A STCH Ministries Christmas Journey
In recent days, STCH Ministries has been introduced to a people who live out their faith in the most practical of ways. Out of their poverty, they give generously not only to their families and neighbors, but to others in the surrounding villages. The passionate desire to serve others overflows out of their gratitude for the immense love and grace that God has poured into their own lives. Many have struggled with alcohol and other forms of depravity, and in miraculous ways, God has reached them and turned their lives around. Some were known as the most violent, hopeless families in the area, but now live out a radically transformed life, a family of believers and leaders who deeply care for one another.
Tucked up against the edge of Mexico, and butted up against the countries of Guatemala and Honduras, Belize may be easily overlooked by men and nations. Only 68 miles wide, Belize is a tropical jewel, rich in lush foliage, punctuated with black orchids, brilliant hibiscus trees and the unique bird of paradise. Left behind in the pursuit of more attractive tourist options, northern Belize is devoid of industries beyond the sugar cane fields and limited in educational opportunities beyond the 8th grade. Generational poverty and hopelessness stalk the majority of families. Broken families, broken children, sometimes create broken churches—all cry out for the Light of the world to come personally into the chaos and birth hope that only a Savior can bring.
Recently, STCH Ministries responded to a request from small village churches to help celebrate Christmas by meeting the needs of children and families. Accompanied by several pastors, staff and STCH Ministries mission supporters, we merged the true meaning of Christmas with our own personal journey to northern Belize and little-known villages such as Chan Pine Ridge and Yo Creek—villages as small and out-of-the-way as the original Bethlehem from time long ago.
In addition to delivering food baskets and making up over 500 small gift sacks with an apple, some candy, pencils and toothbrushes, we joined the young adults in the unique Christmas story presentation. Dressed as Santa Claus “Ho-Ho-Ho-ing” down the aisle, a young policeman, complete with a toy pistol, bragging how he kept the street safe, a clown who made the children laugh, and others who claimed their deeds won them entrance into eternal life, the clear message that Jesus is the ONLY Way, the Truth and the Life was communicated.
As STCH Ministries continues to follow God’s leading in 2026, we would like to invite others to join us in ministry to these villages in Belize. The logistics are family-friendly, as a bilingual culture, you can communicate in either English or Spanish, and the need for help is great. Church buildings are needed for new church plants now meeting under trees, or bursting out of their limited spaces, discipleship and reinforcement ministries for children, families and adults, and Pastor and leadership training—all of these are high on our prayer list for the coming year.
Please contact us at www.STCHM.org for more information. And have a blessed Christ-honoring celebration this season.
