This year Pan de Vida had a "Quinceañera" for 5 girls, Ines, Vanesa, Maria Rosa, Ana Velia and Margarita celebrating their 15th birthday. In Mexican tradition it is held to commemorate a girl entering womanhood and is usually as big as or bigger than a girl's wedding. In attempts to cherish the girl's heritage, Pan de Vida always hosts an event to recognize this time in their life. The ceremony is very spiritual and focused more toward the responsibilities of seeking God's direction in their lives.
Since the budget Pan de Vida has is used to solely run the daily needs of the Orphanage, events like this are only possible through extra donations of others. We are grateful for the groups and individuals who have shown a huge heart in generosity to make this possible for the girls. This year each girl took time to express their thankfulness and reflect on God's provisions in caring for them. Each one shared a favorite scripture as well.
Psalm 51:10 ~Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Proverbs 4:23~Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.
Song of Songs 8:6~Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame.
Ecclesiates 11:9~You who are young, be happy while you are young, and let your heart give you joy in the days of your youth. Follow the ways of your heart and whatever your eyes see, but know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment.
Psalms 27:10 Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me.
Of course no celebration is complete without a reception. Everyone feasted on a special meal and were entertained by the girls doing special dances. It really makes a person's heart swell to see the girls beam with so much joy as they feel like the princesses they are. We are truly blessed to see the work God is doing in their lives.
