God’s transformational work in the lives of individuals and communities is holistic and starts here and now.  Though we will never achieve complete wholeness and healing in this life, God intends and desires that his presence impact every area of life, including spiritual, physical, psychological, intellectual, and relational.  Transformation in these areas is the foundation for the broader restoration of families, communities, businesses, and institutions.

True personal and community transformation can only be achieved by the power of the Gospel, the power of the resurrection of Jesus and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit.  Investment, intellect, programs and human engagement are complementary and essential, but alone are not sufficient. 

MDJ seeks to work in partnership with local communities and their leaders, the local and global church, and like-minded organizations to do deep and lasting transformational work in the communities surrounding Chichicastenango Guatemala.

    • Though we will never achieve complete wholeness and healing in this life, God intends and desires that his presence impact every area of life, including spiritual, physical, psychological, intellectual, and relational.

    • Framing and executing the work in a way that respects and builds the dignity, mutuality, and equality of all involved

    • Mutuality encourages and facilitates mutual love and respect for everyone and it requires each individual to think of themselves as a member of a larger group.

    • humility and empathy play a big role here.  Awareness of self and others.

    • A mode of operation that is relational, not transactional- both with our US partners and local community

    • walking with, alongside, together

    •  Loving and serving all regardless of beliefs, inspired by the grace and love of Jesus we have experienced and desire others to know.

  • Using charity when necessary but development whenever possible

    • Building upon the heritage of the organization while seeking to increase the independence and empowerment of the families and communities we partner with.

    • Partnerships with best-of-practice organizations to keep our size and budgets at a level that is sustainable