Day 6: Friday, May 12, 2023

What a wonderful way to end an incredible week in Guatemala. Other than rounding this morning, today was full of exploring Guatemala we hadn’t had time to fully see.

This morning, Wendy took a group on a half an hour bus ride outside of Antigua, where we learned about a tiny part of the rich cultural tradition contained in Guatemala. We learned how the incredible brocaded weavings traditional to Guatemala are made (which Tristen did a wonderful job trying out) and we learned about a traditional Mayan wedding ceremony in which the bride is presented with an apron and must show she knows how to make tortillas before the night is over. Jessica, it was an honor being your groom. We then ate handmade tortillas with quite literally the best guacamole I’ve ever eaten in my life. Hands down one of the best foods I’ve ever had in my life.

Later this afternoon, some of us were able to visit the orphanage that Peter, a long-time FIP member and one of our team leaders, helps support. It was started by two nuns (and also blood sisters) years ago and Peter has done so much to support them, from getting them a new facility to visiting often to come to know and love these kids. Let me tell you, they are easy to love. When we got off the bus, we were immediately thronged by kids in matching uniforms that looked just like soccer jerseys. Kids hugged me and held my hand, even climbing into my arms. We toured the buildings, farm, and soccer fields with a kid holding onto each hand of those from our team and a few more running along with us. Then we played (and were absolutely destroyed at) soccer for a bit, where the Niños team took the victory over the Niñas with a close 4:3.

I sure love those kids. They were so gentle with each other and so quick to pull me into a hug or hold my hand. Despite all the love, those wonderful nuns exude and the atmosphere of faith, love, and learning they have created there, these friends face a lot. I will pray for them and hope that all will join me as we do what we can for them and then trust that the rest is in God’s hands.