Latin America Second Zonal Training - Managua, Nicaragua

Guatemala, August 23 de 2009

It is a privilege for the Latin America Region as well as for the RLT to inform you about the success of the second Zonal Training “Effective Executive Leadership” – in Central America and nearby countries, held in Managua from 17 to 20 August 2009.

We have experienced an unforgettable time. The participation of the countries was represented by hardworking people who have a real desire to serve the Lord in prisons of their countries.  This time the youth predominated.  Certainly, the promotion of the new leadership is giving results.  Each National Ministry seriously took this initiative to promote young people with desire to serve.

The list of participants by countries is as follows:

Monsignor Luis Amado Peña, who was supposed to attend only the first day was so captured by the training that he decided to attend the three days very actively.  During the opening ceremony, we were honored with the presence of the Managua Archbishop, Rev. Brenes, The Bishop is in charge of the prison system, Rev. Hombach, Monsignor Luis Amado Peña and the Executive Director of PF Nicaragua, Rene Ruiz.

At the opening ceremony, I gave a brief speech focusing on 2 aspects; firstly, the prayer of Jesus in John 17, highlighting the desire of the Lord to be together in one spirit, one faith, one love, one baptism and one purpose who are the prisoners.  Secondly, the focus on the crisis of leadership at world level which is reflected in the events in our countries and especially in our region with leaders who are ambitious, leaders who just look for the power, with desire of ownership and expansionist and messianic spirit. This crisis is also hitting some Christian organizations, and it is for this reason that PFI is promoting through these trainings to search for new future leadership.

Another remarkable fact is the participation of our brother Benito. I want to thank you for having the initiative to invite him. He was the “highlight” of the event. He enriched us with his testimonies and his experience. He was very well integrated to the group as if he had known us for so many years ago. Pauline Ferrero as the facilitator and Ana Karina who assisted us and participated masterfully, were very important in this second zonal training experience.  

Also, I would like to emphasize the visit to the women prison with the participation of the Minister of Government Ana Isabel Morales, The General Prison System Director, Maria Salgado and the Director of La Esperanza Prison, Iris Sobalvarro.  This was an important time in which we could share about PFI and let them know who we are.

In conclusion, this second zonal training has exceeded the expectations of all, including the regional leadership team.  On behalf of the team, I thank you for the trust. 

Lácides Hernández

Presidente RLT