A delegation from the Presbytery of Baltimore traveled to Guatemala last week, marking a significant milestone in the presbytery’s ongoing commitment to international mission and partnership.

General Presbyter Jackie Taylor and Associate for Missional & Community Engagement Michele Wallen led the visit, which included the signing of a formal five-year partnership agreement with CEDEPCA (Centro Evangélico de Estudios Pastorales en Centro América). The signing was witnessed by CEDEPCA’s General Coordinator, Judith Castaneda, and Jane Houck, Chair of the Guatemala Partnership — a moment that deepens a relationship built on shared faith and mutual service.

The week began with a warm welcome from Rev. Arnoldo Aguilar, pastor of Luz de la Aurora Iglesia de Dios (Light of the Dawn Church of God), and his family — including a birthday lunch in honor of Michele, a joyful start to a meaningful journey.

On their first morning, the delegation gathered to unpack donations brought on behalf of Havenwood Presbyterian Church and Ark and Dove Presbyterian Church. They then visited the classroom where they received an introduction to Guatemalan migration patterns to the United States and learned about CEDEPCA’s disaster relief ministry.

The delegation also visited La Plaza de las Niñas, a memorial honoring the young women and girls who were murdered in 2017 after refusing to be sex trafficked. It was a sobering and sacred moment of witness — a reminder that the work of justice and accompaniment is never far from the heart of mission.

The Presbytery of Baltimore gives thanks for the faithfulness of all who made this trip possible, and looks forward to the fruit this renewed partnership will bear in the years ahead.