Los Amigos is a faith-based organization dedicated to supporting programs that improve and transform the lives of the poor of Chimbote, Peru.

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Volunteer Marlene Christenson Honored for 25+ Years of Service

( FARGO, ND, April 30, 2008)—Nativity Church in Fargo, ND hosted a special day on Sunday, April 27.  Fr. Jack Davis, retired priest of the Diocese of Fargo, and Sr. Peggy Byrne were guests at an afternoon fundraising event that benefited the mission in Chimbote, Peru where they both live and minister to the poor.

Guest of honor was Marlene Christenson, who was recognized for her many years of service as Treasurer of Los Amigos del Padre Juan, the not-for-profit corporation that provides funding for the programs in place in Chimbote. Marlene retired from this role on May 1. Fr. Jack gave a heartfelt speech where he shared the special bond that has developed between him and Marlene over the years.  He related how Marlene’s daughter, the late Laura Christenson Espejo served as an incentive for him to develop one of the first free-standing hospices in South America. Marlene was presented with a silver globe with a sparkling gem over the city of Chimbote, exemplifying the gratitude of the poor that she has served so diligently since 1979 when Fr. Jack first asked her to deposit some checks that he was getting for the mission.  She also received a music box that plays the song “Unforgettable.” 

Chimbote is one of Peru’s poorest cities with an estimated unemployment rate of 80%.  Of the 400,000 population, Fr. Jack’s mission serves approximately 35,000 people.   Due to the generosity of hundreds of donors, programs have been put in place to help minister to these impoverished people.  There are five soup kitchens in the parish that last year served over 150,000 meals to men, women, and children who might otherwise have gone without a daily meal.  Other programs include educational services, medical clinics, youth centers, alcohol and drug rehab centers, and a battered women’s shelter.  In Peru there are no government sponsored programs like in the United States so often Fr. Jack and Sr. Peggy’s helping hands are the only option for the desperately poor of Chimbote whose annual income averages less than $300.00 per year.

Los Amigos del Padre Juan, also known as Los Amigos, is a faith-based organization dedicated to supporting programs that improve and transform the lives of the poor of Chimbote, Peru. After many years of informal fundraising and support for Chimbote, Los Amigos officially formed in 1998 and, in 2002, received 501c3 status, allowing donations to be tax-deductible. Administrative expenses comprise less than 5% of Los Amigos’ budget.