This OLL Ministry has supported the education and housing of girls from rural villages near Chichicastenango, Guatemala, since the year 2000. 

Dominican Sisters live with the girls at the Internado, across the street from the School of the Annunciata, where they are educated with other children from Chichi. Supporters make it possible for the girls to get an education and live safely under the care of the Sisters in this developing country, where getting an education is not always possible for the poor, especially girls.

Below is an excerpt from Sr. Donna with the Hermanas Dominicas de La Anunciata (Dominican Sisters of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin) explaining the ​celebration.  Take a moment to read it before watching the video.  
 
CLICK HERE to watch the recent Family Day Celebration (Día de La Familia). of May 3 and 4.  

"Here in Guatemala, Mother’s Day is celebrated on May 10 th each year. Mothers have 

a special place in the hearts of everyone. Mothers transcend countries and cultures.

For many years, the sisters have celebrated Family Day as a way to celebrate both mom

and dad as well as the sanctity of the family. This year was no exception.

After many weeks of preparations, Friday afternoon began with various sports activities.

Teachers played basketball and soccer with students, classes played with other classes, and

parents played with teachers. There were various games, raffles, and food booths as well.

Saturday’s activities began with the celebration of Mass. Mass was held outdoors in the

open air. The good people of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish were remembered in prayer during

the celebration. Padre Bernardo from the parish came to preside. Students, faculty, and

parents participated in the various ministries.

After Mass, the stage was converted into a space for the cultural presentations: typical

dances, songs, poetry, and an array of performances. Families brought their picnic lunches

and shared food, time, and conversation with each other and with the other families.

The afternoon consisted of sports, games, and a famous “tombola” where every ticket

was a winner, whether it was a notebook, a kitchen utensil, or a basket of food essentials.

Everyone seemed to enjoy the days. For me, it was family at its best; relaxing, enjoying,

spending quality time with each other and the community.

On behalf of Hermana Ericka and all of the Hermanas Dominicas de la Anunciata, I

thank you for your continued friendship and support of the mission. You make a difference

each day in the lives of so many disadvantaged children and youth by collaborating in the

mission of Catholic education. We thank you. We love you. I invite you to watch our simple

video of Family Day. YOU are a part of our Family.

In gratitude and love (on behalf of the Hermanas Dominicas de La Anunciata),

Sister Donna"

For information about becoming a supporter or visiting Guatemala, contact Kathleen DeRubio at katmcd8@gmail.com, 919-656-1512.