On Spiritual Richness – Faith Lutheran / Journey in Faith Delegation

Posted on August 18, 2014 by sisterparishinc
IMG_4780

Vicki and Peggy serve a community meal in Tierra Nueva I.

Vicki Schmidt participated in a delegation from Faith Lutheran/Journey in Faith to visit their sister community in Tierra Nueva I in June of 2013.  She shares the following reflection.

Tierra Nueva Uno (New Land 1), located in Chinautla, Guatemala, is an hermanamiento (Sister Parish linkage) with Faith Lutheran/Journey in Faith, West Fargo, ND. Our relationship began in 2001, and encounters with each other, both in the South and North, have moved us from the superficial to loving friendships that we all treasure deeply in our hearts.

In June of 2014 I was graciously received by the family of Isidro and Aura, in their comfortable, modest home. We struggled with communication but they endeared themselves to me and my roommate very quickly. We felt drawn into each others’ lives and easily felt at home with them and their children.

We slept in Isidro and Aura’s bed while they slept on a mat on the living room floor. This gesture of hospitality was difficult for us to receive but we felt their love displayed to us by this sacrifice on our behalf.

One morning I was standing in conversation with Aura when she circled behind me and began to massage my shoulders and back. Though it surprised me, I relaxed, savoring the warm gesture. After a few moments Aura reached for a chair and directed me to sit down. She continued skillfully working muscles in my upper back and neck with her thumbs and strong hands. Then she turned and motioned with her hand for me to remain in the chair. I heard splashing water at the pila, and in a moment she was back with a basin of water, placed it on the floor at my feet, and kneeled down. She lifted one of my feet and carefully placed it in warm water and began to massage each muscle, each toe. Seamlessly she took my other foot and after washing it, began caring for it as for my other foot.

Having anyone touch my feet is uncomfortable, and such discomfort immediately arose inside me when Aura began her miniseries. But something changed. When I looked down at Aura’s hands rhythmically pressing and kneading my sore muscles with such gentle care and love, she looked up at me, and I found myself looking into the face of Jesus, into the eyes of the Servant Christ. It was Jesus offering me release from my cares, my aches, my pain, and inviting me to accept this love without condition or justification. It was Jesus, through Aura’s holy touch, that would lift me from that place invigorated and healed. I was freed to rest into the beauty of the moment and see the Spirit’s caring action in my life.

IMG_4756

Friends from North Dakota and Tierra Nueva I.

I have learned from my sisters and brothers in our sister parish relationship what it means to live in poverty. We often allow someone’s lack of material goods to define them as poor. There is a difference between material poverty and spiritual poverty. I have discovered from many who are materially poor, that they have spiritual richness beyond what I encounter in my daily life in a culture of consumerism and success. The poverty is often my own as I let material bounty crowd out my spirituality.

That day I was given insight to know God’s grace in full measure, as Aura kneeled at my feet and massaged new life into my weary body. She gave me a spiritual gift beyond measure, from a pure heart and gracious spirit, and with divine love.

Posted in Delegations, General, Guatemala | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

United in God’s Love – St. Joan of Arc Delegates Share Experiences

Posted on August 18, 2014 by sisterparishinc

IMG_5031En español

St. Joan of Arc delegates visited their sister community in Tierra Nueva II from August 1-11, 2014.  Four participants gave the following homily at their church the week after the delegation.  See delegation photos.

Meghan: Sister Parish exists to foster mutual understanding and commitment to peace and justice among people in the United States and Central America. We believe the Kingdom of God is already present but not complete and the liberating Gospel calls us to work together to build this Kingdom. Because of the relationships we build, we become catalysts for change in the systems that produce poverty of the spirit and the flesh.

Cathy: Buenos dias. Me llamo Cathy Burrell. Good morning. My name is Cathy Burrell.  I was fortunate to be one of the ten delegates to have the experience of building relationships with the people of our Sister Parish.

I was staying with Lisa, another member from our delegation, with a host family in Tierra Nueva II. Because the home was built on the edge of a ravine, it had four levels. Steps were carved out of the earth or made from cement blocks. The rooms had dirt floors and tin roofs and nine people lived in the home. In order to get to the toilet you needed to walk down some concrete steps, which were not firmly secured. When you sat on it, you looked out over the ravine. When it rained, you got wet.

Our host mother talked easily to us while Lisa and I helped her make tortillas and Lisa translated. I don’t know if we were helping because she reformed almost every tortilla we made. She cooked them on a large wood grill using corncobs for fuel. Her hands were calloused so she was able to flip the tortillas with her hands. She shared how her mother abused her. She sadly shared how her second oldest daughter had been a victim of violence and the case was currently being heard in court. When dinner was ready, Lisa and I sat at a small table in the kitchen while the rest of the family sat on plastic stools holding their plates in their laps.

The next morning I goIMG_5030t into the kitchen before Lisa. Using my meager Spanish, I said “Tengo hombre.” I was given the funniest look and I quickly realized what I had said. I had told them “I have a man.” I quickly corrected myself and said “Tengo hambre”, “I am hungry.” We all laughed.

Right before 6:15 mass on Sunday, our host mother gave Lisa a bag. Inside were two bottles of Diet Coke and small packages of crackers. On Saturday, when Lisa and I walked to the church, we had stopped by a small store and we each got a Diet Coke. Our host mother remembered that. I have type 2 diabetes and she had seen the same package of crackers in a bag that I had carried with me. I have never in my life been so moved by a gift. Her gift was given out of love, kindness and sacrifice.

Meghan: From Henri Nouwen: “Gratitude is essential to ministry. Gratitude basically means to receive the gifts of others – to say thank-you for being you. If someone is so present to you that their eyes fill with tears in seeing you or hearing your story, there is great strength and comfort in that. Ministry isn’t always about what the task is, but who you are. You are not what you do, but who you are.”

IMG_5173Jenny: Good morning St. Joan of Arc! My name is Jenny and I was one of the privileged people to go on this Guatemalan delegation (hint hint my grandparents dragged me there). But by the end of the trip I was so touched by many people on this delegation but I think the people who touched me the most where the scholarship students. They inspired me so much.
I used to take my education for granted and I’m not proud of that because I knew some people out there didn’t get an education. The scholarship students though were extremely happy and thankful that they even got this opportunity to learn and have a good education. It made me thankful for what I have and I was so surprised to see people my age wanting to learn.

But I was also touched by the way made me feel like I was an old friend. I remember the welcome party the second day I got there and I was so unsure of so many things. I was thinking “should I stay here and sit with my grandparents” or “should I go up and talk to that girl that looks my age and talk to them” or “could I communicated with them because my Spanish isn’t that well” etc… But at the end of the welcome party all of the scholarship students and a lot of other youth were asking me for pictures with them. This moved me so much and it made me feel extremely special.

Meghan: From Judy Cannato: “Receiving love brings us to a place of vulnerability. That is why it is so difficult. We may think we can exercise a bit of control in loving another, but there is no control in being loved. The ones who truly love us reveal to us how genuinely loveable we are. And nothing feels more vulnerable than that.”

IMG_5117Therese: Hi, my name is Therese Frederick, and I have had the privilege of being on the delegation to Tierra Nueva II in Guatemala. Our relationship with our sister parish in GUA is based on solidarity. I want to share two stories that helped me understand this word; solidarity.

The first day in Tierra Nueva II we met with their Sr. Parish Committee. There were many items on the agenda but first we were asked to do a quick check in with news from our parishes, starting with them. We never got to even one agenda item nor to us sharing about SJA news; they shared so deeply and intimately from their hearts of what is going on in their lives – their worries and burdens; but also their belief in keeping their eyes on Christ to help them through and the hope of change to come. Stories emerged about the immigration problem – kids trying to get to the US to earn money for their families; US ‘security’ dollars allowing for more police which is leading to more corruption with less protection, abusive family situations…to name a few. The 10 delegates from SJA sat there in awe; we were on holy ground. The trust these brothers and sisters had with us goes beyond words – This, my friends, is solidarity.

My other experience happened with my host family. When I stepped over the temperature was a good 105 degrees inside and there was not a bit of air moving. My first response was, “I cannot do this, it is too hot, I won’t be able to breathe, I need light, and I’m going to get fleas.” I paused and went deep within myself; “I am here to walk with these people – if I sleep in a 105 degree home so be it; if I get fleas, so be it; and I found great peace. What happened next was incredible; the mother had lost a son to an act of violence and there was an altar and wall built to his memory – she shared her story and we cried as one (one mother of young man to another mother of young man); such intimacy and trust…. My Spanish is minimal but an understanding of the language was not needed; hearts were sharing. We may have only had a short time together but God moved powerfully – this again was holy ground…..

Meghan: From Max Warren: “Our first task in approaching another people, another culture, another religion, is to take off our shoes, for the place we are approaching is holy. Else we may find ourselves treading on people’s dreams. More serious still, we may forget that God was here before our arrival.”

Jenny: I got so attached to all of the youth there, not just the scholarship students. I swear I think I’m going to write every last one of them. I cried on the last day of seeing them and knowing that I won’t see them in what seems like forever. But they will always be in my hearts and also I will also be in theirs. I want you guys to pray for all the youth there because so many don’t finish school because they have to work to support the family.

Therese: One of the four pillars of Sr Parish is Solidarity, as compared to charity. When preparing for this trip I was having a very difficult time wrapping my mind (and heart) around this concept. I now understand I have a piece of Guatemala deep within me. And oh……. No fleas!

Cathy: During our goodbye mass our host mother and I both were crying. She looked at me, tapped her chest and said “Mi corazon”, “My heart.” I tapped my chest and said it back to her. We do not speak the same language but we were able to communicate how much we meant to each other.

Before this delegation trip to Guatemala, I was told that it would change my life. I am changed because I now carry the hearts of the people of Tierra Nueva Dos within me.

IMG_4930Meghan: Our mission in Sister Parish is to be in solidarity with our sisters and brothers in Guatemala. We build relationships, not buildings. We bear witness to the injustice that our family in Guatemala suffers, partially as a result of our own country’s exploitative policies. We act to educate all around us, to fight for policy changes, to work for reconciliation and to build the kingdom God intends. Frederick Buechner wrote: “If we are to love our neighbors, before doing anything else we must see our neighbors. We must see not just their faces but the life behind and within their faces. Here it is love that is the frame we see them in.” We invite you all to join us – as delegates or hosts, as advocates, as members of this wonderful family – as we journey together toward a shared future united in God’s love.

Posted in Delegations, Guatemala | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

Living the Gospel – Wallingford Participants Reflect on 2013 Delegation

Posted on August 18, 2014 by sisterparishinc
wallingford_guarjila_5

Delegates and Guarjila committee members.

En español

Delegates from Wallingford United Methodist Church visited Guarjila in July of 2013.  A number of participants sent the following reflections on their experience.

As we traveled home from our recent trip to Guarjila, I was thinking a lot about how to answer the question, “How was your trip?” Or “What did you do while you were there?” What we did, what I did was to experience the most generous, loving, people. What I did was listen to story after story of atrocities, of loss, of oppression, and of an incredible resilience. We walked where people ran for their lives, where massacre after massacre took place and where these lovely people resurrected their town and their lives when they returned from exile out of nothing. We learned of the disappeared and that a few determined agencies – non-government agencies – search for the lost loved ones. We heard a young American Embassy employee suggest everyone should just move on. We learned how our country is complicit in the continued oppression of a people.

We heard God’s call again for the people of Wallingford United Methodist Church to accompany the people of Guarjila as they work to save the homes of members of the community, as they work to end the existence of gangs and other 21st century problems.

As the days go by since I returned, I continue to miss the incredible people of Guarjila. Their determination for us to experience all they had to show us and to keep us safe at the same time was tireless. Everywhere we went, on every experience and activity, they accompanied us, they taught us about mutuality, caring, about living the Gospel, about bringing the reign of God here and now. It is an experience I have been deeply affected by and I won’t be able to easily answer, “What did you do?”

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the Sister Parish Committee in Guarjila for the time and energy they invested in our delegation’s preparation. To all of you who spent time with us telling of your experiences and helping us to be so completely prepared for our trip – thank you! A special thank you to Tom Pouliot for his generous accompaniment of our delegation. For all he did before and during the trip, we all owe him a great deal. Thank you!

  • Faithfully,
    Rev. Deborah Nelson

—————————————–

wallingford_guarjila

Delegates were given bracelets to remember their experience and their commitment to the relationship with Guarjila.

Wallingford United Methodist Church has many important ministries, but surely one of the most important is our Sister Parish relationship with the community of Guarjila Jon Cortina, El Salvador. For the 8th time in 13 years, a delegation from WUMC has journeyed to the rebuilt town of Guarjila. We go there to establish and maintain a faith relationship between our congregation and the people there.

I can honestly say from my experience as a first time visitor to El Salvador, that we receive every bit as much reward as do the Salvadorans that we meet, live with, travel with and commune with. Three times, delegations from Guarjila have traveled to Seattle, and I believe that it can also be said that we benefit as a congregation from their presence.

I watched the four young people in our group, Abby, Elise, Windsor, and Daniel, grow and expand before our very eyes. I will not be at all surprised if the trip affects important life choices for them, as it has done for many young people who were Sister Parish delegates in the past.

Our modest contributions to fund Sister Parish and scholarships in Guarjila reap great rewards in bringing a completely different world view to bear in our lives and in our minds. The people there open their homes and their hearts to us in a way that is emblematic of Christian Love. To see that Love embodied in the so many parts of the lives of the people we meet can only strengthen us and our church here in Seattle.

Many of us on the delegation this year have resolved to return again. Watch us Grow before your very Eyes!

  • Bruce Sherman

——————————————-

wallingford_guarjila_2

Learning new songs.

Guarjila was the best trip I’ve been a part of, and possibly the greatest I’ll ever be on. Never would I have expected the people to be so kind, welcoming, generous and patient (especially with our Spanish) with foreign strangers, giving their time, histories, and homes to our delegation.

I learned so much from all who we talked to. From the standpoint of CIS’ and the UCA’s leaders about the war and state of the country to the accounts of people from Guarjila that fought in or survived the war, I learned so much. Even more invaluable than the knowledge of their situation though was the chance to connect with these people who had been through so much. Talking to my host family about the effects of recent changes in the community, listening to the eyewitness accounts of fighting, of massacres, and of being a refugee, talking to a guy my age through broken Spanish and English about the weather, reggae music, and how he was determined to be a better father because of the absence of his own parents throughout his life, and spending half the days there sharing activities with other students was something more personal than I could have ever gotten from reading about what had happened and is happening.

Seeing the tears on people’s faces when they talk about new problems in Guarjila, seeing the hope in their eyes despite the change, and feeling the happiness of being part of the relationship between our countries gave me hope for the future and made me thank God that something like this is possible. I come back to the States with infinitely more knowledge about the people in El Salvador, new friends that I never would have imagined I would meet, and most importantly a new family.

  • Daniel Lorigan

————————————–

Going to El Salvador seemed unreal. All the build up to leaving seemed so natural, like it was just going to any other meeting, not preparing to fly thousands of miles from home. And it never really hit me that I was leaving the country until I was standing in the airport at 6am, and my dad drove away, and I was left alone with my 7 fellow delegates. (I’ll admit, I cried.) It was the scariest thing I think I have ever experienced. Especially since I was the only one on the trip who had never flown before, and I had no idea what to expect. If there was a problem, I wouldn’t just be able to shoot a text to my boyfriend or my dad or my therapist (at least not after we took off from Dallas.) I was leaving it all behind, and at first I wasn’t really sure how to or that I’d even be able to without a major break down. (Spoiler alert: I did it without this happening.)

When we actually arrived in El Salvador, it was hot and really humid, as well as crazy busy, and VERY dark. Going around to all the museums and chapels in the first couple days was really interesting. But I really just wanted to go to Guarjila to see what the relationship was all about, and that’s where it really happened for me. I went to Guarjila to grow in my faith. Most people don’t realize how hard it is to believe in God when your parent is a pastor. But when you’re exposed to churchy things your entire life it feels like routine – not this special almighty relationship with the creator. I wanted so badly to fix that, and going to Guarjila where they seemed to believe in spite of major oppression seemed like the best way to do this.

wallingford_guarjila_6

Playing icebreakers and games.

Actually getting to Guarjila was very heartwarming. And I know that sounds cheesy. But it was like you had amnesia and you’re surrounded by people who love and care about you but you have no idea who they are. It was like God’s unconditional love came in and swept us off our feet and held us there for the entire duration of our stay. It was absolutely amazing. And even though… I couldn’t get my messages across because I decided to take French instead of Spanish in school – it was the most powerful experience I have ever had. And I’m sure that I grew a lot, both in my faith and as a human being because I’ve realized that we’re all just that – human. Being christian doesn’t mean being perfect and that we don’t ever sin. It means, at least to me now because I’ve experienced this type of Agape, loving people (even strangers and enemies) the way that the people of Guarjila loved us just because we can.

  • Abby Fredericksen

——————————————–

The first day I found out that I could go to Guarjila I was very happy but I didn’t know what to expect. My brother, Peyton had gone and very much enjoyed it, so I had some thought of what it might be like. But when we actually landed in San Salvador I was completely blown away – first by the heat and humidity, then by the cultural differences. The third day we were in El Salvador we headed for a community in Chalatenango called Guarjila and that’s where the beauty began. I met my new family. I was cared for and loved like I never have been before. I grew extremely close to people that I never would have, had I not gone on this trip. This experience will definitely be in my heart forever. It has changed my life for sure. There is no doubt in my mind that Guarjila is my favorite place in the world. I would love to go back.

  • Windsor Goble-Van Diest
Posted in Delegations, El Salvador, General | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

Vicki’s Bike for Justice 2014: Lost and Found Ministries and Sister Parish, Inc.

Posted on July 16, 2014 by sisterparishinc

July has arrived, and it is beautiful outside. Biking season is in full-ride mode! That means I’m preparing for Bike for Justice 2014, a ride I have now made for six years to raise money for various organizations that keep moving steadily toward a world where all people are able to live in a just and dignified manner. Folks have been generously supportive and have donated more than $40,000 over the past rides. Thank you! This year I hope you will join me in meeting my fund raising goals.

As I pedal several hundred miles over these summer months, I will be praying for two ministries dear to my heart: Lost and Found Ministry and Sister Parish, Inc.  Your donations will go to support these two important and life-transforming ministries.

Lost and Found Ministry offers “help for those lost in another’s addiction” and is open every day to offer hope, sound advice, and a listening ear to families of someone who struggles with addiction. Sister Parish, Inc. is the national organization that creates linkages between North American faith communities and marginalized Central American communities of faith living on the edge of survival. The relationships build mutual dignity and respect through shared faith and lives. The organization is now in its 26th year, and I was part of its founding mission.

Donations for Lost and Found Ministry/Sister Parish, Inc can be sent to Opening Borders, PO Box 91, West Fargo, ND 58078; donations also may be made online at www.openingborders.com.  You can also donate online directly to Sister Parish, Inc. (please write in the notes Vicki’s Bike for Justice).

Will you join me in supporting these important causes? I am eagerly anticipating the work of my various summer rides and ask that you prayerfully consider making a contribution to reach my goal of $8,000. Thrivent Financial has made the first commitment toward this in the amount of $1,200! I carry my list of supporters in my front bike bag and as I ride, I will pray for you and your family. Thank you!

May the Spirit of God bring you light, hope and grace for your day,
Vicki Schmidt

P.S. This is it – an ask for a contribution. You may direct your contribution to your organization of choice. An acknowledgement receipt will be sent at the end of the summer when I fully report my activities and share some photos. I am grateful for your partnership in this Bike for Justice 2014.

Posted in General | Leave a comment

San Antonio celebra fiesta patronal

Posted on July 4, 2014 by sisterparishinc

In English

El 11 y 12 de junio, la comunidad de San Antonio celebra la fiesta patronal de San Antonio de Padua. La comunidad organizó varios eventos y una misa especial para marcar el día.  Personal de Iglesias Hermanas tuvo la oportunidad de participar en las actividades.

Se puede compartir la alegría de la celebración a través de nuestras fotos y este breve video grabado para el hermanamiento de San Antonio y la iglesia de Danville.

Posted in Español, General, Guatemala | Tagged , | 1 Comment

San Antonio Celebrates Patron Saint Feast Day

Posted on July 4, 2014 by sisterparishinc

En español

On June 11 and 12, the community of San Antonio celebrated the feast day of Saint Anthony of Padua.  The community organized multiple events and a special mass to celebrate. Sister Parish staff felt honored to have the opportunity to participate in the activities.

Through our photos and this brief video, recorded for San Antonio and its sister community Danville Congregational Church,we share the joy of this day.

 

Posted in General, Guatemala | Tagged , | 1 Comment

Resources on Guatemala – Spanish and English

Posted on May 21, 2014 by sisterparishinc

…The truth must become part of historical consciousness and memory if we are to hope to be a civilized society.   This remarkable “Recovering Our Historical Memory” can be an essential guide to achieving these crucial goals. — Noam Chomsky

We want to share two resources on Guatemala with you: Our Culture is Our Resistance and Rescatando Nuestra Memoria [Recovering Our Historical Memory], by Jonathan “Jonas” Moller.

rescatandonuestramemoria

The books are being distributed to raise awareness and money for two very important causes in Guatemala. In the case of Our Culture is Our Resistance, money raised goes to support the Association for Justice and Reconciliation (AJR), and their work to bring former military officers to justice for genocide and crimes and against humanity. Money earned from sales of Rescatando Nuestra Memoria helps pay for the promotion and distribution of this educational book and the accompanying teachers’ guide within Guatemala, along with workshops for educators to put these materials to use in Guatemalan classrooms.

To order copies of either book, please contact:
Jonathan Jonás Moller – jonas@igc.org

Our Culture is Our Resistance
Repression, Refuge and Healing in Guatemala

Featuring 147 tri-tone photographs, Our Culture Is Our Resistance is a cloth-bound, hardcover book that includes a preface by Guatemalan Nobel Peace Laureate Rigoberta Menchu Tum; short essays by Francisco Goldman, Susanne Jonas, and Ricardo Falla; and prose and poetry by Eduardo Galeano, Julia Esquivel, Francisco Morales Santos, Humberto Ak’abal, and Heather Dean. In addition, the book includes testimonies and reflections by Guatemalan community members and survivors, as well as statements by photographer Sebastiao Salgado, Eduardo Galeano, and William F. Schulz, Executive Director of Amnesty International U.S.A.

Prices:
English or Spanish language edition: $45/book, including shipping. (Moller also offers the reduced price of $35 in the case that the higher price would prevent the purchase)  $22.50 goes to the Association for Justice and Reconciliation (AJR) in Guatemala.  On consignment, five or more copies: $30/book + shipping. By re-selling the books at higher prices (determined by you), you can also raise money for your own cause!

Rescatando Nuestra Memoria:
Represion, Refugio y Recuperacion de las Poblaciones Desarraigadas por la Violencia en Guatemala

[Recovering Our Historical Memory: Repression, Refuge and Healing Experienced by Populations Uprooted by the Violence in Guatemala]

Rescatando Nuestra Memoria is a photography-based, primarily educational book about Guatemalan populations uprooted by the internal armed conflict. As part of the Movimiento Social de Educacion para la Paz en Guatemala [the Social Movement of Education for Peace in Guatemala], this project promotes truth, historical memory, reconciliation, and a culture of peace in the Guatemalan society. Through a network of Guatemalan and international NGOs, social justice and education focused institutions and foundations, and several Guatemalan governmental offices (including the Ministry of Education), 29,000 soft cover copies of this book have been or are currently being distributed for free to middle and high schools, universities, teachers associations, public libraries, youth groups, community associations and NGOs in Guatemala. The book comes with a separate guide for teachers, and an interactive CD version of the book with the teachers’ guide (Guia Educativa)

Prices:
Hard cover: $35/book, including shipping ($30 if you can’t afford this price). ALL $35 goes to Guatemala to help fund book distribution, workshops, and printing more books, teacher guides, and CDs.

Soft cover: $22.50/book, including shipping. ALL $22.50 goes to Guatemala to help fund book distribution, workshops, and printing more books, teacher guides, and CDs.

On consignment, five or more copies: soft cover at $10/book, hard cover at $15/book + shipping. By re-selling the books at higher prices (determined by you), you can raise money for your own cause!

_______________________

More endorsements for Rescatando Nuestra Memoria:

It was the worst massacre since the times of the Conquest in the 16th century.  It happened just twenty five years ago, but the world, blinded by racism, never knew.  This book recovers that recent history.  In words and images, it narrates the death and resurrection of the indigenous peoples of Guatemala.   — Eduardo Galeano

These testimonies and photographs incarnate memory, and they are impossible to forget.  Then how can Guatemala forget?  Some people say it’s better to forget, but, it’s obvious: forgetting is darkness, and memory is light.  Without light, you can’t find where you are going.  Memory shows the way ahead.  Guatemala won’t forget, especially with the help of projects like this one, which help light the paths to the other side of darkness.  — Francisco Goldman

Posted in General | Leave a comment

Easter Alfombra Dedicated to 20-Year Relationship in Guatemala

Posted on May 13, 2014 by sisterparishinc

Originally posted on Saint Joan of Arc’s website.

IMG_1083For hundreds of years, Guatemalans have created these elaborate carpets (made of colored sawdust, flowers and other natural materials) to line the routes of the many processions held during Lent. These carpets have developed into an amazing artistic display of faith and devotion, taking hours and hours to create, only to be trampled by the procession in a matter of seconds.

In honor of SJA’s sister church relationship with Our Lady of Guadalupe church in Tierra Nueva Dos, Guatemala, a team of Sister Parish members and parishioners created this carpet to share Guatemalan culture and celebrate the TWENTY YEAR anniversary of our relationship.  Following the 11am mass on Easter Sunday, the carpet was trampled in a mini-procession. This year’s alfombra is dedicated to the memory of our beloved friends…

IMG_1076Alba Lima: Alba and her husband Antonio were involved in Sister Parish in TNII and had acted as a host family for SJA delegates. Alba died suddenly this past month.

Viviana Quiroz Gonzalez: Viviana was the daughter of Aura Marina Gonzalez and Paul Quiroz Ramirez, one of the founding TNII families of our 20-year Sister Parish relationship. Viviana died at a young age in an accident in December 2013.

Bob Heberle: Bob was one of the founders of our Sister Parish relationship with TNII, a former board member of Sister Parish, Inc. and a passionate warrior for justice. Bob died in October 2013.

…and others who have died in the past year.

IMG_1048A big thank-you for all those who helped create the alfombra — it wouldn’t have happened without you!  For more information about our Sister Parish relationship in Guatemala, please go to the Sister Parish page on this website.

Here is the explanation of the symbols used in the alfombra this year.

 

Posted in General, United States | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Visiones de Guarjila

Posted on May 13, 2014 by sisterparishinc

In English

[En abril, miembros de la junta directiva y fundadores de Iglesias Hermanas viajaron a América Central para una delegación con el propósito de celebrar el 25 Aniversario de la organización. Estamos publicando las reflexiones que escribieron los delegados sobre su experiencia. Esta reflexión es del presidente de la junta directiva de los EEUU, Greg Huang-Dale, quien era miembro de la Primera Iglesia Metodista Unida de Decorah, Iowa. Se pueden leer otras reflexiones de la delegación del 25 aniversario en nuestro blog.]

guarjila musicTal como describe Vicki Schmidt, Iglesias Hermanas es un espacio donde Dios interviene en nuestra vida creando momentos de revelación o de kairos. Esta delegación tuvo momentos kairos en abundancia. Dios intervino con tanta frecuencia que comenzamos a esperar lo inesperado. Y mi revelación fue que los momentos kairos suceden cada vez que permitimos que Dios guíe. Pero estos momentos no son sólo las conexiones a Dios, sino que también son la base de la solidaridad, dejándonos estar guiados uno al otro en el Espíritu de Dios.

Carlos, el presidente de la Directiva de Guarjila, estaba parado mientras aparecían sombras de luz en el patio del Museo Padre Jon Cortina. Nos quedamos mirando a través de la oscuridad mientras Carlos me dijo en inglés muy fluido cómo él ha puesto su carrera y sus planes de familia en espera para ser parte de la junta directiva de la comunidad. Su junta directiva provee supervisión para los servicios de la comunidad, como la clínica, la escuela y el taller de carpintería en Guarjila, El Salvador. Los lugares son propiedad de la comunidad y ofrecen puestos de trabajo para los miembros de la comunidad y servicios para las personas necesitadas. Estas instalaciones también generan fondos para la comunidad, dinero que se invierte directamente en la comunidad para resolver los retos de la educación, el desempleo y la violencia. Entonces Carlos se volteó hacia mí y dijo: “Estoy muy cansado y no duermo lo suficiente.” A los 21 años de edad, Carlos tiene una carga pesada en sus hombros. Me dijo que su mayor preocupación es acerca de los derechos sobre la tierra. Cuando el pueblo de Guarjila regresó de los campos de refugiados en Mesa Grande, Honduras, no tenía título oficial para la propiedad que ocupaba. Dividieron la tierra entre ellos mismos, pero ahora, 30 años después, algunas personas se han presentado con derechos legales a la tierra y la documentación. Estas declaraciones tienen más años que Carlos y él se siente abrumado por la tarea de resolver un problema que existía antes de su nacimiento.

Nico, apodo de Nicolás, fue líder de la banda juvenil esa noche. Era más bajo que la mayoría de los niños a su alrededor, pero su energía era contagiosa. Detrás de un pequeño charango, la voz y el ritmo de Nico mantuvieron a la banda animada. Durante un breve descanso en la música, él levantó la mirada y sonrió a nosotros, “Carlos, hable más inglés. ¡Su inglés es bueno!” Carlos le devolvió la sonrisa,” Nico fue mi profesor del inglés,” dijo, “Quiere que practique.” Dios interrumpió en un momento y brilló una luz en nuestros caminos comunes. Allí estaba yo, un humilde profesor de inglés con un amor por la música, escuchando a un joven con un corazón para la justicia quién me dice que la lucha debe continuar, a pesar de nuestro cansancio. Estaba en lo cierto. La alegría de la canción juvenil se levantó de la banda de chicos y bailamos en un círculo en la oscuridad. No es sólo la lucha de Carlos, ni tampoco exclusivamente de Guarjila. Es la nuestra, juntos. Dios nos está guiando juntos en la búsqueda de un bien común.

Después de un sábado lleno de ideas, historias, visiones y celebraciones, el domingo llegó. Había llegado el momento de agradecer a Dios por nuestras vidas compartidas, uniéndonos en la adoración y la alabanza. Llevé mi banjo a la misa y me senté detrás de la banda juvenil que había acompañado a nuestro baile hace dos noches. Tocar con ellos fue un punto culminante de nuestro viaje para mí. Me sentí lleno de esperanza y vivo con el espíritu mientras miraba alrededor del santuario y leía la oración de San Francisco de Asís: “Donde haya duda, que yo ponga fe.” La duda y el miedo que me había llevado conmigo en este viaje fueron desvaneciéndose rápidamente ante la tremenda fe.

Nicolás se sentó en las gradas en frente del púlpito para hacer frente a los jóvenes y su música. En silencio, dio entrada a la banda antes de cada himno. Junto con el charango de Nico, la banda tuvo dos guitarras, un cuatro (guitarra de cuatro cuerdas), un giro, otros instrumentos de percusión y las voces de los cantantes. De canción a canción, comenzaron con el cuatro y luego los cantantes, y después el charango – cada músico fue presentado a su vez aún mientras ellos mezclaban sus talentos en una sinfonía de sonido. Estos músicos jóvenes eran precisamente el modelo de solidaridad que Iglesias Hermanas busca, una comunidad de talentos con un propósito; el liderazgo que reconoce el conjunto, así como los individuos; y una alegría que se multiplica en el acto de alabar a Dios.

Posted in 25 aniversario, El Salvador, Español, General | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment

Veinticinco años de memorias: Trabajando por la justicia a través de la solidaridad

Posted on March 19, 2014 by sisterparishinc

In English

[A lo largo del año, estaremos publicando reflexiones de las y los miembros de las comunidades de Iglesias Hermanas, en honor al 25 aniversario de la organización. Hoy la reflexión es una entrevista con Bob Heberle, realizada por Nancy Wiens. Nancy es miembro actual de la junta directiva del Norte de Iglesias Hermanas, y Bob es un ex miembro de la junta directiva que sigue apoyando a Iglesias Hermanas. Ambos son miembros de la comunidad católica Santa Juana de Arco en Minneapolis, Minnesota, que está hermanada con Tierra Nueva II en Guatemala. Véase más reflexiones para el 25 aniversario de miembros de las comunidades de Iglesias Hermanas.]

1996 SP delegation

Una foto de la delegación de Santa Juana de Arco que visitó a Tierra Nueva II en 1996. Bob Heberle aparece arrodillado en la camisa a cuadros.

Nancy: ¿Podría hablarnos de lo que le inspiró a que se involucrara con Iglesias Hermanas?

Bob: En los años 80, había estado muy involucrado en asuntos de América Central y tratando de educar al pueblo estadounidense sobre los crímenes atroces que se cometían en América Central, el apoyo por parte del gobierno a las masacres en Nicaragua, Guatemala y El Salvador. Participaba en diferentes protestas en varios lugares y me arrestaron varias veces. Me puse muy frustrado porque no podía convencer a mis paisanos estadounidenses a ponerse conscientes o preocupados o agitados. Los crímenes de nuestro país eran tan atroces. Ya saben, eso fue durante los tiempos de Oscar Romero (en El Salvador) con tantas masacres que ocurrieron allí. Cuando recorrí por América Central en 1983 y visité a los grupos de derechos humanos y civiles que trabajaban allí, todos tenían el mismo mensaje. El mensaje fue: “Venga a ver lo que está pasando, y regrese a su país, los EE.UU., y dígales lo que está pasando para que hagan algo. Usted es, después de todo, un ciudadano de los EE.UU. y por eso puede tener un impacto.”

Así que desde el principio en el 1983, al escuchar este mensaje, a pesar del sufrimiento horrible al que fueron sometidos y las masacres que ocurrían – Nunca me olvidé de eso: el papel importante que podíamos desempeñar. El único lugar donde teníamos algún poder era con nuestro gobierno. Y desde ese entonces, en el 1983, eso es lo que me dio el incentivo para trabajar aquí en los EEUU en nombre de los centroamericanos, en la política y la educación. En ese tiempo, en realidad, mi misión era de traer estas historias a mi comunidad.

Nancy: ¿Por qué se acercó a Iglesias Hermanas en vez de otras organizaciones?

Bob: Cuando el comité de Santa Juana investigaba los diferentes programas, llegaron la hermana Rita y Vicki Schmidt a contarnos de Iglesias Hermanas. Parecía ser lo que yo quería tan perfectamente porque era la solidaridad sin caridad (sin paternalismo), y fue el tema que resonó conmigo. Quería decir que lo que teníamos que hacer era mostrar la solidaridad, aquí, en nuestro país, para proteger y ayudar a la gente allí.

Nancy: ¿Cuándo fue su primer viaje de delegación a Tierra Nueva II, Guatemala?

Bob: Fue en 1995, creo. No éramos muchos en la primera delegación, tal vez 8 personas.

Nancy: ¿Cuáles recuerdos se destacan de esa delegación?

Bob: [Sobre el asesinato de un sacerdote en Tierra Nueva II] En realidad, en 1994, el año en que se había programado irnos allí, el Padre Alfonso Stessel, quien era el párroco de Tierra Nueva I, fue asesinado a tiros en la calle justo fuera de los muros de la iglesia. Eso creó un poco de consternación para nosotros, porque nos dimos cuenta, ya saben, si están matando a los sacerdotes… Bueno, el asesinato nunca fue resuelto e intentaron decir que era un asalto pero aún tenía su reloj puesto y todavía tenía dinero en el bolsillo. Entonces reprogramamos la delegación para el próximo año, creo que habíamos planificado irnos ese mismo año, pero la reprogramamos por el asesinato del pastor.

IMG_0102

Miembros del comité de Iglesias Hermanas de Santa Juana de Arco expresan su apoyo por la justicia en el juicio por genocidio en contra de Ríos Montt. Bob es el hombre justo debajo del rotulo.

[Sobre la creación de la misión y visión compartida entre Santa Juana y Tierra Nueva II] Un par de miembros de nuestro grupo se reunió (con miembros de Tierra Nueva II) y hacía mucho calor – eso es todo lo que recuerdo. El cuarto estaba caliente y sofocante, y se reunieron por 2 horas, y juntos crearon los objetivos y la misión de nuestro hermanamiento en ese cuarto caliente y sin aire. Y esa declaración de misión que se creó en el calor y la incomodidad, era tan hermosa y la sigue siendo hasta ahora. Se mencionan las mujeres y los jóvenes y la forma en que realmente estamos en solidaridad una comunidad con la otra. Ha sido siempre la misión de Santa Juana de Arco y Tierra Nueva II, y estoy increíblemente agradecido que la misión se haya mantenido a lo largo de los años, incluso con diferentes personas, totalmente diferentes personas.

[Sobre la iglesia de Tierra Nueva II] Estuvimos allí en Tierra Nueva II, cuando la iglesia era sólo flores – flores y juncos altos que representaban paredes. No había ninguna estructura, sólo algunos edificios atrás que aún están allí, una sala de recepción y un baño que no funcionaba que se utilizaba para el almacenamiento.

Nancy: ¿Por qué valora las conexiones de persona a persona y de las relaciones de toda la vida que son parte de Iglesias Hermanas?

Es tan importante, realmente, mantener estos hermanamientos. Sólo el hecho de que nos reciben en sus casas, es una experiencia espiritual, de ser invitado y estar tratado como hermano o hermana. Además de las visitas regulares de delegaciones, nuestra conexión espiritual ha sido maravillosamente alimentada por más de 12 años por nuestro grupo de estudio Bíblico.

Nancy: ¿Por qué se ha quedado involucrado con Iglesias Hermanas después de tantos años?

Bob: Porque he visto que son consistentes con su misión a lo largo de los años. Y he estado aliviado y satisfecho por el liderazgo consistente demostrado cada vez que haya cambios.

Nancy: ¿Qué piensa usted de cómo se han cambiado las personas a través de la experiencia de Iglesias Hermanas?

Bob: Bueno, ha hecho un montón de cosas buenas. Algunos jóvenes de aquí han participado y se les ha cambiado sus vidas completamente – los jóvenes se han convertido personas apasionadas en la búsqueda de la justicia social. Ha sido muy, muy bonito.

También yo he ganado una fe reafirmada en mi comunidad de Santa Juana, la cual es uno de los pilares de apoyo para Iglesias Hermanas. Tengo fe y esperanza profunda que continuarán siendo fuertes.

Posted in 25 aniversario, Español, General, United States | Tagged , , | 1 Comment