Reflections on St. Anne’s ministry in Guatemala
For the past 15 years, I’ve had the incredible privilege of being part of our ministry in Guatemala. It’s hard to put into words what this journey has meant to me – but I’ll try.
When I think back on the many mission trips I’ve taken, what stands out the most isn’t the projects or the logistics – it’s the people. These trips have become a time of deep community, both with our team and with the villagers we serve alongside.
There’s something powerful that happens when we step outside of our usual routines and open ourselves to what God is doing in a different part of the world. In Guatemala, I’ve experienced deep spiritual centering – a reminder that no matter where we come from or what language we speak, we are all held together by the same loving God. We are one family in Christ.
Every year, I am reminded that there is comfort and consistency in connecting deeply with God and with people in a way that I don’t afford myself when I am away from the villages.
I’ve watched our mission teams – often with people who didn’t know each other very well before the trip – grow into a tight-knit community. I’ve also watched those same people form deep bonds with villagers in Guatemala, all of whom live with far fewer resources than we do, and yet radiate joy and faith in the most beautiful ways.
And that’s another part that brings me so much joy – watching the mutual delight on both sides. The smiles, the laughter, the hugs at the end of a long day. It’s not one-sided giving - it’s a shared experience of grace and connection.
Every trip leaves me both humbled and renewed. Humbled by the strength and generosity of the people we meet. And renewed in my faith, seeing how God continues to show up – in the relationships, in the worship, in the quiet moments when we remember why we do this.
Mother’s Day marks the final day of our fundraising campaign to support the villages’ needs for water, latrines, education, and health. I thank you deeply for your support over the years, and I urge you to help support the Good Work in the villages with a donation of any size. There are forms in the back of the church if you are willing to write a check or donate cash, and there are instructions below if you prefer to donate online.
Finally, if you’ve ever thought about joining a mission trip, or just want to know more, I’d love to talk with you (kashays84@gmail.com or 410.271.2939). And if you’ve already been part of this ministry, thank you for shaping this incredible journey.
God is doing something beautiful in Guatemala, and I’m grateful to be a small part of it. Please join us.
Instructions for online donations:
👉 Here’s how you can help:
Visit St. Anne’s website and click the DONATE button
Scroll down to Donate using Realm, enter the amount, and select the fund using the drop-down menu: Partners in Mission in Guatemala
Or mail a check to St. Anne’s Church with "Partners in Mission" in the memo line
Thank you, thank you for your generosity, your compassion, and your continued partnership. Together, we are transforming lives—one drop at a time. 💧
With hope and gratitude,
The Partners in Mission in Guatemala Team at St. Anne’s