Friday: Part 2, Information on Sponsorship, and Many Thanks!

I am sorry we were unable to finish our account of Friday in the airport on Saturday; customs took a little longer than we anticipated, there was a quick stop at McDonald's to confirm we were back in the States; then we just flopped at our gate, until the "young ones" decided to sing again. Oscar in Guatemala had told them they should open the window of the plane and just start singing, and since we were pretty sure that would not work, they chose to surprise and entertain weary travelers at Gate 87 in Houston. Our flights were "interesting" and we arrived home safely about 6:30 P.M. last night (Saturday). But, now back to Friday afternoon.

Friday afternoon, the children in Guatemala City that are sponsored by Groundwork Guatemala, walk to the mission house to spend time with the mission teams and the Groundwork staff, to talk, play, receive medical attention, and receive encouragement in life, school, and faith. No one ever officially put it that way, but it seemed to me that was what was going on. The kids come from the shanties and areas we visited Friday morning and have been selected for sponsorship because of their willingness to study, desire to attend school, parent/parent's belief in the importance of education, and willingness to participate in Groundwork activities to spread the love of Jesus in their communities. Groundwork also sponsors children in Amatitlan and Buena Vista. If you are interested in the sponsorship program, you can learn more on their website at http://www.groundworkguatemala.org/, but I want you to know that 100% of the $30 per month that it takes to sponsor a child goes to pay for their schooling. Their school supplies are also provided by Groundwork thanks to your generous donations; school supplies also go to non-sponsored children so they too can attend public schools...a less desirable education, but children cannot even attend a public school in Guatemala unless they have the required school supplies. Sponsored children must also turn in their grades as proof they are working hard and to make them accountable; it may sound harsh but it is done to teach the kids the importance of a work ethic and to help ensure these children will have a chance at a better future and as a result, hopefully improve the lives of their families, not to mention to set an example for all who watch them change and grow. Of course, all of this is coupled with God's word and His love for all of his people, and His special love for those who suffer. Groundwork has a tough job, but they are making a difference, one relationship at a time in three different locations. It is all very impressive, and again if you are interested in being an active partner, check out their website, talk to any team member, or email me at sbuss@trinityct.org.

So back to Friday afternoon...Again we sang with the sponsored kids, their mothers, a father, and some of their siblings, then Manuel worshiped with the parents on the roof. We took the kids...and again used volleyball to bond as sisters and brothers, and to just have fun in a safe, loving environment. The Groundwork van was moved to the street, the gate closed as usual, and we played volleyball over a clothes line (note the clothes line in the picture) in the small ministry house yard. In attempt to cut down on the "destruction" we used beach balls, but you would be amazed how a determined kid can spike a beach ball, particularly when that particular game was the Guatemalan kids versus the Americans...in our defense the sun was in our eyes and we were greatly outnumbered. (They are quick learners.) After we said our good-byes, it was time to tell the Guatemalan leaders of Groundwork good-bye, which is difficult for so many reasons, not the least of which is the fact they are going home to the shanties and block houses by the dump, in the dangerous areas we had just experienced that morning. Again, you have no idea...and frankly we just just have a glimmer of an idea of the width and depth of what goes on here. I just know that Groundwork Guatemala and their American and Guatemalan staff "give their all" for the extreme poor in Guatemala everyday, and they do it with determination, grace, patience, a sense of humor, and always with God and His word.

Friday night we debriefed with Kevin and Ginny, an emotional and essential part of processing the experience and preparing for the return home. We also, as a team, exchanged small Guatemalan secret sister gifts, further cementing our friendship and commitment to each other, to God, and this opportunity to serve. As we fell into bed Friday night, we felt a little melancholy, a little relieved, incredibly fortunate, and physically and emotionally exhausted.

Again, thank you for following our experience these past 10 days. The only thing as good having this experience, is having loving people to share it with. Thank you for your support, your concerns and encouragement, and most especially your prayers. It has been an honor to be known as Trinity Clinton Township in Guatemala, and all of you made that possible. Thank you and thank God.

Lovingly and In His name,
Ali Corace, Kayla Napier, Anna Page, Nicole Paquette, Emily Racey, Jenna Thompson, Lisa Voiland, and Sally Buss, very fortunate Guatemalan sisters
P.S. More pictures will be attached in a second posting later today.