Testimonials

Our mission trip to Casa Bernabe was such a heartwarming experience for both of us. Seeing the joy and love on the children’s faces was such a blessing to know that our efforts were much needed and well appreciated by the children, as well as the house parents and staff. It was our pleasure to lead and share the gift of music. 

It was a bonus and a blessing to share God's love outside the gates. We had the opportunity to minister to the community with food, supplies, and services.

Would highly recommend it if you haven’t had the experience of going on this mission trip. Don’t hesitate to sign up and be the hands and feet of Jesus.

~ Stephanie and Kenny Channels

My experience at CASA BERNABE was enlightening and rewarding.  I found the Staff to be kind and loving towards the children living among them.  The smiling faces on the children when they encountered the CASA BERNABE staff and their guests (us) told the story of a wonderful asset for these Guatemalan children.  

 ~ Janet Keating 

From the moment we arrived at Casa Bernabe, I was struck by how intentionally each home is set up as a family—there’s such a deep sense of love, belonging, and care for every child. It didn’t feel like an institution at all, but a place where kids are genuinely known. loved and a part of a real family.   We really enjoyed interacting with the kids on the makeshift pickleball courts; it was so much fun to see the joy on their faces as they interacted with one another and with us! What impacted me most was how central Jesus is to everything they do—you can feel it in the joy, the peace, and the way the staff pour themselves into the children with such humility and compassion. The people there are incredible, and their faith is so evident in how they serve. It’s a place that left a lasting mark on my heart, and I’m so grateful I had the chance to experience it. 

~ Christie Curie Zoba

 If you want to take a real dip into Latin America and discover what God is doing in this part of the world, I would highly recommend joining this annual mission trip to the mountains of Guatemala.  The team is experienced and nuanced.  The orphanage is a phenomenal place that brings hope, education, and long-term change not only to individuals but to the future of Guatemala.  You will establish relationships that will continue for a lifetime and you will be reminded how much we take for granted so many luxuries that have become "necessities".  Take the step of faith and just do it.  

~ Bob Zoba

What a privilege and blessing to be the hands and feet of Christ and serve alongside an amazing group of volunteers from Ocean Reef.

This mission trip wound up giving us in return beautiful lifelong memories and the Casa Bernabé kids have so much love to give, it filled our hearts with joy!

~ Jessica Poitevin

From the moment we arrived at Casa Bernabe, my son and I were touched by the resilience and joy of the children and struck by the beauty of the campus. We had the chance to connect with the kids on a personal level, helping with daily activities, playing games, and providing support wherever we could. It was a rewarding experience, and we’re excited to return this summer to do even more.

~ Lynn Hassett

My 13- year-old son and I traveled to Casa Bernabe together for a volunteer experience that we will remember forever! It was so well organized and we could just enjoy our time together and with the children of Casa Bernabe! The ORC community has changed the lives of these children with their generous donations. It was a joy to watch my son play soccer every day with the kids of Casa Bernabe on a soccer field donated by ORC! We will remember it forever and look forward to our next trip!

~ Katie Davies

Great and meaningful trip.  The construction activities accomplished so much, particularly the total revision of a 1 bedroom shack that was remade into several rooms with tile floor replacing the dirt floor. Most significant was observing the orphans as they conducted their lives with significant smiles on their faces.  Life was good and special for them, all as a result of the life style environment provided by the Orphanage.
~ Jay Holmes

Our trip to Casa  Bernabé was life changing.  Our family gained such a different perspective on life. We will have memories that will never leave us.  We are so grateful to Casa Bernabé for opening our hearts and minds to such special place.  We can't wait to go back!!!!! 

~ Christina Wills

Casa Bernabé is a unique place! The children who are welcomed in this home have their lives changed by the love of God and the people present there. It so happened that our family went there to serve, and came back with our hearts filled with love and a life time of lessons.

~ Paula Tortolo

There is so much need in Guatemala that it can feel hopeless.  My visit to Casa Bernabé though showed me the power of faith and community and its impact on healing and changing lives.  I’ve volunteered at other orphanages in Latin America so felt that I had seen it all but after my week at Casa Bernabé I returned with a sense of optimism for even the toughest situations.  It is a place that stays in your hear long after leaving!
~ Pam Fochtman

The volunteer week in Guatemala was a meaningful experience. It was inspiring to see how loving and compassionate the house parents are with their adopted kids. The orphanage is very well run and it was a honor to be able to lend a helping hand. 
Having been on many other volunteer trips, I was impressed with how much we accomplished in one week. Christina’s leadership style is very inclusive and I love her sense of humor. I would highly recommend this opportunity to anyone. 
~ Patty Davidson

Having the opportunity to work closely with the children of Casa Bernabé was an experience we’ll never forget.  After a short 24-hours at the orphanage and meeting the children, it was clear that our perspectives would be forever changed.  We’ve all seen poverty when traveling, but there’s a big difference between seeing it from a car window and helping those who have been impacted by it first-hand. 

~ Karen & Melissa Fish

The experience was life altering. I felt as if our services and presence were impactful for the children and the orphanage as a whole. The trip gave back to me in character and spiritual development. My life has shifted in a positive way to live more like Jesus and be a better Christian in all ways. Love!

~ Claude Kershner IV 

We have been on this trip with a Christina twice....and both visits were life-changing. Christina created a safe, educational and most importantly-joyful experience at Casa Bernabé .

~ Laurie Stein