CDH Students Embrace Service and Learning on Trip to San Lucas, Guatemala
December 11, 2024
On November 24, twelve Cretin-Derham Hall students, along with CDH Math Teacher Brock Beithon and CDH Administrative Assistant Ruth Johnson, embarked on a week-long justice education trip to San Lucas, Guatemala. Throughout the journey, students captured their remarkable experiences by taking turns documenting each day’s highlights.
November 24: Arriving in San Lucas
After an early morning start, two flights, and a long drive, the group finally arrived in San Lucas. “The journey was long, but spirits were high,” said Ruth Johnson. The group settled into their accommodations and enjoyed a warm meal at the mission before resting up for the week ahead.
November 25: Exploring the Mission
The first full day began with a guided tour of the mission's key facilities, including the school, women’s center, hospital, and coffee center. Father Greg Schaffer, a Minnesota native who established the mission, played a central role in its development.
Students enjoyed lunch and explored the local park and Lake Atitlán before attending a coffee presentation and tasting. "We saw so much and learned about the impact the mission has on the community," said Ava Breeden. After dinner, some students joined a soccer game, while others prepared for bed and the group reflection.
November 26: First Day of Construction
The group tackled their first service projects, helping build the foundation for homes by hauling dirt and mixing concrete. "Although the work was tough, the beauty of the surroundings made it all worthwhile," shared Andrew Brass.
Afterward, they visited homes previously built by the mission, gaining insight into the impact of their efforts. The evening ended with a mix of free time, including exploring street vendors, and the group’s nightly reflection.
November 27: A Day of Work and Learning
The day started with construction work at the same sites, where students carried gravel and dirt to set a house's foundation. After lunch, the group split up: some attended a weaving class at the women’s center, while others listened to a presentation on domestic violence by Fermina, a survivor of the Guatemalan civil war.
“Learning Fermina’s story was eye-opening and deeply moving,” said Lauren Jennrich. The evening wrapped up with free time, dinner, and reflection.
November 28: Thanksgiving in Guatemala
Thanksgiving brought a mix of cultural learning and gratitude. The group visited the women’s center, where they made tortillas, washed clothes using a traditional communal wash bin, and carried firewood as Guatemalan men and boys often do.
The mission prepared a Thanksgiving feast with turkey, potatoes, and pie, complete with festive decorations. "It was incredible to celebrate such a sentimental holiday with our Guatemalan family," said Stella Hrabe. After an afternoon of work, the group reflected on the theme of thankfulness.
November 29: Service and Soccer
The group delivered charity bags of food to local families, who welcomed them into their homes with gratitude. "Their kindness and hospitality left us speechless," said Sydney Gerczak.
Later, some students tackled weaving projects at the women’s center, while others worked on construction. The day concluded with a lively soccer game involving locals and mission staff, followed by dinner and reflection.
November 30: Cooking and Community
The students participated in a cooking class at the women’s center, preparing flautas and fruit cocktails while playing with local children. “It was such a joyful and humbling experience,” said Alayna Verdeja.
The afternoon included a visit to a scenic viewpoint, a coffee shop, and a final evening reflection. "We talked about how this trip has brought unexpected feelings and experiences," added Tommy Sticha.
December 1: Exploring and Worship
The group spent the day boating across Lake Atitlán to visit nearby towns. They shopped in Panajachel, visited a ceramics shop in San Antonio, and admired the craftsmanship of local artisans.
The evening’s highlight was attending a vibrant Mass at the mission, where the community’s devotion left a lasting impression. "It was amazing to feel the love and joy radiating from everyone," said Zoe Ewald.
December 2: A Bittersweet Farewell
On their final day, the group completed their construction projects and visited the women’s center one last time, where they learned about medicinal plants and enjoyed herbal tea. They ended the trip with a celebratory dinner by the lake, sharing gratitude and reflections.
Chaperone Ruth Johnson summed up the experience: “This trip challenged perceptions, deepened our appreciation for home, and showed us the beauty of service and community.”
The students returned to CDH with hearts full of gratitude and unforgettable memories of their time in San Lucas.