A Story of Faith, Calling, and Hope

Jailinne Martínez González grew up surrounded by grace—often without even realizing how deeply it was shaping her life.

Originally from Río San Juan in the Dominican Republic, Jailinne now lives in Santiago de los Caballeros. When she reflects on her childhood, gratitude is the first word that comes to mind. By God’s grace, she was raised by present and loving parents who instilled strong values in her from an early age. Her family was Catholic, and faith was always part of her foundation. But at eleven years old, something new began to stir in her heart when she started attending a youth club at the Manna Christian Center in Río San Juan.

That step marked the beginning of a journey that would continue through Manna Christian School and later through a scholarship discipleship program with Manna in Santiago. At every stage, God placed people in her life who lovingly pointed her toward the gospel. Those influences—teachers, mentors, and spiritual leaders—helped shape the woman she is today. Looking back, Jailinne sees clearly that none of it was accidental.

From Recipient to Servant

Being a recipient of the Manna scholarship program became one of the most defining experiences of Jailinne’s life. The investment made in her went far beyond finances. She was discipled, encouraged, and spiritually nurtured. That intentional care planted a desire deep in her heart—not just to succeed, but to serve.

Today, Jailinne pours that same care into others through her ministry with the same program that shaped her. The scholarship program she helps lead operates through two primary pathways. The first is a residential program, which provides tuition, housing, and meals for students who do not have family near their university. In the Dominican Republic, universities do not offer student dormitories, making this support essential. The second pathway is a general scholarship program that covers tuition costs.

Once accepted, students are expected to remain committed—not only academically, but spiritually and relationally. They must maintain good grades, attend leadership training courses, meet regularly with Jailinne for guidance and mentoring, and participate in service projects within their communities. The goal is formation, not just education.

A Vision Bigger Than a Degree

For Jailinne, the mission is clear. The program exists not merely to produce professionals, but to guide young people into a real encounter with Jesus. She dreams of seeing students step into their careers as lights—men and women who bring hope, integrity, and faith into their workplaces and neighborhoods.

That vision continues to be confirmed as she watches former students graduate, enter the workforce, and live out an active, authentic faith. While there isn’t one single defining moment, witnessing these transformed lives has been deeply impactful. Even now, she is continually amazed by what God is doing through the program and prays it will continue for many years to come.

The Heart Behind the Ministry

Outside of ministry, Jailinne finds joy in simple rhythms. One of her favorite moments of the day is driving to work in the morning with a cup of coffee in hand—a quiet space she treasures.

Her favorite book, Don’t Waste Your Emotions by Alejandra Sura, reflects her thoughtful approach to faith and life. The book helped her understand emotions through a biblical lens, showing her that emotions are not something to suppress, but a gift from the Lord—meant to draw us closer to a God who Himself feels deeply.

One of the Bible passages closest to her heart is 1 Samuel 1:9–19, the story of Hannah’s prayer. It reminds Jailinne of the power of prayer as a direct pathway to God—whether in joy or in pain. Hannah brings her deepest longing before the Lord, and God responds faithfully, blessing her not only with a son, but with even more children.

Her anchor verse is Romans 8:38–39, a reminder she returns to often:

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

This truth grounds her: nothing and no one can separate her from Christ.

A Jesus Without Borders

One of the greatest joys of the ministry is receiving visiting teams. Jailinne and her students are continually encouraged by these teams—their willingness to serve, their teaching, and above all, the way they share a Jesus who knows no borders.

Through scholarships, discipleship, and faithful presence, Jailinne Martínez González continues to live out the calling that was once poured into her—multiplying hope, faith, and opportunity in the lives of the next generation.

Thank you Jailinne Martínez González, for your faith, dedication to discipleship, and commitment to serving and investing in young leaders. We are grateful to walk alongside you and witness the work God is doing through you.
— Manna Global Missions Team