Guatemala James 1:27 : Plans for Hope and a Future

Hola Amigos!

Our first full day in Sumpango has come and gone quickly but was filled with many first-time experiences and memories. We started our day off with a delicious breakfast made by our hotel's host, Bianca. The three resident dogs were able to ensure leftovers were not an option (and that Tara would come to visit them daily!).

After breakfast, Michelle E. led us through a devotional focused on the topic of hope. Throughout the trip we will be focusing on hope in our work and during devotionals. The following scripture will guide us:

Noemi, Berna, Pastor Marvin, Miguel and Betty

Soon after devotionals, the local Guatemala team came to meet with us and discuss what their organization, Breaking Cycles, does for the city of Sumpango.

In the following video Betty takes the time to explain their vision and ways we can support them:

At 4 o'clock we headed to the church for our evening events. The service began with worship, which we could hear as we walked up the hill towards the building. During the service we were able to thank the members for welcoming us into their church before Michelle K. graciously shared her faith story with the congregation. Joyce then addressed the adults while the children learned about the story of Noah's Ark in Sunday School.

Worship time at the church

Michelle K. telling her faith story

Joyce speaking to the congregation

Children learning about Noah's Ark and creating arks of their own!

After church ended we prepared for our first evening of the Bunkbed Ministry. Families who participate are required to attend four nights of educational ministry surrounding topics of God's love, Alcoholism, Sexual Abuse, and Nutrition. The goal for these classes is to help families understand how certain life choices can negatively impact the future of their family and cause hopelessness. Through our guiding verse (Jeremiah 29:11) we aim to show the families what hope means and how trusting in God can bring hope and joy into their lives. If families attend all four evenings, they will receive a set of bunkbeds to bring home. Many families attending the classes live in limited sleeping arrangements that can lead to sexual abuse and inappropriate experiences for children specifically. We hope the bunkbeds and classes will lead to a decreased risk of hopelessness and abuse.