THE AGAPE HOUSE
The Agape house was one of the first houses here at Niños de Mexico. As such, it has been through many transitions through the years, both with construction and layout, as well as changes in personnel and children. But the purpose has remained the same. Agape means “love”, and the purpose of this house remains to show love to orphaned and abandoned children in Mexico.
The current house parents at this house are Ricardo and Azalia Rosales. They and their two sons, Ricardo, Jr. and Miguel, have been at the Agape house for two years. What a transition for them, from a small family in the corporate world, to being house parents of 11 children ages 2 to 18! Their prayer is that God will continue to strengthen them as a couple because that will help them be strong as a family with their own boys, as well as the whole house.
When new house parents come into a home, they are not the only ones who experience a huge transition, but all of the children in the home do as well. This family was no different. But one of the things the house parents appreciate about the children at Agape is their humility and love. They are united and help each other out whenever they see a need, always looking out for each other. Ricardo and Azalia have witnessed the changes in the children and have learned to identify and help them express their emotions in a positive way. God is at work in their lives, transforming each individual according to his purpose for them and working toward transforming them as a group into a stronger family.
One way of helping in this transformation is with special traditions. This past Christmas, they started celebrating the “Posadas”, which is a re-enactment of the Christmas story with songs and a special meal and treats. Their favorite meals are Cochinita Pibil - a spicy pork dish, pozole – a traditional soup with meat and hominy, and tamales –corn dough with meat and spices, wrapped and steamed in a corn husk – a favorite for special occasions. Another special holiday for them is Children’s Day, celebrated at the end of April. There is a big festival with games and goodie bags and activities all to show the children how special they are.
The two newest children welcomed here at Niños de Mexico are Kevin (3 yrs.) and Carlos (2 yrs.) who live at the Agape House. In this first month since they arrived, they are a good example of the life–enhancing transformation that God works in our lives. When they arrived, the boys just grunted and pointed, but are now learning to ask with simple words. Kevin walked unsteadily and Carlos still used a walker, but both now run around and get stronger everyday! All of the Agape Family has helped them improve and they all take care of each other.
Please continue to pray for the Agape Family as they are transformed into the stronger, even more loving family that God has planned for them to be.
