Nacoochee Presbyterian Church is planning its next visit to Guatemala November 9-18 of this year. We recognize that the infection rate of COVID-19 pandemic at that time may not have abated. We plan to go forward, however, provided the rate has declined and it is safe again to travel. We will keep you apprised of developments.
Whether you have visited Guatemala before or not, the trip offers a chance to meet the women of the Association of Mam Christian Women for Development. The women show how working together yields broad benefits. They manage funds to start small businesses. These businesses help the women increase their incomes. Other projects also offer both economic benefits plus nutritional value. They include raising egg-laying chickens and growing vegetables. Such projects provide the women and their families more to eat plus any surplus can be sold.
The projects also yield spiritual benefits. The women’s strong faith binds them together. They know that they are strongest working together.
As in previous trips, participants may, if they wish, assist with the health fair sponsored by the Association. The focus is to identify malnourished children and supplement their diets. For those who wish to take part in another activity, an alternative will be provided.
Staff members of CEDEPCA, which in English stands for the “Protestant Center for Pastoral Studies in Central America,” will coordinate the trip. They have provided excellent coordination for past trips. Also, in light of the pandemic, they have adopted all of the bio-safety protocols. All staff members have received the three vaccinations. Only hotels and transportation services that comply with the protocols will be used. The transportation will be arranged to allow social distancing. The only precaution participants will need to carry out on their own is the use of face masks when meeting with the women in the communities. CEDEPCA staff members do, however, encourage participants to continue to use masks in public places and physically distance from others.
All ground transportation, hotels, and meals are included in the daily rate. The amount depends on the number of participants: $160 for 10 or more or $185 for fewer. Not included in this daily rate is airfare, but if interest exists in flying together, it may be possible to get a group discount on the ticket price.
As with previous trips, we would like you to complete the questionnaire linked to below so we know which activities interest you. If you decide to join us, fill it out, scan it, and email it to cindiemoore@yahoo.com. You can also send via US Postal Service to Cindie Moore, 150 E Center St, Berea OH 44017. Your expression of interest is needed by August 31, 2022. For questions, contact Cindie at cindiemoore@yahoo.com or at (440) 506-7824 or Dottie Foster at dp1foster@hemc.net or at (706) 969-9742.