By Carrie Saathoff
I am sitting here in the airport on my way back home, reflecting on the inspiring and exhausting week we just had with the Utz Pan youth. The days were non-stop, cramming in as much as we could. On top of that, I was staying in a two-bedroom cabin with four giggly girls who sang and danced to Shakira and old-timey Christmas music until after midnight. I laid awake smiling, listening through the wall. (Then, put a pillow over my head.)
What a joy to hear them having a chance to be teenagers – the heavy weight of their lives lifted from their shoulders for a short time. I learned a bit about what some of them are dealing with and it’s heart-breaking. No one their age should carry those burdens. Their resilience, ability to choose joy, and capacity to love is breathtaking. They are a reason to have hope for this world.
I was uplifted by their closeness and fearless expression of friendship and community. In both the boys’ room and the girls’ room, they pushed their four twin beds together so they could sleep close to one another. They hiked holding hands. They were ever watchful over me, making sure I was okay at all times. They greeted every new person we met with hugs and smiles, like they had known them for years. They enthusiastically stayed up late each night to write their blog posts, proud to share their experience with all of you.
The leadership, watchful eyes and open hearts of Pastors Emerson and Mardoqueo are transforming the lives of these youth, setting them on a new path. And young church member and driver Kevin got us everywhere safely, with good playlists to help pass the time while stuck in the God-awful traffic that hinders everyday life in this country.
On our final night together, with tears in our eyes, we said our goodbyes. Each teenager expressed their gratitude for this unexpected opportunity, sharing:
“The farthest we go from our house is to the market.”
“I never dreamed I would climb a volcano or swim in hot springs.”
“This trip was so special for us.”
“Can we stay until Wednesday?”
Emerson, Mardo and I are already looking ahead to next year, making plans for a fourth group of eight different teens. We are thankful for the five individuals at Westminster who gave so generously to make this trip happen – along with funds from Westminster’s Christmas Eve offering last year. If you would like to contribute to ensure we can offer this trip next December, please let us know – ncpguatemala@gmail.com.
Thank you for an unbelievable week!
P.S – I stayed in Guatemala City an extra day to attend a special graduation. Our very own Yohana, the administrator extraordinaire of the Association, earned her Master’s Degree in Planning and General Education with a focus on teaching music. We are so proud of her. What an accomplishment! It was an honor to be invited to celebrate with Yohana and her family.
(If you missed any posts this week, you can view them by hitting the back arrow below. Thanks for following!)
This is so inspiring, Carrie🫶♥️
Thanks Carrie for a week of wonderful posts – what a remarkable and special journey that provided so much hope, fun and relationship. Thanks to the pastors who are helping to craft these next generation lives. The GP is making a huge difference, for that they are blessed as are we!
We often say that relationship building is a (maybe the) key part of ministry. These summaries of your trip seem to exemplify that.
What a wonderful report–I enjoyed every day with the group.
Thank you for your leadership.