Some weeks in ministry leave a lasting mark—not just because of what was accomplished, but because of the people who made it so meaningful. This past week was exactly that.
We had the privilege of hosting Dr. Marty Walker, NP, along with an incredible team of pharmacists—Abbey, Yuuki, and Sydney—for a week full of ministry, outreach, and connection. From the villages to the city streets, their time here was filled with purpose, compassion, and a whole lot of joy.
Bringing Care to the Villages
The team jumped right into serving in our free mobile medical clinics, traveling with us to the villages of:
- Apantillos
- Jabali
These clinic days are always powerful, but there’s something special about having a team that brings both medical excellence and a heart to serve.
Dr. Marty & Abbey led with wisdom and care, treating patients with attentiveness and compassion, while Yuuki and Sydney worked diligently to ensure each person received the right medications along with clear instructions. Together, they created a seamless flow of care—meeting both immediate physical needs and offering encouragement along the way.
But as always, it wasn’t just about medicine.
It was about connection.
It was about listening.
It was about showing people they are seen, valued, and loved.
Serving Beyond the Clinics
One of the most meaningful moments of the week came on Thursday evening.
After touring Centro Médico Vida Plena, we partnered with fellow missionaries Randy and Lynn Thomas from Sonshine Ministries for a special outreach. Together, we prepared sandwiches and coffee, then headed to the public hospital in Jocotenango.
As we walked through the hospital that night, offering food to patients and their families, something powerful happened.
Conversations opened.
Smiles appeared.
Gratitude filled the halls.
For many of the people there, it wasn’t just about the food—it was about being seen in a difficult moment. It was a simple act of kindness, but one that carried deep impact. The team embraced it fully, connecting with people, offering encouragement, and bringing light into a place that can often feel heavy.
It was, without a doubt, a highlight of the week.
Expanding the Vision in Escuintla
Earlier that day, the team had the opportunity to tour Centro Médico Vida Plena—a project that represents the future of sustainable, accessible healthcare in this region.
As they walked through the building, you could feel the excitement.
This isn’t just a medical center—it’s a place that will bring long-term hope and healing to thousands of people. A place where quality care meets dignity. A place where lives will be changed every single day.
And they didn’t just tour it—they helped move the mission forward.
The team joined our staff in Escuintla’s local market, walking through the busy streets and handing out flyers to spread awareness about the new medical center. It was a simple but powerful moment—connecting directly with the community and inviting people into something that serves them in a life-changing way.
Ending with Celebration and Connection
After several full days of ministry, we wrapped things up with a time of rest, reflection, and celebration together.
The team spent their last day exploring the beauty of Antigua, Guatemala—hiking up to the cross overlooking the city, walking through the historic convent ruins, and soaking in the culture and history all around them.
There was also time to relax—a well-earned spa visit for massages—followed by a fabulous dinner filled with laughter, stories, and gratitude for the week we had just shared.
More Than a Trip
What made this week so special wasn’t just the places we went or the work we did—it was the relationships built along the way.
This team didn’t just come to serve.
They came to love.
They came to connect.
They came to be part of something bigger than themselves.
And they did exactly that.
We are so grateful for Dr. Marty, Abbey, Yuuki, and Sydney—for their time, their hearts, and their willingness to step into this mission with us.
You will be greatly missed.
If you’ve ever thought about joining a trip like this, we’d love to invite you to take that next step. There’s something powerful waiting for you here—and it just might change your life as much as it changes others.
