Family Mission Trip PART 2

🌍 Destination: Sololá, Guatemala 

 

🛠️ The Mission Project

Last year, when the projects in Guatemala were presented to us, we immediately felt led to support the construction of two Sabbath School classrooms for the Agua Escondida church in Sololá, Guatemala. After speaking with the church, they shared two urgent needs: building the classrooms and remodeling of their existing sanctuary.

At the time, we believed that if we were unable to raise the funds needed for the classrooms, we could instead assist with the remodeling. In faith, we chose to move forward with raising funds for the new classrooms, assuming that the remodeling needs were relatively minor—perhaps some painting and a few small repairs. 

However, we did not fully understand the extent of the remodeling until we arrived. Once there, we witnessed firsthand that the sanctuary repairs are also an urgent and significant need. The beams supporting the roof have been damaged by termites, compromising the structure’s stability.

The land surrounding the church also needs to be leveled to prevent rain from continuing to wash soil toward the existing short retaining wall. The plan is to build a retaining wall

higher and fill in the area with dirt to create a level yard, helping to stop further erosion and protect the property.

After prayerful consideration, we felt impressed to return to Agua Escondida and complete this project. We have been provided with a budget of XXX to help address these needs. In addition to the construction work, we are also planning to bring literature to distribute throughout the community, as well as offer day clinics to serve and support the people in the area.

 

👥 Space is Limited
We are intentionally keeping the team small to ensure a meaningful, well-supported experience for everyone involved. We are accepting only 24 participants—so if you’re feeling called to join us, don’t wait! Registration will close on Sunday, November 8, 2026.

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🏨 Participation Fee

We have two registration options:

1. Couple Participation Fee: $1940 per couple.

2. Family Category (3 or more): Per Person rate is $960

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This fee covers:
• Local transportation to and from airport and project site
• Lodging accommodations in Guatemala City and Sololá
• All meals throughout the duration of the trip 

• Panajachel & Atitlán Natural Reserve Tour

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💰Payment Schedule for Couples & Families (2+ Participants)

To confirm your participation in the mission trip, an initial down payment is required.

• Couples: A 50% down payment per person is required to secure your spot, with one final payment due as outlined below.

• Families (3 or more): A 25% down payment per person is required to secure your spot, with the remaining balance split into three equal payments.

Couples:
• 50% down payment per person – due immediately to secure your spot
• Final payment – due by October 1

Families (3 or more):
• 25% down payment per person – due immediately to secure your spot
• Second payment – due by August 2
• Third payment – due by October 1
• Final payment – remaining balance due by November 15

Through this registration process, you will only be required to pay the initial down payment. We will contact you with your personalized payment plan for the remaining balance.

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Please note: No cancelations or refunds on payments.

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👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Responsibilities & Child Supervision

We are grateful to have families join us for this mission trip. Children must be at least 8 years old to participate. As we will be traveling internationally, it is especially important that children are not left unsupervised at any time.

To help ensure a safe and focused environment for everyone, parents/guardians are responsible for the care and supervision of their children throughout the entire trip.

Please note the following expectations:
• Parents/guardians must supervise their children at all times, including during travel, sessions, meals, and free time.
• Children should remain with their parents unless participating in a designated group activity.
• Parents are responsible for their children’s behavior and ensuring they are respectful of others, facilities, and the schedule.
• This is not a childcare-provided event; no supervision will be available outside of parental care.
• Families are responsible for obtaining their own travel insurance
• Families are responsible for any medical expenses or costs related to illness, injury, or emergencies during the trip.

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🛫 Travel Information

Volunteers are responsible for purchasing their own round-trip airfare to and from Guatemala City, Guatemala (GUA).

Arrival/Departure Dates: Wednesday, January 6 - Friday, January 15, 2027.

Please plan your arrival into Guatemala City between 11:00am and 3:00pm. And your departure early in the morning if possible. 

Alfonso & Lesley Orellana will meet all volunteers upon arrival in Guatemala City.

Flight tickets are cheaper if you buy between June-November.

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🛂 Entry Requirements into Guatemala

US Citizens don't need visa to travel to Guatemala but you need a passport. All passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of return.

For more information on international travel to Guatemala visit: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Guatemala.html

 

📢 We Need Donors!

You may not be able to join us on the mission trip ✈️, but you can still make a lasting difference.

We are seeking donors to help fund the renovations for the Agua Escondida Church!

💰 Project Cost: XXX

Every gift—large or small—moves us closer to our goal. 🙏
Thank you for being part of this mission through your generosity! 

Donate here:  https://www.rionline.org/donation