This past Sunday, Cathy and Carrie paid a visit to our partner church, El Verbo Divino. The church is absolutely breathtaking and has the most scenic view from its balcony. If that name sounds a tad familiar, this is the same church whose youth group graciously hosted Westminster youth this past summer for the inaugural youth partnership trip to Guatemala.
From sharing the fun of 9-square together, hiking up a volcano and experiencing their worship service, they are a great congregation with such a tremendous youth program. Their engaged youth group enabled the youth partnership to exist within the entire Guatemala partnership.
Carrie and Cathy met with many of the youth leaders from El Verbo Divino to discuss plans for the upcoming June 2019 youth trip. After such success from last year’s events, they want to host us again for another weekend of fellowship!
It’s very exciting news that their youth group is just as enthusiastic about continuing programming with ours. Both groups had a profound impact on one another and continue to so.
In that same spirit, some church members had a message for the Westminster youth group!
Some of our youth who visited Guatemala this past summer reflected upon their experience.
“Guatemala changed my life; it showed me how blessed I am to be living the life I am living. It will forever be one of my most meaningful memories and I look forward to going back soon.” – Katie
“The friendships, experiences, and bonds I shared with the Guatemalan people are everlasting and opened my eyes to the beauty of their country and lifestyle. Developing closer relationships with my church peers, I consider them family and I cherish every moment with them. I hope to come back to Guatemala soon and learn more about their culture.” – Ethan
“The trip to Guatemala was very influential for me. This trip had helped me develop my faith and commitment to community service.” – Nate
“Being in such a different place and learning so much was amazing, but the fact that we made the people we met so happy was the icing on the cake. I’m interested in being an adult leader on the next trip whenever it is.” – Jason
“The genuine nature of the Guatemalan people and their fascination to learn and explore inspired me. I can’t wait to go back & spend time with them again!” – Tristan
“It was an eye opening experience that changed the way I see the world. It is something that I will never forget and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.” – Davis
Experience a small glimpse from our recent youth trip in the video below. Here’s to many more adventures, memories, and friendships!
Keeping the youth connected will be a promising next step. Well done! Dad