My Ministry and Life in Guatemala

Finding Joy in Being Unnecessary

2011-10-20T19:56:00.000-07:00

The first quarter of classes has come to an end. Unbelievably. I still feel as if I'm just trying to get the school year going, but apparently, 25% of it is already gone! The year started, as usual, with assessment of all elementary students in order to pinpoint those in need of early literacy intervention or a continuing need for strategic support. In total, I identified 14 students in need of some type of literacy support: nine in the lower elementary and five in the upper. This is the lowest overall enrollment I've had since beginning at CAG five years ago; and by far the fewest upper elementary students ever on my roster. This is a good thing! This implies that having provided early intervention is starting to make a difference. And that's an amazing site to behold and a great feeling to have in my heart. As my principal likes to put it, I'm really just trying to work myself out of a position. And, well, he's right. If all literacy needs could be identified, addressed, and overcome, CAG would have no need for me or my program. What a blessing it would be to not be needed! That is to say, what a blessing it would be for those students who now struggle to not have to face such hardships. As long as they do, however, and as long as God sees fit to have me in a position to assist them, I will. (But let's all keep praying that a day might come when I've no one left to serve.)

The Sound of Perspective

2011-08-22T21:50:00.000-07:00

I jokingly helped a friend gain some perspective this week. She was lamenting the fact that her clothes dryer had left marks on a load of laundry, so I reminded her that at least she HAS a clothes dryer, unlike many others of us. This help was given and received light heartedly. Tonight, as I was lying in bed with a sick Sammy, planning this post in my head, I received my own not-so-lighthearted perspective. I was planning to share news of the first two weeks of school (which have included extensive teacher retreat and inservice time and the subsequent arrival of the students); the majority of which was going to center around the changes taking place at CAG and the toll those changes are taking on many of us. I wanted to try to share an honest view of what we are working through as a school to try to best serve our students, families, and staff. It has been a challenging and stressful start for many, to say the least. As I was, in my mind, putting together a prayer request list, I heard my perspective ring out loudly and clearly...several rounds of gunfire coming from just down the street, followed by a short pause and then several more rounds. As I squeezed Sam more closely and began praying, I quickly gained a better perspective on things like scheduling mishaps and an overcrowded nursery and communication issues that have been taxing us at school these past few weeks. While I am certain Sam, Javier, and I were not in any direct danger tonight, those shots were a reminder of all that we take for granted, even here in Guatemala. Most of us serving (or being served) at CAG lead relatively secure lives; with real homes, our own transportation, concrete walls and razor wire. But we also have much more than that. We have a safe place to go every day where we have friends in Christ who love us and uphold us; and who, despite the stresses and misunderstandings of these first weeks, are trying their best to serve one another. So tonight, I'm putting aside my prayer requests for those of us already in the body of Christ, those of us who should know better how to find appropriate ways to function as that body, and am asking you to join me in lifting up those who don't know such extravagance in their lives; whether here in Guatemala or in your own hometown.

A True Confession of Love

2011-06-22T15:05:00.000-07:00

We do not feel awe and gratitude because we are commanded to do so; we give expression to our awe and gratitude by acting obediently.

-Calvin

Another school year has come and gone, and in looking back, I can again see God's hand at work, even in this year that was, by far, the second-most difficult I've had in 15 years of teaching. Launching right back into the school year last August and putting Sam in day care, proved to be more than I was ready to handle. Regardless of my good intention and desires, and even with reduced hours, I struggled and suffered daily. I told next to no one about it. And those I did tell only said it was "normal" to feel like I was cheating both my son and my ministry by trying to serve both at once. Knowing that it was "normal" didn't make it any better.

About mid-year, soon after my last blog entry, I suffered a breakdown and was sent home by administration to respite. Most of you who keep tabs on my work here probably did not know this. I am confessing it to you now. It was a very difficult time, indeed. With arrogance, I felt that I had to keep going in ministry (no matter how I cried over my baby each day) because I was the only one available to do what I do at school. I felt the huge weight of two important responsibilities pulling down on me each day, which usually resulted in feeling loathe for the work I love. I felt guilt in thinking about taking time away from ministering to others in order to minister to my own son. And for some reason, I thought and felt that I could, and had to, pull it all together myself.

The complicating factor for me was tied to the fact that I wasn't hating "a job" or "a career" or even just "work," but that I was wrestling with no longer finding joy in serving God. And I didn't know how to look to Him and say, "I know you led me here and have been faithful in providing for us here regardless of many hardships, but I just can't work for You anymore." I felt I had to fulfill a responsibility, not to CAG or the administration, or even the students, but to God Himself. And I never stopped to consider that God is perfectly capable of 1) hearing this confession from me and 2) continuing to provide for CAG with or without me.

It wasn't until just recently (and I mean like REALLY recently...as in, during the time that I have been working on this blog entry), that I have been able to realize; really realize, that God doesn't want us to serve out of obligation or guilt, but out of love...for Him and others. But that is exactly what I was trying to do: serve because I felt guilt in not serving.

Having taken about month-long break from teaching, I did return to my position, with even further reduced hours, and found a balance between serving at home and at school that was workable, if not ideal. And we finished the school year strong: with nearly 100% of students in the literacy program having met their year-end benchmarks! And that, I know, can only be attributed to God's grace and mercy. Clearly, He upheld my students and their needs throughout my difficulties and absence.

Love is not a feeling. It is a choice. And in this time in between school years, I am working at strengthening my commitment to the choice to love and serve. I have to be honest and admit that I am apprehensive about the coming school year, although I have made the choice to return again in August and have even agreed to provide some of the training to incoming staff. But I love God and the people of CAG; and especially my students. And choosing to love them drives me to want to serve them; in an honest way.

If you are inclined to pray for my ministry here, please join me in asking for God to further reveal Himself, so that I may gather strength in desiring to serve Him and in knowing how best to do so.

If you or someone you know is interested in helping support my work here in Guatemala, you can do so through my mission, Commission to Every Nation. Via their website, you can make a one-time donation or a monthly commitment to helping me serve others. All donations are tax deductible and greatly appreciated by both myself and those you help me to serve. If you have specific questions about my ministry or just our lives here, please do not hesitate to contact me at this blog or through email at: slynnll@gmail.com

A New Year for Praises and Prayers

2011-01-24T19:11:00.000-08:00

A new year has brought us many new blessings! Praises and prayer requests from here in Guatemala:

PRAISES for a new place to live with running water 24/7, kitchen cupboards and drawers, closets, a covered area to park the car, and security! (all of which we were lacking at our last house) And for the ability to afford such luxuries, when so many cannot.

PRAYERS for those who have no place to live or only cardboard and lamina to call home, as is the case for a great majority of Guatemalans; those who have no clean water, and those who daily live in the dangerous world of the streets.

PRAISES for work that is fulfilling. As I continue my elementary reading program, (which will be increasing in size by at least three students this semester to nearly 25 kids), I remember that I am blessed to be able to have gone to school myself, learned how to do something I truly love, and serve God all at once.

PRAYERS for those who have no school, no work, and have not found the joy of knowing and loving Christ.

PRAISES that CAG continues to support my service by providing a safe, loving place for Sam to spend the hours that I am teaching.

PRAYERS for those who have no such place for their children or need to turn them to the streets to help provide for their families.

PRAISES for my further developing relationships with, and ministry to, my Freshman class. I am enjoying the challenge of mentoring young teens and am continually surprised by the love and appreciation they can show in return.

PRAYERS for those who have never felt love.

PRAISES for those who continue to recognize the importance of our ministry here and support our work, both financially and through prayer.

PRAYERS that others will desire to serve God by coming alongside us in our work.

PRAISES for Javier's opportunity to return to college to finish a degree he had to long ago abandon.

PRAYERS for those who continue to feel unfulfilled and incomplete; that they might find all they seek in Jesus.

PRAISES for a successful high school retreat (held this past week) where teens (and adults alike!) could set aside their daily concerns and focus solely on worshiping God while learning how to keep the Gospel the focus of their lives.

PRAYERS for those who have never heard The Good News.

While Javier, Sam, and I don't live lavishly here by any means, we are always conscious of the fact that so many here live with far far less than we do. Please be in prayer for these people and for the families of the children we serve at CAG who are the front line missionaries to them.

If you or someone you know is interested in helping support our work here in Guatemala, you can do so through our mission, Commission to Every Nation. Via their website, you can make a one-time donation or a monthly commitment to helping us serve others. All donations are tax deductible and greatly appreciated by both ourselves and those you help us to serve. If you have specific questions about our ministries or just our lives here, please do not hesitate to contact us at this blog or through email at: slynnll@gmail.com

The Focus of Harvest Fair

2010-11-10T10:37:00.000-08:00

I love Fall!! I miss Fall in the US, but I love it here. Even if I don't get to see the spectacular color show of the changing leaves, or feel the crisp autumn air, or wear my Packers sweatshirt while cooking up a batch of chili to enjoy during a Sunday afternoon game, Fall here gives me something even better: Harvest Fair! Each year at this time I am reminded of why I serve where and how I do. And, as I am usually caught up in the day-to-day dealings of ministering, I always need (and am thankful for) this special annual reminder.

We've just put on another successful Harvest Fair at Christian Academy of Guatemala. In the grand scheme or Fall festivals, it probably wouldn't win any awards. It isn't the biggest or best harvest fest I've ever attended. It doesn't have the best costumes or games or prizes I've ever seen. The food is pretty good, and the fellowship is comforting. But placed next to similar events back in the States, it's just another Fall festival. At CAG, Harvest Fair is an annual event organized by the school's student council and run by the secondary classes. It's always based around a theme (this year: Alice in Wonderland), and takes weeks of preparation, both in and out of school. And while all of this preparation is going on, I am generally worried, stressed, and frustrated. In the end, however, it always turns out just fine. So what's the big deal then? Well, for me, Harvest Fair always brings back the real "why" behind my ministry here: missionary kids.

During my time of being a missionary to the missionaries, I have encountered and endured challenges and ridicule, both from others and myself, in regard to the fact that perhaps what I'm doing is not a "real" ministry ... is not really "missions." But when I step back and look at an event like Harvest Fair, I KNOW that it is. Here's why: the children I am so blessed to teacher, mentor, love, and serve at CAG are here because their parents made a choice to leave behind the familiarity and comfort of home to come and serve others. While most of these kids would tell you that they are happy here, they would also tell you about missing friends and events (like a Fall festival) back home. They are here honoring their parents' Call, which may or may not be their own. They are sacrificing a "normal" childhood so that others may benefit from the service of their families here in Guatemala. And it is satisfying to be able to give back to them even something as simple as Harvest Fair.

In my Freshman class alone, I serve families from the following ministries:

University Bible Fellowship (pastoring)

World Vision Seminary (pastoral education)

Cathedral of Faith (church planting)

Advancing the Ministries of the Gospel (medical work, feeding and education centers)

My Father's House (missions hosting, building, medical work, pastoring)

Wycliff (audio and video ministries)

Zion Fellowship (pastoring and Bible studies)

When I consider the hundreds (and likely thousands) of lives touched by just these ministries, it brings my ministry of providing educational support (including helping to put on a Fall festival) to the children of these families into a greater perspective; and my focus is again made clear. I have been called to serve those who serve others. And that is worth recognizing, praising, and focusing on EVERY day of EACH season!! Happy Fall!!! :)

New Year, New Me, New US!

2010-09-26T20:44:00.000-07:00

Has it really now been five months since my last update? Unfortunately, the blog doesn't lie and it has been. And seeing as Sam is four and a half months old now, that would make sense. And here's a recent pic to prove as much:

My sincerest apologies for my disappearance and great thanks for your continued love and support in spite of it!!!!

With the obvious exception of having added our dear little Sammy to the mix, Javier and I continue our ministries at Christian Academy of Guatemala in much the same way as last reported. I am back to school part time this year, but somehow find myself working with more kids and staff than ever before (does this mean I've somehow become more efficient in my mommy-hood???). While I did graduate a number of elementary students from the supplemental early literacy program last school year, a large influx of new students requiring English language support have come under my jurisdiction this year. In addition, I have a new staff member dedicated to working with literacy support for middle school students, which is a long-awaited answer to prayer. And as my dearly-loved Class of 2010

has made its way out into the world, I have eagerly taken on the role of Class Advisor for this year's freshmen (Class of 2014 for those of you playing our home game). This class is made up of the very first group of kids I worked with when starting at CAG three years ago! They were just entering middle school (sixth grade) back then; and now they're nearly grown! I feel so blessed to have been given this opportunity to reconnect with this special group of young people! Our first big event, Harvest Fair, is soon upon us, and we'll be starting plans for it this week!

Javier continues his support to the school computer lab, being a presence for any and all requests of teachers and students alike. His patience and love of everything technology related are such great gifts! As our church continues in its search for a new pastor, Javier, in his role as Elder, has been both running the contemporary service each week AND helping to lead worship. He loves being able to serve UCG in both these ways. I continue to sing on the Praise Team, when time (and Sam!) allow. And although we have had to let go of our beloved Messiah performance this year, we are hopeful to be able to participate in the church's Christmas cantata (...for which the rehearsals begin this week!!).

When I think over all that has transpired in these last few "lost" months, I feel supremely blessed. I praise God every day for fulfilling His promise of our beautiful son, Samuel Peter; and Javier and I are both, in turn, eternally committed to showing Samuel how to love God by serving others. We are overjoyed at being able to do so through our continued work here in Guatemala.

If you or someone you know is interested in helping support our work here in Guatemala, you can do so through our mission, Commission to Every Nation. Through their website, you can make a one-time donation or a monthly commitment to helping us serve others. All donations are tax deductible and greatly appreciated by both ourselves and those you help us to serve. If you have specific questions about our ministries or just our lives here, please do not hesitate to contact us here or through email at: slynnll@gmail.com

End of the Term Prayers

2010-04-21T13:32:00.000-07:00

Is it possible it's been four months since my last update?!!? It seems to be. For that, I apologize. Here are some ministry highlights...

Javier has taken on his role as elder at Union Church with gusto. He has been helping lead different services, serving communion, as well as providing spiritual support to the widowed. His human resources programming for the government project continues to move ahead despite a few roadblocks, and so do his university-level software/programming seminars. I am always amazed at how many different groups of people he is able to serve with such a wide variety of skills and talents.

My literacy program, as always, has been my priority the second half of this school year. In preparation for my maternity leave, I have recently performed an end-of-term early literacy inventory with kids in grades K-2 and am so pleased with the results! God has been good in leading me to provide for the needs of these kids. I have/will be "graduating" six of my primary students from the program this year (a third of all the kids in the program!!). And the entire first grade has met all required benchmarks for the year!! In witnessing such results, I am affirmed that God is the true force behind my work.

My middle school Destination ImagiNation team did a great job at their recent national competition. It being their first trip to the tournament, I was proud not only of their great teamwork and attitude, but even more impressed with the wonderful witness for Christ that they provided the whole day long. I do not doubt that their presence touched hearts and minds that day. Their problem solving skills placed them in third place in the competition, but their love and dedication placed them first in my heart!

Prayers of Thanksgiving for both of these groups of amazing kids!!

And, alas, my seniors are full of senioritis and "ready" to move on, regardless of the support I (and their other sponsors) try to lend. Most are trying their best to finish strong, but all are understandably both tired and anxious. Please be in prayer for them as they reach this milestone of life.

And now Javier and I are home. The baby's room is ready. We have all the supplies we think we might need. And I've finally reached "term." So now we just wait for God to give the signal that the time has come. Having just been to the doctor yesterday, she reports that both the baby and I are healthy and almost ready for the delivery. The baby has dropped, but is, as they say, "sunny side up," meaning that it is facing out instead of back. In addition, the umbilical cord is presently in a bit of a precarious position. Both of these conditions are not currently a problem, but need to change before delivery day in order for us to go ahead with a natural birth. Please be in prayer with us that God will, in his perfect timing, correct both of these situations.

And one final prayer request...that both Javier and I will be able to build and sustain a new and successful ministry to the one who will be our first true disciple. We will let you know when s/he arrives!!

If you or someone you know is interested in helping support our work here in Guatemala, you can do so through our mission, Commission to Every Nation. Through their website, you can make a one-time donation or a monthly commitment to helping us serve others. All donations are tax deductible and greatly appreciated by both ourselves and those you help us to serve. If you have specific questions about our ministries or just our lives here, please do not hesitate to contact us here or through email at: slynnll@gmail.com

New Year, New Endeavors

2010-01-22T09:36:00.000-08:00

Apologies for a much-delayed update. I'm not even sure where the time has gone. Javier and I enjoyed a restful Christmas vacation and have begun preparing our tiny home to house one more...meaning rooms have been switched around, closets cleaned out, and many bags and boxes of whatnots have made their way to the church rummage sale. We now have most things settled and are on to trying to find the right infant items to fit the space we have.

The doctor says all is well now in my 24th week and so I'm trying to commit more hours to being back at school these days. With the help of Karina, my assistant, I have been able to complete all the mid-year literacy assessments in grades K-5 and have made adjustments to our schedules so that all kids who require literacy intervention are able to receive such. At this point, we are providing individualized services for seventeen elementary students.

My workload at the middle school has changed as I have now graduated all of my English Enrichment students. I miss meeting with them each day, but am proud to see them able to move on, knowing they have worked hard to do so. Preparation for our Destination ImagiNation competition continues as my team of all middle school boys attempts to build their structure and create their presentation by mid-April. I am hopeful that I will still be able to attend their performance with them.

Next on the agenda for the Senior Class (as much as they would like to believe it to be graduation!) is the annual CAG Fun Run, which will be held January 30 and managed completely by the seniors. It is a community service outreach and we are hopeful for a good turnout this year! Two weeks after that we'll be off to the rural town of Cubulco to serve at Centro Medico Cristiano Senorita Elena during another CAG annual event...Servant Days. During Servant Days, each class, from Kinder to 12th, chooses a service project to take part in. Elementary students serve a need on campus; middle school students serve a need in a local community for a day; and high school students spend a three-day period moving out to serve needs in various locations across Guatemala.

Javier continues to volunteer in the computer lab at school. In addition to this and his online work, he also finds himself increasingly busy presenting innovative ideas to heads of the Guatemalan government regarding the use of Open Source software to run their social programs. He is determined to help build strength and security in his country by using his special skills in the area of technology. While it often makes me nervous to know he's rubbing shoulders (again) with the people of the country who have the power to do both good and evil, I know he is doing so with a true desire to make his home country a better place. And I trust that it is God who is allowing him to try to do so from this unique angle. He is also excited to have been asked to join the Elder Board at Union Church of Guatemala! His voting in will take place next week. As if that weren't enough, Javier has also started learning Korean so that he may be better able to communicate with and serve the large Korean population here, of both missionaries and businessmen.

As always, we are only able to stay on here and take on these endeavors through the grace of God and your support. If you or someone you know is interested in helping support our work here in Guatemala, you can do so through our mission, Commission to Every Nation. Through their website, you can make a one-time donation or a monthly commitment to helping us serve others. All donations are tax deductible and greatly appreciated by both ourselves and those you help us to serve. If you have specific questions about our ministries or just our lives here, please do not hesitate to contact us here or through email at: slynnll@gmail.com

With Thanks, Love and Blessings-

Sherry

Giving Thanks

2009-11-18T13:56:00.000-08:00

As Thanksgiving quickly approaches and I start to dream of pumpkin pie, mandarin orange jello salad, and scalloped corn, I want to take a moment to share my thanks.

As many of you know, during the first few weeks of school, Javier and I discovered we have been blessed with a long-awaited pregnancy. As I write, I am at 15 weeks and the sickness of the first trimester is lessening. (Many, many thanks for that!!) And so have my hours at school been lessened, due to some continuing medical concerns. And while it has been a blessing to be in a position that has allowed me to be at home and resting, I have also been missing my kids at school. I think, though, that this has been one of those hidden blessings...realizing I can slow down and let someone else take the reins...at home and school...because God is ultimately the one in control anyway...not me.

I am thankful for a great turnout at this year's Harvest Fair, where all the kids worked so hard to serve others. And for the amazing blessings that transpired during High School Retreat last week. I witnessed kids drawing closer to God, bonding with one another, and maturing in the Word. And while I couldn't participate in all of the activities this year, I am thankful to be in a place that recognizes the importance of such for students and sets aside time to make sure they experience them. I am also extremely thankful that Javier was able to come along, as I would not have been able to participate at all without him there to help!!

This year's Thanksgiving will be different for us, as all the folks we usually celebrate with are now away. So instead, we have decided to invite some of our Korean students over to experience their first American (via Guatemala) Thanksgiving feast. I'm excited to share this favorite time with them and am hopeful they will enjoy it!!

And, of course, not at all least on my list of things to be thankful for is you! I'm so very thankful for all of you who continue to show interest in our ministry here and continue to support us through prayer and financial giving.

Love and blessings to you all!!!

Some New Shots!

2009-09-15T13:24:00.000-07:00

I've added a new album with a few photos of the beginning of the year!! (Finally!!!)

You can check it out by following the link "GuatePics" on the Other Spots of Interest list

or

by clicking HERE!

Enjoy!!

A New School Year for Christ

2009-08-30T20:15:00.000-07:00

The start of a new school year!...We've been in classes for two weeks now and already it seems like so much has happened!

A quick recap of THIS SUMMER'S BLESSINGS:

...a trip to Toronto to visit dear friends Jo-anne, Paul, and Mary...seeing things I've never seen before and witnessing God's work in their lives and the closeness of their families

...a reunion with friends from as far back as elementary school at my 20th! high school reunion!! The number of people truly interested in my ministry was inspiring and refreshing!

...a visit from my very dear friend Lydia who flew across the country and endured a bus ride just to spend a few fleeting hours with me; the depth of her love and support is never lost on me

...an adventuresome ride to Tennessee to meet with my very first supporters, the Seekers Class from Bartlett United Methodist Church, and to visit with Auntie Em, Uncle Denis, Allison, Erin, and all of theirs! Their intrigue with Guatemala and how they can be involved touched my heart.

...a day and a half with my former student teacher, Annette, who showed me parts of Chicago I've never seen, shared her YoungLife ministry with me, and inspired me to get back to work here with a positive outlook!!

My three weeks of traveling around refreshed my spirit and made me ready to get back to serving here at Christian Academy.

I knew going in, this would be my most-demanding year so far, and I have yet to be disappointed in that!!

Praises for:

...meeting and caring for my host child (new teacher to CAG), Jordan, who has done an amazing job adjusting to Guatemala even after being hospitalized during his first days here

...the return of teachers and students ready to work, love, and serve together

...a strong reception by staff of my inservices on educational technology

...incoming reading test results showing that the reading program IS making a difference!

...Javier's ability and willingness to serve the needs of the CAG community in the computer lab at school (thus allowing us to work together every day!! :)

...the blessing to work with the senior class! (which will be a source of many prayer requests as well!)

While I am still feeling that overwhelming rush of new challenges that come with getting a new school year started, I am also feeling the blessing of knowing that others are with me in prayer and financial support! Being able to focus on my ministry to these very special kids and families while being secure that God is providing for my work through your contributions gives me peace and fills me with great thanks!

If you would like to know more about my ministry here in Guatemala or help support it, I invite you to please email me at: slynnll@gmail.com or visit my mission's website at cten.org .

"He creates each of us by Christ Jesus to join him in the work he does, the good work he has gotten ready for us to do, work we had better be doing."
(Ephesians 2:10, The Message)

Thank you, Christian Science Monitor!

2009-07-09T15:51:00.001-07:00

An even-handed/objective article on Honduras.

Please Read. Please See with New Eyes. Please Pray.

2009-06-29T21:08:00.000-07:00

DEFENDING DEMOCRACY IN HONDURAS from the Wall Street Journal

Further Information on the Crisis in Honduras

2009-06-25T22:20:00.000-07:00

Please be in prayer for the people of Honduras, their leaders, and those of us who are traveling there during this time of crisis:

From the Wall Street Journal Today: Honduras Lurches Toward Crisis Over Election

Deja Vu All Over Again

2009-06-24T23:08:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to be heading to Copan Ruinas, Honduras this weekend to celebrate the marriage of two dear friends: Jodi and Kraig!! In addition to the celebration, Javier and I have been looking forward to taking a short vacation together...something with which we haven't had much experience.

After an expected "fijase" with the hotel which required us to find a new one, we were surprised by the one that came from the bus company, Hedman Alas...a reliable name in transport. We had desired to return to Guatemala on Sunday, as all the wedding guests will, at that point, be clearing out...back to the States or on to Roatan to spend the honeymoon with the happy couple. When Javier called me from the bus depot saying: "We have a problem..." I was not expecting it to be quite so political. The bus lady (as Javier affectionately called her) informed him that they would not have bus service to/from Honduras that Sunday due to elections. Wait...what? Presidential elections? Congressional? Did he hear her right? What did an election have to do with buses? I did some quick research and found that general elections in Honduras are held at the end of November. I double checked that the bus lady understood we wanted to return THIS Sunday...in June. She understood, but no one at the bus company had any more information than that. So, our choice was to return either Saturday or Monday. Seeing as we would actually like to be at the wedding on Saturday, we had to opt for the extra night/day and return on Monday. It wasn't until checking the news today that I began to understand why buses may be choosing not to run on Sunday:

Thousands March to Protest President's Plan to Change the Constitution

And, as I have continued to read various articles,(hard-found) on this topic, I have wondered...are we, in light of events here in Guatemala, going to be jumping from the frying pan into the fire on this trip? And maybe more importantly (and sadly), if Central American countries such as Guatemala and Honduras had oil or nukes would this information have been 1) more easily found and 2) something people in other parts of the world would care about?

I write to ask for prayers for the situation in Honduras, as well as here; for the bridal couple who has long awaited this time, and for all of their guests who will need to be traveling through Honduras on this day that not even the buses will run...

Decompressing and Following the Call

2009-06-18T13:49:00.000-07:00

I realize it has been awhile since I've put up an actual mission-newsletter-y-update. While I have been attempting to post events as they unfold here in Guatemala, I have been doing so without sending out notices each time. So, for more detailed updates on the state of affairs, please scroll down through my older posts below.

Part of school ending has been some decompression time for me, during which I have been limiting my contact outside of the house. This hasn't been a completely conscious choice, and each day I wake up feeling guilty that I have not been doing more. But in honesty, when I look back at all that has occurred, not just this school year, but over the past two years, these are the first days that I've had to stay in my house and feel guilty about staying in my house. In the past, when I haven't been full-bore on activities for school, I was working on Master's degree and tutoring. Since I've graduated and have only taken on one student (due to family schedules this summer) for tutoring, I have this time on my hands. Initially I thought I would use every waking second getting ready for next year...research, planning, designing, etc. But I think what God is having me do right now instead is take advantage of this down time to make sure burnout is not on the way. Next year I know my class load will be heavier (thanks to initiatives I began this year) and I will be working with the senior class (the most demanding in the high school years), and while I will eventually need to start getting ready for all of that, what I need most right now is to slow down, listen to what God wants me to hear, and work on not feeling guilty about that. I ask for your continued prayers in helping me do this. Not working or even working more slowly is not in my nature and something I struggle with. I know as soon as I head for the States things will be a whirlwind of activities and connecting and sharing and moving. And when I get back from that, school will be just around the corner, so I know I need to take this time now to take care of myself.

That's not to say Javier and I haven't been doing anything. As we continue to feel called to help in the fight for justice here in Guatemala, we continue to participate as much as we can, spread the word to others, and pray. (again...for details, please scroll through the older posts below...and visit my sharsite for pictures...)

Thank you for your continued support, love, and concern for us here!

Habakkuk 1:1-4

2009-06-02T16:36:00.000-07:00

The problem as God gave Habakkuk to see it: God, how long do I have to cry out for help
before you listen?
How many times do I have to yell, "Help! Murder! Police!"
before you come to the rescue?
Why do you force me to look at evil,
stare trouble in the face day after day?
Anarchy and violence break out,
quarrels and fights all over the place.
Law and order fall to pieces.
Justice is a joke.
The wicked have the righteous hamstrung
and stand justice on its head.

MURDERS UP 15 PERCENT IN GUATEMALA

A Quick Update

2009-05-31T13:33:00.000-07:00

The movement for justice is itself in crisis as various groups are now polarizing, NOT on the issue of demanding justice for EVERYONE in Guatemala, but on the issue of WHO is doing the demanding. The government has successfully played the "class" card and for me, it's a very sad turn of events to know that people would actually refuse to lend a voice because of assumed differences. The story here is long and convoluted and morphing every day.

But here is what I know and believe: everyone needs to be interested in justice for everyone else or else there will continue to be no justice for anyone.

Last night we joined a small group of citizens who very clearly cried out for peace and justice for ALL Guatemalans...regardless of social standing, hometown, occupation, race, age, or any other ridiculous "difference" the enemy wants us to believe in.

You can view a few pictures here: PEACE AND JUSTICE FOR ALL

I will have a full ministry report up soon. Thank you for your love and support!

On a Happier Note...

2009-05-23T20:33:00.000-07:00

Today was graduation, and I got to see my very special student, Felicita, graduate! I couldn't be any more proud than if she was my own kid!
Love you Feli!!!

The New York Times Article

2009-05-22T13:55:00.000-07:00

...only 10 days later :( !!!

Guatemalan Leaders Under Pall in Lawyer’s Killing

BY FAR THE BEST READ ON THE CRISIS HERE

2009-05-21T14:48:00.000-07:00

A latest article, which gives a comprehensive yet concise history on why Guatemala is where it is today, and what it means for the people here...as well as those of you abroad.

Please read. Please pray. Please share.

Crime and politics in Guatemala: An indictment from the grave (from Economist.com)

Desperate Times

2009-05-21T09:16:00.000-07:00

...unfortunately DO lead to desperate measures:

Frustrated Lynch-Mob Burns Police Station in Guatemala

I Could Post Something Like This Every Day

2009-05-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

This, again, is only one of the many more numerous stories of murder that never gets told or punished here. The last line reads: "More than a hundred women have been slain in the Central American country thus far this year." Where are all the rest of those stories? And maybe more importantly...where are all the people who did the murdering? I can guarantee you, they are not in prison, court, or even being pursued. Please help support the movement to bring justice...at ALL levels to Guatemala's people! Spread the word!

Whoever says to the guilty, "You are innocent"—
peoples will curse him and nations denounce him.

But it will go well with those who convict the guilty,
and rich blessing will come upon them.

Proverbs 24:24-25

Why Do We March?

2009-05-19T19:16:00.000-07:00

I just happened to come across this article today: US Priest Killed in Guatemala. I had not heard about this case, although this happens here every day. It is only one of the murders (of the 17 per day) that will go unpunished because of the corrupt systems in place here.

Note that there is not even mention in the article about an investigation or even a comment from authorities indicating they are pursuing the case at all. How does that compare to any news of crime reported in the States?

This problem cannot and will not go away without intervention...from God through us! This is why we pray and this is why we will march...again...this Sunday.

Working Within the Law

2009-05-18T19:10:00.000-07:00

Guatemala's effort to change its constitution for the benefit of all its people and through the legal means provided makes news in the Wall Street Journal!

Here is where the story stands as of 7pm tonight:

Petition to Strip Immunity

You Are God of This City

2009-05-17T15:35:00.000-07:00

Javier and I, after prayerful consideration, decided to join the march for justice today in Guatemala City. The following links are the coverage I have found in English, as well as some pictures I took while there today. I urge you to please be in prayer for Guatemala, its leaders and its people, while they struggle to work toward peace and justice.

Thousands Protest (from YahooNews)

Largest Protests Yet (from boingboing)

March for Justice Pics

Tomorrow the 30,000 signatures collected, requesting that the president's immunity to prosecution be revoked, will be presented to congress.

CNN Posts a More Complete, Objective Story

2009-05-14T21:36:00.000-07:00

CNN Story

Time Magazine's Article

2009-05-14T16:05:00.000-07:00

Video Sends Guatemala Into Crisis

Pray for Guatemala

2009-05-14T13:37:00.000-07:00

Things are changing rapidly. I have emailed most everyone I know with initial details of the story developing here in Guatemala as the president, his wife, and various advisors have been accused of murder. And now a citizen has been arrested for speaking out against the corruption of the government. Unfortunately, I have received little response from anyone I know. I post this in request of prayer for the country of Guatemala...it's citizens, visitors, leaders...everyone. I will continue to post relevant stories as they arise, in the hopes that others out there will help take up the cry.

Here is the best brief summary and follow up comments that I can find at this time:

Guatemala Update

Spring 2009 Update

2009-05-02T14:48:00.000-07:00

(Felicita & Me at Banquet... Middle School Destination ImagiNation... Suzy & Me Back together at CAG!...More pics available at: GuatePics)

The RAIN always comes on so quickly! It's amazing to me how we go from the dry season to the rainy one in a matter of just a few hours. While I'm enjoying the water for the yard and plants, I have been quickly reminded how long it takes to line dry clothes this time of year!

With only two weeks of regular classes left, the rainy season isn't the only thing that has come on so quickly!! How it got to be this time of year already, I'll never understand.

Here are some highlights from the last few weeks:

Easter being my favorite time of year, I again helped organize Union Church's Sunrise Service held at CAG. The weather was nice with just enough sun to keep us warm out there at daybreak. The 70 folks in attendance this year were treated to wonderful music from a visiting choir from Sweden.

Our Middle School Destinatio n ImagiNati on team went to the National Tournament on April 18. There were 40-some teams competing in all; in our category there were six. The kids showed amazing teamwork and graciousness (unlike anything I've ever actually seen IN CLASS... :) and brought home a SECOND PLACE finish!!! I'm so proud of them for all of their hard work and the wonderful witness they each put forth while competing. I've already been asked to expand the program to include a High School team for next year! But I'll need some extra adult hands to pull that off!! PRAYERS that others will follow the call to help!

This past week, one of my very dear friends, Suzy Leonard, returned to Guatemala to attend the wedding of another friend, Rene Gonzalez. It was so great to have her around the house and CAG again for a few days. Suzy is one of the main reasons I pursued my ministry at CAG. And she and I team-taught sixth grade language arts last year. She is dearly missed now that she's back in the States, and I feel so blessed to have been able to spend even a short time with her again. She's now back in Indiana where she helps run a year-round adventure camp. PRAYERS that this new position will allow her many opportunities to share Christ with others!!

In these last two weeks of classes, I will again be undertaking assessing the reading skills of all kids (grades K-6) at school. It's a daunting task, but one I take with great seriousness. While most kids at CAG don't struggle academically, those who do need the extra love and support that I can provide through the Reading Services Program. At any other school in Guatemala, they would not receive such specialized services. Knowing this is one important reason that I choose to continue on in my mission here. PRAYERS that I will make wise decisions in helping to educate the kids of other missionaries serving here.

The other big event taking place at this time is the taking over the the school tienda by the Junior Class. The tienda is the school store, run by the Senior Class to help serve the school community during break, lunch, and after school. As the seniors are on their way out, it is now our turn to start managing this small business. At this point, I think the class advisors are more concerned with this than the kids are. But that is probably because we have seen the behind-the-scenes of it all. To get warmed up, the juniors will be "in charge" these last two weeks of school. PRAYERS for a smooth transition.

Other events at school recently have included High School Banquet, Night of Excellence, the Elementary Spring Concert, Student Art Show, International Fair, and the Spring Sports Banquet. Still to come are Baccalaureate, the High School Spring Concert, and, of course, Graduation.

On the church front, I am putting together a special presentation for our Mother's Day Brunch to be held this coming Saturday, May 9. The topic is "Generations in the Church". Researching this topic has been intriguing, and I am excited to be able to share what I've found with other ladies of all generations! PRAYERS that the information shared will help to bring us closer together.

Palm Sunday 2009

2009-04-05T16:29:00.001-07:00

You can find some pictures and information from our visit to zone 1 to watch the Palm Sunday procession at:

GUATEPICS

It's easier for me to host them there than here :( I hope you'll take a look and enjoy!!

With Trembling

2009-04-04T21:39:00.000-07:00

It has been a day filled with tremors...something always a little disconcerting. Since I've lived here I have felt a number of tremors, but never so many in one day. Things have been shimmy-shaking all over the city all day long, and Volcan Pacaya, normally available to hikers day and night, has been closed due to the severity of the eruptions. So, we're not really sure what's going on, butwe're hopeful we'll be spared from anything too serious.

Tomorrow is my favorite day of the year here in Guatemala: Palm Sunday!! We are heading to zone 1 to see my very favorite processions and alfombras at sunrise! I'll be posting pics soon!!

For Prayers and Praise

2009-03-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

Writing about trying times is always difficult for me. I never want to sound complain-y about following God's call because I am truly blessed to be here serving Him. And I don't want to project the sense that I am not appreciative of the support people send my way, both spiritually and financially. But there are times when the circumstances surrounding the location that I've been called to get tough. And it's human nature, unfortunately, to allow ourselves to feel discouraged and even afraid at times. So I'm writing to today to inform and solicit prayer for this small part of God's Kingdom, which continues to be relentlessly attacked by the enemy.

This past week has been an especially sad one for Guatemala. I love this country and the people here, and being witness to their pain is not easy. Below are two links to news coverage by the Latin American Herald Tribune, describing the situation, much more concisely and objectively than I could.

Guatemalan Bus Drivers on Strike to Protest Murders

Two More Bus Drivers Slain in Guatemala

In addition, here is a link to a recent report from the Council of Hemispheric Affairs that I found interesting in light of all the press being given to the lamentations of the U.S. about their Mexican border issues:

COHA Report on Guatemala

"...the drug crisis that Guatemala currently finds itself in is due primarily to spillage from Mexico..."

"In December 2008, Carlos Castresana, Head of the United Nations International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala, stated “if the Guatemalan authorities are unable to stop the infiltration of Mexican drug cartels in two years they could take over Guatemala City.” "

I post these items not for shock value or effect. I do it because people often ask: "How can we pray for you?" and to be honest, I feel so blessed to be here doing what I am, that I don't often have a good answer. The above articles, however, mention thousands of people who are much in need of prayer, and I ask that you direct your petitions on their behalf.

That being said, these events do affect my work here as well. My call is to find ways to provide normalcy for kids living here due to the call of their parents to serve here. How do I balance addressing the situations swallowing up their environment with finding ways to let them be kids? It's a ministry of fine balance. Kids are still kids even in the midst of everything else. And they still want to do kid things. So, I do pray for wisdom about how to do that appropriately. In the attempt to let them lead kid-friendly lives, I try everyday to move forward with regular kid/school activities. And here are some recent highlights:

Felicita has been accepted, with a full-tuition scholarship, to
Berea College!!!
(This is a story all it's own, that I will someday have Felicita share.)

My Middle School Destination ImagiNation team was commended for providing the "Most Creative Solution" at their practice problem-solving competition last week!

Junior/Senior Skip Day was bright, sunny, safe, and FUN!!!!

Elisa, a seventh grader, blogged: "This is getting FUN! :)" in response to EXTRA work she's been asked to do!

Javier and I will have a chance to celebrate God's love and grace with students at
High School Banquet
tonight!!

In all we do, let's find conviction and inspiration from God's word:

"Naked I came from my mother's womb,

and naked I will depart.
The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away;
may the name of the LORD be praised."

In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing.

Job 1:21-22

Can't Believe I Forgot!!!

2009-03-12T18:00:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness!!! In all the hullabaloo I am now realizing that I never posted one of my most exciting adventures so far!!! Check it out here:

Just a Simple Comic by Sherry L. de Alvarez, M.Ed.

Of Middle Schoolers, Midwesterners, and Medals!

2009-03-08T14:37:00.001-07:00

Middle Schoolers: I distinctly remember the days of substitute teaching many years ago when the thought of being placed in charge of middle schoolers had me shaking in my boots! Now I mostly just shake with laughter from enjoying them. Recently my English Enrichment class planned their own class party in celebration of all they've learned this year. There was pizza, board games, and live music courtesy of Yo Han, an extremely accomplished pianist. How refreshing to see these simple pleasures able to truly entertain kids of this age!!

In the world of Destination ImagiNation, my other groups of middle level kids have been recently participating in skills workshops to get themselves prepared for the big competition on April 18. Prayer support is GREATLY appreciated here as they work on time management and teamwork issues.

Midwesterners: This past week Javier and I were blessed to be able to share great meals, fun times, and enthusiastic conversations with friends of family and other friends who had ventured down this way. We loved having the opportunity to keep in touch with folks back home, make new friends, and hear about how others are working in and enjoying Guatemala. Sarah and Howard were here from Tennessee with other members of their church on an annual trip to help build in Mazatenango. And Mark, Fran from Wisconsin, and their friend Walt, told about their new found love for Guatemala and how they'd like to help an NGO build a library in Santiago. (*My apologies if Tennessee isn't technically in the midwest...I was working on a catchy title!)

Medals: Just yesterday I ran in my sixth annual Avon Run Against Breast Cancer. Although this is something familiar to most people in the States, it is a relatively new event here in Guatemala. Each year, however, I've watched it grow and grow. This year over 4,000 women of all ages ran! I was able to get our first grade teacher and two girls from our high school to run along. We are hopeful that even more ladies will join us next time around!!

Servant Days 2009: Building in Xela

2009-02-15T20:48:00.000-08:00

This year our class traveled to Quetzaltenango (aka Xela), Guatemala to help with the construction of a Bible school near there. Although Xela is located less than 200km (less than 120 miles) northwest of the city, the trip takes over four hours due to road conditions and mountainous terrain. The city of Xela itself is located at about 7,500 feet above sea level.

We left school around 8am Thursday morning and arrived at the seminary that hosted us just in time for lunch a little before 12:30. After fueling up, we headed to the work site, about fifteen minutes outside of Xela.

Once at the work site, the kids began helping haul cement block to the second level of the building and then used it to construct the ceiling. Others began the arduous process of chipping away a first layer of cement from the walls in preparation for finishing layers that will be added later. Still others were responsible for shoveling and hauling dirt to backfill along the foundation of the building.

On the second day, after working all day, the kids put on a performance for some local children by singing songs in Spanish and telling the story of Noah. And both days there was, of course, time made for some friendly soccer games between the gringos and the locals.

It was such a blessing to me to work beside these teenagers who labored so hard with no complaining; no expectation of something in return, but rather with so much laughter and joy! It truly gives me hope.

I think the video I've put together will help you see how God not only worked through them during these Servant Days, but also how He worked in them as well.

Falling Down and Popping Up

2009-01-28T21:53:00.000-08:00

It rained today. It never rains in January. Such a simple thing gave so many pause. Everyone stopped or ran (depending on where they were when the deluge started) and laughed and smiled and yelled: "It's RAINING!" We don't know why and it didn't last long. The ground, so dry from months of sunshine and wind, soaked it all up before you could even notice that it had been wet. It came just as my kids were about to start a presentation at our weekly staff meeting. Rain on a metal roof would not have been conducive to their nervous voices trying to speak in front of 50 adults. So, we offered prayer and just as we were about to begin, the rain stopped. If I haven't mentioned before, my middle schoolers have produced the most amazing piece of cartoon art which is now featured on a website, also being viewed as an online ebook, and is about to be the focus of an article in English Teaching Professional...an internationally-read teaching journal. We thought we ought to share that PRAISE with our school community which has been so harshly targeted with crisis and tragedy lately. You can view their work at either of these sites:

http://grammarmancomic.com (look for the comic titled "Grammarman Travels to Guatemala")
http://www.myebook.com/index.php?option=ebook&id=3623

We will also be PRAISING tomorrow night as the high schoolers open their production of Beauty and the Beast for its three-night run.

So what was popping up? About 200 bags of popcorn on top of my stove! ...to sell as snacks at intermission tomorrow night. Only 400 more to go!!!

Some Photos from the Season

2008-12-18T13:10:00.000-08:00

Elementary students wish you Feliz Navidad at their Christmas concert!!

Performing the Christmas cantata Let Heaven and Nature Sing Gloria at Union Church

A few of my favorite elves!!

Preparing for a performance of Handel's Messiah at the National Theater

CAG staff get into the Christmas spirit at the annual luncheon

A Few Updates...

2008-12-18T10:30:00.000-08:00

Javier got permission to take time off!!!!!!...only half the time we were hoping for, but we'll take it!! We'll be heading to Chicago on Monday, Dec. 22 to spend the night. We're excited to see our dear Annette (Little Wit) and check out Chad Perry's Wii!! Then on Tuesday we'll catch the bus up to Madison to spend Christmas with my family. Javier will have to return on the 28th to be back at work for the 29th, but I'll stay on, taking a short detour to the Great White Nort' of Toronto to visit my Jo-anne and her new little Mary!!

The next-door neighbors have just had their vanload (literally!) of holiday fireworks delivered (I am sssooooo not going to miss that this year!!!).

School ended on a yucky note...me missing it...home in bed sick with fever...and missing sharing Merry Christmases with all my kids!! :(

Challenges have been bountiful this week with numerous financial difficulties due to fraud with my bank account and visa issues. We are choosing to believe that these are all strikes by the enemy because something big and wonderful is trying to come our way. We are casting aside discouragement and remembering that God is greater than any of the troubles we find ourselves having getting this trip underway. We ask you to join us in prayer that we will see the fruits of our faith!

So COOL!!!

2008-12-09T20:18:00.000-08:00

First of all...TWO posts in ONE day!?!? What's wrong???? Nothing!! I just had to take a moment to share the coolest thing!! We just got home from another two-hour choir rehearsal in the city and decided to take Rupert for a walk since he's been cooped up all day. As we rounded the corner at the top of the hill just outside of our house, we were greeted by a huge orange glow. It wasn't the city lights below, Christmas lights, or warning lights on a cell tower...it was the lava from Volcan Fuego glowing bright as it flowed down from the crater on this crystal clear night! Now THAT is something to shout out about!!!! (Sorry I didn't have my camera!!!)

Is It Christmas Yet!?!??!

2008-12-09T07:20:00.001-08:00

Life sure has been crazy these last few weeks! I feel all turned around and upside down with Messiah rehearsals and performances, projects at school, Christmas choir rehearsals, kid concerts, Christmas parties, accreditation work, and trying to keep up with teaching squeezed in there somewhere!!!! I am so looking forward to a time to relax and take a break to spend time reflecting on what Christmas SHOULD be about!! Please keep Javier in your prayers as he has still not been granted permission to have time off to spend Christmas in the States with me. We so want to spend this special time of year together, but do not know yet if it will be possible. We have made all of our travel arrangements on faith, believing that our Savior CAN move the mountain...which, in this case, (as is often with us) the red tape ("fijase...") of Guatemalan government! Blessings!!

Retreating and Reaffirming

2008-11-18T19:15:00.000-08:00

The past two weeks have been as busy as any, but I wanted to send along two highlights. First...High School Retreat. This is an annual even when all students, grades 9-12, and their sponsors, set off at the end of Spiritual Emphasis week to further connect with God and each other. This year we headed to Chimaltenango. The speakers were the DeVries family, who offered great lessons, support, and ideas to help the kids start finding ways to make God more a part of their everyday lives. The picture above is from the second night, banquet night, where the theme was "Medieval Times," (hence the crazy attire!).

And Second...the Annual Parent Meeting at CAG...which teachers are required to attend. While it is generally not the most exciting event of the year, it did serve this year to reaffirm for me why I choose to serve here. Here a few little-known
facts I walked away with from the meeting:

CAG is completely independently supported through tuition fees ($200 per month per student) and private contributions, and operates in the black.

Students at CAG receive an accredited English education, and are offered such things as AP courses, individualized math classes, National Institute of Learning Disabilities support, specialized reading, an extra curricular competitive sports program, drama programs, music (including Praise Team, choir, and orchestra), art courses, intramural sports, and community service opportunities...all of which are run by teacher and parent VOLUNTEERS.

All teachers are self supporting, receiving a stipend of $150 per month from the school for 10 months per year.

Teachers and families work together for the betterment of the entire school community. They pray together, worship together, work side-by-side, support one another (btw...substitute teachers = parent volunteers), and really love one another despite their differences.

When we were leaving the meeting, I was trying to figure out what makes such a difference here at CAG, and I decided this...

Contrary to popular belief (which has been a belief I have held, having been a public school teacher for a number of years) more money does NOT equal a higher quality of education. I have seen through my experience here in the mission field that what really brings out the best in people is daily affirmation and sincere gratitude from others around them combined with the knowledge that what we do is in service to an amazing God.

CAG is made up of a very wide variety of people from even wider religious backgrounds, social/economic levels, and political affiliations. Above and beyond all of that other stuff, however, the community here shares one bottom line...GOD and His love; and THAT is what makes things work here!

It is my prayer that other schools and communities will find this "solution" as well.

With blessings for a wonderful Thanksgiving!!! Sherry

Harvest Fair!

2008-10-29T21:28:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday we celebrated our annual Harvest Fair at school! It's a time when middle and high school students plan, set up, and run a fall festival with games and goodies for younger kids and their families. It's a great service project that helps to bring a little piece of "home" to those (of us) who miss such celebrations this time of year. Our eleventh grade class ran a face painting booth, ladder climb, bounce house, and Cafe Le Cirque...since this year's theme was The Circus! I hope you'll enjoy the video!! With blessings for a Happy "Fall"!!!

SIGH....

2008-10-08T20:58:00.000-07:00

Today was one of those Midwest fall-weather days which catch me by surprise every now and then here in the subtropics. It was cold and rainy, but crisp. And the air was filled with the scent of burning wood. And all I wanted to do was get home, snuggle on the couch and dream that the fine mist coming down might actually turn a little bit white by the morning. But, alas, all the trees are still green as emeralds, there's no football on TV and no Grandpa Harry's chili on the stove, and the burning wood is actually from the homes nearby where they have to build fires to cook and heat their water. We don't have a couch...somehow the cold tile floor just isn't the same...and there is no way I'll ever see a little frost on the ground tomorrow. Sometimes I miss home so much...

Blessings Abound!

2008-10-06T19:47:00.001-07:00

I can't believe it's been a whole month since last I posted something here! So sorry!!

In this past week we've been witness to some great works of God!! Our dear friend Elaine was able to come to Guatemala and take her little girl Sofia home!! It has been a long time coming and not without difficulties and some heartaches, but as we sat at Pizza Hut and listened to Sofia offer a prayer of thanks before diving into her cheese pizza pie, I knew it was nothing short of God's hand at work. We send our blessings and love to Elaine, Isa, and Sofia as they start their new life together.

And Javier was touched this weekend as he received by "luck" a full-payment tuition voucher for a course he has long wanted to take in order to fulfill his certification through the Linux Professional Institute. Not only was he blessed with this "random" offering, but he was able to use the experience to testify to others about this work of God.

God is Good!! And I'm glad to be able to share some of that with you!!

Prayer Request

2008-09-08T21:16:00.000-07:00

Starting into our fourth week of school...it's difficult to believe. At this point I am feeling extremely overwhelmed with all that I've taken on and am just putting up this short post to ask for some prayer support. While I am certain that I am where God wants me to be, using my gifts to serve others, I am feeling burdened with how much there is to do. All that advice that says, "Learn to say no," and "You can only do what you can do," is not at this point relieving the responsibility I feel for the program I am trying to manage here at CAG. Thank you for reading, caring, and praying...

First Days

2008-08-23T10:44:00.000-07:00

The first two weeks of school (one just for teachers and one with kids) are unbelievable OVER already and classes and activities are full swing. These first days were highlighted by:

meetings, meeting, meetings

a fun-fill teacher field trip to the import grocery store where we were able to find Bigelow tea and Jell-O!

a special anniversary (which meant carrot cake for all!!!)

technology, technology, technology

a giant caterpillar attack!

praise, worship, prayer

blessed times of work and fun, but a lack of time for it all!!

Enjoy the video!!

T-Minus Two Days and Counting!

2008-08-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

After a busy, sometimes stressful, but definitely exciting and blessed week, I am nearly prepared to greet students on Monday morning! My schedule, like that of all other CAG teachers, is jam-packed with classes and activities. This year I will continue to coordinate the elementary Reading Program, which includes supervising two staff members; teach the Middle School-level English as a Foreign Language, and co-sponsor the Junior Class. A new undertaking that I am so, so, so excited about is starting a Middle School-level Destination ImagiNation class/team! If you don't know this fabulous program, check this out to learn more:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4yTFBozqpQM

My two big personal goals center around content reading and technology this year. I've made commitments to address these areas both in my classes and by helping others. The realm of technology is way outside of my comfort zone, but is something I am feeling called to address. I've committed my EFL class to spend one class period each week learning online and have started my very own website (allalvarez.webnode.com) which I will need to keep updated daily for the benefit of students, parents, and other teachers. These areas are a prayer focus for me, as I delve into new territory. The verse we've been praying with this week is from John 11:3 - "Lord, the one you love is..."... and in my case: nervous, worried, excited, and overwhelmed. I hope you will pray with me that my endeavors will be of benefit to others in the pursuit of educating God's children.

More to come once classes get underway...

PRAYER REQUEST...

2008-08-06T20:18:00.000-07:00

A very dear friend has been working to help a family complete an adoption that they have been working on since the child was born..FOUR YEARS ago! The biggest obstacle that needs to be overcome is finding the child's birth mother so that she can verify that she has abandoned little Shyanne. We have been successful in finding a birth mother in the past, for this friend's own adoption, by working through the missionary community. In this case, however, the pieces don't seem to be coming together quite as easily. We have been working at helping from every angle we can think of...sending people all around the country, arranging for radio announcements, running information through government databases, hanging posters, sending emails, offering a reward...the list goes on. What I would really like to ask is for prayer support for the adoptive family. While obviously we need help in locating this mother, the family who has been worrying and trying to provide for this child for the past four years is in great need of the strength to continue right now. Their hope is fading and their perseverance waning. So, I am asking for prayer support for them now. And I thank you for it on their behalf.

This is the woman we are seeking. I'm posting the information here because you never know....

Her name is Ana Maribel Cruz Giron, born August 21, 1978 in Masagua, Escuintla, Guatemala.

Any information or additional suggestions that you can offer will be mostly gratefully accepted. Blessings...

And they'll know we are Christians by our....spelling presentation?...

2008-07-30T15:01:00.000-07:00

The first question I received during the teacher workshop I presented this week...

"Are you a Christian?"

Surprised and very honestly a little confused, I answered: "YES!"

Marta, the young teacher who was asking, told me that she and her husband have just come to Guatemala and are looking for a church to get plugged into. I was more than thrilled to be able to share Union Church of Guatemala with her and her husband Rob over dinner that night.

In my last post I had mentioned how I was so looking forward to giving this presentation because it would offer me an opportunity to testify. So, I know I shouldn't have been quite so amazed that God made doing so possible. He is amazing!! I guess it was my first experience of "random" recognition by a stranger, though, and it did catch me off guard. But how inspiring and motivating! I know I was there to help Marta and Rob find ways to serve God while they're here, but it was also a personal confirmation that God does want to keep using me here as well. (and Yay! for that because I really want to stay here!!) My faith has been strengthened that God will continue to provide for our life here.

On another exciting note...it was our two-year wedding anniversary yesterday. We weren't planning on doing much, as money is tight, and then we were given a restaurant gift certificate by some friends for helping them out last month. So we were able to go out and enjoy a special night, including dessert: Oreo Mad_ess. God is Good!!!

"Just WITNESS While you Work..."

2008-07-17T07:06:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to be working on a presentation that I've been asked to give at my former school. I'm about a quarter of the way done with the planning and will be presenting the last week of July. While it is not an official "ministry," I am so glad to have a chance to offer myself as a positive witness of Jesus' love to a different group of people. ( Just like with teaching...you never know who will be watching when!!) In addition, in researching for the presentation, I am learning TONS of interesting (and useful!) information about language and teaching!!

Beware the Mud Monsters!

2008-07-06T17:35:00.000-07:00

One thing I L-O-V-E about the missionary life here in Guatemala is how amazingly supportive, helpful, and genuinely generous the missionary community is. Through the InterMissions organization, people are always offering to help one another with small and very big things alike. Sometimes in unbelievable ways. And in ways which I've seen lead to true miracles. So, in the spirit of trying to help others, I (Javier wants no part of this decision!) have volunteered to dog sit for another teacher from CAG while she and her husband are visiting family in the States. Fewer than 48 hours into this "giving" experience, (which has included four dog baths, multiple loads of laundry, and washing and rewashing my floor), I have come to the conclusion that the Mud Monsters simply can't be beaten. Two 75+lb. dogs. The rainiest rainy season in recent history. And me. Needless to say, I do not see myself a victor anytime soon. Your prayers for sunnier days or suggestions for better defenses against these four-legged foes are greatly appreciated!!!

Aside from that, I have today finished all the requirements of Master's program and am looking forward to receiving my diploma sometime in September! I am truly blessed and am excited to be able to bring all my experience and knowledge to help others here!!

2008-06-20T18:18:00.000-07:00

This video is dedicated to those who experienced God's blessing
even in one of the world's darkest places.
I thank
Young Life Hinsdale and Young Life Guatemala
for allowing me
a glimpse
at how God uses each and every one of us
to bless one another
in love.

2008-06-13T23:14:00.000-07:00

Unable to Give It a Title.

I looked on as humans.
PEOPLE.
Gathered their lives out of the dump today.

Perhaps the largest man-made structure I've seen.

Did they see me?

Probably not, as the vultures waited. Watched overhead. I've never been so close to these hairless birds.

I put the cups and plates and bottles in the garbage bag tonight.

And wondered.

Who will find this stuff?

Can I afford to throw it away?

And then stand and look on?

Crazy Days!

2008-06-12T19:23:00.000-07:00

Balancing tutoring, studying, and trying to help the YoungLife work team that is here has kept more than busy over the past week. I am at school nearly every day to tutor several kids and am so glad to be able to be helping them. My next-to-last Masters course begins this Sunday, so I'm reading and then reading some more in order to be ready and meet course requirements. And then the YoungLife team: a group of about 30 from the Chicago area here whole-heartedly working construction for some of the very neediest people living in one of the worst parts of the city. Their effort and love are overwhelming and so much appreciated. I have been able to help prepare concrete to cover a family's dirt floor and Javier and I have been leading music worship at night. I will post pictures soon!!! I'm happy to have so much to do, but would like a little more sleep one of these nights....

2008-06-05T08:02:00.000-07:00

So I spent Monday and Tuesday sitting in horrible traffic and rain, rain, rain! We've been suffering the repercussions of two different tropical storms for about a week now! (Although I do think I spotted the sun for about 5 minutes yesterday!). The purpose of the painful (1 1/2 - 2 hour) trips was our Women's Ministry bi-annual rummage sale. Monday we set up. And we set up. And we set up. Apparently this time around saw the most donations ever! Tuesday was the sale, but unfortunately the horrible rain kept a lot of people away, so in comparison to other sales, we didn't do so well. The money raised will go to a variety of service projects that the Women's Ministry supports around the country. The left overs are given to the Salvation Army here for distribution.

Monday also saw the start of my Big Tutoring Adventure. I have so far set up a pretty rigorous schedule, and just heard yesterday that I may still be getting a call about another student, as well. I will be working with five students (grades K-12!) for about 12 hours total. I know I will end up being at school a lot more than that, though, for all the planning (for them) and preparing for next year. It's a good thing I love being at CAG so much!!!

Yesterday I also set my schedule to work with a group of high school students from the Chicago area who are coming to Guatemala on a work trip with the organization YoungLife. I am excited and will keep you posted!!

Support Raising

2008-05-31T16:48:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends:

I am writing with continued excitement and praise about my service here in Guatemala! As you know, I have been serving as the Reading Coordinator at the Christian Academy of Guatemala (CAG) for the past school year, thanks to the support you generously provided for me to do so. I can very sincerely tell you that your willingness to help me serve the children of missionaries working here in Guatemala has made a true difference in many lives, including my own.

Upon staring at CAG last August, I designed and implemented a literacy program for the elementary school. In doing so, I assessed all students’ reading needs and was able, with my two part-time staff members, to begin providing supplemental reading intervention services to struggling students. We were initially serving about fifteen students, three of whom were able to move out of the program by mid-year, but who were also quickly replaced by others demonstrating need. With the start of the second semester and the reading program well established, I was able to also begin providing English language services to students who were having difficulty acquiring their new language, and the program grew to serve more than twenty elementary students in all.

In addition to my work in the elementary school, I also team taught sixth grade English and developed and taught an English as a Foreign Language curriculum for secondary students. My most challenging position at CAG was serving as co-sponsor for the sophomore class and required weekly personal devotional time, as well as supervising special activities, such as High School Retreat, Servant Days, the Annual Sports Banquet, and Graduation.

All in all this past school year has handed me the biggest challenges I have ever undertaken, both personally and professionally, but I have all along felt completely blessed to be a part of it all, knowing I am where God would have me, serving others. I have had the opportunity to provide an important yet previously unavailable service to students in need, as well as help CAG continue to progress in order to serve more missionary families. I have never forgotten the fact that I wouldn’t be able to be here serving in these capacities if it wasn’t for the support of all of you. I have done my best to administer and allocate what you have provided in a way that brings glory to the Lord.

As I have daily seen how important my work is here, and do most sincerely believe it is part of God’s Will, I am planning to stay in Guatemala and take CAG’s Reading Program and English as a Foreign Language program into a second year. I am hopeful that you will continue on this journey with me! I have enjoyed sharing this experience with you through my monthly updates and will continue to do so, as well as make posts here on my new blog!

My life here in Guatemala continues to require a commitment from 25-50 people who are willing to provide $20-$40 per month for basic costs of housing, food, and insurance. I encourage you to pray about making such a contribution. If a monthly commitment is not possible, a one-time special gift is equally appreciated. Please visit my mission's website at www.cten.org to find out how you can continue to be a part of this service opportunity.

With blessings,

Sherry L. de Alvarez