Church of God Chaplain Deploys on Ecuador Mission
By Capt. (Chaplain) Gabriel Rios, 478th Expeditionary Operations Squadron chaplain
Imagine a child who only has one meal a day, or one who spends hours in the dump looking for something to eat or sell. While these circumstances may seem unthinkable, my deployment to South America gives me the chance to combat this type of poverty on a daily basis.
Chaplain Rios ministers in Ecuador.
Two months ago, I deployed with Air Forces Southern to Forward Operating Location (FOL) Manta, Ecuador. I serve as the installation chaplain for over 40 active-duty Airmen, 200 contractors, and dozens of crews flying counternarcotics missions in the eastern Pacific. The U.S. military here also works with local groups to build stability and prosperity in the region, and I am charged with leading FOL volunteers in our community relations committee.
When my rotation was approaching to deploy, I thought I would certainly go to Iraq or Afghanistan, and I began preparing mentally, physically and spiritually for what lay ahead. However, I never expected to deploy to another part of the world with a unique mission like this.
While I oversee the usual chaplaincy affairs, like counselings, pastoral visits, worship services and guidance to leaders, a major part of my job description is building teams that impact the community. Typically, I plan two or three events each week and bring groups of 10 to 25 volunteers to the city dump, local schools, hospitals and orphanages. We hope to reach out by bringing donations, serving meals, or fixing facilities.
The FOL also works with the U.S. Embassy in Quito, Ecuador, to bring Humanitarian Assistance Program (HAP) funds to worthy projects. Through U.S. Southern Command’s HAP initiatives, we have made lasting improvements to a community soup kitchen, day care and school. Our impact is seen in the smile of a child, gratitude of a mother or the cheer in a community.
Personally, I am reflecting on how much I can do when few resources are available. If I have a compassionate heart and am determined to help those less fortunate, any available item can be a blessing to others. With the help of volunteers, we notice change in our neighbors’ self-esteem, appreciation for life, and of course, willingness to become better people.
While I was not expecting this type of deployment, I am enjoying it. I am busy but satisfied. I work how the Air Force has asked me to and how God expects me to, when I tender a hand to his “little ones.” Since I deployed, many people and organizations have sent diapers, clothing, school supplies and toiletries. I am very grateful to each of them for their generous donations and assure them they are direct participants in this ministry. Continue to keep our chaplaincy ministries here in South America in your prayers.
To learn more about the Church of God Chaplains Commission chaplaincy programs, visit the Chaplains Commission website at: www.cogchaplains.com.
