St. Michael the Archangel Honduras Mission Project

My first words to Antonia, in Spanish, were “more space, please.” Antonia is 37 years old, and still lives among the young girls. She does not understand boundaries, can be impulsive and sometimes fights with other girls. Antonia  has epilepsy along with additional mental and physical challenges.

And yet, Antonia is also the first in line to receive communion. Her face is rapturous as she waits to receive the Eucharist. She hugs easily and encourages others. She calls Mike, “Michael” as many older folks do and always with a smile.

Antonia is filled with love.

Our on-ground team  started each day with a new word,  built upon the theme of fortitude. We meditated upon such words  as strength, endurance, courage and justice. And while the morning reflection with the team was among my favorite activities….

All I can think about is love.

It is everywhere here, beginning with the team itself. Sharon literally hugged me off the emotional ledge the day I learned my mother had been admitted to the hospital. When I asked Michael if he thought it would be OK if I remained in Honduras, even as my mother was in the hospital, he quietly nodded. In that moment, it was a much needed bit of reassurance. The team that remained behind continually lifted us up in prayer and love.

Love radiates, too, from the nuns themselves, as they welcomed us and cared for us and witnessed to us. It is in the busyness of their everyday lives, and the abiding love they show to the young girls, the elderly and one another.

Finally, love is present in the parishioners of St. Michael the Archangel. I remain in awe that this particular mission will be celebrating its 20th anniversary in September. What an enduring, sustaining and incredible act of love!

I look forward to welcoming the two sisters who will join us for our 20th anniversary celebration in September: Sor Deysi and Sor Antonia.

Yours in love and renewed faith,

Elizabeth