Mission Team: June 2026

We had 11 people join the team, including 4 youth, and every single one of them gave their all. Our goal was to bless the orphanage, as well as a few nearby homes that needed help, and we are so grateful for all that was accomplished.

We arrived on Monday and spent time playing games with Casa David, which was so much fun. We also began making our plans for the week and walked the grounds, where we were able to see the first of three new playground sets that we sponsored for the children.

On Tuesday, part of the team headed to Iglesia Torre Fuerte with Pastor Carlos to work on a retaining wall. Others stayed back to play with the children and teach pickleball to 280 kids — 30 at a time! Meanwhile, Ivette and Lisette led a very meaningful activity for the house moms. The theme was how to serve the children, the Lord, and ourselves. It was beautiful.

That evening, we sent all the boys to McDonald’s for Big Mac meals, and they absolutely loved it. The girls stayed back for a tea party. We dressed up, served tea in our finest clothes, and took lots of pictures. It was such a sweet and special night.

On Wednesday, the work continued at the church, along with more pickleball classes. That evening, we took 60 girls and 25 employees to McDonald’s for Big Mac meals, while the boys enjoyed a World Cup-themed party back on campus. We had the game on the big screen, plenty of games for them to play, and a photo booth with Polaroid pictures they could take with them. They are all about soccer, and they loved every minute of it!

We also served the boys a special fish dinner, caught by team member Mark’s fishing crew just a few days before and lovingly prepared by the CB kitchen. What a treat! The boys rarely get fish — almost never — and they ate every bite.

On Thursday, it was Father’s Day in Guatemala, and the mamas had something special planned for the dads. While their celebration took place, our team babysat the children. It ended up being one of the most meaningful parts of the trip, as each team member was able to spend time with one house and really get to know the children.

Afterward, we delivered food to a nearby family we helped last year by providing a new roof. It was wonderful to see them again and to know they are doing much better in their dry home.

On Friday, the team went to Antigua for some sightseeing. We began with an authentic Guatemalan breakfast overlooking a gorgeous vista. Afterward, we climbed the mountain and ziplined high above the trees — it was exhilarating! Then we headed into downtown Antigua to enjoy the sights before returning to campus.

Once we were back, there was time for one more quick round of pickleball before the final event: the despedida, or farewell. Each house presented either a dance, performance, or card to our group. It was incredibly moving to see the children express their gratitude. There were tears all around.

On Saturday, we left with heavy but happy hearts.

The needs are still great, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with this beautiful place in the months ahead. But we are so very proud of what was accomplished in just one week.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for helping make this possible. Your prayers, generosity, and support made a real difference