COVID-19

The Coronavirus had already started in the U.S. when we visited Arizona for a few weeks. Taking care of business, meeting with people, speaking in church, a Bible Study and celebrating Art’s birthday early kept us busy. However, the days prior to our return to Guatemala, both Guatemala and the U.S. were beginning to take strong measures to reduce the outbreak. We returned March 6th at 12:05 a.m.

Bible Studies and Boys Club meetings had continued in our absence. We were here for the next weekly meetings following our return before drastic measures were taken by the government. We went on lockdown and subsequently on curfew. Borders were closed, flights cancelled and we had our first COVID-19 death not far from us. We are one of the few countries on mandatory curfew. We must be INSIDE our homes from 4:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.

After the lockdown began, we immediately went to work to get at least 90% of the of our ministry community set up online for group chat. Between texting and phone calls, we have been in constant contact ever since. Though it is sad to see the playground and Bible Study rooms empty, we are grateful for technology. The ladies have dedicated every Thursday afternoon to pray at the same time in their homes. “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14