Four lay people from Pasco and Walla Walla, Wash., marked a wonderful adventure on Dec. 1. It was a day that many had worked for, looked forward to and supported. Dick and Marilyn Coughren, with a complete mobile dental unit, rolled out of their driveway with James and Lavonne Bechtel close behind promising the indigenous people of Guatemala a bright future.
Restorative work, especially for the children, was the goal where the only option, up until now, has been to pull teeth. The couples traveled more than two weeks and 4,000 miles as the first leg of the dream for the board and members of God’s Helping Hands ministry came to fruition.
Inspired by the words of Ellen White that all who engage in ministry are "God’s helping hands," 475 acres at the edge of the Guatemalan jungle were purchased, thanks to many generous donations. This launched the dream of building a medical/dental clinic, nursing school and evangelistic center. The property boasts two beautiful rivers that flow year-round. The pastor/contractor and his family live in a house built within the last year. In addition, several groups have already helped almost complete the shop that will house the needed equipment and dental van. Two more groups from Milo Adventist Academy and Walla Walla College arrived in March to start work on a four-plex and provide medical/dental care.
God’s Helping Hands Inc. is a non-profit organization whose goal is to link human hands with God’s to show His love to our neighbors. Could these be your hands?
You can help. Volunteer your time, supplies, service and, most of all, your prayers. The Guatemala project needs you! Visit us at www.godshelpinghands.com to see what God can do with your hands.
The God's Helping Hands Inc. leadership team includes (from left): Marilyn Coughren, president; Tammy Stewart, secretary; Dan Stewart, member; Jeff Schroeder, board member; and Dick Coughren, vice chairman. Not shown: Robert Rasmussen, board chair; and James Bechtel, board member.
