Mid-Year School Break at Casa Bernabé
It's a holiday week in Guatemala too! The school year in Guatemala runs from January–October, so this past week was our mid-year break. The children and staff just wrapped up their much-needed week of rejuvenation. It was a week full of rest, laughter, and community, all made possible by your continued support and prayers.
Our break kicked off with a visit from a team from Athens Church who jumped right in to spend time with our youth group. On Saturday, the boys started with a lively game of pickleball while the girls played ping-pong indoors. Then it was the girls’ turn outside — even playing pickleball in the rain didn’t dampen their spirits!
On Sunday, we gathered for our regular worship service. We always treasure when visiting teams join us — it brings a special energy and unity to our time together, and it’s a beautiful reminder of the global Church we are all part of.
From Monday through Friday, the kids enjoyed sleeping in (a real treat!), watching movies together, and playing pickup games of soccer and basketball. They also passed time playing card games, making crafts, sharing laughs, and soaking in the joy of simply being kids without the rush of the school schedule.
It’s even been a special week for the animals at Casa Bernabé. All the pet cats and dogs loved having the kids home from school all week to play with them and shower them with extra attention.
Of course, not all the work comes to a stop. The amazing cooks in our kitchen still had to feed everyone, the house parents still cared for the kids, and our professional staff were still hard at work at their jobs making sure the whole ministry ran smoothly.
The children continued with a little homework practice, their kitchen rotations, and daily chores. Many still participated in vocational classes, including party decorating, baking, and beauty/salon training. These hands-on skills are vital in preparing them for their futures.
One of the highlights of the week was on Thursday, when our Soccer Academy hosted a tournament right here at Casa Bernabé. Competing against local teams, our players won two out of three games! The entire campus came out to cheer them on. Adding to the fun, our tienda (little store just outside the front of campus) opened a concession stand. Kids worked together to sell snacks and drinks, practicing business and customer service skills in a fun and practical way.
The weekend was peaceful, and thanks to a Guatemalan holiday on Monday, the children enjoyed one extra day of relaxation before returning to school life, refreshed and recharged.
Your faithful giving, prayers, and encouragement make weeks like this possible. Whether it's creating space for rest, hosting visiting teams, or offering kids hands-on experiences that build character and confidence — you’re a part of every smile, every victory, and every moment of joy.
Thank you for being a Friend of Children Everywhere. We are deeply grateful for you.