This past week we got to host a Beauty for Ashes event for the women in the community, and it was one of the sweetest things I’ve experienced here in Honduras.

We had over 50 women and 75+ kids come, and the whole day was just full of smiles, laughter, and so much joy. What made it even more special is that these weren’t just random people showing up; we had spent the weeks before doing house visits, personally inviting each woman. Getting to look them in the eyes, invite them, and then actually see them walk in… it meant a lot.

We started the day simple with coffee, cookies, and just being together. My friend Carlee shared a message about washing feet, and it was so beautiful. After that, we gave the women the opportunity to have their feet washed if they felt led, and that moment was really powerful. Then the rest of the day was honestly just fun. We painted nails, braided hair, and taught them how to make sugar scrubs. It might sound small, but it mattered. These women work long, hard days; most of them are in the fields from around 3:00 am to 3:00 pm, taking care of their kids on top of that. They don’t often get time to just be women, to relax, or to be taken care of. And that’s what this day was. A space where they could laugh, be honest, and just be loved no matter their situation. A lot of the women here carry really heavy stories. Abuse is common, and many don’t feel like they have a voice because of the culture. Even during house visits, it can feel repetitive at times, but then you see a woman smile, even for just a few seconds, and you’re reminded why it matters. If she hears the Gospel, if she feels seen for even a moment, it’s worth it. At this event, you could feel that shift. These women were being reminded that they are loved not just by us or the Catracho team but, most importantly, by the Lord. It was simple, but it was really special.