An interview with Ronald Mena Salazar.

For more than twenty years, Ronald and his family have called Palmares, Costa Rica home. For three years he has walked closely with his community through discipleship, Bible studies, helping the homeless, English classes, and the simple but powerful ministry of listening. Ronald carries a deep love for people and a conviction that the Gospel must be lived out in everyday relationships. His weeks are full—meeting families in their homes, encouraging and meeting the needs of the homeless, guiding visiting teams, and walking with people through life- the good and the bad.

Yet if you ask him, he’ll tell you that this work is not about him at all. It’s about what God is doing behind the doors and stories we rarely see. It’s about offering what you have, trusting God to provide the rest, and pointing people to the hope found only in Christ.

We’re honored to introduce you to Ronald, his heart for ministry, and the impact he is making in Costa Rica!

We asked Ronald a few questions so you could get to know him better…

How long have you been serving with Manna?
We have been working directly with Manna for approximately three years, but we have lived in Palmares for about 20 years.

How did God first call you to missions?
Personally, my desire to be involved in the mission field began when I was very young.
But more specifically, we began 29 years ago with theological studies.

What is a “typical” week like for your family in ministry?
It depends on the week, but once a month we have three home services:
• 9:00 a.m. in San José
• 2:00 p.m. at Horacio’s house in Naranjo
• 6:30 p.m. at Mario and Jakelinne’s house in Palmares

Monday: English classes followed by coffee and a study session at one of the students’ homes.
Tuesday: Accounting and making payments.
Wednesday: Home visits:
– Alejandro and family
– Bernardita and the homeless
– Robert
In the afternoon:
– Gaby, her husband, and family
– Laura and visitors
Thursday: English classes again and follow-up visits.
Friday: Making payments, preparing English classes, Bible studies, and sermons.
Saturday: My “free” day.

What types of groups do you usually receive, and what is your role in their experience?

Local groups (homeless ministry):
I help by offering encouragement and motivation.

Study and visitation groups:
I lead studies and evangelize.

English groups:
I teach English classes, and especially assist those who are more fluent. My greatest participation is in the Biblical portion of these studies.

Groups of friends:
We spend time sharing, listening to their lives, and helping however we can.

Groups from abroad:
I help plan their stay here and collaborate in every way I can to ensure they have a meaningful experience—especially spiritually.

These days, much of my ministry has been listening, offering a shoulder to cry on, and giving counsel. Many come with problems—some big, some even bigger, some small—but everyone has their own struggles. Some just want to be heard; others look for advice; some need financial help. We give what we have, as Paul said. This intense season has reminded me that my own problems are few and easy to bear. It has shown me that ministry is not about me—it’s about people everywhere who are carrying stories behind their walls that we cannot imagine: lies, depression, drugs, financial troubles, debt, hunger. Sometimes all we can do is pray. We often feel powerless, but God reminds us that it’s not our job to solve every need—only the ones He places before us. Glory to His name.

What has been the most rewarding part of serving in this way?
Seeing God respond in the lives of the people around us—seeing their smiles, and in other cases, seeing their desire to challenge us and make sure what we teach has a credible foundation.

What has been the most difficult part?
God’s call to hearts that believe they are right with Him simply because they raise their hands on Sundays, listen to a preacher read the Bible, and that’s it. The difficult part is dedicating time and waiting to see real change, but many are so comfortable that they don’t want to leave it.

How has serving impacted your own faith and family life?
Seeing my children and Rosi supporting projects fills me with renewed energy. Seeing the results of prayers in their lives motivates me and increases my faith.

What do you hope will be the long-term legacy of your ministry?
People working generation after generation in their homes, preaching the Good News.

What do you hope groups from the United States will take away from their experience with you?
A good example.

How can we pray for you right now?
Pray for greater spiritual strength.
For even more faith.
That my spiritual armor will not rust.

What do you want people back home to better understand about missions?
That everything does not depend on outside help. But also, that ministry can be more difficult for those of us serving in our own homeland. Jesus said, “No one is a prophet in their own land.”

What would you like donors to know about your family, your ministry, and the importance of their support?
Their prayers are essential. Through them, God confirms whether what we are doing comes from Him. We are striving—with God’s help and theirs—to do the work to which we have all been called: “Go and preach the gospel to every creature.”

Ronald, thank you for answering God’s call. We are honored to serve alongside you and pray for an abundant increase in your strength and faith, as well as those you serve.