Crossing the Finish Line

 

Be still my heart.  This day has been coming and we knew it would be difficult, but I had no idea how hard it would be. The houses are complete, the keys are turned over, and a new beginning for 3 families. 

We started the day with breakfast and a morning mass.  After breakfast, we packed up the last of the items needed for the house blessing ceremony and started the final hike up the mountain.  The 3 families were eagerly awaiting our arrival.  Elsa, Berta, and Marcia all signed their paperwork and Fr Travis began the process of blessing their new homes.  You will see in the pictures that the buildings that began as houses have been transformed into homes with the love and hard work of the GCMH Mission Team.  The families played an active role in this project, ready to help however they could.  Each house received a blessing and after the big reveal, we completed the project with one final nail to hang the beautiful crosses. The gratitude was flowing like a river, tears were shed by many.

Difficult goodbyes followed the house blessings. The team then started the longest walk home so far.  Some traveled with us, reluctant to let go of the friendships that were forged. Back at the school, we had lunch and then had our Covid tests.  We are extremely grateful that the clinic personnel came to us here, and that all came back negative!  There was more playing for the kids in the afternoon, as the adults did inventory of tools and supplies. 

Marta brought some delicious cake. I was a little concerned about the limited leftovers and the line of people wanting those second helpings but all played nice. We changed it up and did a 4:00 junta before supper to review all procedures for departure/travel early tomorrow.  The kids have spent the evening playing cards and having what Fr. Travis coined as a ‘Low-key dance party’ with the Populorum boys who live here. The kids danced and played in the rain.  It is not the typical season for rain, and we have seen it twice while here. The adults are also enjoying some card games this evening.

As we wrap up this successful trip, we are grateful for the health, hard work, and many returns we have been blessed with. We are returning tomorrow with hearts bigger than we had 10 days ago. God has been with us every step of the way, and we could not have done it without His love and grace. We are coming home with memories of this experience, and many new friends (both Honduran and American).  Thank you all for your interest in our mission, your thoughts and prayers.  See you tomorrow!