A Message From Santiago "Jimmy" Mellado
Can you imagine what it would be like if you couldn’t read? You wouldn’t be able to read the label on a bottle of medicine or a book to your child at bedtime. For older children and adults who can’t read, the shame and frustration are intense.
For millions of children and families in poverty, not being able to read or write means far more than not being able to read instructions or enjoy a book. Illiteracy takes away opportunities. It limits job opportunities and increases the risk for exploitation. Perhaps most devastating, it prevents a child from dreaming.
That’s why this month I would like to invite you to celebrate International Literacy Day by praying for those whose lives are impacted by illiteracy.
First, will you pray for the tutors at our Compassion centers around the world who work so hard to teach children to read and write? Pray for their patience as they work with children in poverty who often start school with severe delays.
Will you pray for children like Sharith (whose story is featured in this month’s calendar)? She believed she was stupid — but simply needed someone who would believe in her and help her overcome the learning disabilities that hindered her ability to read.
Finally, will you lift up the many, many illiterate parents who are caring for the children we serve? Will you pray that they will set aside any shame they have as they work hard to break the cycle of illiteracy?
Thank you again for praying for the children we serve, that illiteracy will no longer rob them of their dreams.
In Christ,
Santiago "Jimmy" Mellado
President and CEO
Compassion International