Irina and her daughter Celeste participated in the activities of the Adventist Church in the town of Picota, located in the Peruvian jungle. However, Irina’s husband disagreed, did not allow them to attend church, and did everything possible to keep them away from the faith.
As time went by, Irina’s youngest daughter, Violeta, gave birth to her baby. Then her family's situation became complicated. Problems arose, and her husband decided to leave home, leaving her alone with her three children. After that difficulty in her life, Irina left the church, but she always kept her faith in God.
Celeste and Violeta participating in the 10 days of prayer. (Photo: Daniel Hanco)
Irina dedicated herself to working to support her family. However, during those years, God always protected her and took care of her children. Irina never thought an invitation to her youngest daughter to attend an Adventist youth event would initiate the great reunion with her home, church, and God.
Violeta was baptized at the "It's coming" youth congress held at the Universidad Peruana Unión, located in Lima, on Sabbath, February 18, 2023. Through this decision of her youngest daughter, Irina and Celeste decided to return to the church after 16 years.
Pastor Daniel Hancco with Violeta, Irina and Celeste. (Photo: Daniel Hanco)
"God, from the beginning, never left us alone. He was always in charge of our lives. My little sister was baptized, my boyfriend will teach at UPeU Tarapoto, and I see God in my life because of the success He has given me. It seems that God is making everything fit together so that we can return to the church," said Celeste, who, together with her mother, made the decision to recommit to Christ on Sabbath, March 4, during the Reencuentro evangelism campaign.
The original version of this story was posted on the South American Division Spanish-language news site.