. I live in Jordan again, moving here in 2000. You are doing what you love, and I know you are enjoying it so much. I would love to get one of your books when they are published.
Even though my time in Guatemala was very short, I will never forget my time there. Your sweet spirit, kindness to our team and love for the children, Carroll, filled me with a love for your ministry and the children there. I was blessed while at Shadow making curtains for one of the homes, and I continue to be blessed by your heart stirring testimonies of life in Shadow. Thank you so much for opening your heart to us.
I’m glad to hear that your time with us was blessed and in turn, you blessed us with those beautiful curtains. Something that may seem small just brightened everything up. You left your touch upon Shadow Leilani. Come back again.
Hello carrol, have u heard of Becky Dvorak? , she and her husband are full time missionaries in Guatemala head of Vida Ilimitada children’s home and she has written some great books like. The -PROPHETIC AND HEALING POWER OF YOUR WORDS. I think u would enjoy reading it, I am looking forward to your book, love u
I sent you an email Jean. Blessings