Our Casa Bernabé team recently returned from Guatemala with hearts full after a meaningful time of ministry, service, and connection. The team consisted of 7 people from the States and 7 from Guatemala. Hear from team member Jelbin Garcia as he shares about his time on the trip.
Jelbin Garcia has been a part of the Saving Susan family since 2018. He came from House of Hope Zacapa, graduated from high school, and is now in law school. Jelbin is also a staff member for our Advocate Kids program. He joined our Casa Bernabé team in Guatemala for a week of serving at the children’s home. Read more to hear his experience during the trip!
“Our trip to the Casa Bernabé was a truly meaningful experience. Throughout the week, our team helped organize and clean the school’s storage room, sorting supplies and materials so they would be easier to use. We also spent time assisting with the preschool children, helping in their classrooms, supporting the art classes with the teenagers, and playing sports and games with the kids. Every activity gave us the opportunity to serve in practical ways while building relationships with the children.
What made the trip especially meaningful to me was the time we spent with the kids. I genuinely enjoyed getting to know them, laughing with them, and simply being present with them. The fellowship was warm, joyful, and something I will always remember.
This trip was also deeply personal. Years ago, I was one of the children who was visited and encouraged by this ministry. This time, instead of being the one receiving, I had the privilege of serving as part of the Saving Susan Ministry team. During our farewell, I found myself sitting where the team members once sat, watching the children say goodbye and hand us letters. I realized that I was experiencing the same moment from the other side the side of those who came to serve. That was incredibly emotional because I remembered being one of the children doing exactly the same thing.
Being able to give back what was once given to me meant more than I can fully express. Serving these children allowed me to share the same love, kindness, and encouragement that I once received. I am deeply grateful to Saving Susan Ministry and, above all, to God for giving me this opportunity. It was a blessing to be part of something that has had such a lasting impact on my own life, and I hope I was able to make even a small difference in the lives of the children we served.”
