A Present Day
Story of Redemption

Before her marriage to Carlos, Rosa left her remote Native village to work as a housekeeper for a woman in the city of Juarez, Mexico. To prevent Rosa from leaving her services, the woman encouraged Rosa to borrow money from her to help Rosa’s parents back in the village. The debt had grown so large that Rosa’s monthly wages contributed little to its reduction, binding her to her employer like a slave.

The one bright spot during this time was Rosa’s marriage to Carlos, a young Native man from the mountains. But after her marriage, Rosa was forced to return to work in Juarez to continue paying off her debt. Separated by hundreds of miles as well as by an obligation of 7000 pesos (about $700 U.S.), Rosa and Carlos despaired of living together any time soon.

Introducing ROSCA...

As part of the ongoing development of the small Christian community in Carlos’ village, Ameritribes introduced the ROSCA, a community-based Revolving Savings and Credit Association. The ROSCA plan would enable people to purchase items that would otherwise be difficult to obtain––items such as a horse, a chainsaw, or building materials for a home.

Three men, partners in a furniture-making shop recently facilitated by Ameritribes Development staff, were included in the initial discussion. All showed a cautious interest and as their understanding of the concept grew, so did their enthusiasm. A short time later, Ameritribes development staff and these three Native Christians formed the first ROSCA. Carlos was one of the men. Each contributed 1250 pesos, equaling a total sum of 5000 pesos. The Native men contributed from their furniture shop earnings. It was unanimously decided that Carlos would receive the first installment of the pooled money.

To the 5000 pesos, Carlos added another 1000 pesos he had been saving for a long time, as well as 1000 pesos Rosa’s father was able to pay back. A smiling Carlos set off on the bus for Juarez with 7000 pesos in hand. He paid Rosa’s employer and brought his wife home to the mountains to live!

Each of the men feels that he had a part in helping Carlos “buy back” his wife. As beautiful as Carlos and Rosa’s story is, it is especially poignant to those of us who have been redeemed and made the bride of Christ. We, too, know what it’s like to be freed of a debt we could never pay.

The Chain Continues...

Subsequent installments of the Revolving Savings and Credit Association were made in the following months. Each time a different man received the money. Recently, the cycle was completed as each man made his final contribution of 1250 pesos and the last individual received it. “The men are eager to begin the cycle again,” Ameritribes staff commented. “They experienced a high level of success the first time around and see the potential for their future.”

In a community where there is no such thing as a bank, this has become a significant way of encouraging people to work toward otherwise unattainable goals. Little did anyone dream it would be put to such redemptive use!

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