St. Michael the Archangel Honduras Mission Project

Today began with difficult news. Just after midnight, my mother, who had been walking the long road of dementia, passed into eternal rest. It was not unexpected, but the finality still cut deep. And not being with her and my family in the States felt heavy. As I shared the news with our mission team, they responded not with words, but with presence. Gentle embraces. Silent tears. Prayers offered without being asked.

Nearby, a few of the youngest girls from Casa del Niña, just six, seven, maybe eight years old, noticed something had shifted. They approached quietly, reverently, like little messengers of heaven. One looked me in the eye and said (in Spanish), “She is no longer suffering.” Another, “She is an angel.” A third, “She is here with us.” And one whispered softly, “I’m sorry.” It flowed from them,pure, simple compassion, offered without fear, without hesitation. Their words were like balm. This is WHO they are.

The Sisters met me with firm, anchoring hugs and warm eyes that held more than just sympathy, they held understanding. When we arrived at Mass, the priest offered it for the repose of my mother’s soul, naming her aloud at the altar. There was such beauty in that gesture. All week we’ve been praying to walk beside, not ahead. To make space for God to shape us. To meet Christ in the smile of a child, the silence of an elder, the kindness of a stranger. I wasn’t prepared for how fully those prayers would be returned to me today. From the Sisters, to the girls, to our driver, to the priest, every single person met me with a spirit of accompaniment that we ourselves came to offer. And in their response, Christ was with us. (And yes, those are sunflowers in the arrangements on the altar, little touches of “home”).

After breakfast, we began a tour of the Hogar de Niñas to see the progress made possible through the generosity of St. Michael’s and to learn where future needs remain. Sor Amanda and Sor Ana walked us through each space, joyfully pointing out new improvements, humbly naming areas still in need. Our conversation turned toward the girls, their minds, bodies, and spirits. Many carry deep wounds from their pasts, and the Sisters expressed profound gratitude for the psychologist we help fund. Healing is happening, they said. Real healing.

They are pleased with the education the girls are receiving, but their concern now turns to health, especially dental care and basic medical needs like immunizations and physicals, which many of the girls still lack. Then came a moment I will never forget. With emotion rising in her voice, Sor Amanda shared that during a very lean time, the help we provided quite literally allowed them to survive. Not just continue, but survive. The room was quiet. Humbled. Grateful.

The afternoon brought lighter moments. Sharon, Mike, and Glenda took photos and helped the girls create a penpal activity to share with our parishioners at St. Michael. The older girls jumped in to help the littles. Laughter filled the air.

Late in the afternoon, we were treated to a joyful performance including a skit, songs, dances, even a beautiful Honduran folk dance. But before the celebration began, a moving message along with a simple, thoughtful prayer was offered for my mom. Another moment of grace I’ll carry forever. Popsicles and fun fellowship with the girls followed the performances. We closed out our time with the girls for the day with a unique rosary complete with meditations to honor Mary ….Dinner with the Sisters was a treat of Honduras style tamales called “catrachos,” full of flavor and care. Stories circled the table, especially excitement about the recent conclave to elect Pope Leo XIV.

The evening ended as it should: in prayer and reflection. Even in sorrow, we are held. Even in distance, we are close. God is good. Always. Dios es fiel.

Juanita

P.S. There are no coincidences. Before the day was over, a dental student (the son of the cook at Casa del Niño) happened to stop by for a visit. As we spoke, he generously offered to connect us with the local Dental School, opening the door to a possible clinic that could potentially bring much-needed dental care to the girls.