Last year, when we began laying the groundwork for the Medical Center project in Escuintla, I knew I couldn’t do it alone. With everything needing to be handled in Spanish—from permits and contracts to community outreach—I needed someone I could trust to help manage the project alongside me. Christian immediately came to mind. I had met him through our church and remembered how he had helped translate for one of our short-term mission teams. Not only was I impressed by his fluency in English, but I was struck by his kind spirit and genuine heart for serving others. I knew right then he was the right person for the job—and I’m so grateful he said yes.
I’d like to introduce you to Christian Darabos, in his own words.
I was born in Huehuetenango, a beautiful but rugged part of Guatemala. My early years weren’t easy. Because of abuse at home, I ran away at a young age and ended up living in an orphanage, where I spent the rest of my childhood. That’s where I met an American couple who became like family to me. They eventually adopted me, and we moved to Antigua to start a new life together.
Everything seemed to be going well—until they decided to return to the United States. That’s when we found out the U.S. government wouldn’t recognize the adoption. My visa was denied, and just like that, I was left behind. It was one of the hardest moments of my life.
But life goes on. I started working in restaurants, hotels—anywhere I could—and took on translation jobs when they came up. I wasn’t sure what God had planned for me, but I kept moving forward and trusted that something good was coming.
Eventually, that something good showed up—his name was Jeff McClaran.
I had the chance to work with Jeff for a week as a translator during one of his mission trips, and I quickly realized the work he was doing was something special. It stirred something in me. When my temporary job ended, I told him to let me know if he ever had a full-time spot open. Not long after, he did.
I’ve been working full-time with God Said Go Missions since May 2, 2024, and it’s been the best adventure of my life so far. Every day is different—from mobile clinics in far-off villages to quiet conversations that happen during translation—but every day is meaningful. It’s an honor to be part of a team that helps meet real needs and points people to Jesus.
The most rewarding part of my job? Seeing the difference we make—when someone finally gets the medicine they need or when I help bridge a gap through language so someone feels heard and understood.
I’m also incredibly thankful for Jeff’s mentorship. He’s taught me so much and has helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect. I’m excited to keep learning and keep serving as part of this amazing mission.
God has been good to me. And I know He’s not finished yet.
