James Project

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Jun 2026

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The James Project Podcast exists to share how God has raised up a group of amazing people to serve and provide for some of the most vulnerable women and children of Guatemala over the last 20 years, and continues to do so today. Hear incredible stories from international missionaries who serve or have served at the project, board members who serve to help the ministry grow and flourish, team leaders who travel down every year to be the hands and feet of Jesus for a week at a time, and those whose lives have been changed through this 15 acre plot in a rural town in Guatemala.

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52 recent

June 11, 2026Episode 521 hr 2 min

"Get Uncomfortable & Do the Hard Thing" - Mercedes Wilson

SummaryMercedes Wilson shares her inspiring journey from childhood in Guatemala to her current life in Canada, highlighting lessons on faith, resilience, and doing hard things. This episode explores cultural differences, family strength, and the importance of experiencing God's love firsthand. Sound Bites"Experiencing God's love changes everything""In your face, God's love is undeniable""Without all the stuff, you see God clearly"Chapters00:00 Early Life and Missionary Background03:28 Cultural Immersion and Community in Guatemala06:23 Challenges of Moving and Family Resilience10:15 Faith Journey and Spiritual Growth14:00 Experiences with the James Project19:59 Transition Back to Canada and Its Challenges27:03 Finding Identity and Purpose in Two Worlds32:30 The Impact of Relationships on Personal Growth35:07 Leading Teams and Personal Experiences in Guatemala40:32 The Connection to Home and Community44:53 Yearly Visits and Their Significance48:15 Future Aspirations and Mission Work52:28 Experiencing God's Love Through Service58:33 Embracing Discomfort for Growth01:02:21 pod out.mp4 ResourcesThe Great Commission - Matthew 28:19-20 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+28%3A19-20&version=NIVJames Project - https://jamesproject.org/Jesus Calling Devotional - https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Calling-Devotional-Encouragement-Comfort/dp/1591451884

May 21, 2026Episode 5121 min

May Update with Bryon Applegate

SummaryIn this episode, Bryon shares updates on the James Project, upcoming fundraising events, and personal challenges, highlighting the power of faith and community involvement. KeywordsJames Project, fundraising, Guatemala, community, faith, volunteer, support, mission, impact, family Key TopicsJames Project updates and impactUpcoming fundraising events and opportunitiesPersonal challenges and faith in actionChapters00:00 Introduction 02:56 Fundraising Success and Upcoming Events06:00 Communication and Newsletter Updates08:59 Team Season and Volunteer Support12:01 New Family at Village of Hope14:55 Personal Challenges and Family Matters17:58 Reflections on Faith and Support

April 11, 202622 min

April Update with Bryon Applegate

SummaryJoin us as we explore the impactful work being done in Guatemala, including water baptisms, the Village of Hope, and upcoming fundraising events like the pickleball tournament. Discover how these efforts are transforming lives and how you can get involved. KeywordsGuatemala, water baptism, Village of Hope, fundraising, ministry, missions, community impact, child rescue, spiritual growthChapters00:00 Introduction and Updates on the James Project01:23 Experiences from Guatemala: Baptisms and New Beginnings03:21 Building Hope: Casa Elizabeth and the Need for Maternity Homes05:24 Challenges Faced: Statistics and the Reality of Abuse08:27 Village of Hope: Welcoming New Families10:23 Fundraising Efforts: The Pickleball Tournament12:27 Balancing Ministry and Fundraising14:18 Internship Program and New Missionary Family20:20 Conclusion and Future Plans21:54 pod out.mp4James Project Official WebsitePickleball Tournament Details

February 28, 2026Episode 4944 min

Building Faith and Community: Aaron Warner's Ministry Stories

SummaryJoin us as we explore Aaron Warner's inspiring journey of faith, his impactful trips to Guatemala, and how his experiences shape his life and ministry. Discover the power of community, sacrifice, and God's work in everyday life.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:47 Family Influence and Faith Journey05:12 Legacy of Loss and God's Provision07:54 Parenting and Family Dynamics10:31 Transition to Education and School Leadership13:19 Faith and Community Involvement15:57 Experiences in Guatemala and Ministry Growth43:44 pod out.mp4

February 26, 2026Episode 4821 min

February Update with Bryon Applegate

summaryBryon shares updates on the James Project, construction progress, upcoming events, and ways to support the ministry. Learn about the impact of donations, upcoming fundraisers, and the behind-the-scenes efforts to sustain the ministry's work. keywordsJames Project, ministry updates, construction, fundraising, support, Guatemala, Village of Hope, solar energy, transitional housing, foundational partnersChapters00:00 Introduction and Recent Travels03:16 Updates on the James Project05:52 Construction Developments in Guatemala08:48 Transition Homes and Support for Aging Out Youth11:29 Solar Energy Initiatives13:41 Fundraising Events and Community Involvement16:12 Foundational Partnerships and Financial Support19:46 Conclusion and Open Communication20:51 pod out.mp4

January 29, 2026Episode 4722 min

January Update with Bryon Applegate

Building Hope and Faith: Updates from Village of Hope and BeyondIn this episode, Cathy Coute and Bryon share inspiring updates on the recent projects, the challenges and successes they've encountered, and exciting upcoming plans. Discover how faith, community, and generosity are transforming lives in practical and impactful ways.Celebrating successful fundraising challenges and upcoming matches for village projectsRecent harvests and agricultural initiatives, including honey and fishing programsThe Women of Valor program: spiritual growth and transformation for women staffNew housing initiatives at Village of Hope: onboarding residents and preparing for expansionsThe importance of foundational partnerships and ongoing fundraising efforts amidst rising operational costsUpcoming mission trip to Canada and prayer requests for travel and ministry impactRecent accreditation achievements (ECFA approval) and financial stewardshipECFA Accreditation – Financial accountability for Christian organizationsJamesproject.orgPray for their upcoming trip to Canada and ministry engagementsPray for new residents at Village of Hope to transition smoothlyContinue support and partnership to meet rising operational costsBlessings on new house openings and future family expansion effortsStay connected for more updates and stories of faith in action!Key Topics:Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome back and recent holiday highlights02:01 - Success of the $65,000 match for boys' home project03:17 - Harvesting honey and fish programs at the village03:53 - Celebrating the Women of Valor graduation and spiritual growth05:00 - Progress on Village of Hope housing and resident programs06:08 - Challenges and opportunities with new residents and moving in07:42 - Preparing for dedication ceremonies 10:00 - Trusting God through construction delays and future plans for Casa Juan10:28 - Announcing the birth of the new baby and upcoming Casa Elizabeth12:03 - Building the support base: foundational partner program14:21 - Raising funds in light of increased salary costs and operational needs15:24 - The spiritual blessing of giving and partnership with God17:36 - Transparency and open-door policy for supporters18:37 - Prayer requests for upcoming mission trip to Canada and leadership stamina20:00 - Celebrating a record number of teams coming to serve21:23 - Introducing new team members and volunteers21:56 - Official accreditation: CNA for JPLA and ECFA approval for JPI 23:00 - Future plans and upcoming check-ins after the Canada trip

November 9, 202519 min

November Update with Bryon Applegate

SummaryIn this conversation, Cathy and Bryon discuss various updates from their work in Guatemala, including cultural celebrations, educational challenges, the impact of aftercare programs, team restructuring, and new giving opportunities. They emphasize the importance of community support and the positive changes they are witnessing in the lives of children and families.TakeawaysThe quinceañera celebration was a significant cultural event.Educational challenges persist due to high turnover of teachers.Aftercare programs are crucial for supporting former students.Team restructuring is necessary to adapt to changes in staffing.New giving opportunities allow donors to support various programs.The Barnabas Family Care program helps families stay connected and supported.Community involvement is essential for the success of their initiatives.Witnessing the growth of the programs is rewarding.The importance of adapting to the needs of the children is paramount.Chapters00:00 Celebrating Cultural Traditions03:23 Educational Challenges and Solutions06:24 The Impact of Aftercare Programs09:10 Team Restructuring and New Roles12:22 Foundational Partnership Opportunities12:42 Year-End Giving Challenges12:44 Transparency and Stewardship in Donations19:08 pod out.mp4KeywordsGuatemala, education, aftercare, cultural celebration, fundraising, community support, team dynamics, giving opportunities, social work, youth programs

October 7, 2025Episode 4528 min

October Update with Bryon Applegate

SummaryIn this conversation, Cathy Coute and Bryon Applegate discuss the recent activities and challenges faced by their ministry in Guatemala. They celebrate community events, address staffing changes, and highlight the spiritual growth of the children in their care. The conversation also touches on the importance of trauma-informed care training for staff and the ongoing fundraising efforts to support their operations. Overall, the discussion reflects the dedication and resilience of the team as they navigate the complexities of their mission.TakeawaysSeptember was a busy month in Guatemala with Independence Day celebrations.Staffing changes continue to be a challenge for the ministry.The Village of Hope is making progress with new electrical installations.Nine children were baptized, including five mothers, showcasing spiritual growth.Trauma-informed care training is essential for all staff members.Community support is vital for the success of the ministry.A $75,000 fundraising challenge has been initiated to support operations.The ministry emphasizes the importance of prayer in their work.The impact of the ministry extends beyond the children to their families and communities.Volunteers play a crucial role in providing services like dental care for the children.Chapters00:00 Celebrating Independence and Community Engagement03:25 Staffing Challenges and Changes06:26 Updates on Casa Pablo and Village of Hope09:21 Spiritual Growth and Community Impact12:24 Trauma-Informed Care and Staff Training21:20 Fundraising Efforts and Community Support28:08 pod out.mp4

September 24, 2025Episode 441 hr 47 min

Mandy Wilson - A Story of Faith and Family

SummaryIn this podcast episode, Mandy Wilson shares her transformative journey from Canada to Guatemala, detailing her family's decision to embark on a mission trip instead of a vacation. The conversation explores the challenges and triumphs of fostering children, the emotional struggles of leaving a child behind, and the eventual transition to working with the James Project. Mandy reflects on her faith journey, the support from her community, and the lessons learned through trials and obedience to God's calling. In this conversation, Mandy shares her profound journey of faith, adoption, and the challenges faced while living in Guatemala. She discusses the importance of relying on God during trials, the growth that comes from perseverance, and the significance of looking back with gratitude. The conversation also delves into the complexities of the adoption process, the emotional struggles of transitioning back to Canada, and the ongoing mission work with the James Project. Mandy emphasizes the importance of community, support, and the transformative power of serving others.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:16 The Call to Guatemala06:25 First Mission Trip Experience10:25 The Second Yes: Returning to Guatemala15:18 Moving to Guatemala: A New Chapter20:31 Challenges of Missionary Life25:25 Fostering and Caring for Children30:35 The Heartbreak of Letting Go35:23 Reflections and Future Plans37:39 The Journey to the James Project40:41 Navigating Loss and New Beginnings43:06 Transitioning to the James Project44:24 Comparing Care: The James Project vs. Previous Homes47:52 The Process of Moving Lily55:19 Faith Tested in Dark Times01:02:05 Looking Back: Gratitude and Growth01:04:24 The Adoption Journey Begins01:10:17 Fighting for Lily's Future01:16:14 Lily: A Gift to the Family01:18:09 Faith and Adoption: A Journey of Hope01:20:12 Transitioning Back: Challenges of Returning Home01:21:33 Identity Crisis: Finding Purpose After Mission Work01:25:20 God's Presence in the Mundane: Seeking Him in Daily Life01:27:52 The James Project: Continuing the Mission01:31:42 Who Before Do: Solidifying Identity in Christ01:34:13 Reflections on Trials: Embracing the Journey01:39:42 Inviting Others: The Impact of Short-Term Missions01:46:30 pod out.mp4KeywordsGuatemala, missions, family, faith, adoption, challenges, community, service, James Project, fostering, faith, adoption, perseverance, reliance on God, mission work, Guatemala, family, trials, growth, gratitude

August 12, 2025Episode 4321 min

August Update with Bryon Applegate

SummaryIn this episode of the James Project podcast, hosts Cathy Coute and Bryon Applegate discuss recent updates from the work in Guatemala, including the retirement of beloved house parents, miraculous healings among the children, advancements in technology, and preparations for upcoming golf tournaments. They also address hiring challenges for social workers and the vision for future pastoral support within the community.TakeawaysThe retirement of house parents marks a bittersweet transition.Miraculous healings have been reported among the children.Technological advancements are enhancing community engagement.The Village of Hope is progressing, but government delays are a challenge.Team activities and training programs are ongoing and impactful.Hiring social workers and psychologists is a priority for better care.Preparations for golf tournaments are in full swing, with incentives for early sign-ups.Future plans include establishing pastoral support for house parents.Community involvement is crucial for the success of the project.The importance of spiritual growth and support for staff is emphasized.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Updates from Guatemala02:56 Retirement of Beloved House Parents03:57 Miraculous Healings and Spiritual Growth06:45 Technological Advancements and Future Plans08:33 Village of Hope Update13:03 Empowering Youth through Education14:49 Staffing Challenges and Solutions19:24 Community Support and Church Involvement20:35 pod out.mp4KeywordsGuatemala, house parents, miracles, technology, community, healing, golf tournament, Village of Hope, social workers, spiritual growth