2011 Guatemalan Leadership Conference

"God has planted many seeds in and through Faith In Practice over the years, and it is amazing how much fruit has sprung forth from those seeds." Jesus Ramirez, volunteer from El Progreso, spoke these words at the recent leadership conference where volunteers gathered from across Guatemala to plan for next season. As I listened to his words, I saw before me the seeds and the fruit that humbled me and made me thank God once again for this ministry.       

Seeds. Apolinario Lopez from El Peten stepping out in faith to become a volunteer after his grandson needed surgery. Fruit. Apolinario, who now says his purpose in life is to help others. His son, Yoni, following in Apolinario's footsteps as a volunteer from the Peten.

Seeds. Armando Najera assured that he would die because of a cancerous tumor on his face, encouraged by his priest to believe that God had a plan for his life. Fruit. Armando, now healed, a leader in his community, a mentor to the young man who proudly stands before the leadership to speak of how Armando has changed his life and given him a purpose. This young man now serving others in need in Jalapa.

Seeds. Floridalma Quintanilla serving the people of Santa Rosa despite societal norms which say she should serve her husband to the exclusion of all others. Fruit. Elvia Lima standing before leadership to express her appreciation for Floridalma, who has taught her that while she respects her husband, she does not need to ask permission to help others. Standing to thank Floridalma for teaching her that Elvia is called to serve God first.

Seeds and Fruit. Committed volunteers from across Guatemala sitting at table with tea lights under a starry sky sharing a meal and stories. Brothers and sisters, who would never have met but for this mission. Servants who ate, laughed and danced together as one community. A community that bears great fruit. A community that is led forth in joy and led back in peace.

"For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there until they have watered the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty....For you shall go out in joy, and be led back in peace; the mountains and the hills before you shall burst into song, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands."  Isaiah 55:10-12

--Rev. Linda L. McCarty

Each year more than 600 Guatemalan volunteers serve beside more than 1,000 US volunteers through Faith In Practice.