There are moments in ministry that remind you just how powerful it is when people simply say “yes” to serving—and this past week was one of those moments.
We had the incredible privilege of welcoming Joanna and her friend Lea to Guatemala for a week of hands-on ministry in our village mobile clinics. Both are registered nurses, bringing not only professional skill and experience, but also hearts deeply committed to serving others with compassion and care.
Joanna is no stranger to God Said Go Missions. As our Ambassador in Colorado, she has been a faithful voice for this ministry—sharing our story, inviting others into the mission, and helping expand the reach of what God is doing here in Guatemala. But beyond that, she has consistently shown up—year after year—serving on the ground, loving people well, and stepping into the needs of the communities we serve.
This year, she brought Lea along for the journey—and what a blessing that was.
Serving Side by Side
Throughout the week, Joanna and Lea jumped right into the rhythm of ministry. From the early morning setup to the final patient of the day, they served tirelessly in our free village mobile clinics, offering medical care, encouragement, and prayer to each person they encountered.
Together, we were able to serve in three of our villages:
- San José La Montaña
- Pasaco
- El Rodeo
Each village brought its own unique needs—but the same deep hunger for care, connection, and hope.
Patients came with everything from chronic illnesses to acute infections, but just as important as the physical care was the time spent listening, praying, and reminding each person that they are seen and loved.
More Than Medicine
What stood out most during the week wasn’t just the number of patients treated or medications distributed—it was the way Joanna and Lea connected with people.
They didn’t rush.
They didn’t treat patients like numbers.
They took time to look people in the eye, to listen to their stories, and to bring dignity into every interaction.
Whether it was comforting a worried mother, laughing with children waiting in line, or praying quietly with a patient before they left, their presence carried something deeper than medicine—it carried compassion.
A Lasting Impact
For Lea, this was her first time serving with us in Guatemala, and it was clear from the very beginning that she was exactly where she was meant to be. She embraced every moment, every challenge, and every opportunity to serve.
And for Joanna, it was another chapter in a long and faithful journey with this ministry—one that continues to impact lives both in Guatemala and back home in Colorado.
Their week here wasn’t just helpful—it was meaningful. It strengthened our team, encouraged our local leaders, and most importantly, brought hope and healing to the people we serve.
Grateful for Partners Like This
We are incredibly grateful for people like Joanna and Lea—people who use their skills, their time, and their hearts to make a difference.
This is what makes ministry possible.
Not just programs or plans—but people.
People who go.
People who serve.
People who love.
And because of that, lives are being transformed every single day.
If you’ve ever considered joining a trip like this, we’d love to invite you to take that next step. There’s a place for you here—and you never know the impact your “yes” could have.
