From Ruins to Hope
In February 1976, Guatemala was shaken by one of the most devastating earthquakes in its history. In the midst of heartbreak and loss, God planted a seed of hope. From that crisis, Agua Viva was born.
Now, fifty years later, we look back on that moment not only as a tragic chapter in Guatemala’s history, but as the beginning of a ministry that has walked alongside hundreds of children and families. We are grateful to share a glimpse of the story that you have helped make possible.
When the catastrophic earthquake struck Guatemala City, it claimed more than 25,000 lives and left countless families displaced. David Beam, a young missionary from Michigan, traveled to Guatemala to help in the aftermath of the tragedy. When he returned to the United States, he met Dr. Carl Heinlein of Indiana, who began supporting David’s work and vision for caring for vulnerable children.
In 1977, Dr. Heinlein and his family traveled to Guatemala with a calling to establish a children’s home for babies orphaned by the earthquake. What began as a compassionate response to urgent need soon grew into a lifelong commitment to these children and their future.
Agua Viva was officially incorporated in Guatemala in 1980. A few years later, in 1984, John and Jeanie Kilpatrick visited the home to meet the child they sponsored and to serve on a short-term mission trip. During that visit, God stirred their hearts. They returned to Guatemala to serve full time and were soon appointed as the directors of Agua Viva.
When John and Jeanie arrived, 50 malnourished babies and 60 other children were living at the home. The needs were overwhelming, but so was their determination. Day by day, they poured out their lives, providing nourishment, medical care, education, and—most importantly—love and stability.
In 1992, Guatemala Children’s Mission, Inc. (GCM) was formed as the sponsoring mission agency for Agua Viva. At that time, the home was operating on rented property, and a permanent location became an urgent need. Through the generosity of individuals and churches who believed in this work, God provided. In November 1999, the children moved into a permanent home, a place built on faith and faithful giving.
After 15 years of devoted service, John and Jeanie Kilpatrick retired as directors in December 2000. Leadership passed to Everilda Tzirin Bal (known affectionately as Seño Evy) who served faithfully from 2000 until 2022, guiding the ministry with wisdom, strength, and deep love for the children and their families.
A new chapter began in January 2001 with the establishment of a primary school, using existing space within the home. Recognizing the transformative power of education, GCM committed in 2004 to building a dedicated school facility. By February 2006, the new Agua Viva School buildings were dedicated to the glory of God. Over the years, the school has consistently served more than 300 students, offering not only academic excellence but also spiritual formation, character development, and hope for a brighter future.
Although the children’s home program has since concluded, and the pandemic brought new challenges to ministries sustained by donations, God’s work at Agua Viva continues. Today, the school remains a vital source of blessing to more than 200 families in the surrounding communities. In classrooms filled with eager students, the legacy of compassion that began in 1976 lives on. As new students walk through its doors each year, the mission continues—equipping the next generation with education, faith, and opportunity.
We give glory to God for transforming one of the most painful moments in Guatemala’s history into a ministry that has blessed hundreds of children, youth, and families. What began in the rubble has become a testimony of restoration.
Because of partners like you, through your prayers, generosity, and faithful support, this story continues to be written. Thank you for being part of it. We look forward in faith, trusting that the Lord will continue to transform lives through Agua Viva for generations to come.
