|
Our Work: U.S. Programs — Friends Across Borders (FAB) San Salvador, El Salvador - Pilgrimage Trip November 15 - 22, 2010
 |
Cecilia Espinoza, Maryknoll Lay Missioner Friends of Mission Manager P.O. Box 307 Maryknoll, NY 10545-0307 914-762-6364, ext 207 friendsacrossborders@mklm.org
Deadline for Sign Ups: September 17, 2010
|
Bienvenido, Bienvenida a El Salvador - Welcome to El Salvador Maryknoll Lay Missioners invites you to share the beauty of El Salvador - its natural wonders, its people and culture. You are invited to commemorate the lives of the many martyrs, including Archbishop Romero and the Four Churchwomen, who are an integral part of the Salvadoran people and their history. A 12 year civil war left tens of thousands of innocent men, women and children dead or missing. Those who survived now struggle with the emotional and physical problems of stressed-induced trauma. An unforgiving climate of hurricanes, earthquakes, floods and drought and an economy where about 50 percent of the people live below the poverty line bring additional challenges. The Salvadoran people hold dear the words of St. Romero de America, who said, “If they kill me, I will rise again in the Salvadoran people.” For the poor of El Salvador, it was remarkable to hear St. Romero acknowledge their reality, name the causes of their suffering, denounce injustice, speak to their hopes, and help them believe that these hopes can be realized. Today, Maryknoll Lay Missioners works with the people of El Salvador to help them realize their hopes and dreams. Its ministries keep alive the spirit of Mons. Romero, the Four Churchwomen, and the many other martyrs of El Salvador. There are several ministries in which Maryknoll Lay Missioners are engaged in El Salvador: a nutrition program for malnourished children and pregnant mothers; AIDS ministry for youth, accompaniment, and preventive education; rural development projects; a hospice for cancer patients; community development; pastoral work; and education. Experiential Education The focus of the trip is meeting and making friends with Salvadorans and learning about their culture, faith and history. The experience will showcase the ministries of Maryknoll Lay Missioners in and around San Salvador. What we will do there 1. Visit the tomb of Mons. Romero in the Cathedral; Divina Providencia Hospital, Mons. Romero’s home; and the chapel where he was assassinated. 2. Visit the UCA (Jesuit Central American University) and Romero Center. 3. Onsite visits to Maryknoll Lay Missioners’ ministries: Nutrition program, AIDS clinic, rural communities, and a hospice for cancer patients. 4. Participate in local liturgical celebrations, experiencing the faith and hope of the Salvadoran people. 5. Participate in events where traditional food, music and dances will be presented. 6. View the work of artisans and visit local handicrafts shops. 7. Experience the beauty of the beach at Costa del Sol. Preparation Prior to leaving, Friends Across Borders will provide an orientation which will include education about important cultural norms to follow during the trip. We will do this in the most convenient way. The manner will depend on the proximity of the participants. Our in-country guides will be Debbie Northern and Erica Olson, current MKLM missioners. You will also be accompanied by two guides, TBD, from the United States. Follow Up We hope that this experience will touch your life and heart and that you will continue to keep the connections that you will make. Maryknoll Lay Missioners offers opportunities for spiritual discernment and for the ongoing discovery of God’s call of service. After your trip, Friends Across Borders can offer concrete recommendations for continued service. Logistics and Costs The total ground cost is $750 + $100 non-refundable registration. Program fee covers all lodging and meals, transportation within the country, medical insurance, English-Spanish speaking guides, cultural activities and tourist site fees. Airfare is not included. Airfare cost from Miami is approximately $650. Ask for an Application Form To make a reservation, please Download an Application Form, fill out, and return your application form to Friends Across Borders with a copy of your passport and your $200 deposit. We look forward to welcoming you to El Salvador! Passports Please make sure your passport is valid through April 2011! |