We began our last day by going to the Baptist Preschool in the dump area. The preschool is called Rayitos de Esperanza or “Rays of Hope.” The precious children at this preschool ran to meet us. They were so excited to have visitors. Coleen shared the Bible story of how God loves us through his creation. She was so animated and had so much energy, the teachers and principal asked if she could stay with them and become a teacher! At the end of the story, Coleen shared how God loved all that he had created but that what he loved most was the people he created. The children shouted out that God created Jesus too. The children loved the story and our worship time. Renae and the team led the children in fun songs both in English and Spanish. I think the favorite was the “Tooty-ta” song. Our craft were beaded bracelets. The children wanted to sing to us before we left. They all lined up and sang itsy, bitsy spider and other children’s songs. You could feel love and joy at Rayitos from both the staff and the children. We all felt it was a perfect ending to our time of ministry.

We headed to Antigua and enjoyed our time shopping and fellowship. During our last night of sharing, everyone told of an experience or moment during the trip that touched them or that was meaningful to them. As mothers, it was very special to see our daughters with the children and to know they understand the needs of others and how blessed we are in the U.S. We all have the children of Guatemala heavy on our hearts and look forward to when we can come back.