Currently on home assignment in New Zealand, Darnelle Richardson shares her passion for mentoring and children’s ministry in Ecuador. Here’s a glimpse into her heart and her work.
“One of my mentees discovered the importance of prioritising her own children – not just as a responsibility, but as a gift from God.”
What do you love most about mentoring?
I love walking alongside someone – listening to their story, praying through challenges, and watching God answer their prayers. It’s a privilege to see His hand at work in their lives.
What does mentoring look like for you?
Darnelle follows SIM’s structured mentoring program, which operates on three levels:
Regional: within Ecuador
Continental: across Latin America
Global: connecting with SIM missionaries worldwide
Mentoring involves regular meetings, journalling progress, and praying together. They explore strengths and weaknesses, ask open-ended questions, and sometimes read books or study Scripture together. The focus is primarily on church leaders, equipping them to lead well.
How are you supported?
Twice a year in January and July, everyone in the programme gathers for a retreat, a time of refreshment and encouragement. It’s a chance for new team members to join and current members to share testimonials. The SIM Ecuador Equipping team is responsible for support of this ministry.
Who are you mentoring right now?
Each mentoring relationship begins with a five-month commitment. After that, mentees are encouraged to mentor others. Darnelle currently mentors Erika, who is already mentoring Orbita and two young adults. By Christmas, Lord willing, Orbita will begin mentoring one of them—multiplying the impact!
There is a possibility that Erika and Darnelle will be invited to participate in the continental mentoring program with others from all around South America.
A story that brings you joy
One of my mentees discovered the importance of prioritising her own children – not just as a responsibility, but as a gift from God. She now understands what that looks like practically and has the confidence to live it out.
What challenges do you face?
Consistency can be tough – helping people commit to regular mentoring sessions. Travel is another challenge. Without a car, long bus rides are often necessary, and bad weather makes it harder. Mentoring takes planning, especially when factoring in family schedules.
Darnelle’s Heart for Children
Beyond mentoring leaders, Darnelle is deeply involved in children’s ministry. She partners with Bible Centred Ministries (BCM) to train leaders who work with kids.
To expand this work, when Darnelle returns to Ecuador she needs a vehicle, so she can reach more communities and equip more leaders. As her Spanish fluency grows, so will her opportunities to train others.
How can you help?
Darnelle is preparing to travel around New Zealand, sharing her ministry in Ecuador. She would love to visit your church or group – and even teach you some fun facts about South America and Ecuador!
Want to connect with Darnelle? Click here.
Learn more about BCM here.
