Leaving Guatemala
I’m here in the Guatemala airport. It’s early Thursday afternoon, and I am waiting to board my flight to Chicago. Unfortunately, it seems there is no wifi here, so I may have to wait a while to post this.
I’m heading back a day earlier than the rest of the group to attend a District Council meeting tomorrow. Since Bro. Pat will not be there, I will do his report on the trip and on the new LTIP cohort.
Despite being closed for a week, today the airport is open and thriving. Once again, it seems, this LTIP tour is singularly blessed. Yesterday, no one knew for sure if flights would be operating today. But today and tomorrow, as scheduled and God willing, we will be able to get back home with no delays, unlike so many other travelers and groups.
During our nearly three weeks here, we have witnessed the devastating effects of both a volcanic eruption and a tropical storm with its ensuing landslides. And yet, the only real challenge we faced was having to find an alternate route to San Lucas last Sunday when we found out the road was closed. Max and his boat got us there and back!
I have mentioned this to a lot of people: we have felt the power of the prayers directed our way. Things have worked out for us, despite some significant potential odds. So often on the buses and trucks here in Guatemala, we see the phrase “Dios Me Guia” (God is guiding me), and only a slight alteration is needed to describe our experience: “God is guiding us”. There is no doubt hat we have been in the hands of Providence.
What a blessing to be with Adam, Cullen, Jon, and Steve, as well as Brothers Pat, Jim, and Marty as we travelled this journey together. The Lasallian spirit and hospitality we experienced in so many places was outstanding. The beauty we saw on our many drives though the country was often spectacular. But perhaps what touched all of us the most is the joy and gentleness of the people here. Their unwavering faith is humbling; their sense of community, especially in the face of adversity, is an inspiration.
My heart is filled with gratitude for this very special experience. Thanks to all of you for your interest and support throughout our Lasallian journey here in Guatemala.
¡Vive Jesus en nuestras corazones—-por siempre!
Live Jesus in our hearts—-forever!
Bro. Larry
Brother Larry – your summary of the trip brought me to tears. As parents it is exciting for us to see the experiences our children are able to partake in but we manage to worry a little along the way. We know in the end it is in God’s hands and all we can do is pray. I know God had his arms wrapped around the group this week. We are so excited to see everyone at the airport today and cannot wait to hear the stories in more detail. We will continue to keep our neighbors in Guatemala in our prayers. Tyler and the Totino Grace students leave for San Lucas in 13 days!
Tom, Kathy and Tyler
Thanks. It truly was an amazing experience—in so many ways!
BL