SUNDAY IN GUATEMALA

One of the most memorable experiences of the week for the dentists is our Sunday visit to a local ward or branch. This year we went about 45 minutes from the city to an area that very much holds to the traditional customs. Most of the women wore traditional Indian dress...very brilliant colors in their woven skirts and lacy blouses. The men wear more modern clothes for Sunday...white shirts and ties.

As we entered the building I immediately felt a love for the people. We attended their Sacrament Meeting where President Clarke gave a talk on the Lamanites blossoming as a rose. It was really touching. After the meeting, the brigada people gave gifts to the ward....and one of the highlights is the family picture taking. Each family has the opportunity to have their photo taken...for some it is the only photo that they have of their family. We also bring toys and games as well as things that the family can use. This year each family got to pick out a quilt. It was so fun to see the grateful expressions on their faces. We take so much for granted!!! I am humbled every day that I am here.

My cute little family getting their picture taken with grandma

We got to be "guides" to a family. My family consisted of mom and dad and three children....two boys and a girl. It was so funny as the family was getting ready for the photo...mom told the oldest boy to take off his jacket and tuck in his shirt. She couldn't believe that he had forgotten his tie. The kids were so excited to get their gifts.

Wayne was practically kneeling to get this shot

One little lady was so cute. She was probably no more than 4 feet high and must have been in her 90s. She wore the traditional dress and was a delight to everyone. We took Wayne's picture with her. When she got her photo she said that it was the first time that she had a photo of herself.

After the fireside

That evening they held a fireside for all the future missionaries and their leaders. There were over 1200 people in attendance. One of the highlights was singing Called to Serve as a group. Our group sang the first verse and then the entire congregation sang the next 3 verses (the Spanish version has four verses). We also showed a video of the last brigada to Guatemala last year that was held in Quetzatalango...and we were pleased to see one of our missionaries that is serving with us here in the video.