Words from Pastor Karen to members of the Health Ministry Delegation
Today the Word invites us to three very concrete responses:
1. To believe that God’s light continues to shine, even in our personal, social, and communal darkness.
2. To care for unity, knowing that division weakens the witness of the Gospel.
3. To follow Jesus in daily life, leaving behind the nets that bind us and responding to his call here and now.
Jesus continues to walk through our Galilees—our homes, our work, our communities, our struggles, and our hopes. He continues to teach, proclaim the Kingdom, and to heal. May we be able to say today with confidence: The Lord is our light and our salvation.
And may we, walking together, allow that light to transform our lives and our world.
Beth Rayberg (PA) and Steve Semmler (MD) from Saint Paul Area Synod recently joined Spring Garden Lutheran Church’s Medical Ministry trip to Guatemala’s Petén region, serving over 350 people at clinics in La Esmeralda and Dolores.
Guatemala Friends met at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church on February 28 to learn about the recent experience.
The SPAS Health Team is planning its first trip for February 2027, intending to sponsor rural health clinics in ILAG congregation villages in alternate years alongside Spring Garden Church. Steve and Beth highlighted their experiences as new members of this year’s delegation. Christy Collins and Megan Nerison (Spring Garden) shared this year’s visit and future plans in a slide presentation. We appreciate Christy and Megan’s willingness to assist as our Medical Team for 2027 comes together.
VIEW RECORDING:
VIEW SLIDE PRESENTATION:
Medical Mission: Do you have an interest in the 2027 SPAS Medical Ministry Trip?
WHO: Medical, non-medical, and Spanish-speaking individuals.
WHAT: Christ-centered medical Mission Trip focusing on a rural mobile clinic and health education
WHEN: Late February 2027 (exact dates TBD)
WHERE: Guatemala City with rural community outreach
To request information or to be contacted complete this form: Guatemala 2027 Medical Mission
Please keep this new ministry in your prayers and share the information with those you know who may be interested.
— Guatemala Committee of the Saint Paul Area Synod
