Guatemala Update!

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Hello to all our friends in Christ,

Here we are in Guatemala having had an exciting flight, with time
delays in Miami and arriving here with the electricity at the airport
out of service. We did prevail and were met by our hosts from Servants
Heart. It was a late night as we were all beyond sleep and we unwound
in camaraderie.

Sunday began with pancakes for breakfast followed by worship and
singing hymns we hope to share with our Guatemala friends this week.

In the afternoon we were treated to a wonderful time at in the home of
Carlita in a town near Antigua. At Carlita’s we experienced the making
of tortillas and a demonstration of the beautiful and colorful weaving
of fabrics which contain significant patterns unique to Guatemala as
it was described to us. We were served a typical native meal that was
also shared by the eleven other servants in Christ that are here from
Indiana.

Upon return to the mission we had orientation with Ginny and planned
out events for Monday in Amatitlan. We are all anticipating the chance
to share our love for God with the adults and children we will meet



Monday, June 9th, 2008

Today our visit to Amatitlan started at 8:30 A.M.
Upon arrival at The Servant's Heart Mission we prepared to present the
story of Ruth to the children by using puppets. Although the group was
small, there was much enthusiasm. We also sang songs and did a craft
project where they created crosses with the words God and love on
them.

After much fun with the children we went on a visit to two homes. With
the help of our wonderful interpreter Coca we prayed together and
hopefully left our hostess in the first home feeling more at peace in
the knowledge that she and her family are loved by our Lord and
Savior. The second home, in contrast, was more interactive with two
younger women, one of whom seemed less secure in her faith. I believe
we helped her to gain a better understanding of how faith and the love
of Christ would enhance her life.





After the visits we went back to the mission where service was held
for the women.
Our spiritual leader, Tim Kant, told the story of Ruth, again with our
interpreter Coca. The women sang some hymns and we were lucky that the
rain calmed down enough so as not to interfere. In addition, medical
treatment was provided to those seeking help.

We have found the people we have come to serve very loving and happy
to receive us. Their response to us has been very rewarding.

We returned to our residence to find a tasty meal prepared for us.
After we ate we reflected on the days events and discussed our plans
for tomorrow followed by devotion.



Serving in Christ’s name,
Dona Marinello