Maltyox: Thank You, Guatemala
July 10, 2026
DAY 6: MALTYOX GUATEMALA
As our mission trip comes to an end, it’s hard to put into words everything God has done over these past several days. We came to Guatemala hoping to share Christ’s love, but we leave having received just as much through the faith, joy, and generosity of every person we encountered.
One of the moments I will never forget was visiting the schools and homes in the aldeas. The children loved us without hesitation. They didn’t care what we looked like, where we came from, or what language we spoke. They simply loved us. When it was time to say goodbye, they wrapped their little arms around us and held on so tightly, not wanting us to leave. In that moment, I realized that sometimes the greatest gift we can give someone isn’t something we bring in a suitcase, it’s simply our presence. I hope they know how much joy they gave me, because they gave me far more than I could have ever given them.
We also had the blessing of visiting an elderly home and celebrating Mass with the residents. A moment that deeply touched my heart was watching Fr. Michael walk down the altar after Mass, gently placing his hand on each elderly person’s head and blessing them. I have no words in explaining this special and powerful moment.
In Chicabracan during Mass as we sang Ya No Eres Pan y Vino, the words, “No falta nada, lo tengo todo. Tengo a Ti.” (“I lack nothing. I have everything because I have You.”) echoed throughout the small chapel. Tears filled my eyes. Hearing the people of Quiché sing those words and have so little, yet love God with their whole hearts, is something I’ll never forget.
Today, on our last day in Antigua, we had the blessing of visiting Obras Sociales del Santo Hermano Pedro, a ministry that cares for people who are sick, vulnerable, and many individuals living with cerebral palsy. What touched me most was witnessing the love and dignity given to each person. It reminded me that there is still so much good in the world, and that love really is what brings us together and closer to God
If Guatemala taught me one thing, it’s this: love is the answer.
We encourage you to learn more about Obras Sociales del Santo Hermano Pedro and the ways you can help continue their mission.
I will forever hold this experience in my heart. Thank you to everyone who prayed for us and supported this mission. You walked this journey with us.
The mission doesn’t end here. It continues in our homes, our workplaces, our parish, and in the way we choose to love others each day.
As they say in Quiché…
Maltyox.
Thank you, Guatemala
– Brachy Andrade
