By Josh Mitchell
Church Partnership Director
There’s something powerful about seeing lives rooted in hope and righteousness. Scripture tells us, “When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices” (Proverbs 11:10). The flourishing of God’s people isn’t just for their own benefit; it brings joy to communities, restoration to broken places, and hope to those in need.
At World Orphans, we believe this is exactly what the church is called to embody. Our mission is to equip, inspire, and mobilize the church to care for orphans and vulnerable families. That mission includes the next generation. We believe the church has a vital role to play in helping the next generation discover their God-given identity and purpose so they can begin to make a real difference in their families and communities.
As Romans 15:13 reminds us, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” That vision–God’s people abounding in hope–shapes how we serve globally and how we think about raising up the next generation here in the United States.
One place where this is happening in beautiful ways is Guatemala, through the ministry of Pastor Antonio–something I’ve been able to witness firsthand.
In addition to shepherding his church and overseeing the Home Based Care program that serves vulnerable families, Pastor Antonio leads a woodworking workshop for young men from some of Guatemala City’s most at-risk neighborhoods. What motivated him to begin this effort was deeply personal. “My father was a carpenter,” Pastor Antonio shared. “I’ve always considered it more of an art than just a trade. In this season, I have seen it as a good opportunity to teach young people, either so they can dedicate themselves to woodworking or have it as a hobby.”
But the workshop has always been about more than skills. Pastor Antonio desired to create a space where young men could not only learn craftsmanship, but also encounter the transforming love of Jesus. “Trades and professions by themselves prepare us to perform tasks,” he said. “But they do not keep us away from bad habits. Christian principles and values make us more responsible, honest, and sincere people.”
His mentorship is leaving a lasting impact and is shaping a future where these young men can become leaders in their own homes and communities. Pastor Antonio explained, “There is now a sincere friendship among them, and they care for one another. When, for any reason, someone doesn’t bring food, the others share with him.”
One young man had entered the woodworking class wearing clothing associated with local gangs, but over time, he stopped identifying himself this way. Another young man came with an open rejection of authority, but now he has become one of the most collaborative young men in the class. These transformations point to something far deeper than just woodworking–they reveal the God of Hope at work, shaping lives from the inside out.
“My faith guides me to try to do what I do as unto God and not merely for the youth,” Pastor Antonio explained. “In this way, I teach them that they too must do everything as for the Lord and not for man.”
Testimonies like Pastor Antonio’s remind us that when the church invests in families and the next generation, entire communities can flourish. His story is just one example, but it reflects the heartbeat of what God is doing across the global church.
So the invitation is before us: to disciple and equip the next generation. To step in as mentors, encouragers, and spiritual guides who will walk with young people through their struggles and their victories. To create spaces where they can be seen, known, and become rooted in Christ, as their God-given gifts are recognized and nurtured. And to trust that by the power of the Holy Spirit, they will carry hope into their families, communities, and the world.