To be honest, I had my reservations about serving on this trip, because of some of the common controversial ideologies surrounding short term mission trips. I had never done a mission trip before, and I wondered whether helping out at this home was beneficial for the girls, with the belief that transient volunteer groups would be damaging for girls who have lacked consistency in their lives. After prayerful consideration, learning more about the mission and needs of Prince of Peace, and studying what the Bible says about serving and caring for others in this capacity (Matthew 28v19-20; James 1v27), I decided on going— and I am so grateful that I did.

 

The work that the Holy Spirit is doing in the lives of each girl at Prince of Peace (POP) is evident in their relationships with one another and their reliance on Christ, which was shared in their testimonies. For many of the girls, the idea of coming to Prince of Peace was originally a struggle, as other homes like these within Guatemala have a reputation for being hostile, unfriendly, and unsafe. All of the girls expressed how POP is completely different from the other homes they lived in/heard about, as it has provided them a sense of family, belonging, and safety. The home provides schooling, meals, safe housing, medical care, psychological intervention, counselling, etc., but their primary focus is sharing the Gospel and having Jesus centred above all other things. And so, through prayer and Bible studies from staff and volunteer teams, and the love abundant in the home, the girls have witnessed Jesus around them which has encouraged many of them to pursue a personal relationship with Christ as well.

 

After learning about God’s sacrificial love, and eagerness to forgive because of Christ’s propitiation, redemption and reconciliation, many of the girls been able to forgive their abusers, understand that God truly loves them despite what they have gone through, and that God is Merciful and Just (Ephesians 4v32; Colossians 3v13; Hebrews 4v16). What was most encouraging to me was that though each girl has suffered extreme neglect, abuse, and loss during their lives, they have grown to recognize that God has and will continue to heal their heart, mind, and spirit. Rather than developing a bitterness to God, they have seen that God is working all things together for their good, according to his plans and purposes (Romans 8v28).

 

The girls in this home are lively, and they are eager to bring others into their daily rhythms, and extracurricular pastimes (specifically dancing, singing, and fast-paced rhythm-based games)— their energy is truly infectious! The thing that stood out to me, based on my previous misconceptions, was how the girls genuinely value visitors. Since many girls have estranged relationships with family, they are amazed that individuals from around the world would put their personal lives on hold, to visit, love, and spend time with them. It was rewarding for our whole team to be able to develop personal relationships with these girls, and show them that they are loved, both by us and by the living God. 

 

During our time, our purpose was solely to be with the girls, and to support and relieve the staff. This looked like leading a bilingual VBS camp, which included Bible stories, crafts, games, and worship. Our team also helped with construction projects, which focused on renovations within the 18+ independent living facility situated on the property for girls who have graduated but still need support. We also had the opportunity to serve alongside Prince of Peace’s local outreach ministry, delivering meals, sharing the gospel, and praying for local families in need. It was amazing seeing how the partnership with POP extended beyond their home, with the ability to join them with their missions work within Guatemala.

 

I, very stubbornly, tried to ensure that the mission trip based cliches, “they taught me more than I taught them” or “I went to be a blessing but it was I who was blessed” (barf!), wouldn’t apply to me. But, despite our desire to serve the home, the overwhelming love and hospitality they poured out to us was a surprise. For me it was even frustrating at times, because I wanted to wholly serve them, but they were often the ones attempting to serve us in return. But to humour my stubbornness (the Lord is working on it, I promise), all I will say is that the girls showed me that all you need is Jesus, the redemptive work of the Holy Spirit, and a safe community to be content— that regardless of the situations that we all come from, or the hurt that we have experienced, God is consistent. It is his love that is unchanging, and we can completely rely on him and his immutability for all of our needs (1 John 4v10; James 1v17). For me, this has often been missed in my own relationship with Jesus, so it was an important reminder.

 

I encourage you, readers, to partner with Prince of Peace. Whether that is through prayer for the girls, their continued healing, and the mission of this home, the giving of your finances (as keeping this facility open is costly), or prayerfully discerning whether you want to join Westside’s next trip in February 2025. It truly is a beautiful home that is doing some amazing things in their community. 

 

On behalf of the team, I just want to say thank you all for your prayers and support during our time away. It was an amazing time growing in relationship with the staff and girls there, and we look forward to our ongoing partnership with them. 

 

Love you all! 

 

Jessie Ursel