Guatemala Arrival Blog (Eagle's Nest Orphanage) December 29, 2013

We were greeted at the airport by the pastor of the Guatemalan churches, - Israel Robledo and his wife, Thelma. Among the welcome committee were Nasser and Lucky Robledo and their two children, Andrea and Monica, along with Werner and Francisco Solorzano.

After piling all of our luggage into a pick-up truck, we had a few hours to explore Guatemala City together and grab a bit to eat at Pollo Campero. Nasser and Lucky Robledo graciously opened up their home to all of us for the weekend.

The Sabbath was an unforgettable experience with gratitude, joy and love shown by the brethren here in Guatemala. Hugs were given by all, friends and strangers alike. 

We enjoyed friendly conversation as we practiced our Spanish skills. The opportunity to perform special music for the Guatemalan brethren was a wonderful privilege to show our love and care for them and this was reciprocated by the Guatemalan church choir performing the Spanish version of "Be You Holy." 

The sermon and sermonette were both in Spanish, but fantastic interpreting services were offered, so the language was not a barrier for us.

At the completion of Sabbath services, the entire congregation shared a lunch hosted at Robledo's house. The afternoon was full of friendly discussion, fun with little children and lots of songs and joyful fellowshipping. The adults exchanged stories and participated in lively discussion, while the kids played with bouncy balls, Play-Dough, and had a few games of hide-and-seek. After the meal, guitars were brought out and hymns were sung in both English and Spanish. Jelly even made an appearance later in the afternoon to say hi to the kids and perform the Ten Commandments song in Spanish. It was like a giant family reunion even though this was the first time many of us had met.