The last full day arrived along with many mixed emotions. Sitting with the sisters at breakfast, we spoke about the warm welcome they had extended to us along with our cherished moments with the elders. We gave the sisters some small gifts as well. Part of the team headed off to spend time with the elders one last time, and part went to meet with the new house mom for a program called Team Up For Honduras. This organization helps the young women from the Hogar de Niñas post-graduation. They also assist with a few projects at the Hogar de Niñas.
Our team joined up again for additional time with the elderly and goodbyes! We dashed off to a favorite local coffee shop for some quick refreshments and then enjoyed a delicious meal at the elderly home. The sisters shared gifts with our team and thanked us repeatedly for the generous support from our parish.
Later in the afternoon, we enjoyed some more free time in games and “play” at the Hogar de Niñas. The feast of Venerable Madre Paula de Jesus Gil Cano, the founder of the Franciscans of the Immaculate Conception is January 18, but because we would be travleing on that day, the sisters planned a grand fiesta for us to celebrate along with them on Jan. 17. Mass was celebrated at 3:00 pm and each girl seemed to sing wholeheartedly as the chapel was filled with songs of praise. We were treated to skits that recreated the life of Madre Paula. It was fun to see so many girls featured in the skit!! And then for a grand finale, we were entertained and deeply moved with speeches of gratitude, music, singing and dancing. We enjoyed a tasty dinner in the courtyard with the whole house enjoying each other’s company. We shed a few tears as we hugged and said our goodbyes, but we know we will be back, because they are our family!!
¡Paz y bien! Juanita
St. Michael the Archangel Honduras Mission Project 
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