The Connection — A Magazine by Connect Global — Issue 12

ISSUE12

THE

A MAGAZINE BY CONNECT GLOBAL

We are so honored to be celebrating our 12th Anniversary

The P's of Pioneering and innovative efforts for building a future yet unseen

Words have the power to shape our future, safeguard our relationships, and serve others

A Vision for a World Filled with Generosity, Kindness, and Service to Others

THE

A MAGAZINE BY CONNECT GLOBAL

CONTENTS 11

PERPETUAL PIONEERING 6 el ements whi ch exi st al ong the path of pi oneeri ng

15

PARTNERSHIP IS OUR SUPERPOWER Harnessi ng the Benefi ts of Col l aborati on and Worki ng Together

17

THE POWER OF OUR WORDS Words have the power to shape our future,

15

BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE A monthl y seri es shared vi a YouVersi on and the Bi bl e app on Anxi ety.

LAST WORD

18

Fl ori da i s on our heart and i n our prayers.

COVER PHOTO: Javier, Danielle, and our team hosting the Revival Temple Church Missions group in 2023 BACK COVER PHOTO: Missionary and friend who serves in Africa. (name and location omitted for security reasons.)

Editor in Chief Javier Mendoza

Contact PO BOX 47381 Tampa FL 33646

Writers, Contributors, and Editors Danielle Mendoza

(214) 725-4352 Email: hello@connectglobal.org Website www.connectglobal.org

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Embracing a Life of Purpose through our own Liberation

Sharing in the Anointing As followers of Christ, we are called to be carriers of freedom.

Together, with Christ, we share

In a world where freedoms and liberties are constantly debated, contested, and nullified it’s important to delve into a different kind of freedom — the one that Christ offers. It is a freedom that transcends the limitations imposed by man, law, or nation. Rather than following a rigid set of rules, or aligning with simple regulations — this freedom is promised and received through a personal relationship with Jesus.

Let’s explore the profound liberation found in Christ and the transformative power it holds.

free. No longer are we trapped by our past; we possess the freedom to shape a new future.

This freedom extends to areas such as harm, abuse, addiction, harmful thoughts, patterns of sin, anxiety, depression, crises, and trauma. Pastor Stephanie Parker, Associate Pastor at Morning Star Church once wisely articulated, “It’s one thing

The Truth That Sets Us Free Drawing inspiration from John 8:31–36, we encounter a group of skeptics questioning Jesus’ claim of providing freedom. These individuals, largely Pharisees and descendants of Abraham, were seeking evidence to try and deny Christ’s identity. In a similar manner, our present society challenges our freedoms, identity, and even our Creator. However, Jesus unequivocally declares, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” It is through embracing His teachings that we discover genuine freedom.

to be rescued from our sin, it’s altogether another thing to walk as someone who is set free.”

Living as a New Creation In this celebratory season, marked by fireworks and proclamations of freedom, followers of Christ should resound with even greater joy and gratitude. Having received salvation and freedom from the past, we are now new creations

The Necessity for Freedom Having established our need for Jesus and recognizing the sins and falsehoods that bind us, we must also understand the purpose behind this freedom. In Isaiah 61:1–3, the prophet Isaiah speaks prophetically about Jesus, who would come to ‘heal the brokenhearted, proclaim freedom for captives, and release prisoners from darkness’. By embracing Christ’s freedom, we are not only liberated ourselves but we are also equipped to extend this freedom to others.

in the anointing to set people

in Him. This transformative experience calls for a change in language, conversations, behaviors, and an invitation for others to embrace this new life.

We no longer need to carry the burdens of our past; we have been liberated to live the life of freedom God has destined for us.

THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE |

2023

Letting Go and Embracing Freedom It is time to let our cheers and celebrations of freedom resound. We are to release the chains, drop the baggage, and let go of the weights that hold us back. Choosing to embrace the freedom Christ has given us, we step into a life of purpose and liberation. Some of the things weighing us down aren’t holding us — in fact we are just continuing to hold onto them.

It is vital to live in the freedom that Christ bestows upon us. It is a freedom rooted in truth, forgiveness, and redemption. As followers of Jesus, we are called to embody this freedom, sharing it with others and living a life unencumbered by the chains of the past.

Let us embrace the freedom that Christ offers and step into the abundant life He has called us to live.

ANNIVERSARY FEATURE

Connect Global is a group of compassionate individuals, business owners, churches, and market place leaders who provide access to sustainable solutions addressing poverty, food scarcity, lack of education, and maternal & infant mortality.

We Lead Change

We Build Hope

We Sponsor Success

Everything we do starts with learning.

Sustainable projects produce results to

We sponsor motivated, successful

We learn as much as we can about a

meet a tangible need with resources left

Pastors, Missionaries, Students, & many

problem or a need and then we learn

over to produce a new project without

others in their pursuit of duplicatable

what the root cause is, how it has been

ongoing, outside support. Our current

global impact. It takes many different

tackled before, and how can we make it

projects are based around Aquaponics, a

minds, hearts, and motivations to make

better. We learn where we can create or

sustainable food-producing system,

a lasting difference in this world. We love

help promote a sustainable, life-

Supporting International Business

seeing Good happen and invite others to

improving project and we get busy. Each

Leaders, Investing in Education and

Give, Serve, and Volunteer With Us as we

initiative starts with tangible needs and

Educators, Partnering with organizations

Sponsor Success around the world.

moves towards a track record of ongoing

centered around Health and well-being,

success and evident momentum for the

and other causes that sustain life.

next generation.

THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE

Founders

Javier & Danielle Mendoza Together, Javier & Danielle Mendoza, have been leading mission trips since 2004 and upon it’s founding in 2011 have been instrumental in building Connect Global, a worldwide organization built on providing sustainable solutions to solvable problems like poverty, hunger, lack of education, and lack of clean drinking water.

In addition to bringing awareness to issues like Human Trafficking and Domestic Violence, Javier and Danielle are committed to sharing the Love of Jesus in practical ways around the world. They do this through public speaking, teaching, and through hosting various mission trips and outreach efforts which have included Haiti, Jamaica, Honduras, Colombia, Thailand, Mexico, Louisiana, Florida, South Dakota, and Texas.

Javier and Danielle Mendoza are both licensed and ordained ministers. Their ministerial associations, credentials and memberships are held and recognized by MAJC, The Fellowship Network, and LINC. Javier has the privilege of working alongside family and close friends creating, tailoring and communicating the story of the organization while honing the global vision.

Javier has received Advanced Training in Leadership through the National Institute of Christian Leadership with Dr. Mark Rutland, and is a Certified Trainer in Missions through Go To Nations with Dr. Jerry Williamson.

Danielle is also a Certified Trainer in Missions through Go To Nations. Her current focus is on developing long lasting community partnerships, organizational fundraising efforts, and implementing new strategies all which help fuel the success of her charitable work through Connect Global. Danielle and Javier have one daughter, Saige, who is 12 and completed her first international service trip at the age of 4 to Thailand.

Along with their daughter Saige, the Mendoza Family has called La Ceiba, Honduras home twice since January 2015. They lived and worked in country establishing the programs and partnerships that are still growing and thriving today.

JULY | 2023

Board Members

Kevin & Shekinah Schwartz Pastors of The Church at Asheville in beautiful Asheville, North Carolina.

Shekinah was called to preach at a young age and now serves as Lead Pastor.

Kevin received a call to serve in Missions at a young age and now serves as Church Administrator and Missions Director.

Shekinah moved from Louisiana and Kevin from Indiana to find each other and their combined ministry in the mountains of Western North Carolina.

Their church's mission has been to love people into a relationship with Jesus. This love is vibrant and obvious in their wonderful church family.

Along with pastoring both have felt called in areas outside the immediate church family. This call is to community in Western North Carolina and to unifying the Body of Christ from ministry to ministry and church to church..

"We are ONE Body and we desire to see the Body come together as one.

We also have a call to foreign missions and serve with partner organizations in several countries.

One of our dearest relationships / friendships is with the Connect Global family and Javier, Danielle, and Saige in particular.

We love the work of God that is taking place in Honduras, whether assisting school children, new-borns, young mothers, orphans, firemen, policemen, the Honduran Body of Christ . . . you name it.

There is so much God is doing in Honduras! We are especially excited about the new Missions Program that is training Hondurans for the mission field outside of Honduras. And of course, we love Jorge and Janeth Amador, who lead the Connect Global team in Honduras!

We have gained so many friendships from our interaction with Connect Global that bless us and inspire us to live more fully for Christ!

Connect Global is about building relationships and completing the Great Commission. That is certainly our heart as well. We were blessed to serve as board members of Connect Global"

Board Members

Jason & BonnieRuth Rolf Jason and BonnieRuth Rolf have been serving in ministry together since 2001. They have been married for 21 years and have a dog named Zoe. Together they have served as College/Young Adults and youth pastors in Grandville Mi. They moved to Texas in 2006 where they have served as Live Productions Associate Directors, Marriage and Family Pastors, Care Pastors and Lead Pastors. Together Jason and BonnieRuth have a heart to see people discover how to hear God for themselves, know His word and to know that every story matters.

Jason and BonnieRuth have a podcast called Barren Not Broken where they share their journey of 20 + years of infertility, miscarriage and Childlessness not by choice.

While also encouraging others they can have hope in the midst of what seems like darkness, they desire to come alongside couples who are facing this trauma to encourage and equip them to have strong, healthy marriages in spite of the deep pain this journey can inflict.

The Rolf's have just recently purchased 48 acres of land in North Texas in a town called Bonham where they are breaking ground on a retreat center for couples who face Infertility, childlessness not by choice and child loss.

They want these couples to have a place to process the hard decisions, to restore and rejuvenate. As well the property will be offered to Pastors and their families who are needing to rest and refresh. The retreat center will be called "Legacy Place." They could not be more excited for the days ahead and the legacy that will be discovered and built.

"We have been in partnership through prayer and support with Connect Global for the last 4 years. In 2022 we had the honor of being asked to join the Board of Directors. We wholeheartedly believe in the vision and mission of this organization. It has been an honor to serve with such incredible leaders who work tirelessly to express the love of Jesus and meet needs. The Mendozas are faithful and generous leaders who empower those around them to look and love more like Jesus. We are excited to continue partnering with this team to see lives and legacies strengthened and changed"

JULY | 2023

Program Directors

Professor Maria Merlot Maria De Jesús Merlo Romero is someone who clearly cares for the future of her nation. She has invested her time, leadership, and expertise into education for over 10 years.

On March 24, 2021 Danielle Mendoza had the honor of promoting Maria to the position of Superintendent of Las Huellas Del Maestro Educational Institute.

Janeth Montoya Janeth is an amazing blessing to us personally and she has been an integral part of our Maternity Home success. In 2020, Danielle Mendoza recognized that the abilities and talents that Janeth held would be exactly what we needed in a director of the Maternity Home and we made the choice to appoint her to the Director position.

Jorge Amador We met Jorge in 2004. He has long been an amazing friend and partner. He has been such a blessing to each of our teams and in 2017 we made the decison to promote him to National Director. He has led our teams well and continues to help oversee our work and make an impact in his community everyday.

International Ministry Partners

Pastors Nahun & Edenia Flores Nahun and His family were our very first hosts in the nation of Honduras in 2004. They have a special heart for missions and for seeing the Great Commission be completed around the world. When we first met they lived and worked in a small village called Cusuna. Their heart for the Garifuna people and their culture is very inspiring and their commitment has been a long term encouragment to many.

Pastors Edgardo & Olguita Lainez We have had the pleasure of knowing Pastors Edgardo and Olguita for many years and their ministry to help prepare and equip the church for missions is what has kept us close. Their ministry Church of the Nations has been able to increase global awareness of the need for longterm, sustainable missions to reach some of the most vulnerable areas around the world.

Pastors Allan & Lorena Posas Allan and Lorena have been a great addition to our list of people and ministries making a big impact in Honduras. They are community leaders and have given so much to make sure that families and kids have a safe, welcoming place to be fed, and learn about God. They host medical and community awareness events as well as plant churches and send out active church members to participate in local outreach.

Organizational Memberships Providing credential, ministerial, and fellowship based covering.

Church Partners Financial partners and program supporters, Morning Star Church, Hope Fellowship, Revival Temple, Jesus Life Church, The Church at Asheville, Arise Church, Elim Church, Open Arms Church, Living Word, Lords Glory Church, Bridgeway, Mill Valley Fellowship, Great Commission Fellowship, Worldwide Voice In the Wilderness, Life Church, Village Presbyterian

Marketplace Partners Business leaders and owners who have chosen to partner financially with Connect Global.

Yoder Concrete, Revolution Chiropractic, Christian Brothers Automotive, Cuozzo Ortho, Supreme Multi Services, Kingsland Healthmart.

Missionary ,Ventures.

We Proudly Support Connect Global proudly gives regular financial support to like minded and successful agencies, organizations, and non profits who are leading the way in the world of charitable and philanthropic endeavors .

FEATURE

PERPETUAL PIONEERING

6 ELEMENTS WHICH EXIST ALONG THE PATH OF PIONEERING

BY JAVIER AND DANIELLE MENDOZA, CO-FOUNDERS OF CONNECT GLOBAL

Pioneering by definition is

Bridgeway Churches as

We hope you will find

never easy and always

well as man, many

encouragement and

fraught with challenges,

individuals over many years.

edification in the fact that

hardships, and blind curves.

We know more fully now

while no two journeys are

However, pioneering a new

after 19 years of personal

ever the same, we can and

passion, position, or

fundraising, investment,

should glean as much

particular calling can be

sweat equity, trials, and

wisdom from those who

fulfilling and help you

success just what it takes to

realize a purpose you may

pursue and pioneer a

have gone before us when

not have ever even dreamt

ministry like Connect

of before.

Global. We are grateful for

In the foundational days of

the experience of trial and

the ministry work we set

error, as well as the wisdom

out to accomplish there was

gained and traded over this

much pioneering to be

nearly two decade

done. The ‘ground’ we

commitment to the Nation

began to work on was

of Honduras. We are

fertile and had been

grateful to those who came

pioneered to quite an extent

before us and we pray for

by those who paved the

those who are coming and

way for groups and

will join in the future.

individuals like us but was still in need of much

Over these 19 years we

plowing and preparation for

have amassed more than a

what would become our

few pointers to pioneering

current field of work.

and the elements we believe are necessary to

We fully recognize the

pioneer new frontiers.

years of work, sweat, and

Whether you are new in

tears that have been poured

ministry, starting a new job,

into Honduras by countless

or even exploring new

others including and

experiences and

certainly not limited to The

relationships we wanted to

Church of God Intl, ARD

share our P’s of Pioneering

Ministries, AHMEN, Morning

with you.

Star and

setting out pioneer new fields in life.

Passion — While every new pursuit in life is different from another, one of the main components found in pioneering is passion. It is most often our leading motivation when starting something brand new. Passion fuels conquest. Passion fuels new relationships. Passion is what keeps us up at night and is what burns like a fuse towards the workings of future success.

Patience — In pioneering, like in chess, if passion is king, patience is the Queen.

Patience is the resource which needs to be protected at all times when moving in new and unknown territories.

There is no such thing as overnight success and patience is what keeps our expectations in check. Progress comes when we employ patience and gratitude for where we are while tempering our anticipation of where we are going. While it is necessary to have hope for and cast vision for the future when pioneering—patience is what promotes healthy responses when things slow down or we miss it entirely along the way.

Pursuit— A plan without pursuit is a waste of paper. Some of the best sketched out plans line the “cutting room floors” of our lives like confetti in Times Square on new years day due to inaction. Pursuit is what makes dreams become reality. There is nuance in pursuit though— so while the pursuit of excellence produces progress, the pursuit of perfect can leave us without anything accomplished at all.

Pain—An unfortunate reality for pioneers is pain. Pain in the process. Pain in the setbacks. Pain in the unforeseen. Pain can even come from from fellow pioneers who settle too early or who head home before the journey is complete. Pain is a part of life and comes in many different forms. If you can come to terms with the expectation of pain you may be able to mitigate it but we have found that you rarely if ever avoid it completely.

Pain is not all bad. It can teach us if we choose to learn from it.

Wisdom is knowing that pain is temporary and does not last forever. There is a quote often attributed to Maya Angelou which reminds us, “Every storm eventually runs out of rain.” Your tolerance for pain as a pioneer will determine how far you go, how big you grow, and how long you last.

Persistence— Staying the course with your commitments is what makes all the planning and preparation actually work. Persistence when the road gets long. Persistence when the hits just keep coming. Persistence is what it takes when your breakthrough seems impossible. If access is what democratizes opportunity, persistence is what separates the professionals from the weekend warriors.

Planning—No pioneering endeavor should be without a well thought out plan. This is what will be the most unique to each new journey. A good plan requires research, education, wisdom from those ahead of you, and revisions—many, many revisions. Do not be afraid of change. As a pioneer there will always be something new or unexpected around the next bend. Once you have determined your goals you must remember your mission may not always be married to your current methods. As you learn and diagnose along the way the methods you started with may become obsolete. In order to live on the cutting edge you must be willing to remain flexible and nimble.

We continue to venture and pioneer, 12 years

“Every storm

into the audacious journey and living legacy that is Connect Global, we continue to learn, adapt,

eventually runs

and persist. We look forward to the future with

out of rain.”

be.

great anticipation and reverence for what can

We are grateful for the trails blazed as well as

—Maya Angelou

the paths not yet taken. As we pioneer through our next chapter and lay foundation for what future may come we hold dear to the lessons learned in joy and the tears shed in pain so we may be able to look back one day and hear, ‘well done’.

JAVIER & DANIELLE MENDOZA Together, Javier & Danielle Mendoza, have been

In addition to bringing awareness to issues like Human

leading mission trips since 2004 and upon it’s

Trafficking and Domestic Violence, Javier and Danielle are

founding in 2011 have been instrumental in

committed to sharing the Love of Jesus in practical ways

building Connect Global, a worldwide organization

around the world. They do this through public speaking,

built on providing sustainable solutions to solvable

teaching, and through hosting various mission trips and

problems like poverty, hunger, lack of education,

outreach efforts which have included Haiti, Jamaica,

and lack of clean drinking water.

Honduras, Colombia, Thailand, Mexico, Louisiana, Florida, South Dakota, and Texas.

Javier and Danielle Mendoza are both licensed and ordained ministers. Their ministerial associations, credentials and memberships are held and recognized by MAJC, The Fellowship Network, and LINC. Javier has the privilege of working alongside family and close friends creating, tailoring and communicating the story of the organization while honing the global vision.

Javier has received Advanced Training in Leadership through the National Institute of Christian Leadership, and is a Certified Trainer in Missions through Go To Nations.

Danielle is also a Certified Trainer in Missions through Go To Nations. Her current focus is on developing long lasting community partnerships, organizational fundraising efforts, and implementing new strategies all which help fuel the success of her charitable work through Connect Global.

Danielle and Javier have one daughter, Saige, who completed her first international service trip to Thailand at the age of 4.

Along with their daughter Saige, the Mendoza Family has called La Ceiba, Honduras home twice since January 2015.

They lived and worked in Honduras for a total of 3 years establishing the programs and partnerships that continue growing and thriving today.

Their home and organizational headquarters is Tampa Bay, Florida, U.S.A.

partnership is our superpower

Harnessing the Benefits of Collaboration and Working Together

BY JAVIER MENDOZA In today’s fast-paced, competitive world, it’s easy to get caught up in the mentality of “going it alone” and focusing solely on our own individual success. However, the truth is that some of the greatest achievements in history have been the result of collaboration and teamwork. In fact, when it comes to creating lasting change and making a real impact, partnering with others is the key to success.

One of the biggest benefits of partnership is the pooling of resources. By working together, organizations can combine their skills, knowledge, and assets to achieve a common goal. This not only leads to more efficient use of resources, but also opens up new

THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE

opportunities and possibilities that may not have existed otherwise. When you work together and commit to let the best ideas “win” you also foster a culture of creativity because you eliminate the fear of rejection or demotivating forms of criticism.

Partnerships also cultivate diversity. When leaders from different backgrounds come together, they bring their unique perspectives, ideas, and experiences to the table, which can lead to creative and innovative solutions to complex problems.

Furthermore, diverse partnerships have the potential to break down barriers and bridge divides, which

can be particularly important when working on social issues.

Leaders are learners and we cannot learn in a vacuum.

We must surround ourselves with voices and inputs from varied sources so that we can have the most valuable information before executing our mission.

Another advantage of partnership is the shared responsibility and accountability that comes with working together.

When we partner together, we are more likely to be held accountable for our actions and to take ownership of our responsibilities.

"Partnership is the key to unlocking success in both business and life. Together, we can achieve greatness and make a lasting impact" —John C. Maxwell

This not only leads to a more effective and efficient use of resources, but also helps to build trust and credibility between partners and amongst stakeholders.

Being accountable for the outcome of the mission means, at a base level, commitment to see it through.

Likeminded partners who advance the mission alongside you and offer mutual accountability are necessary components to success.

Partnerships have the power to build stronger, more resilient communities.

When organizations work together, they create a sense of shared purpose and common goals, which can bring people together and foster a sense of community. This not only strengthens the bond between partners, but also has the potential to inspire and motivate others to get involved and make a difference.

When a community is built on commitment, trust, and transparency the general public takes note. They want to be a part of anything that makes good business sense but they will be owners of the thing that makes good on their promises of good will.

Over the years, the power of partnership has been undeniable in our lives. By working together and leveraging the benefits of collaboration, Connect Global has been able to achieve more than we ever could alone.

So, if you’re looking to make a lasting impact and create real change, consider partnering with us and harnessing the super powers of partnership.

CONNECTGLOBAL.ORG

The Power of our Words

By Javier Mendoza

Words have the power to shape our future, safeguard our relationships, and serve others. Positive words can have a profound impact on ourselves and those around us, while negative words can tear down and bring harm.

Let’s explore three examples of how positive words can create a better future, strengthen relationships, and help us serve others.

First, positive words can shape our future. The words we speak to ourselves and over others can shape our thoughts, beliefs, and actions.

Positive words can help us see opportunities where others only see obstacles and can encourage us to take action toward our goals. As John C. Maxwell said, “Leadership is influence. Nothing more, nothing less.” By using positive words, we can influence ourselves and those around us to take action toward a better future.

THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE

Positive words can help us safeguard our relationships.

The words we use in our interactions with others can either build them up or tear them down. Positive words imbue trust, respect, and understanding. By using positive words, we can create a strong foundation for our relationships and avoid misunderstandings and conflicts especially with those in our charge as leaders.

Apostle Paul wrote in the Bible: Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.” —Colossians 4:6 Finally, positive words can help us serve others. The words we use can inspire, encourage, and empower others. Positive words can help others see their potential and encourage them to take action toward their goals.

As Simon Sinek said, “People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.” By using positive words, we can help others understand our why and inspire them to make a difference in the world.

Service of others without the expectation of something in return is true service.

Desiring something good for someone else can be one of the best forms of service when shared with love and intentionality.

The power of our words cannot be underestimated. By choosing our words carefully, we can create a future full of strong, well developed people who in turn invest in others.

The cycle of positivity can continue for multiple generations.

Let us each strive to use positive words in our daily interactions and I know we will see the impact it makes in our lives and the lives of those around us.

HOSTED BY JAVIER & DANIELLE MENDOZA

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BUILDING A BETTER

by Javier Mendoza

A Vision for a World Filled with Generosity, Kindness, and Service to Others

FUTURE

In his book, “The Infinite

Each of these traits on their When we do, we create a

Game,” Simon Sinek writes,

own are wonderful

virtuous cycle of generosity

“The role of a leader is not

attributes for any leader.

that helps to build a better

to create followers. The role

When all three are evident

world for everyone.

of a leader is to create

and working in the life of a

more leaders.” This simple

strong leader there is no

In a scarcity mindset or

statement perfectly

limit to what good can be

lifestyle the resource pool

encapsulates the vision of a

built. Not for selfish gain or

whether it be talent,

better future that we can

vanity metrics but truly for

finances, or opportunities

all work towards. A world

the purpose of making a

always appears to be on

where everyone is a leader,

positive impact in the lives

empty.

not just in title, but in

of others.

action.

A good leader knows that Generosity. As Sinek

A world where everyone is

generosity sets the tone for

striving to make a positive

writes, “In the infinite game, gratitude, good feels, and a there is always enough, and general sense of security.

impact, not just for

more than enough, to go

themselves, but for others

around.” This means that

as well.

we must be willing to share our resources, our time, and

Three key elements I find most often in leaders who are building a better future are generosity, kindness, and service to others.

our energy with others.

Kindness. In order to implement this, we must be kind to each other and treat each other with respect and dignity. Kindness requires something to shift internally. While you can be generous with you resources and not display kindness, it takes more effort to give joyfully. Kindness is not weakness. It is a muscle that needs to be developed. A warm smile, or a act of compassion toward your team or family when things are going off the rails can make all the difference — likewise a random act of kindness towards someone

This selfless act often times goes unnoticed,

you may never encounter again can set off a

without repayment, and is not accompanied by

ripple effect the likes of which may be

a ‘thanks’, ‘congratulations’, or even an ‘attaboy’.

enough to change the world for better,

Service to others is a way to ‘Pay it forward’ in

forever.

hopes of the return not coming back to you, but continuing forward over and over.

Service to others. When we put the needs of others first, we not only make a positive

In order to build a better future are we willing to

impact in the lives of those we serve, but we

adopt a mindset of generosity, kindness, and

also create a better future for ourselves and

service to others? I contend, we must be willing

for generations to come. Humility is not

to put in the hard work today and make

thinking less of yourself, it is simply thinking

sacrifices, not for our own gain, but for the good

of yourself — less. Serving others requires

of all. Let’s also be open to collaboration and

humility in part because it asks you to put

partnership, recognizing that by working

your motives and aspirations aside.

together we can achieve a far better future than we ever could alone.

MATERNITY HOME

life

SUPPORT

by Javier Mendoza

PRECIOUS LIVES Our amazing Maternity Home team in Honduras is tasked with an enormous task each day.

THE SURVIVAL RATE AMONGST BABIES IN THE NICU IN OUR FIRST YEAR IMPROVED TO 84%.

One of the great testimonies from this work is that — among the mothers who have been in our care at this

Connect Global team members provide 24 hour

Maternity Home when we started in 2019 to now—we

care 7 days a week for mothers whose children

have tracked an improvemnet in the new born

are in the NICU for a number of reasons.

survival rate from 84% to 93% in less than three years.

This miracle is no doubt due to many factors but we

These reasons can include low birth weight, pulmonary difficulties, and other life threatening illnesses and complications.

know our team and the care, support, and compassion they give moms places these babies and their mothers in the best position for life possible. , Connect Global continues to find ways in which we

Each month, on average, our team will care for 60 mothers and their newborns. We provide three meals a day, clean and safe beds, and a secure and loving environment in addition to

can support mothers and their newborns. We work with community leaders, associations, and the medical professionals in the area to focus our efforts on life saving care and tactics.

emotional and spiritual support while mothers

Our hope is that many would see this as a vital

pray, believe and fight for their child's life.

ministry at home and around the world and would join us in the fight for life through our Maternity

Our team provides financial and logistical

Home.

support for the NICU nursing staff who are often under resourced. We spend our days and nights consumed with how we can best serve and care for the precious lives that are being entrusted to us.

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We can not do what we do without financial support from generous people like you.

MATERNITY HOME

The Connect Global Maternity Home ministry compassionately restores dignity, provides safety, and delivers peace of mind where it is needed most.

We are working to create a sustainable solution for the operations of this Maternity Home Program for these mothers and newborns. We are partnering with the local hospital, local business owners, and local churches to ensure the best ongoing care in this home.

Our goal is to share the operational cost responsibilities with these local partners as well as generous people like You, who see the value in caring for moms and their newborns.

Connect Global continues to provide ongoing support, oversight and management of the Maternity Home team to ensure fiscal responsibility and stewardship.

Give With Us "If we are to see massive positive change we need to continue investing compassionately into our planet's most vulnerable citizens."

Scan the QR code above or visit us at ConnectGlobal.org/maternity-home to learn more

CONNECT GLOBAL EDUCATION FUND

THE EMPOWERMENT THAT COMES FROM EDUCATION WRITTEN BY JAVIER MENDOZA

Empowering Students and Transforming Society Education is more than just acquiring knowledge and skills. It is a transformative force that has the power to uplift individuals, communities, and entire societies. However,

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many children around the world still face

Breaking the Cycle of Poverty

barriers to accessing quality education.

Education has the potential to break the

Many barriers existed before covid 19

vicious cycle of poverty. By providing

pandemic, and many have been the result of

students with the tools and knowledge to

the pandemic. That’s why Connect Global is

pursue their dreams, we empower them to

committed to investing in access to

transcend their circumstances. With a

education for all through our monthly

quality education, students gain the skills to

donation program.

secure better employment opportunities, earn higher incomes, and create a brighter

Here are five ways educational investments

future for themselves and their families.

like ours will empower students and

Some schools even provide financial literacy

transform our future societies.

programs for parents and teachers to improve their longterm financial success.

THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE

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Fostering Personal Development:

Enhancing Economic Prosperity:

Education plays a crucial role in

Education is not solely about

A well-educated workforce drives

promoting equality, empowering

academic achievements; it also

economic growth and prosperity.

marginalized groups, and

nurtures personal growth. Through

By supporting students through our

dismantling barriers to social

education, students develop

monthly donation program, we are

mobility. Through our Global

critical thinking, problem-solving

investing in the future workforce.

Education Fund, we strive to

abilities, and emotional

Education equips individuals with

bridge the educational gap and

intelligence. They learn to

the knowledge and skills needed for

create a opportunities for all

communicate effectively,

economic success. Educated

students, fostering a more

collaborate, and become active

individuals contribute to

inclusive and equitable society.

participants in society. Education

innovation, productivity, and the

equips students with the necessary

development of sustainable

skills to become well-rounded

economies, ultimately benefiting

individuals and responsible global

society as a whole. In a recent

citizens.

article published by The Economist,

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‘Why are Vietnams Schools so Good’, a direct correlation is made between the country’s intentional

Building Stronger Communities:

budget allocation as well as direct

Educated individuals are the

investment towards teachers and

foundation of thriving

the nation’s improving economy,

communities. By investing in

concluding with “All this has reaped

education, we foster social

rich rewards. As schools have

cohesion, tolerance, and

improved, so has Vietnam’s

understanding. Education

economy.”

promotes empathy and equips

receive quality education, they become agents of positive change, working towards the betterment of their communities. Students are encouraged to begin to visualize a better future and take practical steps towards bringing that future to reality.

governments and nonprofit organizations like Connect Global can drive the growth of strong economies and healthy communities. Our societal impact ensures equality through personal empowerment and foster development at all levels.

Connect Global continues to prioritize education as a key component of its development strategies and initiatives.

You can find out more about our

students with the tools to address societal challenges. When students

By investing in education,

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efforts on our website: ConnectGlobal.org/education

Ensuring Equality and Empowerment: We at Connect Global believe education is a fundamental right that should be accessible to all, regardless of their circumstances.

CONNECTGLOBAL.ORG

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2023

THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE

Prayer Connect Global strongly believes in the transformative power of prayer. We recognize prayer as a profound and meaningful resource that connects us to the heart of the Father, cultivates spiritual growth, and fosters a sense of community.

At Connect Global, we embrace the belief that prayer has the ability to bring about positive change, provide comfort in times of need, and inspire individuals to make a difference in the world.

We encourage and support the practice of prayer, understanding its ability to create a deeper connection with our Creator.

Through prayer, we seek guidance, find solace, and cultivate a sense of hope, ultimately strengthening our commitment to serving others and making a positive impact globally.

WE WANT TO PRAY WITH YOU! Thank You for allowing us the privilege of praying with you.

Simply, text “Pray for Me” to (844) 397-4679 and a member of our team will be in prayer with you and we will reach out only if you want us to!

ONE LAST WORD

Ways to Pray Lord, I am grateful to have a savior who has experienced the same human challenges that I face today. I pray that your love will sustain me and shine through me — despite my anxiety, fear, and loneliness. Amen.

Lord, the conflict and uncertainty of this human experience are designed to distract me from pursuing your love. Help me commit my mind and my words to share your love and mercy with others. Amen.

Dear God, thank you for the opportunity to be used to further the Gospel of Jesus. Prepare my heart to be used by you and to be ready to gently speak about who Jesus really is. I know I don’t need all the answers or the words, as you call me to love those in my daily walk. Help me to love like Jesus as you stir the hearts of those who see these messages to be curious. Help me to be confident, kind, and above all, a loving and accepting example of who Jesus is. Amen.

" 'Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.' " —John 14-27

CONNECTGLOBAL.ORG

| JULY 2023

THE

CONNECTION A MAGAZINE BY CONNECT GLOBAL

text (844) 397-4679 email: hello@connectglobal.org www.connectglobal.org