Service Learning in Guatemala: Days 7-9
Date posted on August 29, 2025
Blog written by: Christina Mines
Day 7 – Joy, Justice, and Shared Stories
Our final full day in Guatemala brought us back to the Planting Seeds Community Centre in Zone 3, Guatemala City. There, we spent time in cultural exchange with the community — laughing with children, sharing stories with parents, and embracing the simple but profound reality that our joys and struggles are more alike than different.
Throughout the day, we participated in games, conversations, and meaningful moments of connection that reminded us what solidarity really looks like — being present, being real, and being in relationship.
To close the day, we visited Creamos Guatemala, where we learned about the Red network — a coalition of not-for-profit organizations in Zone 3 working together to build sustainable support systems for their community. Their collective mission to create change from within was a powerful example of hope in action and the power of collaborative partnership.
Day 8 – Learning, Sharing, and Giving Thanks
Our last full day began with a visit to the Valhalla Macadamia Nut Farm, an inspiring example of organic farming that is locally owned, staffed, and managed by Guatemalan community members. We learned about sustainable agriculture and the care that goes into cultivating these valuable nuts, as well as Valhalla’s commitment to donate sapling trees to Indigenous communities across Guatemala each year.
Next, we shared a meal with the directors of Vida Guatemala, a school near Antigua dedicated to inclusive education for children with diverse learning needs. Their commitment to creating welcoming, supportive spaces was deeply moving.
The day ended with a heartfelt group debrief and reflection led by Mac Phillips and Shannon Moyle, co-directors of Planting Seeds. Together, we celebrated the many graces of this service-learning adventure and offered thanks for the relationships, lessons, and transformations that had unfolded over our nine days.
Day 9 – Journey Home, Peace, and Gratitude
Our departure day was a long one — over 18 hours of travel from Guatemala City to Chicago, and then on to Toronto. Despite multiple flight delays and uncertainties, the calm and quiet peace that rested within our group spoke volumes about the deep transformation this trip had sparked in our hearts.
We trusted that God was with us every step of the way, and that faith carried us through the challenges of the journey home. In those final moments together, there was an overwhelming sense of gratitude — for one another, for the love and laughter we shared, and for the new bonds formed.
What began as a group of nine delegates from the Diocese of Hamilton ended as a family — forever changed, connected by shared stories, experiences, and the power of authentic encounter. Our friendship, collaboration, and learning will continue to ripple outwards, impacting our community and Diocese for years to come.
Reflections & Lessons Learned
This trip widened my understanding of global solidarity and challenged me to live more deeply the love of Christ through empathy and community building. I was humbled by the resilience, faith, and hope of the people we met — especially in the face of hardship.
The experience taught me that true service is about accompaniment, walking alongside others in humility and mutual respect. It is a call to listen deeply, to be present, and to recognize the dignity of every person.
Gratitude
Our delegation is deeply grateful to the Diocese of Hamilton and St. Jerome’s University for this opportunity, to Planting Seeds International for their partnership and guidance, and most of all, to the communities of Guatemala who welcomed us with open hearts.
Thank you to my fellow delegates — your friendship, collaboration, and faith made this journey unforgettable.
Carrying It Forward
As I return home, I commit to nurture the seeds planted on this trip — through ongoing prayer, advocacy, and service in my community. This experience has transformed not just how I see the world, but how I live within it.
To learn more about Planting Seeds International, please take a look at the following links:
PSI at a Glance