Vida Nueva is a thriving congregation on the West side of Indianapolis ministering to immigrant families in the surround Hispanic community.

Mission: Vida Nueva believes that first generation immigrant families in the Hispanic community of Indianapolis should know and experience the love and hope of Christ. We realize this belief by sharing God's love in a holistic ministry which includes spiritual nurturing as well as social outreach, in a safe and culturally sensitive environment.

    Juan arrived in the United States with his family from Mexico when he was 15. His parents sacrificed a great deal, left a large extended family and relocated to make a life in the United States.  His parents hoped their children would benefit from this move, finding success and happiness in this new land.  

     The adjustment was hard for Juan, however, as he entered school not knowing English. He was not familiar with the customs and expectations of this country.  After trying for a couple years, he left school and began to work in a mechanics shop.  Work was difficult to find, since he did not have a work permit and was not able to get his high school diploma.  

     With all these challenges and dead ends, it seemed that the sacrifice of Juan's family might be for naught.  Juan, however, learned about the Deferred Action Program. He realized that if he could study and obtain a GED, he would be eligible for permission to work and reside in the U.S. legally.  

     He quickly enrolled in our program at Vida Nueva which is the only GED prep program offered in Spanish in the city of Indianapolis!  He studied hard, took the test and passed.  He is now the owner of a high school diploma and has permission to work, to live and to study in the U.S. Juan is on his way to making his parents' dreams (and his own) come true.  

 

David E. Peņalva

Vida Nueva UM Ministries Pastor