By: Brad Mcclintick
Photos by Kadie Willis
This spring break, myself and 13 other students along with the Baptist Student Union (BSU) campus missionary were given the opportunity to go to Santa Cruz del Quiche, Guatemala to serve at an orphanage called Casa de Mi Padre (House of My Father).
I debated going on this trip for a few weeks, mainly because of my lack of money. But, after talking with some good friends, I decided to go. I figured my half-way decent Spanish-speaking would be helpful, and it was a unique opportunity to serve God and serve an amazing community who lives to serve others.
Leading up to the trip was very exciting as we heard more from the missionaries about what was going on there. The missionary who gave the idea for a group of us to come is a good friend of Paul Damery, BSU campus missionary, and he attended Western only a few years ago.
We arrived to the orphanage Monday night to a group of about 18 kids singing the song, “My Father’s House.” If you grew up going to Sunday school, you likely know this song. After they finished their song and dance, they came and gave each one of us a hug.
My favorite part of the whole trip was spending time with them. We played games, celebrated birthdays, played soccer and had a lock-in with them and other kids from the city at the end of the week. We also were able to spend time helping the staff cook meals and clean-up, which was a huge blessing to us.
Throughout the semester, I heard both of the missionaries from the orphanage talk about the stories of many of the kids before they came to the orphanage. Getting to know the kids, and listen to what they have been through was heartbreaking. However, it was absolutely amazing considering where they are now.
Many came to the orphanage carrying heavy physical and emotional baggage. Many had been abused for most of their lives, going through situations that most people I know back home have never been through. They were so broken at one point, but now are so full of love for each other and for God.
The missionaries were intentional to tell them about the love God has for them. Specifically, many of the kids found hope in Jesus, who heals and gives grace to all who acknowledge Him.
It strongly impacted me to see how drastically their lives were changed. Although they had been through so much, they spread joy, despite having every reason to be bitter.
They showed me, and reminded me, that whether I’m in Guatemala or St. Joseph, true joy is found in knowing Jesus.
