From heartache to hope
With her hands over her heart, Rosa Aguilar speaks of the relationship she has with the women of the Des Plaines, Ill., Corps Hispanic women's ministries. They are her support. They remind her that she is valued by God.
Rosa moved to the Chicago area from Morelos, Mexico, after her 14-year, childless marriage dissolved in heartache. She had two brothers in the area, so choosing Chicago made for an easier transition.
Two years ago Rosa's brother and sister-in-law, who attend the Des Plaines, Ill., Corps, encouraged her to attend the Metropolitan Division's Hispanic Retreat. It was a good experience, but not enough to change Rosa's heart immediately. Her decision to accept Christ, she says, was a process.
Suffering from loneliness and economic hardship, Rosa began to actively search for something more not long after the retreat. Then her sister, still in Mexico, shared the gospel. It was difficult for Rosa to realize she needed the Lord, but as she started to attend the Des Plaines Hispanic ministry, many things started coming together in a way that made the choice clear. She finally made the decision to trust in Christ completely.
Now Rosa is actively involved in the Des Plaines Corps. She sings in the women's choir, volunteered this summer at vacation Bible school, and works with the weekly children's ministry. She is being discipled, and Associate Corps Officers Captains Pedro and Mirca Arias are teaching her ways she can share the gospel with others.
The future is bright for Rosa. Although she doesn't know specifically where the Lord is leading her, she desires that He will use her gifts of singing and teaching as she continues to pursue His will for her life.