Headed to Guatemala

Greetings friend,

This letter it to share the wonderful news that I have committed to serve at Eagles Nest Children’s Home in Sololá, Guatemala, January and February of 2012.  This decision was made about a year ago after considerable thought and prayer. I have been to Eagle’s Nest four times with my church, Austin Christian Fellowship, and have yearned to go for an extended period since my first trip in 2007. The quote above holds true for me, everything changed once I held those sweet children at Eagle’s Nest in my arms.  So going to serve for two months doesn’t seem a sacrifice to me - it is an honor and a privilege to do so.

I have expressed to some that I don’t feel qualified to be a “missionary” for I am far from perfect.  But if I wait until I think I am qualified or perfect enough – I would never go!  I heard a quote couple of weeks ago as I was planning the trip, “Don’t let my plans limit God’s possibilities.”  I pray that I am open to God’s possibilities in my life for I feel God has called me do this.

Eagle’s Nest has diversified their role as a Children’s Home the past few years.  They took over running a school for pre-k through 5^th grade in a building that was originally to be a church.  They hope to raise funds for the 2^nd story so that they can have a school for 5^th – 12^th grade.  A “Manna” feeding program is held 5 days a week for impoverished children from the nearby village.  The meal these sweet children receive at Eagle’s Nest is sometimes the only meal they get for the day.  It is a new program and I plan to get to know some of these children’s families during my stay. Church is held every Sunday in the school rooms and the property is able to host retreats, camps, and sports camps for adults and children from all over Guatemala.  It is an amazing place that reflects God’s love in everything they do.  I encourage you to look at the website to find out more about them - http://www.eaglesnestint.org/

The main purpose of this letter is to ask you to pray for me while I prepare to go and serve in Guatemala.  Prayers for safe travel, good health, abundant energy, and that I serve with overflowing love and joy.  If you would like to provide financial support for my trip there are a couple of options. A tax deductible check can be sent to Austin Christian Fellowship with Eagle’s Nest on memo line or you can send a check to directly to me.  Please know that these funds will only be used for my trip to Guatemala and any excess funds raised will be used for projects and supplies needed at the Children’s Home or for community projects in the nearby villages. 

Please feel free to contact me if you should have any questions.  I appreciate your

prayers and support as I prepare to serve in Guatemala. 

It is an honor for me to be able to serve at Eagle’s Nest Children’s Home!!

With Love,

Denise

Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.  1 Peter 4:10