GROW Goes Global

2010 Mission Trip to Ecuador

In 2010, Janet Lohmann, who serves as the Director of GROW Ministries, Inc., had the distinct privilege of sharing her inspiring story to an audience of 75 inmates at the Cuenca, Ecuador Prison. This experience was not only meaningful for the inmates but also profoundly impactful for her as she connected with individuals in a challenging environment.

A total of 69 of those same inmates made the profound decision to give their lives to Christ, experiencing a significant spiritual awakening that changed their paths forever. According to Janet, the conditions of incarceration in Cuenca, Ecuador are very different from those that exist in the United States.

Such as women were often required to handle everything themselves. In this challenging situation, there were six available showers, yet there was a complete lack of hot water, making it difficult for anyone to maintain proper hygiene.

Additionally, there was a significant deficiency in social services to support the community. Women with children faced particularly tough circumstances, striving to meet their families' needs with limited resources and support.

Janet was aware that investing in the Cuenca, Ecuador prison was a major factor in the reason God had brought her there. GROW Ministries purchased hot water heaters, towels, equipment for small convenience store, beds, and bibles for the inmates.

The inmates also had a bakery. In order for the prisoners to bake goods and earn money, GROW purchased additional equipment for their bakery. John Bevere, who serves as an author and minister, donated $1000 worth of his books. With the help of this funding, GROW Ministries started a Christian Library in Cuenca, Ecuador Prison!