For over half a decade, Rosario has been uplifted by the support of her peers and the team at Fraternidad de Presbiteriales Mayas, an organization run by Indigenous women from Mam, Quiche and Kakchiquel communities in Guatemala. Formed over 30 years ago, this PWS&D partner helps women build their spiritual, economic and social capacity, with programs focused on promoting self-esteem and leadership, in addition to livelihoods capacity building.
Rosario was forced to rebuild her life after she and her child were mistreated and abandoned by her first husband. After creating a family with her second husband, he emigrated to the United States. He quickly broke his promise to provide for her and their children, abandoning them as well. In debt for the cost of sending him overseas, Rosario was in an even worse position, and she ended up losing part of her land to cover the debt.
Given their financial struggles, ensuring the family had enough food to eat was a daily challenge for Rosario.
Rosario has improved her financial situation after participating in a savings group supported by Fraternidad. Through this initiative, she received training and funds for income-generating projects such as agriculture (growing corn, beans, vegetables and fruit trees), animal husbandry (raising chickens, pigs and sheep), and weaving. Now, her livelihood opportunities are increasing as she sells the produce from her farm and the traditional garments she makes.
Another element of Fraternidad’s holistic programming that Rosario regularly participates in are Bible studies. For Rosario and others in her community, these sessions are especially helpful because they make the Bible accessible by presenting it in their Indigenous languages. The PCC, through International Ministries, supports Fraternidad’s ministry to provide pastoral training to women.
Rosario’s Christian faith, which she has practiced for over three decades, has helped her persevere, especially when she felt abandoned by so many around her. The support she receives through Fraternidad, as an outpouring of Christ’s love, has also been constant.
In John 16:33, Jesus instructs his followers, “take courage.” The work we do together as a church through PWS&D is an outpouring of the love of Christ, that helps people in the midst of this hurting world.
* This story was originally published in the Spring 2025 issue of the Presbyterian Connection newspaper.
