Project Guatemala is underway! We have received a blessing from the newly ordained bishop of Guatemala, His Grace, Iosios, to proceed with providing over 160 churches in Guatemala and Columbia with hand “built” icons and Christ on the Cross. Beautiful images of the saints of our church are printed on canvas and mounted on wooden boards for the iconostasis. Large five and a half foot, Christ on the Cross, will be constructed for use at Pascha.
Please consider coming with us to Guatemala on January 15, 2025! A small team of like-minded and strong-bodied (or not) will travel to Huehuetenango, Guatemala (approximately two hour drive from Guatemala City), leaving Portland on January 15 and returning January 29. Cost includes airfare paid by the participants and a free-will offering to His Grace Iosios, newly ordained bishop of Guatemala, for food and transportation to/from the airport in Guatemala City.
Participants will be housed at the medical team building, dormitory style. The project includes construction of Icons, purchasing equipment and supplies locally (Spanish speaking would be a bonus!) for cutting canvas fabric, cutting and sealing boards, mounting canvas and chillac.
There will also be an opportunity to teach the local children and families about the icons of our church. Education will also include farming of fruits/vegetables and raising chicken and rabbits.
Here’s the flyer, as well as additional information on how to help or donate. Also, watch Fr. John Chakos as he talks about what the Orthodox church is doing in Guatemala:
Your tax free donation for Project Guatemala is an excellent almsgiving option this year for the Advent season; even if you’re not able to join our team! 100% of all donations raised will go to purchasing the supplies needed to build the icons and the crosses. Please let the Church Office know by November 30, 2025 if you”d like to join us in Huehuetenango!
