Our group met early (530) at the airport after some of us overslept and were barely packed when we arrived. Then we got held up at security and that unexpected event had three of us literally sprinting from one end of the airport to the other – we were the last three to board and only made it with two minutes to spare. We had time in Atlanta to catch our breath and focus and pray for our journey ahead.
After arriving in Guatemala City, we took about a two hour bus drive to the Boys Academy. The traffic was crazy but we were able to see, hear and smell all the things a large city offers.
Once at the academy, we were able tour the classrooms, weight room and gym. The boys were there so we were all able to meet each other and laugh about how many names we would need to memorize in a couple of hoursJ I am sure the boys were overwhelmed too but they seemed very excited to have us. From the moment we walked in, God’s presence was wrapped around each who were here. The boys laughed with and hugged complete strangers as we immediately all were one big family enjoying soccer drills, playing other games and eating together.
This morning we visited four families’ homes in the village. The hardship and poverty were apparent from just walking up and down the steep streets, where animal waste and trash were scattered. The families basically lived in cement one room homes and at least 5-6 people lived in each home. The look of despair filled many of their hearts but was only evident in their eyes. This village, the people and their country need our prayers. The Buena Vista academy is like a shining star in the night sky – a small but brilliant light that through prayer can grow larger from not only impacting this town for God but the entire country. God’s grace is with this team and these people – please continue to pray.
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