Our History
A Journey That Began With One Prayer
Retired Pastor Oliver Knell and businessman Harold McKamish loaded up a vehicle with supplies and crossed the Mexican border with one simple goal: to find someone who needed help. As they drove toward San Luis, Sonora, they prayed:"Lord, let us be a blessing to these people."Neither of them knew that this single trip would become the beginning of Caring Hearts Ministry.
November 1986
What started as one act of obedience quickly grew into a ministry dedicated to serving the people of San Luis.
Over the years, God opened the door for:
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The renovation and expansion of an orphanage
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The construction of a boys' home with vocational training
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The establishment of a Bible school
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The founding of a local church
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The opening of a blind center
Each project was created to meet both physical and spiritual needs in the name of Christ.
Growing the Vision
As the ministry continued to grow, so did the number of people answering God's call to serve.
For decades, vans filled with volunteers and trailers loaded with supplies have traveled to San Luis year-round.
Mission teams have included:
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Churches from many denominations
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College students
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Skilled tradespeople
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Families
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Medical professionals
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First-time missionaries
Together teams have built and supported churches, homes, dormitories, drug rehabilitation centers, and other locations that continue to serve the community.
Thousands Serving Together
Through partnerships with local ministries like the Lord's Kitchen, Caring Hearts has helped provide:
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Tons of rice and beans for families in need
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Thousands of Spanish Bibles
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Medical supplies and healthcare through medical mission trips
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Encouragement and practical support to vulnerable children and families
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Most importantly, tens of thousands of people have heard the Gospel, and countless lives have been changed through a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Only God knows the full impact of what began with one faithful "yes."
Meeting Needs. Sharing Hope.
The Vision
From the start, God placed a clear vision on the hearts of Pastor Knell and Harold McKamish:
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Support destitute children financially and spiritually
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Encourage and strengthen the local staff caring for them
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Equip children with practical skills for adulthood
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Unite believers from every denomination to serve together
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Provide opportunities for short-term mission trips
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Establish a Bible school
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Be a blessing to the entire San Luis community
