Cat Vollenweider
“My heart beats for family restoration. For the relational wholeness that can only come through Christ.”
I didn’t want to go to Guatemala. I was already on a mission, living for God, when I was invited to be an intern at a girls’ home for a summer. Guatemala wasn’t on my radar, but it was one of God’s good plans.
It was the summer of 2015. From the first moment I was there, one little girl captured my heart with her passion for life. Although I towered over her, she came running up to me and demanded to know my name. I learned that she is one of five siblings.
That summer I prayed and asked God to send a family to love my new friends. I asked Him to send someone who would teach them Truth, protect them, fight for them, and adore them.
Before I left, God invited me to do that very thing: be consistent in the lives of these children. I gave God my “yes,” and He has been faithful for eight years to make a way for love to reach them.
God gave me opportunities to stay in touch with them. I have written them letters (many times delivered by kind acquaintances), prayed for them, and visited as often as I am able.
These once-children are now young adults, facing the reality of aging out of the orphanage system. They are not equipped for independence, and lack life skills, employment, and the support of their communities. Once on their own, many adult orphans are prostituted, join gangs, or become victims of violence.
My vision is to see these young people thrive in all areas of adult life: spiritually, physically, mentally, and socially. As a mentor to them during the vulnerable time of transition out of an institution, I share the gospel, life skills, and tools for healing so that they are empowered to reach their full potential.
Your prayers and support give these kids a chance to be known and loved. lasting impact on the lives of these young adults. Thank you for being a part of what God is doing in Guatemala!
