An exciting story in Kent and Belen Albright’s work in Spain is the remarkable way God has worked in the lives of the Guarnizo family. Romel, the father, was once in ministry in Ecuador and Colombia, even teaching as a professor in a university. He paid a high price for his commitment, living and working among dangerous Amazon tribes and facing numerous death threats from Colombian narcotics guerillas. Romel emigrated to Spain, but not able to find work in his field, he slept on cardboard in the parks and in apartment doorways. His faith began to erode in the steady stream of rejection and difficulties. Once he did find employment, he fell into materialism, working three jobs and ignoring his family and children.
In 2006, Romel contacted Kent for counseling, and they began a long journey together. During the previous six years, Romel had experienced financial ruin and shame. His wife also divorced him and has since abandoned the family and the custody of their children.
The love and acceptance that the Albrights’ congregation unconditionally offered Romel and his children from the first day was perhaps the greatest factor in him starting the road to recovery. The Albrights saw God restore Romel to joy and service through repentance and the spiritual reconstruction of a Christ-centered home. Romel, his two children Lady and Danny, and his mother Alicia are among the most active and involved members of the Albrights' church now. Danny, 10 years old, feels called to preach, and Lady is learning musical instruments and sings in church. The Guarnizo family members are faithful as evangelistic witnesses in their respective worlds and bring a spark of excitement and dynamism to the congregation.
Though the scars of forgiven errors are constant reminders of the consequences of Romel’s sin, God has certainly not forgotten or abandoned this repentant servant.