With Hope Comes Joy

Buenos Noches!

This update comes from our new retreat center in Panajachel, Guatemala on Lake Atitlan. Not only is the view beautiful but we already have found plenty of goodies at the local market! Joining us here is the local Guatemala Team. We hope the next few days we spend together will bring relaxation and rejuvenation for them after a very busy summer hosting over 400 missionaries!

Denise, Allie and Michelle enjoying our final evening in Sumpango

Last night was an amazing night for Team Guatemala and the families of Sumpango. Our final class focused around healthy nutrition and was led by Tara. She discussed healthy options for families and led an activity that showed how much sugar is in different drinks children often buy at the local tiendas (convenience stores).

Tara teaching the families about healthy nutrition

After the final class, twenty-four children and their parents graduated from the Bunkbed Ministry and received their beds. It was an unforgettable evening for all involved while we watched excited families carry their beds out of the church and back to their homes.

The bunkbeds under our guiding verse

A family receiving their graduation certificate.

The children being addressed by Betty. 

A family with four young girls receiving their certificate.  

Enjoying their new beds already! 

Praying over the beds

Jen and six year old Nancy

Wilson, Tara and Walter

Flowers each family received as a reminder of hope

Today we completed our final day of teaching in the orphanage. Tara taught students about Antartica and Australia while Joyce taught about Europe. We truly enjoyed spending time with the children and wish we could have stayed longer!

Please pray that the local Guatemala Team is able to find refreshment in our devotional time tomorrow and that we can enjoy our final few days in Guatemala. Tomorrow evening we will head to Antigua for the final part of our journey.

Hasta Manana,

Team Guatemala