Skip to content

Service That Supports the Family: Inspiring Stories from Quito, Ecuador

Join us as we embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Quito, Ecuador, and discover the incredible work of the “Center – A Family of Families.” In this engaging five-part series, we bring you the third installment, where we delve into the Center’s meaningful connection to “The Papal Foundation,” the exclusive U.S. charity fulfilling the Holy Father’s requests. Experience the powerful narration by Olivia Young, the Community Director, as she shares her heartfelt message to Pope Francis, expressing the mission’s dedication to walking alongside the vulnerable and marginalized. Learn about the Center’s profound impact, having served and accompanied over 7,000 families and providing essential support to individuals living on an average of $2.45 a day. Witness the transformative power of community as we explore the significant social work, pastoral care, and the provision of nearly 300 tons of food to families and the local community since March 2020. Discover how the Center breaks the cycle of generational poverty, with an astounding 75% of the community experiencing life-changing outcomes. We also shed light on the enriching service learning experiences offered to high schools, parishes, and colleges, planting the seeds of compassion and understanding. Hear testimonials from passionate individuals, including Rachel Younce, Campus Minister at Spring Hill College, and Cecilia Maria Dip, a Spring Hill College student, about the valuable partnership with the Center and the alignment of Jesuit values. Explore the concept of “minga” and its significance as a community work group that brings people together to support families in need. Finally, get a glimpse into the heartwarming story of Johanna Lorenty, a Minga Recipient and Center Member, as she shares her journey and hopes for a new home that will provide better living conditions for her family. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we explore the connection between Our Lady “La Dolorosa” and the Center, along with the pastoral and medical care that nourishes the physical and spiritual well-being of the members. Trust in God and join us on this inspiring adventure in Quito, Ecuador.

Receive the most important news from EWTN Vatican via WhatsApp. It has become increasingly difficult to see Catholic news on social media. Subscribe to our free channel today

Share

Would you like to receive the latest updates on the Pope and the Vatican

Receive articles and updates from our EWTN Newsletter.

I agree that EWTN will keep me informed about news, faith stories and how to best support their work. You will never receive e-mails from us that you do not want to receive. You can unsubscribe any time. For more information on how to unsubscribe, our privacy practices, and how we are committed to protecting and respecting your privacy, please review our Privacy Policy.

More news related to this article

Missed Pope Benedict XVI’s funeral? Watch it here

Watch EWTNʼs live coverage of the funeral Mass for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. Tens of thousands of people
Image created in Canva by Jacob Stein

Why Pope Leo XIV Recommends St. Augustine’s 1,700-Year-Old Letter on Prayer

What does Pope Leo XIV read for spiritual nourishment? Asked about his favorite spiritual readings aboard the papal

Pope Francis names new patriarch of Lisbon following World Youth Day

Pope Francis on Thursday named Bishop Rui Manuel Sousa Valério as patriarch of Lisbon, just days after the

Pope Francis: Without concrete love, our lives have ‘no weight’

At a gathering with Portuguese charity workers Friday morning, Pope Francis went off script to insist that Christian
Pope Leo XIV waves to pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square for his general audience on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the Vatican. | Credit: Vatican Media

Pope chooses theme on AI and war for World Day of Peace 2027

The 60th World Day of Peace will take place on Jan. 1, 2027. Pope Leo XIV has chosen

German cardinal under investigation: Allegations of perjury prompt search of archdiocese

German law enforcement officials searched several buildings of the Archdiocese of Cologne on Tuesday as part of an

LIVE
FROM THE VATICAN

Be present live on EWTNVatican.com