How Teaching English Changed My Faith
Laurel’s Testimony
I first heard about Reflejo at my church. Our pastor had felt a burden for the Pashtun people, and because our congregation is located in an area with many Afghan immigrants, missions had become a very present reality for us. When the opportunity came to help train Latino missionaries in English, it felt like something the Lord simply placed in front of me.
I’m a retired teacher, and I’ve spent many years working with second‑language learners. I had the time, a computer, and a willing heart. My prayer was simple: “Lord, if this is Your desire, arrange it.” What I didn’t expect was how deeply this ministry would shape my own faith.
Each week, I meet online with two women from Reflejo—Cecilia in El Salvador and Beatriz in Argentina. Their lives have challenged me in ways I didn’t anticipate. Their willingness to give up everything to reach others for Jesus is both inspiring and humbling. They are full of faith, yet so down‑to‑earth, so easy to talk to. The name Reflejo fits them perfectly—they truly reflect the love of Christ.
Teaching remotely has not been without challenges. Technology is not my strength, and more than once, they’ve had to walk me through the basics. But even in that, their patience and grace have been a testimony in itself.
What inspires me most is their determination. They study hard, they show up faithfully, and they push through health issues, hardships, persecution, and uncertainty. They listen to the Holy Spirit and obey. Beatriz once told me, “We don’t ask God to bless our plans. We ask to join Him in His—and the blessings will come.” That may be one of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever received.
Through this ministry, God has shown me more clearly what it means to follow Christ. Jesus said, “Whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” Each morning now, I ask the Lord, “What do You want me to lose today? What do You want me to find?”
I thought I was signing up to teach English. Instead, God used this experience to teach me about surrender, obedience, and the beauty of the global Church. May God bless the entire Reflejo team and every missionary who is preparing to carry the gospel to the nations.
Open Invitation
The Reflejo English volunteer program began in 2024 and now connects 28 volunteers with 34 Latin American missionaries and administrative staff who are strengthening their English to serve more effectively. Although each class lasts only one hour per week, the impact is profound: 1,632 hours per year dedicated to equipping, supporting, and encouraging lives in mission.
The program continues to grow and is seeking new volunteers. You don’t need to be a teacher. All it takes is one hour a week and a willing heart to serve.
Would you like to join as a volunteer? Volunteer — Reflejo