Get to Know the Donaire Family

Ministry Description

We serve the Lord in different areas throughout the Dominican Republic, with a deep conviction of the calling God has placed on our lives. Our main focus is evangelism and discipleship, partnering with local churches to preach the gospel, strengthen their leaders, and contribute to the growth of youth ministries.

We also share the message of Christ in schools, sports marathons, medical outreaches, and the youth camps of Word of Life, where we support, assist, and serve according to the needs.

Twice a week, we teach online discipleship classes, connecting with young people from different countries who desire to grow in their faith and be equipped to serve the Lord.
We do everything with one purpose: to exalt Christ, spread the gospel, and walk alongside the next generation in their spiritual growth.

Learn more about the ministry in the Dominican Republic.

About Jonathan

I was born in Nicaragua. My life was marked by pain from a very young age: when I was 12, I became an orphan after losing my mother in a massacre, and I grew up without knowing my father. This wound led me, as a teenager, to seek refuge in the streets and in addictions that tried to fill a void nothing else could satisfy.

At 15, I was shot, and the impact damaged four organs in my stomach. The doctors said I had only 15 days to live, and there I made my first prayer: “Lord, if You truly exist and have a plan for me, give me a second chance.” God gave me that chance.

The aftermath of the shooting left me paralyzed and in a wheelchair because the bullet remained lodged near my spine. But one year later, after a surgery to remove it, God performed a second miracle: I regained mobility and sensation in my feet. I rose from the wheelchair to walk with two crutches, and today I walk with a cane, defying every medical expectation.

Although for a time I went back to the wrong path, God continued reaching my heart. An invitation to a spiritual retreat in 2013 became a turning point: there I surrendered my life to Jesus Christ, and He began a deep work of restoration. Part of that restoration included the difficult but freeing decision to forgive the man who murdered my mother.

Today I walk—physically and spiritually—by the grace of God. The Lord has brought me to serve here in the Dominican Republic, where I preach the gospel, serve in missions, and share the message that changed my life. Everything I am and have is for the glory of Christ, who lifted me from the dust and gave me an eternal purpose.

𝐀𝐂𝐄𝐑𝐂𝐀 𝐃𝐄 𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀

I grew up in a non-Christian family, but from a young age my sisters and I were taught to fear God. A neighbor invited us to church, and we began attending; in time, my mother and sisters accepted the Lord. Although I wasn’t ready yet, at 12 years old I received Christ during a Sunday school class where I understood His love. My life changed from that moment, though for a time I lived a double life between church activities and the Catholic school I attended.

My family went through various health and financial struggles, but we always received the counsel to draw closer to God. For years I struggled with a fear of death, which caused anxiety and uncertainty about my salvation. A friend encouraged me to pray, though I was afraid to do so. One night I found comfort in Psalm 42, which became my refuge in moments of anxiety. Today, although I still get nervous, I enjoy praying and I know that God hears my words—no matter how simple they may be.

I have faced health challenges: surgeries, burns, allergies, and illnesses, but in each one I have seen God’s hand, His provision, and His discipline. Although at times I thought He had abandoned me, I came to understand that His plans and timing are perfect. Now I can say that my fears and anxieties are under His control.

I thank God for allowing me to serve with the gifts He has given me. I have participated in mission trips, medical outreaches, and various activities that have taught me to value family, health, and God’s blessings.

Colossians 3:1 "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."

Contact Information

jdonaire@wol.org

Address:
Jonathan Donaire
Word of Life Dominican Republic
PO Box 600
Schroon Lake, NY 12870