Bolivia: Gran Familia
About Gran Familia
God has given us a clear word that He is calling prisoners to be pastors and missionaries to Bolivia and then across South America.
The vision of Iris Gran Familia is to be the Family of God together. We long to worship intimately as family and show love to others in a practical way, which invites them to be part of the Family. We go past the edge of our limits and invite people out of the darkness into His perfect light.
We are based in Santa Cruz, Bolivia the second largest metropolitan area in Bolivia with approximately 2 million residents. Bolivia is one of the poorest countries in South America and many households need multiple family members working just to bring in enough income to cover the basics of water, food, and shelter.
We minister in the Palmasola prison and to the community surrounding the prison. Most of those living there are family members of an inmate. Our ministry consists weekly prison visits, micro-financing, job training, and help people find jobs both inside and outside of prison. We also run a transitional housing & family center where we meet several times a week for dinner, worship & Bible study, and we all go out and share the Gospel together. We do everything as one big family.
Micro-financing
We want to help inmates who are being released from prison to set up businesses ranging from sewing shops, selling wallets, to starting a restaurant. Our plan is to start with a total of $1,000 USD and distribute small loans as seed money.
Church Building
We have partnered with a local Bolivian pastor to share the Gospel to unreached rural communities. We are building a central community church as a place to gather new believers and hold church services.
Bakery
We are starting a bakery in Santa Cruz to provide job for those coming out of prison. It is very difficult to find traditional employment for former inmates and we want to provide a safe place to get a fresh start.
Connect with Gran Familia
For those interested in a short-term visit, long-term missionary opportunities, or other general questions, please email granfamilia@irisglobal.org
Email: Brownsandbolivia@yahoo.com
Facebook: facebook.com/Brownfamilybolivia
