The prevailing reality in Quito at present is the advancing age of many of our members. A significant number are facing the challenges of declining health, whether through chronic illness, recent treatments, or the general effects of aging. During my visit, I was able to spend time in most of their homes. It was reassuring to see that, despite difficult circumstances, they are receiving thoughtful care. Many are supported by family and have sufficient resources to meet their daily needs. Even so, conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, cancer recovery, or cognitive decline bring real and ongoing hardship—regardless of external support.

Yet the spirit of the ecclesia is far from discouraged. There were also moments of genuine joy. Two sisters, Fabiola and Janeth, are currently in remission from cancer, and it was uplifting to spend time with them and their families. Their gratitude and appreciation for each day of life were deeply encouraging. More broadly, the quiet strength and resilience of the sisters in Quito is truly remarkable.

The ecclesia currently meets every other week at a downtown hotel, which provides space for both the memorial meeting and Bible classes, along with smaller areas for Sunday School. Attendance varies between 10 and 30, and on the Sunday I attended, the higher number was present. Bro. Rodrigo presided and delivered a thoughtful exhortation. His presence is particularly meaningful given his personal journey—having survived a severe case of COVID that left him hospitalized for six weeks, much of that time on a respirator.

Following his recovery, Rodrigo faced extended unemployment during a difficult economic period. Remarkably, he has since secured a new position in his field and now leads a national sales team for a growing company. Though the role requires significant travel, it suits his stage of life, and he is deeply thankful for this unexpected provision. God willing, it will also provide long-term financial stability for his family.

I was asked to give the Sunday class in place of Bro. Freddy, who was grateful for the opportunity to defer his first class. The session served as an introduction to the book of Job, which is planned as the theme for the upcoming Bible School in July 2026. In preparation, study questions have been shared with the group in advance, with the aim of enabling deeper discussion—particularly focusing on the latter chapters—when we meet together.

One important observation from the visit relates to preaching. While it might seem that an ecclesia with many elderly and homebound members would face limitations in outreach, the opposite may be true. In every home visited, there was regular interaction with family members and caregivers. The opportunity to witness is present in these daily relationships. Simply by consistently showing care and compassion, the ecclesia is already extending its influence in meaningful ways.

Toward the end of the trip, I rented a vehicle and traveled with several members to Ambato to visit Vinicio and Janeth. Accompanied by Rodrigo, Jeanneth, and Fabiola, we spent time together in their home and shared a meal nearby before returning to Quito. It was a simple but valuable day of fellowship that strengthened bonds for all involved.